tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17100421807453913202024-03-13T02:58:43.947-06:00RFX Design: DESIGN • ENERGY • MOTIONBradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.comBlogger359125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-17099623115220644912023-12-17T20:06:00.000-07:002023-12-17T20:06:13.356-07:00Dear Santa: An Open Christmas Letter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dear Santa,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We find ourselves at the close of another year and I'm trying to get my ducks in a row before Christmas Eve. Have you ever had one of those years? Because we have. I think there was a lot of good this year in our lives sprinkled in among the hard times. I'll try to elaborate on it as best as I can.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">First of all, how are you? How is Mrs. Claus? Have you secured the foundation of the North Pole in case global warming melts it away this year? I can recommend some good oil platform manufacturers here on the Gulf Coast in case you're interested. Hopefully the naughty list this year is slightly smaller than it was last year. We did the best we could to stay on the good list, but I think we're mostly on the "I Tried" list.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our family has been relatively good this year. Let's start off with the youngest, Malcolm:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yuek1xnBY3vVq9DypG5PCvrHI0W6JwiwhBMaK0cgjkBNkywdwp0JlvbUtGamtwPKg6uR2f5xISXfVyx1CC8Vn1a9WABI-smO0C8Lu0Wha-uDR0WCjvbkMgahMj3k0UrDJNnjCIqfCMVvAvaaOfOCZXDrB8RIn3etTimHwAV1ROx8iYCrebWFMOfn-TX0/s3263/1000002640-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3263" data-original-width="2213" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0yuek1xnBY3vVq9DypG5PCvrHI0W6JwiwhBMaK0cgjkBNkywdwp0JlvbUtGamtwPKg6uR2f5xISXfVyx1CC8Vn1a9WABI-smO0C8Lu0Wha-uDR0WCjvbkMgahMj3k0UrDJNnjCIqfCMVvAvaaOfOCZXDrB8RIn3etTimHwAV1ROx8iYCrebWFMOfn-TX0/s320/1000002640-01.jpeg" width="217" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A day out with my Mal Pal</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Malcolm continues to surprise me with how relatable he is to me. Sometimes it feels like I'm talking to a version of myself from decades before.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuVMZnBoa1HnyUoNqwcxaD6KEt3mt1a4Ltst2ppME0D19Av5NKoTNCSgi7OxtErHf4rgIW5Z97kZ9ipsNhTzPgjBYLmbUTJnQL_mvhZBVjz38IDPTxdaIvUFpErTQ1WUCTgRofxIReIz-6wyhDDwIfjDXgmxaeSASJwNbH6xw_CE_RlRlbsS1gzw3O4qG/s4032/PXL_20231119_141917266.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFuVMZnBoa1HnyUoNqwcxaD6KEt3mt1a4Ltst2ppME0D19Av5NKoTNCSgi7OxtErHf4rgIW5Z97kZ9ipsNhTzPgjBYLmbUTJnQL_mvhZBVjz38IDPTxdaIvUFpErTQ1WUCTgRofxIReIz-6wyhDDwIfjDXgmxaeSASJwNbH6xw_CE_RlRlbsS1gzw3O4qG/s320/PXL_20231119_141917266.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pig sitting</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Malcolm finds joy in life in just about anything you could imagine. He will tell you about all the cool things he sees driving, especially Christmas lights. He will also tell you all the time that his favorite colors are pink, purple, and blue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbsv9B2BMYLgYO0i2bo8qeki4ooVQblaXyR7eY-nH5GE2sjlX8f2J3ciYD083rh8Tb2NwyMrpUTGYUeNiOEY4NrSgVT1V_8xcyrx2lp4bQq0GTJzHhjuFsTbSc_EFe2Yu2PQ3o74QtKqPAtmK_ikUZOX7PuDZhcUJuEAqgWxyUnzFpqyz0BH6oPEZ-kpT/s4032/IMG_6292.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBbsv9B2BMYLgYO0i2bo8qeki4ooVQblaXyR7eY-nH5GE2sjlX8f2J3ciYD083rh8Tb2NwyMrpUTGYUeNiOEY4NrSgVT1V_8xcyrx2lp4bQq0GTJzHhjuFsTbSc_EFe2Yu2PQ3o74QtKqPAtmK_ikUZOX7PuDZhcUJuEAqgWxyUnzFpqyz0BH6oPEZ-kpT/s320/IMG_6292.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">An untamed mane</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This child has learned, however, that he has more independence than when he was younger. That can be a good thing and a bad thing. For one, he is learning to do a lot more activities on his own, but that also means that he thinks he can do EVERYTHING on his own.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSiEhBPr113Sp9bnECFIrwNO3SjDBBeQEVJOJl7PgmOJHi4cgbcrDSMySqZ862r84W5mRWUe7-ugdiVdtSIFFI7s_mSnMczfUORsXhNV6anheGmxxeKFww8DtN1YMp9en9JopOsGrwwOivU-CbM0DXBf5_Pmo-YDIbOgGtgoIVxfIYYzmik7n7G_Bp02O9/s4032/IMG_4182.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSiEhBPr113Sp9bnECFIrwNO3SjDBBeQEVJOJl7PgmOJHi4cgbcrDSMySqZ862r84W5mRWUe7-ugdiVdtSIFFI7s_mSnMczfUORsXhNV6anheGmxxeKFww8DtN1YMp9en9JopOsGrwwOivU-CbM0DXBf5_Pmo-YDIbOgGtgoIVxfIYYzmik7n7G_Bp02O9/s320/IMG_4182.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brotherly bond</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Malcolm looks up to his older siblings with lots of affection (and physical violence in some cases). He never wants to be alone, and thankfully that is the case due to our continued homeschooling.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIImxYLxnia3aSnHnnKj5_ENgGY1l7QArV1EE0P7FGKmDau8EWS0_IOfyH1ps5tRFGLi8CznwoXAdFcQ8VXY9wjL189PwtuJDaDyEF7dLQlyeibDu8K8UeBPn95FtbXukXEq_XY64UvEIZ3HLCXRKMnEB7nHWMUGMITyxmclBWIzVYEMRbJ-KPGHJu1q4/s4032/1000002468-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIIImxYLxnia3aSnHnnKj5_ENgGY1l7QArV1EE0P7FGKmDau8EWS0_IOfyH1ps5tRFGLi8CznwoXAdFcQ8VXY9wjL189PwtuJDaDyEF7dLQlyeibDu8K8UeBPn95FtbXukXEq_XY64UvEIZ3HLCXRKMnEB7nHWMUGMITyxmclBWIzVYEMRbJ-KPGHJu1q4/s320/1000002468-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A photo summation of Malcolm's personality</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm not going to lie, he's the best caboose we could ask for on this crazy train of family that we have. I'm grateful every night when I get to put him to bed. Partly because he's finally asleep and I can relax, but mostly because I get to gaze on my sweet baby boy one more time before he gets too grown up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGu0SfW7J5ZNVELVlDDZhyphenhyphen5UlpVIxddIh1EO06x_wfd954HvmmsE9LClWqUDNeJlMDQ6w0u4SZ0sj3cYhOUiwN_oQIU3GDe8IAr1ukhLknjJDsr-G60ogM-Q6Xznbo7uyccBG-omQAIYv8bJuy0oRDLLI41Unyn7QFHHLPa9n-H8ut2dorIaG806E62VZ/s4032/1000002547-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMGu0SfW7J5ZNVELVlDDZhyphenhyphen5UlpVIxddIh1EO06x_wfd954HvmmsE9LClWqUDNeJlMDQ6w0u4SZ0sj3cYhOUiwN_oQIU3GDe8IAr1ukhLknjJDsr-G60ogM-Q6Xznbo7uyccBG-omQAIYv8bJuy0oRDLLI41Unyn7QFHHLPa9n-H8ut2dorIaG806E62VZ/s320/1000002547-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Preparing for some Wonder</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Next we have Lucy. And where do we begin with her? Lucy is at an interesting place of being the bridge between the older two kids and the youngest. I often find her wanting to do more mature activities, but happily willing to engage in play with her little brother.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGJ6oBT4unJsvUjBpwu3aFFoS35rZzVN5YATunozWM7aOOnQVPGJTW38tHmkp8d3MOLSF4H4rkomyNdIgMkYpL2cVV74ynO9mAtmpyLBoqKPBUgIQ3xp155QzeCiR7GPc1TnaAf7BMtruQ3tdybO4bqC7qx_U90Em8YZpwPLg9aTdhXb8LfTNx2SIs3pN/s4032/PXL_20230826_215129651.PORTRAIT.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnGJ6oBT4unJsvUjBpwu3aFFoS35rZzVN5YATunozWM7aOOnQVPGJTW38tHmkp8d3MOLSF4H4rkomyNdIgMkYpL2cVV74ynO9mAtmpyLBoqKPBUgIQ3xp155QzeCiR7GPc1TnaAf7BMtruQ3tdybO4bqC7qx_U90Em8YZpwPLg9aTdhXb8LfTNx2SIs3pN/s320/PXL_20230826_215129651.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cutting off the locks</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year she decided she was tired of being hot and got her hair cut short. She looks darling in her new hairdo and gets all sorts of compliments for it. I do think it's cute, and I like her hair both short and long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38TmRHPsX3j3Mg_DflFUgvM4SZdJf5O3e8AwFDzCTjMGGe5Ycg_niCD_Dnw8eEB0ZxejP4QQTSrlESgrXciTXO7s_zi6ui7ZV6p1qEMZTu-OsnEo69x9VQqiaqSwzN3dIeJEdaK78Zfs517f_h9Tj9VO27BnE_NoR0Z5lXlSowRsgvpJftSJT7mIq-oew/s3261/1000002553-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3261" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg38TmRHPsX3j3Mg_DflFUgvM4SZdJf5O3e8AwFDzCTjMGGe5Ycg_niCD_Dnw8eEB0ZxejP4QQTSrlESgrXciTXO7s_zi6ui7ZV6p1qEMZTu-OsnEo69x9VQqiaqSwzN3dIeJEdaK78Zfs517f_h9Tj9VO27BnE_NoR0Z5lXlSowRsgvpJftSJT7mIq-oew/s320/1000002553-01.jpeg" width="297" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Exploring another world</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lucy continues to be creative in many aspects, improving her drawing and musical skills, as well as learning lots of science facts. She is a lover of cooking videos (especially <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsP7Bpw36J666Fct5M8u-ZA" target="_blank">Ann Reardon</a> of YouTube fame), and is a great helper in the kitchen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6R1lLxgW6ytKjNdHOE96zQcSfkRo7w5FL_KOnerDUnqKujEtMu7V2LFkFxT8FZztA5wyK73CLnMVPssz__3C9EWEdp_B77pLlrsVt9tIdWiQ5s9Merv7Wyfzy3xFZpJw87lUpvk20byqxy6y9Ts_PgAnY5kFXFYWNoO3yoKFAuNZ_afPgY_Vva111WRs/s3088/IMG_4651.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip6R1lLxgW6ytKjNdHOE96zQcSfkRo7w5FL_KOnerDUnqKujEtMu7V2LFkFxT8FZztA5wyK73CLnMVPssz__3C9EWEdp_B77pLlrsVt9tIdWiQ5s9Merv7Wyfzy3xFZpJw87lUpvk20byqxy6y9Ts_PgAnY5kFXFYWNoO3yoKFAuNZ_afPgY_Vva111WRs/s320/IMG_4651.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Round one of rabies shots</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">However, this year Lucy was put through the ringer. One day when she was out checking the mail, a stray cat randomly attacked her unprovoked. As a result she wound up having to go through a round of rabies shots as a precaution. We eventually caught the cat, but not after we caught the neighbor's cat, a possum, a racoon, and another, highly diseased and mangey cat. Apparently we have quite the active wildlife in our neighborhood. Anyway, it was quite the ordeal that we don't want to repeat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUherAEcsXRkqxmq9uCB-6vH7wG2QnEVneX_QSSYe2PTk-Gz46PL00s_kdsamdA1Dsj_dcAkmMisJwbgVXQP_5FlRyfOP8_rcK1DuU_7MNVIc4P2Ub0D9cTbOsGgWwsu3hVbxjRgq2kN-RFviQgaH5dJcMN2i4T4h8SXp05WhYjYtNMKz6oLAPP9smb-ot/s4032/IMG_6328.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUherAEcsXRkqxmq9uCB-6vH7wG2QnEVneX_QSSYe2PTk-Gz46PL00s_kdsamdA1Dsj_dcAkmMisJwbgVXQP_5FlRyfOP8_rcK1DuU_7MNVIc4P2Ub0D9cTbOsGgWwsu3hVbxjRgq2kN-RFviQgaH5dJcMN2i4T4h8SXp05WhYjYtNMKz6oLAPP9smb-ot/s320/IMG_6328.