2012 - A Year in Review

Kicking off the year in style, proved to be a very smart choice for our family.  2012 has been one of the most memorable for our family in so many ways. As we began the year with the Miles' family, we not only reconnected our friendship, but also reconnected our bond within our own family.  Seven full days to relax, play and explore.  Favorite highlights were a jeep ride around the island of Cozumel, movie night on the deck in our robes, a proposal by Matt to Sherrie and the of course the ice cream machine!  I know as my kids grow and start their own lives, this will be one holiday that they will never forget. 

Starting with a vacation allowed us to free up our summer for family and friends as well as trips the kids wanted to take with school and church.  The kids are very active in choir, so they were able to take a trip to Chicago with the fine arts department.  Our church took the youth to Joplin to help rebuild from the horrific tornado, as well as renew their faith in our Savior.  We traveled to Arkansas to reconnect with the Miles' again.  It was my honor and privilege to help with a very special wedding; Sydney and Dustin pledged their love.

Hosting special guests was the highlight of the summer/fall.  Carleton's, Weaver's, and Nana all had the chance to visit as well as several of our dear friends.  It is always such a blessing to open our home to those that we love.  We also are experiencing family in a way we never have in our married life.  Local.  My cousins have moved less than 7 minutes from our home.  What a joy! 

As the kids started school, God continued to bless our family in ways we had never imagined or even hoped.   Cole was nominated for team captain of his football team and went on to earn Team MVP, All District, All Conference HM, All State HM, Most Inspirational Player, a football scholarship and already has offers to play for several colleges.  He was named to homecoming court and has already begun his wrestling season where he continues to thrive. 

Kerri participated in the school musical and earned her first speaking part in the One Act, as well as a spot in the coveted JV show choir.  Kerri was also offered a modeling contract, but we decided she had enough at school to keep her busy.  She is also a wrestling manager and on the speech team.  She is in a number of clubs and begins driving in a month.

Kadi was newly named to student council and continues in Destination Imagination and Circle of Friends.  She earned a 19 on the ACT as a 7th grader and earned a National award of merit.  She most recently has taken up the sport of bow hunting with her daddy and has her very own bow.

All 3 are maintaining A's and B's this year (PTL) and continuing to nourish great relationships with their friends.  It is safe to say, "my kids are blessed."

This has been the first year that I am a full-time, non-working mom.  While sometimes I do miss working, I am cherishing the time I have with these precious little ones God has entrusted to me.  It is a full-time job managing the Carleton calendar; sometimes I think I need a secretary! 

Brian has earned a much-deserved promotion this year, Vice President of Operations!  We are so proud of him, but mostly I am proud of the dad and husband he is and the life lessons he teaches our children, such as a strong work ethic and dedication to his family. 

My new year's resolution last year was to learn to be content.  I truly worked hard at my resolution and my trust in God, and it definitely proved to be one of the best years for our family.  I am forever grateful for all our blessings from God, and the life he has so generously given to the Carleton Crew.