Saturday, December 25, 2010

Christmas Letter

I send out Christmas cards each year, but I have never included a letter. I figure those who know me and want to know about my life can visit here. So, here is a Christmas letter of sortsJ

2010 has been a whirlwind year. As I type, Grayson is turning 21 months old. Wasn't it just yesterday we celebrated his 1st Birthday? It amazes me how much children change in one year. In January, Grayson was beginning to take steps, and his bout with ear infections had just begun. Today, he never stops running or moving, his tubes are in place making a world of difference for his health, and his speech has improved immensely. Just the other day, he said "Love You" to me for the first time. While eating continues to be a struggle, he no longer seems to be in pain from his acid reflux. Our little man, our forever baby, continues to be tiny for his age, but that is just fine by me!

Griffin, our four-year-old firstborn, continues to amaze us with his quick wit and inquisitive nature. At the moment, he is rarely content with the first answer he is given to any question. Follow-up questions are guaranteed! Griffin continues to love swimming, and it is a joy to see him improve upon his skills. Lately, he has really taken to the sport of basketball. He is signed up for a parent/child basketball league this spring, and both Brandon and I are really looking forward to growing and learning with him! I am still in shock that next year he will be in Kindergarten. It is hard to accept that both boys are growing so fast. Sometimes, I am afraid to even blink for fear I might miss something! And as always, both boys continue to capture my heart with their love for reading.

Brandon is still working hard at his public accounting firm. Tax season is stressful for all of us, but I am so proud of how Brandon handles the busy season. He is still able to lead his family the way God created him to lead. He also started playing tennis again this year, and I know he is looking forward to one day playing with the boys.

In April, I began taking classes to obtain my PHD from Bethel University. While the classes are extremely challenging and time consuming, I am loving every minute of it. I am still a Reading Specialist for 7th and 8th grade students, and I truly love what I do. While leaving the kids at Gail's house each day can be heart-wrenching, I believe that I am right where I am supposed to be.

The MN Dunigans were gifted a trip to the Wisconsin Dells this summer. So much fun was had by all, and many memories were created. Both boys are fish and just love being in the water. Brandon and I were also able to have a few one-night local vacations just the two of us. Being able to recharge was perfect; we were thankful for our family babysitters who helped make these mini-getaways possible.

Brandon and I continue to be so very thankful for the friends we have in our lives. Being so far away from most of our family can be tough, but true friends have really made it possible for us to survive so far away. We are truly blessed with a close circle of friends who help us grow in our faith, keep our family strong, and celebrate our ups and downs with us as we pave our way through the journey of parenthood and marriage. These wonderful people make it easy for us to remember how faithful God really is.

Because the hustle and bustle of the holidays can distract us from the true meaning of Christmas, I pray that everyone can take some time to remember and celebrate Christ's birth. In a world of uncertainity and weariness, He is the reason my family has hope for the future and love in our hearts. Merry Christmas to all of you!

With love~Brandon, Sandra, Griffin, and Grayson

To give credit where credit is due, the production of this letter was inspired by Tina.

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