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">An unfortunate run in with fungus</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Not too long after that, she had an unfortunate run-in with some mold-covered furniture at our church, which caused an infection to develop in her eye. It took quite a few tries for the real diagnosis to be revealed, but thankfully no lasting damage was done.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqoZldrsLs1BVdPABByK9RUSkl04aJW6Dkb5kwQ4YBNMcgQfwmYPupt21C85G44oqeQETyu28FpfduJe6HLvzrb680AI5JXN9nUMxL_rz2ZAAqGJNwdc4jp1kc8hV2gNZp38Ud-mr8X4A8wjc5ld1qDaHmvMsGdurM6OWxGxaVWAt2DMAnHHGGHXYzsN5/s4032/IMG_7376.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqoZldrsLs1BVdPABByK9RUSkl04aJW6Dkb5kwQ4YBNMcgQfwmYPupt21C85G44oqeQETyu28FpfduJe6HLvzrb680AI5JXN9nUMxL_rz2ZAAqGJNwdc4jp1kc8hV2gNZp38Ud-mr8X4A8wjc5ld1qDaHmvMsGdurM6OWxGxaVWAt2DMAnHHGGHXYzsN5/s320/IMG_7376.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Figuratively how she approaches life on occasion</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In spite of all these setbacks, she continues to try to fill the world with joy and happiness. I've never seen a little girl who wants to be more friendly with all our adult neighbors.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4l0b9IcErD0V6IWvoJ4W4i5rbLS4fabicYds8mE4ifY-coa9Oo8k-GUJD-rAblkD-C1yDTkVpuuAumnRxbpEMJMMBJBZuy0mY7-c1VkxpzoJbnJqBfQHDX9plE0Pkc9voBjT4eMfxtewUeVAYkhVDysvX7A6sr2KHXSK3SIKwC3lgg7O4k4cDMV7Pjce/s4032/PXL_20230415_153527198.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq4l0b9IcErD0V6IWvoJ4W4i5rbLS4fabicYds8mE4ifY-coa9Oo8k-GUJD-rAblkD-C1yDTkVpuuAumnRxbpEMJMMBJBZuy0mY7-c1VkxpzoJbnJqBfQHDX9plE0Pkc9voBjT4eMfxtewUeVAYkhVDysvX7A6sr2KHXSK3SIKwC3lgg7O4k4cDMV7Pjce/s320/PXL_20230415_153527198.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Champion</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She's a tough little cookie and continues to pursue taekwondo along with myself and her oldest sister. This year she even competed in a local tournament and took third place in two of the events she competed in.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObWYJkCteQyZxGrk4VthMSBZ6wRl3qWIdmSLB9hgIB1NmNit7N6g5Djqs-_4BcJioyZejnOIPnELMk8zmNrO12O0aAInTcIZuLvNB80UPi78F-bGVhMCLUdro9LNLATb0M-jb-KCaPJ6Lk8R_C4FgJwppaUfmF7D57HWVStAT1JDdk31pzrFSDh9Hon2a/s4032/IMG_7374.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiObWYJkCteQyZxGrk4VthMSBZ6wRl3qWIdmSLB9hgIB1NmNit7N6g5Djqs-_4BcJioyZejnOIPnELMk8zmNrO12O0aAInTcIZuLvNB80UPi78F-bGVhMCLUdro9LNLATb0M-jb-KCaPJ6Lk8R_C4FgJwppaUfmF7D57HWVStAT1JDdk31pzrFSDh9Hon2a/s320/IMG_7374.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Granny Goose</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I still call her my "Lucy Goose" and I hope she'll let me call her that for the rest of my life. She's such a unique little woman that I have the privilege to call my daughter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEges3i2FZOOrfgy1iIVfwpK-UfMWibwMz4AV7NI8OoDWzOobYGtTQYgt59ktj4bxAQsMSO4bJsB0oQQDX4OK6edhjBlCPYss4N0bl5nXUJQ-B_c-nVjZWGCKVa6VG-KPk1mA5mqPEagizPOc0SACuY8BFAGyShu-7dIZAzxW2sDjPPIl01Uu1bbScq-vhdu/s4032/PXL_20230811_174700554.MP-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEges3i2FZOOrfgy1iIVfwpK-UfMWibwMz4AV7NI8OoDWzOobYGtTQYgt59ktj4bxAQsMSO4bJsB0oQQDX4OK6edhjBlCPYss4N0bl5nXUJQ-B_c-nVjZWGCKVa6VG-KPk1mA5mqPEagizPOc0SACuY8BFAGyShu-7dIZAzxW2sDjPPIl01Uu1bbScq-vhdu/s320/PXL_20230811_174700554.MP-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A gamer through and through</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Third in line is my oldest boy Sean. He has continued his trajectory in attempting to be the world's top Nintendo enthusiast and fan-boy. This year our family inherited a Wii-U and he is determined be the best at Mario Kart among all his siblings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5N3xqajm1F7FxwPkBYdlEwC2iMFcmgSmOrlUYZRSNeP2HRDx8Fp3U5P6mDoldyx8R96Iv7ej5Wz47CBNu90lBYEBmRmh7K9uhOSdtPS58ZpfvwVg0qbESNlpwMlhgbX4TSO64Aia16Iwv6HpQY_TdTJpdohBywU6msV5dA8pRzHJYP8EZ7B_y0tEqQQ8/s3359/PXL_20230128_000512499.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3359" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib5N3xqajm1F7FxwPkBYdlEwC2iMFcmgSmOrlUYZRSNeP2HRDx8Fp3U5P6mDoldyx8R96Iv7ej5Wz47CBNu90lBYEBmRmh7K9uhOSdtPS58ZpfvwVg0qbESNlpwMlhgbX4TSO64Aia16Iwv6HpQY_TdTJpdohBywU6msV5dA8pRzHJYP8EZ7B_y0tEqQQ8/s320/PXL_20230128_000512499.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Learning the fine art of roasting cylindrical aeriated sugar meringue over an open flame</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That being said, he's still a developing a love of being outdoors and spending time with others. He and I spent some good time together in the cold at a state park, just camping in isolation and enjoying the quiet nature around us.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimndYdWNCfNTuMGJDWMGtwddSDfWztLjrGcXFb1_loJkV8ixPlnWSW-QJ3Fcb_rM6mjEPqeJN41paLK22NArSmHOiVC7pi74V-FpRbHhfWu2z3FGsJ3_SFAV52yxfKNjyl1KDwkNT0iVCHCavjz8L8GlVgeC42td-PK8QKcDwXX3amqq_EkUusiL3ZPnG/s4032/PXL_20230127_160044859.MP-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgimndYdWNCfNTuMGJDWMGtwddSDfWztLjrGcXFb1_loJkV8ixPlnWSW-QJ3Fcb_rM6mjEPqeJN41paLK22NArSmHOiVC7pi74V-FpRbHhfWu2z3FGsJ3_SFAV52yxfKNjyl1KDwkNT0iVCHCavjz8L8GlVgeC42td-PK8QKcDwXX3amqq_EkUusiL3ZPnG/s320/PXL_20230127_160044859.MP-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Reminding him who is in charge</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">He's also become quite adept at all things camping-related included tent setup and fire building. Not too shabby for a ten year old.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LCZVsLolTczvW7HF3lsWmUZw4Nqmde2afwt2awLXBRDnAwqQh2UjM7CRitel30IYC40LSjkrb7OKSkqdVmrEcfXWzGRnN8UyYspmoZnzD7lbCfcMECCpJVCd2lPnnHYFeMNoFxvVqlVeBnE1JMd_5q9cNeve6fqs8QTGxDxOZEi80Pyv7ZZkHiGys3dQ/s4032/PXL_20230503_145203548.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0LCZVsLolTczvW7HF3lsWmUZw4Nqmde2afwt2awLXBRDnAwqQh2UjM7CRitel30IYC40LSjkrb7OKSkqdVmrEcfXWzGRnN8UyYspmoZnzD7lbCfcMECCpJVCd2lPnnHYFeMNoFxvVqlVeBnE1JMd_5q9cNeve6fqs8QTGxDxOZEi80Pyv7ZZkHiGys3dQ/s320/PXL_20230503_145203548.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Always helping (especially at The Play the Goes Wrong)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sean is always one of the first people that wants to help (even if the help is unwanted in some cases). After church events I am trying to round up the kids to go home and Sean is always the one I can't find. When I do find him, he's usually helping put away chairs or tables. Then my heart melts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LEeuOeU3Wz49pMxskG_e2vQV-Uim1V-4ePO3RN9uzUXly8Z14ash5VtAAcCbeZwa9ja0VHlJVol8RFYkLTTNIu47DgyBqPuLsQdOfgcdRpldJ_TLeLlXHV9gS9g-XupCusES1zurNKRW9V2hQCur_Hagqryhao_tTGsDLgsQAyMYXsT88T5aY25pJGih/s4032/IMG_3571.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-LEeuOeU3Wz49pMxskG_e2vQV-Uim1V-4ePO3RN9uzUXly8Z14ash5VtAAcCbeZwa9ja0VHlJVol8RFYkLTTNIu47DgyBqPuLsQdOfgcdRpldJ_TLeLlXHV9gS9g-XupCusES1zurNKRW9V2hQCur_Hagqryhao_tTGsDLgsQAyMYXsT88T5aY25pJGih/s320/IMG_3571.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">His wooden robot, Chestnut (made from walnut)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year Sean learned a bit about woodworking. This year I helped him make a wooden toy robot that he named "Chestnut". He entered it into the state Beta Club convention and won second place! Not too bad, if I do say so myself. If you're looking for a good woodworking intern up at the North Pole, please give him a consideration.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvKqv3MoxvC5jfCasIXvRP23JitQU8qxOdMyeDPcQEKbIyKY5GgcZbRu5bRI1WrdwsyYWHfPRNtvMzyA4fM5A10JI4k30YEE4aDzNj6ET3FQl78d-OK4pdkgnsFIGrComMhIHf9-1LXH5H7RoQtdHXRKXBFeAoKTk_tm5nJmB9kI7BTJIedfHL9dC9kPA/s4032/IMG_6789.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvKqv3MoxvC5jfCasIXvRP23JitQU8qxOdMyeDPcQEKbIyKY5GgcZbRu5bRI1WrdwsyYWHfPRNtvMzyA4fM5A10JI4k30YEE4aDzNj6ET3FQl78d-OK4pdkgnsFIGrComMhIHf9-1LXH5H7RoQtdHXRKXBFeAoKTk_tm5nJmB9kI7BTJIedfHL9dC9kPA/s320/IMG_6789.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Move over Dizzy Gillespie!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sean's musical talents continue to grow. This year he decided he wanted to learn trumpet and started performing in his local music co-op. He worked really hard at practicing and is pretty great for someone only playing for a few months. He also started learning the guitar. I expect him to start rocking out any day now. He also likes to try and sing harmony on any song he sings. Sometimes he gets it wrong, but most of all it just clicks in his brain. It sometimes scares me at how brilliant he is and I often hope that I can keep up with all the things he continues to learn.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi28FgX3nj-XodbDlZstC-IFJ2Tejb9_RlA0Uv7ndmErgtvkWA-IvGJqATG-rzYbVZv64f4U8wwT2M5PzrQuy2WIokNxcRjIZnYTRsvOSlzTm_t1yzWhi_mr1ANZZ35n_2euMAWx1nWBM36X0riJHfO8kmYYi3pRJ7l7Dc2imoqS2X1otL5KmG-_CQanWx/s4032/PXL_20230224_020634183.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi28FgX3nj-XodbDlZstC-IFJ2Tejb9_RlA0Uv7ndmErgtvkWA-IvGJqATG-rzYbVZv64f4U8wwT2M5PzrQuy2WIokNxcRjIZnYTRsvOSlzTm_t1yzWhi_mr1ANZZ35n_2euMAWx1nWBM36X0riJHfO8kmYYi3pRJ7l7Dc2imoqS2X1otL5KmG-_CQanWx/s320/PXL_20230224_020634183.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My (not-so-little) Leah Lou</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Rounding out the kids is my oldest, Leah Lourena. This year marked some significant changes in Leah's life. She started off the year moving into the young women's group at our church. Typically these are girls turning 12 that year, but since her birthday isn't until December, she spent most of the year as an 11-year-old with older girls.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4hH0JnEqOmeTqXhc8pku2gDo27T494q4Li3O2bU1eXKNHldccF2OrtFKzENbyeZgFfXZJGEMR3X0Nc57otwuG9yBq3X2Z_c3m7H74qTwoTCtEgKw9GbuRxK6Gn_MgiCwU4Zf2kgaIPllpmojUUTMC6VbvCKYmXrA9pt6bkUwm1u-ugEj5iRBp31ypN7l/s3088/IMG_4596.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4hH0JnEqOmeTqXhc8pku2gDo27T494q4Li3O2bU1eXKNHldccF2OrtFKzENbyeZgFfXZJGEMR3X0Nc57otwuG9yBq3X2Z_c3m7H74qTwoTCtEgKw9GbuRxK6Gn_MgiCwU4Zf2kgaIPllpmojUUTMC6VbvCKYmXrA9pt6bkUwm1u-ugEj5iRBp31ypN7l/s320/IMG_4596.