Christmas Letter 2011

Seasons Greetings! 

Whoa, where are the breaks on this ride? Was it really only a year ago that we moved back to California with only 1 child? I’ve spent so much of this year looking forward to August 10th, that I’ve quite overlooked the daily blessings we experienced throughout 2011. 

Let’s start out with the obvious: what happened August 10, 2011? Well, nothing, in particular. That’s because our little Elizabeth Ruth decided to make her appearance 11 days early on July 30, 2011. Last Christmas we received the good news that we were expecting baby #2 without the use of any fertility medication! We were overjoyed and nervous at the prospect of growing our little family. The two girls would be 22 months apart and this time around, I’d have a toddler underfoot as I waddled around. Let’s just say Lizzie’s early and rapid appearance was a welcomed blessing. 

Although, the birth of our daughter was definitely the high point in our year, we had a few more memorable moments, as well. One such event revolved around our wonderful church. For Easter Bayside decided to close up shop and move to the local basketball arena for Easter services. On Sunday morning 20,000 people showed up and rejoiced in the resurrection of our Lord. More thrilling than the overwhelming attendance, the worshippers donated over $350,000 for Courage to be You, an organization that helps transition exploited girls out of the sex trade. Top that off with an honorary doctorate from Azusa Pacific University for war veteran, former POW, and amazing Christian Louis Zamporini (from the novel Unbroken), and you’ve got an Easter we’ll never forget. 

 Another thing we’ll not soon forget, our trip to Disneyland with an 18 month old and 6 month pregnant wife. Boy, were we optimistic parents! After 2 days in the park we did decide to go to Disneyland again, but without kids. However, since Charlie turned 2 in October, we’ve been rethinking our stance. It’s amazing how much she changes and develops day to day. Only a few weeks ago on Thanksgiving Charlie learned to jump with both feet and now every trip into the store, into church, into the house, etc. is a chance to practice her newfound skill. 

Even though it is easy to define the year with the big events, I believe it is really each day that demonstrates our true blessings. Each day Andrew has the blessing to get up and go to a job he enjoys at KLove Radio. Each day I have the blessing to stay home and raise our 2 wonderful daughters. Each day my daughters have the blessing to grow up in a safe community near grandparents who love them. Each day we get to praise our God for another day together as a family. So as we look back at Christmastime, let us not forget each day that comprised the last year. Let us not take for granted the many blessings we have been given and let us remember to bless others as our Father has blessed us. 

Luke 2: 8-12 And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. 9 An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. 10 But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. 11 Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. 12 This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” 

Merry Christmas!