We haven't had any family pictures for 2 years now. In that time kids have lost teeth, grown new teeth, a new person was added to our family, and personalities have matured in a way that the people in the pictures aren't the same. So much change and growth documented in picture lapse of 2 years!
Maren is almost 9, such a leader and fiercely independent. Excels in school, favorite activity is anything with a pencil. Loves to sing for her family, choreograph dances in her room instead of clean, and always has an idea to create.
Kellan is 7 & 1/2. He's a boy scout, loves memorizing from his boy scout manual and then teaching his little brother. He is everyone's friend at school, excels in his work, and enjoys pushing himself to test higher than before. He is constantly telling me of contraptions and ideas the world "needs" for various purposes, and always says "some day when I'm grown up, I'll invent that." I believe him.
Maxwell is 4, and you can see the wheels in his head literally turning. He doesn't hesitate to say the exact thing on his mind and usually it's hilarious to listen to. He loves secrets and surprises, he refers to his daddy as 'best guy' instead of any other title, and has the most infectious smile.
Scarlett is 9 months old, two teeth and not a first word has been uttered yet. But she sure is opinionated. She has a favorite place to snuggle, and it is only on her daddy's chest, right near his neck. I don't blame her, he is very comforting and protective. She loves to show everyone her clapping skills. And regardless of how mad or tired she is, if you play track #4 and 5 on the Baby Einstein traveling melodies CD, she gets happy and makes her baby noises along with the song. Every time.
As for James and myself, we have been through our refiners fire. A matching set of herniated discs, though he has several more to boot. Surgery for him on the horizon and hopefully a return to work, as this trial also cost him his job of 5 & 1/2 years. I've started a venture of selling things that began as a hobby, it has kept me quite busy fulfilling requests, though it doesn't come close to paying the bills.
At the beginning of 2012 we said we were so excited, it had to have been better because of the trials we went through last year. But we were proven wrong. This year was a test on every pillar that holds our family together. But we've made it through together, and really, 2013 has to be better. It has to be. I am insistent.
We've been greatly blessed, felt so much love and support, and have seen miracles. I am grateful for those souvenirs to keep, those blessings make enduring through a trial worth it. Much love and prayers for blessings in the new year to come, for all of our loved ones.
Love, The Moore family