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">First time doing baptisms in the Temple</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the things she got to do for the first time was to attend the temple and perform baptisms in behalf of the deceased. It was a very sacred experience for her.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKrA3k8ib_PfiQ9HkzdWlZUJuAjTWokedCFPthMWXtzjZ8ivI38ooWLJEVJQJScBGGG4_8xGIqABNmwfbejEOiop6fvG54gk-jPW3o_UaUaUJ-m2o20XWNOc1xgEOqF1_HUURKz5MXLXs2IclPb5X-unFmqKDM5bOQXwEoQtL4SgSKfS5dyMPFljEyT-D/s4032/PXL_20230728_164320913.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKrA3k8ib_PfiQ9HkzdWlZUJuAjTWokedCFPthMWXtzjZ8ivI38ooWLJEVJQJScBGGG4_8xGIqABNmwfbejEOiop6fvG54gk-jPW3o_UaUaUJ-m2o20XWNOc1xgEOqF1_HUURKz5MXLXs2IclPb5X-unFmqKDM5bOQXwEoQtL4SgSKfS5dyMPFljEyT-D/s320/PXL_20230728_164320913.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Such an old soul</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She continues to impress me with all of her maturity and patience. Granted, her patience is that of a 12-year-old girl, but she has a lot more of it than most people her age. Additionally, she has a lot of compassion for those around her. She's always good for a hug or a snuggle.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3DR-i7iiWKGudy8g8JaevdT3MopHz2qjp6YYhaDc1uYHbklMQkqR4bM_EbPgvK9NOrIM6JHFBlEpMAEO5Lcf8L6_iCS12sXQw6AmEpTO38wluC70HQkIMvpgtO3W3JRaLLucI5rRYbxP2QYITk0dgGtZE4bDODcasA5HqCzNICdl1opRS9VOD75ggaWva/s3520/IMG_7105.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1980" data-original-width="3520" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3DR-i7iiWKGudy8g8JaevdT3MopHz2qjp6YYhaDc1uYHbklMQkqR4bM_EbPgvK9NOrIM6JHFBlEpMAEO5Lcf8L6_iCS12sXQw6AmEpTO38wluC70HQkIMvpgtO3W3JRaLLucI5rRYbxP2QYITk0dgGtZE4bDODcasA5HqCzNICdl1opRS9VOD75ggaWva/s320/IMG_7105.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Learning one of many instruments</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Her musical talents continue to improve as well. So far she's mastered the basics of piano, guitar, and violin. She says she wants to learn <i>all </i>the instruments in the world, but we'll see what her wallet says about that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8Gq11ZZUT3SCyBpLq2C1ge4BnIboUY2KmJl7n6IKYlOGg1Qju-io6ebOgLjD3lKsdqVrO7FbXFmCIlI9K8pTFyXV_ObRQgjRsMdfOEPd2_0cLncpyUzTpFo1sFiXZOVJNHS2Dmd0Jj8h_EI1BNtRrO6iDmfn8zuD17piUZnmN6qRagDcIFvOyQHxF9iR/s4032/IMG_6148.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8Gq11ZZUT3SCyBpLq2C1ge4BnIboUY2KmJl7n6IKYlOGg1Qju-io6ebOgLjD3lKsdqVrO7FbXFmCIlI9K8pTFyXV_ObRQgjRsMdfOEPd2_0cLncpyUzTpFo1sFiXZOVJNHS2Dmd0Jj8h_EI1BNtRrO6iDmfn8zuD17piUZnmN6qRagDcIFvOyQHxF9iR/s320/IMG_6148.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Already wanting to be a mom</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the things that touches me the most about Leah is how her motherly instincts naturally have kicked in. She coos over any baby she sees, and she is such a good overseer to Malcolm. In fact, this year is the first year we've been able to claim an in-house babysitter! However, I remind the younger kids that when Leah is watching them, really her only job is to snitch on them when they aren't being good and to call us if the house is on fire or they are bleeding profusely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgwQp7FGtqqhRR6OXbPmGkVe6GRQqkNmJkvdPk1sHRwN-xz_l7Da6XeUxEtkoWHgu3aWyjfXcqZkb0XyMItceZL98qiRL-QkLeqGWDnxZljwQvZ70yP91dGmi1zu9llzD_4lmy8TTKUk-7dw8m8aSDWgRVLn-DW6IT2mbskUaTuK4i3wUW_oS3OeGZemi/s4032/IMG_6757.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUgwQp7FGtqqhRR6OXbPmGkVe6GRQqkNmJkvdPk1sHRwN-xz_l7Da6XeUxEtkoWHgu3aWyjfXcqZkb0XyMItceZL98qiRL-QkLeqGWDnxZljwQvZ70yP91dGmi1zu9llzD_4lmy8TTKUk-7dw8m8aSDWgRVLn-DW6IT2mbskUaTuK4i3wUW_oS3OeGZemi/s320/IMG_6757.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A visual representation of what her life is like most days</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">On to my love, Sarah. I don't know how this lady keeps up with it all. Between homeschooling the kids, volunteering in multiple homeschool organizations, and serving in our church, I don't think she gets a single moment to herself. This lady has taken on a lot, and it's felt very heavy this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_Y56HlEAvLpA-NQJNLJ0CTNq0pXbBKMAMp72pHfTSow2Jw4gIovEXh4dNv3KfE2okwDwVFaPeNt2k2nvzz8jRYUhtIRlSrZvV2c0zLEmQsuqbwkQxmf1NWLTwCOYaI5tHxFdk0wBeGkj0Y7g0q2G6AeAe8B3kyu2e_HsA3iO8BsQFb1i7IjJuusuzn53/s3088/IMG_6685.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_Y56HlEAvLpA-NQJNLJ0CTNq0pXbBKMAMp72pHfTSow2Jw4gIovEXh4dNv3KfE2okwDwVFaPeNt2k2nvzz8jRYUhtIRlSrZvV2c0zLEmQsuqbwkQxmf1NWLTwCOYaI5tHxFdk0wBeGkj0Y7g0q2G6AeAe8B3kyu2e_HsA3iO8BsQFb1i7IjJuusuzn53/s320/IMG_6685.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Always up for a good baby snuggle</span></div><div><br /></div><div>We may be done having kids of our own, but Sarah's always up to hold anyone's baby. Thankfully we've got a number of friends that will lend us theirs, and they always love being held by her. Most of the time, they fall right asleep in her arms because she's so comfy and lovely to be around.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQbF7Z8EfTPZxlpCEfD0sITMkR5zc5l7PTSquujMQ8myuBnZ2ReBq-TsXyhEIeyARWmJGZXiDyM3XeemDakTSl8uie6pfl34xmk3ngtCscFnfVZLcQQdQlw4i3kXq-CkiE6RHaVDEuA5_S882a1FlP3U-fwB20SAEa16cBYVOa8ksJv1lKKsdFIx7XFyL/s3088/IMG_7710.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIQbF7Z8EfTPZxlpCEfD0sITMkR5zc5l7PTSquujMQ8myuBnZ2ReBq-TsXyhEIeyARWmJGZXiDyM3XeemDakTSl8uie6pfl34xmk3ngtCscFnfVZLcQQdQlw4i3kXq-CkiE6RHaVDEuA5_S882a1FlP3U-fwB20SAEa16cBYVOa8ksJv1lKKsdFIx7XFyL/s320/IMG_7710.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Most of the time this is how she "relaxes"</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wish I could give her more time to herself. This past year we haven't had much spare time to engage in our hobbies and I know it's taken a mental and emotional toll on her. Maybe, if you have something in your sack that can fill that void this year, you could leave it under the tree for her?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPvgC68qiHCk_9F56HiJrI4DQHAmuKXcUJi5qtkmx_oZatvZhsnmxh2e5VSzL-j5hberIt9JikZSl7hFFcC58kdpv_gisCnftrl36eghQ-KCqJ0QkjOVv2sEbWRHJMbMk-P9T4b68gUtxmY5P5scv_9Oz5zq2olFO98mcUapz3B6ejUkk_Rj2dtdQqGyb/s4032/IMG_4996.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYPvgC68qiHCk_9F56HiJrI4DQHAmuKXcUJi5qtkmx_oZatvZhsnmxh2e5VSzL-j5hberIt9JikZSl7hFFcC58kdpv_gisCnftrl36eghQ-KCqJ0QkjOVv2sEbWRHJMbMk-P9T4b68gUtxmY5P5scv_9Oz5zq2olFO98mcUapz3B6ejUkk_Rj2dtdQqGyb/s320/IMG_4996.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My shining sun on a cold day</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all, I don't know how I wound up with such a lovely woman who actually chooses to be around me. Sure I make her laugh a lot (sometimes with how stupid I behave), but sometimes I just wonder why she chooses to keep me around. Maybe it's because of my brisket... Sure, let's just call it at that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmniaiHdrPx2xsUwkfowFq-o6rvKUV03kDP-eOUIKrRsvqZ1iZP7oTtoEqhJFl9fxf309DJTxf0fC1Hlct8DiG7udkA052fcTFRAkCKJjYcQYGdFTXLpxPjZgLIxXC9A-yiNgacO2ipT3vP6FBCWEv2IhLuQfjOmVeF4fxl1MSw9WJ4urFWYq5iL71gWn/s3264/PXL_20230111_155959119-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpmniaiHdrPx2xsUwkfowFq-o6rvKUV03kDP-eOUIKrRsvqZ1iZP7oTtoEqhJFl9fxf309DJTxf0fC1Hlct8DiG7udkA052fcTFRAkCKJjYcQYGdFTXLpxPjZgLIxXC9A-yiNgacO2ipT3vP6FBCWEv2IhLuQfjOmVeF4fxl1MSw9WJ4urFWYq5iL71gWn/s320/PXL_20230111_155959119-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Taking someone on a tour of the Neutral Buoyancy Lab</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I am continuing my work to better the mission of the United States into space by essentially making pretty pictures for NASA. I have to say that it beats some of the alternative jobs I could have ended up with. I'm still at Johnson Space Center working on a small team that develops engineering visualization products. It pays the bills most days, but sometimes I get to work on some really cool stuff.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFLpE7lENQsPN7xhA4wKIOkFicj4W0S-ISJcLDRx8mM12ym1EJ2uCbwOIVe6BAZptntCgwq_HFEU1rEmPGDC9D8tvV0xL1GgmzZU2354YZL_NZSwfzJfiQavtKs0i8Ky3IoUy_DxVcwaVBITiMOtvqamMKl9iAIodtUvLcYOMy-1Id5CaRvl_udwFujyu/s3264/PXL_20230111_170557581-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixFLpE7lENQsPN7xhA4wKIOkFicj4W0S-ISJcLDRx8mM12ym1EJ2uCbwOIVe6BAZptntCgwq_HFEU1rEmPGDC9D8tvV0xL1GgmzZU2354YZL_NZSwfzJfiQavtKs0i8Ky3IoUy_DxVcwaVBITiMOtvqamMKl9iAIodtUvLcYOMy-1Id5CaRvl_udwFujyu/s320/PXL_20230111_170557581-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hanging out at the Space Vehicle Mockup Facility</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the highlights of this past year was when the company I work for was awarded the newly consolidated research, science, and engineering contract at NASA LaRC out in Virginia. I was heavily involved in creating graphics for those proposal documents and spent many hours, sometimes late into the night, trying to create the best looking graphics for the job. It was very rewarding to be a part of something that has helped step the company forward into the future.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIlSgaoAhNgYhRLtb0u0LV0cO7pF0yFQYL-wT4ExrH-XusMQchFDMVqTYKONkpr0z1xvBLSG0AjAouLNUIvVXm7yh9Qrq4W0hsfC-36nnkSTohodKvvqaMMD3dqKefmhc8jWlso36aNTWM4b7pqgDv8Uf-wl5XhdPCX6GScaevj01oT5efJqYLwsV4cOi/s3264/PXL_20230305_224705070.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVIlSgaoAhNgYhRLtb0u0LV0cO7pF0yFQYL-wT4ExrH-XusMQchFDMVqTYKONkpr0z1xvBLSG0AjAouLNUIvVXm7yh9Qrq4W0hsfC-36nnkSTohodKvvqaMMD3dqKefmhc8jWlso36aNTWM4b7pqgDv8Uf-wl5XhdPCX6GScaevj01oT5efJqYLwsV4cOi/s320/PXL_20230305_224705070.MP.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I've adopted Texas</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I continue to enjoy Texas to the fullest. I have to say that, even if Texas doesn't adopt me, I'll adopt it. I've really come to love the culture and diversity of the area I live in. Rodeo is one of my favorite things every year, and I love getting out into the hill country. Every time we drive through there, Sarah and I comment on how we could easily see ourselves buying a home out there in retirement.