Merry Christmas and happy New Year!

2024 was a milestone year for us because Ben and I reached our tenth anniversary in June. To celebrate, we enjoyed a family weekend at a resort in Tucson, where we visited several astronomy attractions.

Later in the year, we traveled to New Orleans for a writers’ conference and visited friends on their California dairy farm. We’ve been out and about in our hometown, too. Now that Benny’s in elementary school, we have lots of fun extracurricular activities to keep up with, from AWANA to Swahili class. We’re also on our church’s refugee resettlement team.

Brielle is tiny but mighty. She is making amazing strides in physical and occupational therapy! Her favorite place to be is with family and friends, especially her brother. This kid loves a good monster truck show. She also enjoys playing in our garden and going on walks.

Benny is six this year and in first grade! We continue to homeschool. Highlights of the school year included our studies of astronomy and the Arab world. Benny is interested in mystery books, math, and all things science. His favorite things to do are read, play soccer, and spend fun days at his grandparents’ house. He would like you all to know that Mimi (his grandma) gave him a book about great thoughts and he will write his own great thoughts inside.

Ben works as a physician at a hospital in North Phoenix and as medical director of a skilled nursing facility. When he’s off work, he enjoys biking, frisbee golf, and rock hunting or gardening with Benny. Lately, he’s been coordinating plans for our 2025 visit to Africa. (Benny would like to add that Ben is also helping him build a teleporting machine.)

I keep busy teaching Benny and managing Brielle’s various medical and therapeutic needs. I’m working toward publication for one of my novels and was excited when my manuscript won the Daphne du Maurier Award for unpublished romantic suspense.

We’re thankful for all of you! Best wishes for a peaceful and joyful season.

His lovingkindness is great toward us,
And the truth of the Lord is everlasting.
Praise the Lord!

Psalm 117:2

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