Monday, December 22, 2008

Christmas 2008


Dear Family and Friends,

The highlight of 2008 for our family was the birth of Ashlyn Mary Besaw on July 21st. She has been such a joy to us! Ashlyn is now 5 months old and just starting on solid foods. She is so very sweet, smiles a lot, loves to know what is going on around her, and sleeps through the night! Her big sister and brother are wonderful helpers and love her so much. We feel very blessed to have her as our baby girl.

Adam, age 7, started 1st grade in September and is a very good student. He enjoyed playing soccer again and having dad as his coach. Adam loves Star Wars, Legos, playing on the computer, and has achieved "professional" bowler status on the Wii. He is becoming a good little reader and is a great helper around the house.

Annaka, age 11, is growing up too fast. She is in her last year of elementary school where she is a captain of the drill team and plays the cello in the orchestra. Annaka is still taking piano lessons, enjoys reading, and loves creating craft projects. She thinks she is Ashlyn's second mom and we are looking forward to having her as our official babysitter when she turns 12 in June.

Amy continues to keep busy taking care of the children, volunteering with PTA, babysitting a few days a week, and working with the young women at church. She has recently discovered Facebook and has found that it is great way to keep in touch with family and friends. With the two older kids at school all day, Amy has also enjoyed having a lot of time to spend with Ashlyn.

Carl fell victim to the downturn in the economy and joined the ranks of the unemployed in September. He has several good prospects where he recently interviewed and is hopeful that one of these will work out in the new year. Amy has enjoyed having him home and is in for a rude awakening when he returns to work. Carl also had more time for coaching Adam's soccer team and fulfilling his responsibilities as Bishop at church.

As we look back on 2008, we are grateful for our trials and our blessings. We are thankful for the love and support of our family and friends which has meant so much to us. At this time of year, may we all take time to reflect on the birth of the Savior of the world as we strive to better follow his teachings and example.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

All our love,

The Besaw Family