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw5X023n8WESyU7FyGuMw6VDUBx1aCMWbGKie5XqOR93EbOKmC73Gb4ZItTbzdQnqCLMYgCspR3UeeDDRnHUU-aTDGJtN4q3iV385uCZgezX3NJUdvdnPiur-7jar5MXqX1mcTOwEZrSAdSEe3HivTh7g3lO4o1p496OCD-nSWYY71a1ONqNfkJcwsggv/s4032/IMG_6106.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw5X023n8WESyU7FyGuMw6VDUBx1aCMWbGKie5XqOR93EbOKmC73Gb4ZItTbzdQnqCLMYgCspR3UeeDDRnHUU-aTDGJtN4q3iV385uCZgezX3NJUdvdnPiur-7jar5MXqX1mcTOwEZrSAdSEe3HivTh7g3lO4o1p496OCD-nSWYY71a1ONqNfkJcwsggv/s320/IMG_6106.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Continuing to learn the fine art of smoking meats</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Meat prices continue to go up, so I haven't smoked as much as I have in years past. I occasionally try a new recipe, but most times I simply wind up doing the tried and true favorites. I've figured out the secret to brisket and love to make it whenever I can. I think I decided that the "love languages" theorem is missing the category of "food". If you've been fed by me, it means you've been loved by me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTb9OqLNaP7x-3ZllB_GNnlDP5ZMtCzj7nM3XOUKAsYdlulv3FJgxcXh1DN6z0py7Qk3432Hl2OKOWmflDpPnb-eL3-LgYRXyZ_7gE_jJeI02AvWYomVNWhl2JiuowYyOSDhz6Lxfu7eOQYXZttiMS00FsN3nAvW7k1k4TUfrrL4CZDBxVZfXRBxpA4FOS/s4032/IMG_3514.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTb9OqLNaP7x-3ZllB_GNnlDP5ZMtCzj7nM3XOUKAsYdlulv3FJgxcXh1DN6z0py7Qk3432Hl2OKOWmflDpPnb-eL3-LgYRXyZ_7gE_jJeI02AvWYomVNWhl2JiuowYyOSDhz6Lxfu7eOQYXZttiMS00FsN3nAvW7k1k4TUfrrL4CZDBxVZfXRBxpA4FOS/s320/IMG_3514.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sean ducks and covers during the tornado with the absolute essentials</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's sort of the overview of what's been going on in each of our family's lives, but here's a few highlights of what happened during the year. First of all, our area had a tornado rip through the area. I was at work and the kids were at home with Sarah. They all took shelter as the tornado passed through and I watched from my office window.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLFd4ThjoUsrrH2-wwv1dEH6-7XdgfOwSLmwoJUjll5o_PP2G_GeUOzNrtJDIOufhu84b8k3QOhKqwbODgCJj6-ErU8Ty2vhdEoWYJuMB82k5boqugBmPk9XNw0A1qDWz99cFfoPb0LDzKjEcy-yYZyZ9mElyxETxwniw_loUKnqok7rPbLDspr92RLdS/s4032/IMG_3520.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLFd4ThjoUsrrH2-wwv1dEH6-7XdgfOwSLmwoJUjll5o_PP2G_GeUOzNrtJDIOufhu84b8k3QOhKqwbODgCJj6-ErU8Ty2vhdEoWYJuMB82k5boqugBmPk9XNw0A1qDWz99cFfoPb0LDzKjEcy-yYZyZ9mElyxETxwniw_loUKnqok7rPbLDspr92RLdS/s320/IMG_3520.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The aftermath of the tornado</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thankfully nothing happened to our home, except for a few downed tree branches and lots of rain that resulted in a flooded street. We said a prayer of thanks that everything turned out okay.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagNElEMwO01oAQrHX1tvjzEhKv_nwUGiqCmUpUNjD1rx0oEoYmjzJmjaU6klJLH8498j_EefOd8ZTIs4dJ6n8PnM2iZh-ojqDWXE2GYy3iHW9mM1vqtHwzzX0ibuZ_ifKTjgEdAkgjX1Scc3c4MpbdcpqDtZ32_9dYT3R8_CPxMJGgo6lZPV6AvqRwCTZ/s4032/IMG_4045.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiagNElEMwO01oAQrHX1tvjzEhKv_nwUGiqCmUpUNjD1rx0oEoYmjzJmjaU6klJLH8498j_EefOd8ZTIs4dJ6n8PnM2iZh-ojqDWXE2GYy3iHW9mM1vqtHwzzX0ibuZ_ifKTjgEdAkgjX1Scc3c4MpbdcpqDtZ32_9dYT3R8_CPxMJGgo6lZPV6AvqRwCTZ/s320/IMG_4045.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Grandma and Grandpa Reynolds come to visit</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the spring we were fortunate to have my parents come and visit us. Because the kids are still homeschooling, they were fortunate enough to spend lots of time with them and show them all sorts of skills they had been learning.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEw0J214CVumBzREr9Lrf-w-h22zdwKJ4gJPsW3e3wZx-WkJLP8cRtWVCNstaNTJ27SO4yGY4ov9WnjFOZUqmhuEPUfPsx3lZBzuQ4wzY6L-6OH-FBUN_TKqbZv64tl-RV0ISfGO1fGu2xS5H7N_HwLGebvDWlG4Il9cULYDPG6IERpzsvblnaL6C_Er2/s4032/IMG_4094.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEw0J214CVumBzREr9Lrf-w-h22zdwKJ4gJPsW3e3wZx-WkJLP8cRtWVCNstaNTJ27SO4yGY4ov9WnjFOZUqmhuEPUfPsx3lZBzuQ4wzY6L-6OH-FBUN_TKqbZv64tl-RV0ISfGO1fGu2xS5H7N_HwLGebvDWlG4Il9cULYDPG6IERpzsvblnaL6C_Er2/s320/IMG_4094.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Giving them the full Houston Rodeo experience, including hearing loss</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We also got the privilege of taking them to the rodeo, which we have been talking about for years. Because my father grew up bailing hay and milking cows, I have a strong appreciation for those that do it as a living. I also really enjoy the celebration that rodeo is of that legacy, and how it has built up so many lives today.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZInCKzE8dqKYtffK_WVwbzIoAojE9Ay1p3yaWVaHT7oEKHSCnp0SKpNkxmcNI6_B_tkCzsUdKM5POj1-2vt5VS3u1eyCA5Uhp34GQBNHFlFPDCzGA793J_xUi9oTgAevUKbAwwTmAsnnZ127QY90M4XhiZF-2hFHrMNhfGN3hTR5S8-e4Bi49hDrAKM5/s4032/PXL_20230428_133553019.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUZInCKzE8dqKYtffK_WVwbzIoAojE9Ay1p3yaWVaHT7oEKHSCnp0SKpNkxmcNI6_B_tkCzsUdKM5POj1-2vt5VS3u1eyCA5Uhp34GQBNHFlFPDCzGA793J_xUi9oTgAevUKbAwwTmAsnnZ127QY90M4XhiZF-2hFHrMNhfGN3hTR5S8-e4Bi49hDrAKM5/s320/PXL_20230428_133553019.MP.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Being neighborly to our squirrels, just like my brother Greg</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Although we haven't rescued animals like my brother and his wife, we continue to enjoy seeing what sights we can from our backyard. We have had the chance to make friends with a few of the squirrels in the area, but I think they must have moved on for the winter. Can you make sure that they get some walnuts in their nests this Christmas Eve?</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlQRwY-gL6ZrkRHSekGIWTZDg29zj_BL6Zql-p1HhRi3hyphenhyphenEqVRavJ_nPR8nD5BGe6YxAv0Q5iKTuLjBfO1CypyCxiyIZcrsEPXM3QMQ-7puHH66ntlJjgJfg4FazaarkDRyK6qt-r6gCPzpz1HuTO31P-gUIKEDp9TO_TfNsNKc9K4uCj_ALGMnCpzPSS/s4032/IMG_4786.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmlQRwY-gL6ZrkRHSekGIWTZDg29zj_BL6Zql-p1HhRi3hyphenhyphenEqVRavJ_nPR8nD5BGe6YxAv0Q5iKTuLjBfO1CypyCxiyIZcrsEPXM3QMQ-7puHH66ntlJjgJfg4FazaarkDRyK6qt-r6gCPzpz1HuTO31P-gUIKEDp9TO_TfNsNKc9K4uCj_ALGMnCpzPSS/s320/IMG_4786.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Meeting Buccee in person. Who knew beavers could make such great tasting food?</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As soon as the school year was done, my wife and kids packed up their lives and made the annual trek out to Idaho for their summer visit to family. This time was going to be a little different.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdejo98AfHvsXnByoWZv046RCRaWnRJca2XY_TUC9C-BEemeAO4IF6UUkpkOuIrZ6bU2PTKYjCfcGI88dJgB2VYJjaoffC8X1ycWocMb5r0aAHI2zSrziVoAzJQU65SKS1ar6K8gPMbacLq9lG45oYHC9TfFNfP8ZM9FpXHBpSUSBLUdVB3ZAQQy-5Pxmm/s4032/IMG_5364.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdejo98AfHvsXnByoWZv046RCRaWnRJca2XY_TUC9C-BEemeAO4IF6UUkpkOuIrZ6bU2PTKYjCfcGI88dJgB2VYJjaoffC8X1ycWocMb5r0aAHI2zSrziVoAzJQU65SKS1ar6K8gPMbacLq9lG45oYHC9TfFNfP8ZM9FpXHBpSUSBLUdVB3ZAQQy-5Pxmm/s320/IMG_5364.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Visiting Grandpa Richardson in the rehab center</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For one, Sarah's father had a bad accident with his mobility scooter and wound up breaking his shoulder. He had to stay in a rehab center and go through multiple surgeries and procedures to try and get it right. Unfortunately, he hasn't been able to get well enough to go home yet. We're praying for better news in 2024.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUa6tqddCAlIs6BkpQg0aSjLEM5owd7LaBRiocYaOfMNw8vOi2xlo6QF68HcqKYchwKvst1MeJx3kYmhc7wB0NluqH9XrQrSgoFfvzDcxMwumpU7xL8cRzd0iFhl6juUzQSzTM00zyC0H5jMnP6sZ9u1C8I0f6BETUIBSHX2pfy_BbPCyvjz2kLeE9CR7f/s4032/IMG_5519.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUa6tqddCAlIs6BkpQg0aSjLEM5owd7LaBRiocYaOfMNw8vOi2xlo6QF68HcqKYchwKvst1MeJx3kYmhc7wB0NluqH9XrQrSgoFfvzDcxMwumpU7xL8cRzd0iFhl6juUzQSzTM00zyC0H5jMnP6sZ9u1C8I0f6BETUIBSHX2pfy_BbPCyvjz2kLeE9CR7f/s320/IMG_5519.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Enjoying a Sunday with Grandma Richardson</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because of all the complications and limitations of the care center, Sarah's mom has spent a large amount of time caring for her husband while he was there. Thankfully, Sarah was able to come and spend some time getting the house in order for her while she was there.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcf-XFmNccqhn149zChq3sEBTQEP0HMacFoytpM8uT7QFRyBtWfInkxMrLQYneWjOZZGixqLRK2rPJg6Pa7lL66s-xo5Q0ExOkcCwKlEJh-W67Ef8zWeuO52ffB07rSkT5q5kb7yTSqxPrMCmyEq2Y9kNrSh0drHsIZhIxDcvbDZQCG-8gL151hR2agLu6/s4032/IMG_4871.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcf-XFmNccqhn149zChq3sEBTQEP0HMacFoytpM8uT7QFRyBtWfInkxMrLQYneWjOZZGixqLRK2rPJg6Pa7lL66s-xo5Q0ExOkcCwKlEJh-W67Ef8zWeuO52ffB07rSkT5q5kb7yTSqxPrMCmyEq2Y9kNrSh0drHsIZhIxDcvbDZQCG-8gL151hR2agLu6/s320/IMG_4871.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The beginning of an unforgettable trip</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">At the beginning of June, Sarah dropped the kids off at her brother's house in Idaho so we could join the rest of my brothers, their wives, and my parents for an unforgettable week enjoying Greece and Turkey.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILwlWWnNbtgYYyZduPnTMGeFXit4-oXTsHXxaN7x9YUK76lEEcJZjnCP2cuND2h1YCfpDUDFJJH6w_aNsgUA-17t1jp31qnNtBMxFf6R7vlyGMqH-akEhFsOLWi6cod8PukYoLN9esynbToUAbpNa9ktQwj4fs0Igz8s9e_tDy5u5VFjxHSHvOqhy_qGL/s4787/DSC_0776.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2333" data-original-width="4787" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgILwlWWnNbtgYYyZduPnTMGeFXit4-oXTsHXxaN7x9YUK76lEEcJZjnCP2cuND2h1YCfpDUDFJJH6w_aNsgUA-17t1jp31qnNtBMxFf6R7vlyGMqH-akEhFsOLWi6cod8PukYoLN9esynbToUAbpNa9ktQwj4fs0Igz8s9e_tDy5u5VFjxHSHvOqhy_qGL/s320/DSC_0776.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The acropolis of Athens</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My parents had been wanting to do another adults-only trip with us for several years and we decided this was the year to do it. Thankfully everything aligned and we were able to get everyone there all together at the same time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptTfKqChK8z5XrlLP8qLrj2Le7anay5O7uFfqRUWTymLuo3NzopxP-FnS_I2fTIb8j2E6K1V17zXoM3Cqm7fqQHQbQisJQ3Io6RA6HRB0XhnuSy9eAVLnWvgcNYU8pZgXN-xs_F8AuLvIL2NqCCglTsFyJPfzk9ElL0YlCONrObvnC6QJnUKvWSKSoRto/s6000/C7EE42EC-72B6-445C-B147-821F4AC98AB4.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhptTfKqChK8z5XrlLP8qLrj2Le7anay5O7uFfqRUWTymLuo3NzopxP-FnS_I2fTIb8j2E6K1V17zXoM3Cqm7fqQHQbQisJQ3Io6RA6HRB0XhnuSy9eAVLnWvgcNYU8pZgXN-xs_F8AuLvIL2NqCCglTsFyJPfzk9ElL0YlCONrObvnC6QJnUKvWSKSoRto/s320/C7EE42EC-72B6-445C-B147-821F4AC98AB4.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Taking a breather at the top</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was an especially valuable trip for me because I had spent so much of my college career learning about art history. It was really incredible to see some of the art pieces with my own eyes that I had previously only read about in books.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghR0lRazgJPyv-QO4CtwEdinSDyfR94xOXDST44r__D6-E2ChrSBLpaSf-Rb2NGpqECewPM13x57120_mISnnvvWix8sxH833UDcjob0Fqzr00NIY5qantwmQ3RuXUt9h0lD6l57xNAb1HPr5qA5f_3OyaCMlMIjnbPAvMQE9we3TwHbCayJQqkA20pY78/s5007/DSC_0040.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3195" data-original-width="5007" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghR0lRazgJPyv-QO4CtwEdinSDyfR94xOXDST44r__D6-E2ChrSBLpaSf-Rb2NGpqECewPM13x57120_mISnnvvWix8sxH833UDcjob0Fqzr00NIY5qantwmQ3RuXUt9h0lD6l57xNAb1HPr5qA5f_3OyaCMlMIjnbPAvMQE9we3TwHbCayJQqkA20pY78/s320/DSC_0040.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hagia Sofia in Istanbul</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Additionally, I came to really enjoy and love the people we got to meet. We had a few private tours arranged, and I really enjoyed just learning about the local people and cultures of the places we went. It made me appreciate just how similar we all are as human beings and how much good is created by the people of the world.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFJjFgi4l4I9KjQ-WABW2Rx0ZhIqQwVgzSOTOz9Ti8Rwi3EhU8qSAm-BCdCLkUYneVbrdINpig83uODRNhDrqsy_L1Q5R2w42b7PZRpUvkd4sDnkzr77QdpL7EaR-d-s91ySxYrzT9ISqA4cQ_EvdSbiI9AyK3SuQwyZ8TwmH2AkBCxDuFvtxePXbIsXO/s4597/Group%20Haga%20Sophia%20Mosque.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3479" data-original-width="4597" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFJjFgi4l4I9KjQ-WABW2Rx0ZhIqQwVgzSOTOz9Ti8Rwi3EhU8qSAm-BCdCLkUYneVbrdINpig83uODRNhDrqsy_L1Q5R2w42b7PZRpUvkd4sDnkzr77QdpL7EaR-d-s91ySxYrzT9ISqA4cQ_EvdSbiI9AyK3SuQwyZ8TwmH2AkBCxDuFvtxePXbIsXO/s320/Group%20Haga%20Sophia%20Mosque.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Thankfully the entire family could come</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the things I was most grateful for was that I could experience that with some of the people I love the most. My parents, brothers, and their wives are some of my favorite people on the planet, and I wish I could spend much more time with them than I get to on an annual basis.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPq2qqQQEb6M73WcgeDduxpcsLR0Z-qDc8x_B3sa981x-nix2ikAgcj14s6hT6rk7pZXOcBt0eiLjTjdUP2nujd-0tagC3M1D_4axAs2JCaJn2-wue1t0-385-7wulizHy11w-pOB5ZJoW8TbLEVFi487qENW0qbOf-jFH9IescQIVsqAsmXUiBjRCSFL/s4898/DSC_0127.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3265" data-original-width="4898" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNPq2qqQQEb6M73WcgeDduxpcsLR0Z-qDc8x_B3sa981x-nix2ikAgcj14s6hT6rk7pZXOcBt0eiLjTjdUP2nujd-0tagC3M1D_4axAs2JCaJn2-wue1t0-385-7wulizHy11w-pOB5ZJoW8TbLEVFi487qENW0qbOf-jFH9IescQIVsqAsmXUiBjRCSFL/s320/DSC_0127.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">We walked our feet off in Istanbul</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The bond that my family shares is something I will always treasure. I have never thought that we look that much alike as brothers, but I see it as I get older. Additionally, it brings joy to my heart to see how much my wife and my sisters-in-law all bond together. They all bring such unique and valuable contributions to the family as a whole.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP-wQYTiA0kGh8eoaZ15-rtwrI97g9zM6qJ8_j-gW_w6jeImfmH_3RlEW-R1NNf4s5Cv2NN8Vfiwj8uYFxSef4xET6ZyVN-ZdxC2Y6uan50Gsmib5qX8r50qGHvNmm2XZSuhQ9_tGBRgogYLDz7tHhNh9RZ8id6gc6wm8wjB4NozZDGmi7BQPN8-7qNMi/s5202/Finished%20Mosaics.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3075" data-original-width="5202" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP-wQYTiA0kGh8eoaZ15-rtwrI97g9zM6qJ8_j-gW_w6jeImfmH_3RlEW-R1NNf4s5Cv2NN8Vfiwj8uYFxSef4xET6ZyVN-ZdxC2Y6uan50Gsmib5qX8r50qGHvNmm2XZSuhQ9_tGBRgogYLDz7tHhNh9RZ8id6gc6wm8wjB4NozZDGmi7BQPN8-7qNMi/s320/Finished%20Mosaics.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A quiet activity in Mykonos making mosaics</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the moments I treasure the most from this trip was when I got to spend a quiet day on the island of Mykonos learning how to make mosaics from the most famous mosaic artist on the island. I would have never thought to have an opportunity like this if it wasn't for my sister-in-law looking off the beaten path for good activities. It was such a nice, quiet break from the rest of the trip and I got to take home more than just a mosaic I made myself.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVZegsVg7nAtxMCZWrL2BEN-BODLlO-DNJZpVtJhMVBDc5vQOu-shm9KuMkcg1ej-Z7ZwgN8CcUolJKkhxujbP-JWF_mHtrW53zONZr-_yRXqTA_E1E-A5WH-BC5tE2wnUixIkjcSkXUrhUKz8sXrDObrVtAyxweDvQSgCjPf-e38RmHQyZYNImxlDipJ/s4032/IMG_5121.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKVZegsVg7nAtxMCZWrL2BEN-BODLlO-DNJZpVtJhMVBDc5vQOu-shm9KuMkcg1ej-Z7ZwgN8CcUolJKkhxujbP-JWF_mHtrW53zONZr-_yRXqTA_E1E-A5WH-BC5tE2wnUixIkjcSkXUrhUKz8sXrDObrVtAyxweDvQSgCjPf-e38RmHQyZYNImxlDipJ/s320/IMG_5121.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Exploring the Castle of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Exploring the back countries of other places always helps me appreciate how much I have here in the United States. We have such a relatively short history compared to other countries in the world, and there's a lot we take for granted. Like trees. I was surprised by how few trees there are in Greece. I guess that's what you get when you live in an area with frequent seismic and volcanic activity.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEavK6FO5UbwRr0eRVpLHvPoxcrRU205RwUd3mMggPbwBpdaj1HsYfY0CqY3h3OjCB3U04Gfc1wWTKDCjWRdOhC1x2tlOgT8kzS68lV1srucnWVgoiti6SOD3mp7ii49qldSto0w9lnqB960iL_G-68qHAayn_W5XGcvxyOt1K4z-j3Re9tqMtbVr3DKdX/s4032/PXL_20230603_092325893.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEavK6FO5UbwRr0eRVpLHvPoxcrRU205RwUd3mMggPbwBpdaj1HsYfY0CqY3h3OjCB3U04Gfc1wWTKDCjWRdOhC1x2tlOgT8kzS68lV1srucnWVgoiti6SOD3mp7ii49qldSto0w9lnqB960iL_G-68qHAayn_W5XGcvxyOt1K4z-j3Re9tqMtbVr3DKdX/s320/PXL_20230603_092325893.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The view of the caldera of Santorini for lunch</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The last stop of our trip was the island of Santorini. I think I learned that people go there to take pictures of themselves there to demonstrate that they've been there to take pictures of themselves there. Honestly, it was pretty, but I was getting easily lost there on all the ups and downs of the cliff roads. Overall it was such a great trip full of memories that I will treasure the rest of my life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABofEVUJreN2mttFZkxtxe0qDLHeq2dnSQ7ieIBcywIoS_QBhe_a_Ssr51RExjiK7JRSZz9hyphenhyphenRrph5a9y38H7xM2NPjM8Lan-Bbtx9wyxQqvu1QIAT9ghCuEmKYixQ0CpL3RLqh485DhCgWwee-rici8ChYSaOOU9RtZn6alHIH55NzeasPVYOW9ee4NW/s4032/PXL_20230618_004814409.MP.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhABofEVUJreN2mttFZkxtxe0qDLHeq2dnSQ7ieIBcywIoS_QBhe_a_Ssr51RExjiK7JRSZz9hyphenhyphenRrph5a9y38H7xM2NPjM8Lan-Bbtx9wyxQqvu1QIAT9ghCuEmKYixQ0CpL3RLqh485DhCgWwee-rici8ChYSaOOU9RtZn6alHIH55NzeasPVYOW9ee4NW/s320/PXL_20230618_004814409.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A visit from my nephew and his cute family</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When that trip was over, Sarah and the kids stayed out in Idaho to help out grandparents. Someone had to fund their activities, so I went back for my isolation in Texas. Thankfully, I got a reprieve from that when my nephew visited for a few days while they were making a cross-country trek. I hadn't spent much time with them before, so I was glad to get to know the kids a bit better.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yqVf9ZIWvv7DGUT5MkxneBlCReMbUpV9IkkstapatXqvowFvJnbkjHbzEfux8_0WWSzvp9KhGSl6m0LgX5joI2k_bf3luKD-vnFKkQztV8GfloRkNTUOBUB2ArxLKEN68Z2ttKpGwh1dlsgJQdCCt6j7fIlPCTKFZhsV_5uQYnMDAyrEbP0bUQ75Oljx/s4032/IMG_6031.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0yqVf9ZIWvv7DGUT5MkxneBlCReMbUpV9IkkstapatXqvowFvJnbkjHbzEfux8_0WWSzvp9KhGSl6m0LgX5joI2k_bf3luKD-vnFKkQztV8GfloRkNTUOBUB2ArxLKEN68Z2ttKpGwh1dlsgJQdCCt6j7fIlPCTKFZhsV_5uQYnMDAyrEbP0bUQ75Oljx/s320/IMG_6031.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Leah's first time at Girl's Camp</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When Sarah and the kids got back, almost immediately Sarah and Leah went and spent a week with the rest of the girls in our church congregation at their summer girl's camp. I am sure summers in Texas aren't the most comfortable places for outdoor activities, but thankfully they got to eat and sleep air conditioned buildings. I think Leah had a great time getting to make memories with the other girls in our church and I definitely can see the bonds they have formed.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwyNKy3Mvjmg3rTv9AyUQ5-aV3Zvl7FLE1xsTFP6lDdBKoVL2aVnjslcSc_YcwdWsZKkymPIzD9yWPTIAwYq1K0aKKJ7MIHyrhyphenhyphenzVCCFqMxFHxeHjE1WGHE6n5PKaWaa8_Ip3eyz3PboWGM3WtT37aoP95NPLz0WIts8XjkN0gCWxpWF1dGY-s3iqHzcg/s4032/PXL_20230902_161617859.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWwyNKy3Mvjmg3rTv9AyUQ5-aV3Zvl7FLE1xsTFP6lDdBKoVL2aVnjslcSc_YcwdWsZKkymPIzD9yWPTIAwYq1K0aKKJ7MIHyrhyphenhyphenzVCCFqMxFHxeHjE1WGHE6n5PKaWaa8_Ip3eyz3PboWGM3WtT37aoP95NPLz0WIts8XjkN0gCWxpWF1dGY-s3iqHzcg/s320/PXL_20230902_161617859.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hot enough to move the house away from the ground</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of summers in Texas, this summer was one of the hottest on record. Hot enough that the ground dried up around our house and pulled our gas meter away from the house. We came home after a morning activity to find it gushing gas out, having sheared the screw post completely off. That was an exciting call to 911. At least the kids got free hats from the fire department. So if you have any cooler weather for next summer in your bag, I am sure millions of us would appreciate an arctic vortex in July.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEplLfwUAvWDHLbzS9U_RLnVv26jIf1WLLAhqfMnZsZifyMZe9OemeB4-7BcoIrWiEFwAhifrWHGDyDSB6TTRQF-MdPeD947zukbQzMVFUsY6XD4CIv9fhhalBu7SWtnepwSn5vioOycp7l9dJsTxzFDoVhMmIBNhE700zgjUqZw7RHU-xmvbrpu-0yVd/s4032/1000002707-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEplLfwUAvWDHLbzS9U_RLnVv26jIf1WLLAhqfMnZsZifyMZe9OemeB4-7BcoIrWiEFwAhifrWHGDyDSB6TTRQF-MdPeD947zukbQzMVFUsY6XD4CIv9fhhalBu7SWtnepwSn5vioOycp7l9dJsTxzFDoVhMmIBNhE700zgjUqZw7RHU-xmvbrpu-0yVd/s320/1000002707-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A lovely view from our balcony</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because I was having yearnings to see family again, I arranged to take a fall trip out to the Florida panhandle to spend a few days with my brother and his family at a beach house right on the coast. It was another wonderful trip that we got to enjoy this year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5yVXz4xNTIkjg8NKuLR4mP0TC-G1qff0Kcf1ItyJl3xPX8bPclUFhN86tkXOmZbfmDBca4eaPEPs0F2CpmxRqStt_-xgoFhN5cqdt3jOnCCNQ4tOMLdfKRUdlGHa-RpvIqe74WadqmY0bgQhxqQ-ViCx-aGz5QGTR0Gqvh0l_rIhOXogaI1HUZOeCu4U/s4032/IMG_6871.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih5yVXz4xNTIkjg8NKuLR4mP0TC-G1qff0Kcf1ItyJl3xPX8bPclUFhN86tkXOmZbfmDBca4eaPEPs0F2CpmxRqStt_-xgoFhN5cqdt3jOnCCNQ4tOMLdfKRUdlGHa-RpvIqe74WadqmY0bgQhxqQ-ViCx-aGz5QGTR0Gqvh0l_rIhOXogaI1HUZOeCu4U/s320/IMG_6871.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kids playing with their cousins</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My brother's daughter is the closest to the rest of my kids' age, so they got along well. However, his older kids spent a great deal of time doting on their younger cousins. Malcolm especially bonded with his teenage cousin and still calls him his best friend.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHsdX8bV9OrIoEniNsbgQC1ZXX3sJiYDIvqVzt2AoO4qn_eKkUAz_PkYWMzsNm1bUdLJwzDt8TZR5eUZcTQSVWqY5WPgqXzfB8vozEGdtR7GP9JnZnHNfBWIxohyphenhyphenZrk9IvAgD0o_7ExiMbC8Uq4YMnhhWWr_EIqXHnnMFXBLEykmyJO2BUYiGL9xvkPvC/s3264/PXL_20231005_140634447.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJHsdX8bV9OrIoEniNsbgQC1ZXX3sJiYDIvqVzt2AoO4qn_eKkUAz_PkYWMzsNm1bUdLJwzDt8TZR5eUZcTQSVWqY5WPgqXzfB8vozEGdtR7GP9JnZnHNfBWIxohyphenhyphenZrk9IvAgD0o_7ExiMbC8Uq4YMnhhWWr_EIqXHnnMFXBLEykmyJO2BUYiGL9xvkPvC/s320/PXL_20231005_140634447.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Enjoying the white sand beaches</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I have a special place in my heart for the beaches of northern Florida. They are always so pretty and it's just far enough away to be just within reach of our home in Texas.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxn8Pm-5nSW5hfmIHd499vMFxkzdu1uz-vNY5sSdUdWqQZ1wqpU3jG17yjDM5MBDraiR7Bklz6wiJhfv2R_D2y0n3pcGUqBltWby4iYItob3V4yevGA8981a9H74Ze5cVfYMfBXEfidRpY5j-eTFsHSS1Z7jxDaipr86PBMQlGEBi5yJ0AbSikxTVipau/s4032/IMG_6907.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCxn8Pm-5nSW5hfmIHd499vMFxkzdu1uz-vNY5sSdUdWqQZ1wqpU3jG17yjDM5MBDraiR7Bklz6wiJhfv2R_D2y0n3pcGUqBltWby4iYItob3V4yevGA8981a9H74Ze5cVfYMfBXEfidRpY5j-eTFsHSS1Z7jxDaipr86PBMQlGEBi5yJ0AbSikxTVipau/s320/IMG_6907.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">More of Malcolm and Mom's cup of tea</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm hoping that one day we can do that trip again before all the kids get too big and too far away. They certainly love spending time with all their cousins, and they haven't had much time to spend with their cousins on the Reynolds side of the family.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6aEQMFeLd-swfvpWCMT1W71KoS263O1B2rbe9X-SEKiSwORM6WXf0tMp0A-bULiharybjec-nBRphsTD-T1v9gihb7eViNBMX6JzU0iXAW48_K1MedScBP8qPrGb-w4cLUhJul3a7BuLaMpWCFIs9ZJWSGn9CVQt6YGBKw-0O9YDFDZ_Xio5lMbYW5ao/s3264/1000003050-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU6aEQMFeLd-swfvpWCMT1W71KoS263O1B2rbe9X-SEKiSwORM6WXf0tMp0A-bULiharybjec-nBRphsTD-T1v9gihb7eViNBMX6JzU0iXAW48_K1MedScBP8qPrGb-w4cLUhJul3a7BuLaMpWCFIs9ZJWSGn9CVQt6YGBKw-0O9YDFDZ_Xio5lMbYW5ao/s320/1000003050-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Enjoying the outdoors with my three oldest kiddos</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I continue to try and take my kids camping when the weather gets cooler. We've found a spot north of Houston that is our little hideaway. The kids thankfully enjoy the outdoors and appreciate unplugging from electronics for a few days.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGlJ55jBFCf7BM9s2CO35qcquLmCWezEWdFEro331KqRFLMOjPZC-4eerBKOpWJ6wAzOLcvvLVbg4QMOG6uycCcPotxv39KPBaT5G23GsaU7G3Nao65lf7JC8PpaK1XDtbIxZVMBlS-mxFXHULOmPtKW7Wc0KOy_LFzEb8uZY8L6gdU5NlSVxQR2SjKrQC/s4032/IMG_7426.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGlJ55jBFCf7BM9s2CO35qcquLmCWezEWdFEro331KqRFLMOjPZC-4eerBKOpWJ6wAzOLcvvLVbg4QMOG6uycCcPotxv39KPBaT5G23GsaU7G3Nao65lf7JC8PpaK1XDtbIxZVMBlS-mxFXHULOmPtKW7Wc0KOy_LFzEb8uZY8L6gdU5NlSVxQR2SjKrQC/s320/IMG_7426.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The heaviest day of the year</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">By now, Santa, I'm sure your elves have told you that we unfortunately lost my mother this year. For years she had health symptoms that resembled leukemia, but no cancer cells could be found in her body. When we were leaving Greece, she got sick with food poisoning, but never seemed to get better. After a few months, she was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome, which is essentially the cancer before leukemia. In August she started chemotherapy and we tried to have hope for an extension to her life. By the end of September, however, she wasn't reacting well at all to the medication and began to get fluid buildup in her lungs. We prayed for better news, but on the morning of Saturday, October 21st, she passed away at her home. It was a very hard day for all the family. Not only was she our mom, but she was a shining light to so many around her.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBNFUneNI77mUtipCGLOz7Ach0Os72fZpc_BBmON4W6Sar1VvKrucoqPAuHjO5hjmmQJZWcsq6QVGjs4zylBb9XomwMsgPEYRCC3x_Ai-EbILO1VJToLtqn12GqKVRIVV0op2tc6QyUP9imIChjszsPkm42xHNgQ019illA3U6GABJmNG74WBZu6ajoVw/s4032/IMG_3419.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaBNFUneNI77mUtipCGLOz7Ach0Os72fZpc_BBmON4W6Sar1VvKrucoqPAuHjO5hjmmQJZWcsq6QVGjs4zylBb9XomwMsgPEYRCC3x_Ai-EbILO1VJToLtqn12GqKVRIVV0op2tc6QyUP9imIChjszsPkm42xHNgQ019illA3U6GABJmNG74WBZu6ajoVw/s320/IMG_3419.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Unforgettable memories for the kids</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One more time this year we gathered all the family together, this time for the solemn occasion of saying our earthly goodbyes to our wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Amazingly, I think she knew that this wasn't going to be a long-lasting battle with cancer. As soon as she got diagnosed, she spent the next month cleaning out all but the essentials in her house. She didn't want anyone to have a lot of stuff to go through when she passed. The week before she passed away, when she couldn't sleep, she had written out her own obituary and funeral, probably because she didn't want to be a burden on anyone else, even in that moment. We were able to have a beautiful funeral and burial with all the brothers there once again to pay tribute to their wonderful matriarch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEdPTC_PttiA7ovLpuvNTZBc9o_bxHFban_sQUPA4TT9Qxwjnw4YuZTeLMH5bRSlr_MvIb-qygWKJYUwQz2kU3TA-AWS1wfUfefx3fqhquCORMdS3rwY8-jebsDU1S6BL6tl2_dQyb2boUMkIeRoGqWP5MA8YYhdo2YjS60NLGzLz79KnHU1p3K9jHZLu/s4032/IMG_5141.HEIC" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDEdPTC_PttiA7ovLpuvNTZBc9o_bxHFban_sQUPA4TT9Qxwjnw4YuZTeLMH5bRSlr_MvIb-qygWKJYUwQz2kU3TA-AWS1wfUfefx3fqhquCORMdS3rwY8-jebsDU1S6BL6tl2_dQyb2boUMkIeRoGqWP5MA8YYhdo2YjS60NLGzLz79KnHU1p3K9jHZLu/s320/IMG_5141.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">One last grand adventure</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, Santa, this year I'm afraid to say that my light is a little dimmer than it was in years past. My mom was my partner in creating gingerbread houses, one of the annual traditions she tried to uphold. I designed an elaborate gingerbread house for her that she had started on, but wasn't able to finish once she got sick. It is supposed to get finished by my nieces out in Utah, so I hope they can do it justice. I thought about creating one of my own this year, but I honestly got overwhelmed by everything going on. Maybe next year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-Ns7FfZ3nU-nALvh9Sb055k9Bgn_J5S29AgOx7NOhntBtVUfYqHLS7sWMqwv07OLEvHn1mULJ2WETzqpEVcrsSLezcW-tb-UVPIfpxKNgzyIuTdmXW5U54GfLOEmfmJvaOLKJNYbvfJMkoIgW0Z5XY0iEpAiVkoassyZ6uLETFeEXniLK0yjJp32MOII/s4032/PXL_20231216_221546883.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-Ns7FfZ3nU-nALvh9Sb055k9Bgn_J5S29AgOx7NOhntBtVUfYqHLS7sWMqwv07OLEvHn1mULJ2WETzqpEVcrsSLezcW-tb-UVPIfpxKNgzyIuTdmXW5U54GfLOEmfmJvaOLKJNYbvfJMkoIgW0Z5XY0iEpAiVkoassyZ6uLETFeEXniLK0yjJp32MOII/s320/PXL_20231216_221546883.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A Christmas mess</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In addition to all that was going on, this fall we decided to tear apart the house and redecorate, which is taking a lot longer and is more expensive than I originally thought. You see the above photo? You notice how there's a tiny Christmas tree at the left of the photo? I think this is a visual representation of how my life feels right now. It's very disorganized with lots of work to be done, and what Christmas spirit I have right now is very, very tiny. With everything that has gone on this fall, it's been really hard to get in the mood for Christmas.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAYrhYU9PXVwcqULB0f4RM7boIOd5jph7YGw3S7xiGjKFfWtsYjXDqAFKoU06SGUs3WamrT_Kgv8z5_gdN-7MX9vfoi8mPLQvGVq3oZijlZLzrxq65smEBhcguPYIW1bTUnIj9MKEW8IPw1AlP2e6H-z-FrtQr9potuL1UTwcialrWElyRPFIu5LLrfPA/s4032/PXL_20231216_221535927.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfAYrhYU9PXVwcqULB0f4RM7boIOd5jph7YGw3S7xiGjKFfWtsYjXDqAFKoU06SGUs3WamrT_Kgv8z5_gdN-7MX9vfoi8mPLQvGVq3oZijlZLzrxq65smEBhcguPYIW1bTUnIj9MKEW8IPw1AlP2e6H-z-FrtQr9potuL1UTwcialrWElyRPFIu5LLrfPA/s320/PXL_20231216_221535927.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pardon the Christmas dust</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So when you get here on Christmas Eve, Santa, I hope we have enough room for presents and stockings amid the construction clutter. This week will tell us for sure. One positive thing I am looking forward to this year is that my dad chose to be with my little Texas family for Christmas. According to him, Christmas is for little kids and we're the last ones with little kids in the Reynolds clan. With all he's had to endure over the past two months, I hope to give him a soft place to land on what is probably going to be a really hard day for all of us, in spite of the joy of Christmas. If you have something- anything- that can bring him a little peace and joy in that big sack of yours, I would hope that you'll put it in his stocking when you get here.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZBRLvRIm1Vz1cH6LqJn5SkKG60caFkTQVOZAQSUXVchUkGTI1gn8CUUh0f47Coyzn1bK_8ldHn481ygYdEBcgWexLy9jyIsNMcRCawuuwYOL1XVcsgCy5w7dcpnnoT1FgkM00N_2AY9u9PkNxzjB-4TdicgOknVbnMJicSAJ9Vq3CduUkkAKBFLiHDhI/s4032/1000003156-01.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpZBRLvRIm1Vz1cH6LqJn5SkKG60caFkTQVOZAQSUXVchUkGTI1gn8CUUh0f47Coyzn1bK_8ldHn481ygYdEBcgWexLy9jyIsNMcRCawuuwYOL1XVcsgCy5w7dcpnnoT1FgkM00N_2AY9u9PkNxzjB-4TdicgOknVbnMJicSAJ9Vq3CduUkkAKBFLiHDhI/s320/1000003156-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Visiting your Wonderland in College Station, TX</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In spite of the lingering gloom, we've tried to do a few things to get in the Christmas spirit. One thing we did this past weekend was going up to your Winter Wonderland at the West Pole in College Station, TX. I have to say, I didn't know what to expect, but the kids think you delivered right on the money. They loved the bull rides, the snow tubing, and the lights of the hayride. All in all, it was a fantastic trip that I think lightened up our hearts a bit.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8cUIQqcfq-5Lte_xJJrdYON_87szdUxBHi2mZR_1QFZ69hPLnQBwD7tz_ij-zVuAskndnF4uUV_6NlwIymoRObzSCDRnP3bWQ4AUDlQf3tl_HsSLrNu5TGaXzDZZIY_b3Nj8-YrfwZmOzSmTspGCWLppjNTSCEvOPcBifq29jPGvAz4rNRGhasNMI9Ki/s3520/IMG_7781.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1980" data-original-width="3520" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk8cUIQqcfq-5Lte_xJJrdYON_87szdUxBHi2mZR_1QFZ69hPLnQBwD7tz_ij-zVuAskndnF4uUV_6NlwIymoRObzSCDRnP3bWQ4AUDlQf3tl_HsSLrNu5TGaXzDZZIY_b3Nj8-YrfwZmOzSmTspGCWLppjNTSCEvOPcBifq29jPGvAz4rNRGhasNMI9Ki/s320/IMG_7781.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kids participating in a wonderful Christmas performance</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Our children have also been using their musical talents to sing some Christmas praises over the past few weeks. One of the highlights for me was seeing them sing in our church's choir performance, which is one of the best Christmas musical performances I have ever seen. All the time I was sitting and watching my kids perform, I was thinking that I'm sure my mom was there beyond my earthly vision, enjoying seeing her grandchildren sing praises to their Lord and King.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So, Santa, I don't know what else I have to say. That's been our lives this year. A lot of good memories, and some of the hardest one's we've had to endure. Most children write letters telling them what they'd like for Christmas. Honestly, I could get whatever I wanted throughout the year, so I don't really have anything I need under the tree. Maybe you could enlist some of those elves that helped that one cobbler make shoes and have them finish up my house? Maybe they only do shoes, I don't know. I will be working on it as best as I can over my vacation time over Christmas. Honestly, it's been a bit therapeutic to get off the computer and get my hands dirty. I just hope I don't screw anything else up.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All that being said, I just want some peace and joy in my life. It's been dark as of late, and I'm still healing from the loss of my mom. I didn't expect it to affect me as much as it has, but I am taking it in without denial. Some days are easy, some are hard, and others I just feel numb (and sometimes guilty that I don't feel anything). I know this should be expected and I have accepted that I'm going to be here for a while. Things will get easier to endure, but I'm not on that part of the path yet. So in the meantime, just bring a little cheer to someone else's life in memory of my mom. Maybe you can find some small shack out in West Africa where a mother is struggling to bring the bare essentials to her children and give her a little extra joy. I think my mother would appreciate that. I don't really need much of anything, except maybe some more sleep. But there's nothing you can do about that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">See you Christmas Eve, Santa. There will be leftover brisket in the fridge if you get hungry on your stop over. May your sleigh be swift, your coat be warm, and your heart be full of love for Him whose birth we celebrate this time of year.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sincerely,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Brad Reynolds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. But seriously, if you have any of those small, pointy-eared, indentured servants of yours that know how to do flooring work and could spare them, I'll take it!</div><p></p>Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-85832577651230304572022-12-18T17:35:00.000-07:002022-12-18T17:35:16.760-07:00Dear Santa: An Open Christmas Letter in 2022<div class="separator"><br /></div><div class="separator"><br /></div><div class="separator"> Dear Santa,</div><p>I'm a little early this year, but that's because I have some free time on my hands in the week before Christmas. Usually I'm running around like an owlbear with my head cut off (sorry, I've had my head in DnD land). Right now I find myself with some peace and quiet to reflect on the year and give you my list of <strike>demands</strike> wishes.</p><p>How are you this year? I hope that 2022 finds you well and that it wasn't too hard on your workshop. These past few years of experiencing supply chain issues and logistical problems has been a bit wearying, but I just have to remind myself that a little bit of discomfort is all I'm facing. People in generations before me had it way worse. So far there isn't anything we've had to go without, but my heart goes out to those who have had major issues getting the things they desperately need to survive.</p><p>How is Mrs. Claus? Are she and the elves healthy? With COVID-19 becoming an endemic problem, we've been more cavalier about our activities and discovered that the past two years of isolation meant that we mostly missed colds and the flu. We've made up for it this year with almost all of us getting majorly sick with one thing or another. But again, it's discomforting, nothing more. We've gotten over it and are working to be healthier.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitw5F3raxux6i8Y6xRUxe61-6kBdrVwLsfLFzrJ--VCxTtjMkPn7pYszKiqQOlrOcPgCLXBcIEnX6QAQ7rkUUgikst2bKyn6jq6qKDKQLjpNAxX89WwwVMBAcpquEyQTPYmK4EyA9zbTpo267FYZL5Dt5TvfrX5lra6YQng25raAyOVyOFQaOwPfbmfA/s3264/PXL_20220115_004243920.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitw5F3raxux6i8Y6xRUxe61-6kBdrVwLsfLFzrJ--VCxTtjMkPn7pYszKiqQOlrOcPgCLXBcIEnX6QAQ7rkUUgikst2bKyn6jq6qKDKQLjpNAxX89WwwVMBAcpquEyQTPYmK4EyA9zbTpo267FYZL5Dt5TvfrX5lra6YQng25raAyOVyOFQaOwPfbmfA/s320/PXL_20220115_004243920.MP-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Eleven years down, infinity to go</span></div><p>So, as for us, where do I begin? This year was a bit less eventful than years past, which I don't mind. Sarah and I celebrated our 11 year anniversary this year by going to a local Brazilian steakhouse. I ate way too much, but it was very tasty. I am very grateful that I've had that woman in my life for the past decade as I've navigated so many changes, pitfalls, and challenges. She's so patient with me and my never ending immaturity.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLoI_kKmNb64c_GJcO7wyAcT6KJl3siFAd4JNNxBw4hnQH2BJHHPEOOLQD2hx2SxABu-HdLNitIcI8h-RM1w3wh1-XGcjZXFyHu4tIJDKMC352IpLsswrGmt2F4bfXX0tyskqNF1f1bt5znRK21FluFoFZ_QAbI5DNeZq2shTLyq2okw868ijhrEwqw/s4032/IMG_9598.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsLoI_kKmNb64c_GJcO7wyAcT6KJl3siFAd4JNNxBw4hnQH2BJHHPEOOLQD2hx2SxABu-HdLNitIcI8h-RM1w3wh1-XGcjZXFyHu4tIJDKMC352IpLsswrGmt2F4bfXX0tyskqNF1f1bt5znRK21FluFoFZ_QAbI5DNeZq2shTLyq2okw868ijhrEwqw/s320/IMG_9598.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting up and close with the animals</span></span></div><p>Sarah continues to homeschool the kids, which is a huge blessing for our family. We've discovered a few particular special needs that our kids have that homeschooling addresses. There are a lot of advantages we also enjoy. For example, we belong to a few homeschool co-ops that organize field trips to various places around the area. For one trip, we went to a family-favorite place: The Armand Bayou Wildlife zoo. There you can get up and close with the many animals they have on their property. The kids thought it was a blast.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fbMjqwA8b4jOj_08as3RM8IWnAiKGdPBQ8FNAO-PuK_Fr6p4tCRCAv4UsniE0jU9H8Lw_nrQLrPKBUj6bPt16DumJJIW_q3_zbV98aizACyTsmi4awK5TOOMIl3ofuxoONq2gxEqcP0C2U2ZvJDKI4RNQrl5zm365M8HmLTbsATxBli8LbciLLCnSA/s3264/PXL_20220319_175631176.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9fbMjqwA8b4jOj_08as3RM8IWnAiKGdPBQ8FNAO-PuK_Fr6p4tCRCAv4UsniE0jU9H8Lw_nrQLrPKBUj6bPt16DumJJIW_q3_zbV98aizACyTsmi4awK5TOOMIl3ofuxoONq2gxEqcP0C2U2ZvJDKI4RNQrl5zm365M8HmLTbsATxBli8LbciLLCnSA/s320/PXL_20220319_175631176.MP-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">It had been too long</span></span></div><p>This year was the first time since 2019 where we were able to go to the Houston Rodeo & Livestock Show. As always, it was a blast. It was the first year where Lucy was able to go and she absolutely loved it. Her favorite event to watch was mutton busting, which is always a fun time.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSphC6nuxpAqLTupgfeBjhcjrkTC_-p-1ANdvDgIpGDoZhqTAM8a0Ca4fIiFC8YYG32IMTDRX7qwg-8dnvJgFOKFuE1eactOi_ZtKfZqGsMU4d6X644R4y1vGqR_oB4VDCq2YHd0Tjgi2fqqB6CYVvuWOZONvw1cjEaR5KKyfmH6dUIFOXpF1FDNQ8IA/s4032/PXL_20220319_232221130-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSphC6nuxpAqLTupgfeBjhcjrkTC_-p-1ANdvDgIpGDoZhqTAM8a0Ca4fIiFC8YYG32IMTDRX7qwg-8dnvJgFOKFuE1eactOi_ZtKfZqGsMU4d6X644R4y1vGqR_oB4VDCq2YHd0Tjgi2fqqB6CYVvuWOZONvw1cjEaR5KKyfmH6dUIFOXpF1FDNQ8IA/s320/PXL_20220319_232221130-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brad Paisley takes the stage</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRIZ7ej7YbC4h8aXNwxKNI9Eohsx-Ps2m-Cq41IZLRS1o2VttlwriH0U3sySWCod-QO6rKrIjmhOEZ9YxzMyWBMd70hzQLW_CLldqqcbxzZ1IAx0Ma1PqFl7vBj8J_APmmygma-U0w2m4FsasDZar4bhHfnWc0Z-OFoq1XWmvF0l6iLmk6gWm-PIxqQ/s4032/PXL_20220409_223229906.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2282" data-original-width="4032" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXRIZ7ej7YbC4h8aXNwxKNI9Eohsx-Ps2m-Cq41IZLRS1o2VttlwriH0U3sySWCod-QO6rKrIjmhOEZ9YxzMyWBMd70hzQLW_CLldqqcbxzZ1IAx0Ma1PqFl7vBj8J_APmmygma-U0w2m4FsasDZar4bhHfnWc0Z-OFoq1XWmvF0l6iLmk6gWm-PIxqQ/s320/PXL_20220409_223229906.MP-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A nice visit from my parents</span></div><p></p><p>We also got a nice visit from my parents in the spring. I was working most of the time they were here, but they got to have a nice visit with their grandkids. They are still active and traveling around, but they are slowing down a bit. They no longer travel to Africa for humanitarian service mission purposes, but they still remain active in their own church congregation at home. It's always a joy to me to see my kids interact with them.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBL93UVH42VrT5Be6PlBWb6TMVOaQSSi2uMYhFQZ0HQBInUcPM_GQi6xg-lDuSVwZeqS15soacVsGhkYT2jZJKp5zGN1K9cljslVfFZUOOlU2EitVx-uhmDEN1vT85rfpwiuayE8lMuu_7btRxCxlNJhw2Hou8tmCShTiIgKwviR_5r-Xe0CY6acNDig/s4032/IMG_0754.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBL93UVH42VrT5Be6PlBWb6TMVOaQSSi2uMYhFQZ0HQBInUcPM_GQi6xg-lDuSVwZeqS15soacVsGhkYT2jZJKp5zGN1K9cljslVfFZUOOlU2EitVx-uhmDEN1vT85rfpwiuayE8lMuu_7btRxCxlNJhw2Hou8tmCShTiIgKwviR_5r-Xe0CY6acNDig/s320/IMG_0754.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Visiting the conference center</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The highlight of every summer is when my family makes their annual trek out to Utah and Idaho to visit family. They did a lot of sightseeing and got to visit some unique places.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYdHEfZPTZir6hBmXGfInw-Wfdnt7U-Gdoyu2UDyNcgYyaowW2aWsB-ubkDWJ5Reh_XS2gemcjRgEybwaqDWEO9U1wQrSX6wh1tufPci6NqHE9UAcHKvsS2GcmiYIQaSaqP_rgt8U5q1CENV5zkr6Y6BQYt0qEv7xxjrEwTj33XpQdSGbPc7JguwTfA/s4032/IMG_1424.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLYdHEfZPTZir6hBmXGfInw-Wfdnt7U-Gdoyu2UDyNcgYyaowW2aWsB-ubkDWJ5Reh_XS2gemcjRgEybwaqDWEO9U1wQrSX6wh1tufPci6NqHE9UAcHKvsS2GcmiYIQaSaqP_rgt8U5q1CENV5zkr6Y6BQYt0qEv7xxjrEwTj33XpQdSGbPc7JguwTfA/s320/IMG_1424.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Freeloading school lunches with cousins</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the reasons they go out for so long is so they can get a chance to be with all their cousins on the Richardson side. Considering they really only have one or two cousins within their age-range on the Reynolds side, it's important for me that they get to know their cousins. I only have six cousins, the youngest of which is 14 years older than I am. So I really only had my brothers growing up. It's nice to see my kids have lots of other family relations beyond what they see at home.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMM09dLaHIBBT7YHfJSH8a6q212WnIwxYBgNJQ8lb6A6rB7pnpKnpDAoA8XF_lCgoB0iNyhfZmaDKTiacwcLXrEQEdgZpOtm5xNz1bycHlqp2cPsqtpbFkEixdiEW14dIB9r2VaerpLda69sjyhioHR83akK7msVt34cnXyawSUDTVmYGTYheXY_pog/s4032/PXL_20220708_131759091.MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMM09dLaHIBBT7YHfJSH8a6q212WnIwxYBgNJQ8lb6A6rB7pnpKnpDAoA8XF_lCgoB0iNyhfZmaDKTiacwcLXrEQEdgZpOtm5xNz1bycHlqp2cPsqtpbFkEixdiEW14dIB9r2VaerpLda69sjyhioHR83akK7msVt34cnXyawSUDTVmYGTYheXY_pog/s320/PXL_20220708_131759091.MP.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Little fisher-people</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was able to come out and join my family for some fun and relaxation. One of my bucket list items for the year was to go down to the family cabin at Fish Lake. I took the kids fishing while we were there, which they had mixed reactions about. They had a hard time catching trout, so that got boring quickly. However, they loved going perch fishing. Dip your pole down and 30 seconds later you've got a fish on the line. That was about what their attention span could handle.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uwugs1kMyFCHhE1JYSE51-DlejuegbwbJOitsRiI73c4yxjqYALv7bL47lzqY2Ft5nR9xH2n_mF3Gjp_lyEhvxNnKJ_Ek58ODh9AaF0MwQbO80Ayvh7nSwd6jeVIXyCRteJMMsQtMsArAkCX59CVRYK__Z3Dd2ziFHyLmyQq6ySSAricQQI8ZNSzFg/s4032/IMG_1815.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-uwugs1kMyFCHhE1JYSE51-DlejuegbwbJOitsRiI73c4yxjqYALv7bL47lzqY2Ft5nR9xH2n_mF3Gjp_lyEhvxNnKJ_Ek58ODh9AaF0MwQbO80Ayvh7nSwd6jeVIXyCRteJMMsQtMsArAkCX59CVRYK__Z3Dd2ziFHyLmyQq6ySSAricQQI8ZNSzFg/s320/IMG_1815.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Visiting German cousins</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I only had a short time to visit, but Sarah and the kids stayed a little longer. They had a good visit with their "German cousins". Jennifer was an exchange student from Germany with Sarah's family many years ago. This past summer she decided to take her kids on a trip to America and see many sights of the west. A lot of roadblocks popped up before their trip, but miraculously they all were taken care of in one way or another. My kids love talking about their German cousins and hopefully one day we'll be able to go visit them.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq3zrlEMYwwBLn27wp-Ki7jrOiR5oOmgjjnaxKhlTUHEBjj3g3VHHKnXHoUQ9-jyCXW-X6CXCQ0z0jCosV55G6Ejka9x174TClVyccJUAGNOvVBgble57LtJKxDFmQThtP3hWahqfve3rwgu8Ahg7Hg7Namgks43zSXwf2HmZo2MXhyWYDJaPr8eYBA/s4032/PXL_20221002_235618979.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTq3zrlEMYwwBLn27wp-Ki7jrOiR5oOmgjjnaxKhlTUHEBjj3g3VHHKnXHoUQ9-jyCXW-X6CXCQ0z0jCosV55G6Ejka9x174TClVyccJUAGNOvVBgble57LtJKxDFmQThtP3hWahqfve3rwgu8Ahg7Hg7Namgks43zSXwf2HmZo2MXhyWYDJaPr8eYBA/s320/PXL_20221002_235618979.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Lake Conroe, TX</span></div><p></p><p>Camping has here in Texas has now become one of my favorite pastimes. I try to take each of my kids on a one-on-one campout so they have some time alone with their dad, but occasionally we'll all go together. It's been great to get out with them this year.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkauocR6mVmA2MzsU53rQ4UlVl6v2eciU5LYnYpD46Z56Id5fFJQT0saxcD2xDAmxPjxLrVsfeuwgjyIGdtFUWOh81n7K2EZ1jzYJjDgQSReNX_R5HBI_LsYaWHuiE1kIk6LtrqRBosy7RumABTYzRLeWKtNuWHfW6cXd7q0VjV24pppUE1gJwAOEGA/s4032/PXL_20221003_235613305.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhkauocR6mVmA2MzsU53rQ4UlVl6v2eciU5LYnYpD46Z56Id5fFJQT0saxcD2xDAmxPjxLrVsfeuwgjyIGdtFUWOh81n7K2EZ1jzYJjDgQSReNX_R5HBI_LsYaWHuiE1kIk6LtrqRBosy7RumABTYzRLeWKtNuWHfW6cXd7q0VjV24pppUE1gJwAOEGA/s320/PXL_20221003_235613305.MP-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Enjoying nature in all its glory</span></div><p></p><p>We can only camp from October to about April due to the heat of the area, but we sure do enjoy it. I've been accumulating more and more camping gear to make our stays more comfortable. I wish we could do it more often during the year, but nature tends to disagree.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wlS7lG95y3dHUE73-V8oembMgZC567OfsNsko-EDgNL3BVbyj8jnmaFpYa8yLxKKshHKdkYRhM7ZSKun97bKuZZJM5JCSs9YoXyE5D6qgVtV2FZ1fO9bU2-wmmJCYxD01BK6qKseusGtBucClpRUTYf5_OEbaodZv3xj2KtRVeZOE97kUbFb160HSQ/s3420/PXL_20221004_233504295.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3420" data-original-width="2775" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5wlS7lG95y3dHUE73-V8oembMgZC567OfsNsko-EDgNL3BVbyj8jnmaFpYa8yLxKKshHKdkYRhM7ZSKun97bKuZZJM5JCSs9YoXyE5D6qgVtV2FZ1fO9bU2-wmmJCYxD01BK6qKseusGtBucClpRUTYf5_OEbaodZv3xj2KtRVeZOE97kUbFb160HSQ/s320/PXL_20221004_233504295.MP-01.jpeg" width="260" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Golden hour</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMayiiPKbJhZtysL7si428wREVcZwBbEaPwfByjazkhVtynIU3F85sYpOYs3ptoqrkb_b8btqy3aK32Jc0ggdBOoohbhpZPkxTT1au5sbJnBAfLbJC-SZwSsZOEDS5L55EKKtTRZl11eJKRryBbVrY0yUj5TTvrG9jw_2iy5baKumMHbd7YQEdWCKjQ/s4425/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3045" data-original-width="4425" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMayiiPKbJhZtysL7si428wREVcZwBbEaPwfByjazkhVtynIU3F85sYpOYs3ptoqrkb_b8btqy3aK32Jc0ggdBOoohbhpZPkxTT1au5sbJnBAfLbJC-SZwSsZOEDS5L55EKKtTRZl11eJKRryBbVrY0yUj5TTvrG9jw_2iy5baKumMHbd7YQEdWCKjQ/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Snowy egret</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcrMTvZ84jZRZAewyYIBocyxWBRqW5DbJ5ES2sxAmdJkFQBNZkb0gFqWQ2a7KybkoiFTFqDxOfk9_qbEtIe3tMXNEDWAeKd7r-49EEnBB22LKKml3VGgB1vQEobYBlEm5Tus3Db3E018Rr5_CfmSyQSOmzFMVOwhzHC-h1fAeXfV91O_6dAmv0ZOLXg/s4516/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3543" data-original-width="4516" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPcrMTvZ84jZRZAewyYIBocyxWBRqW5DbJ5ES2sxAmdJkFQBNZkb0gFqWQ2a7KybkoiFTFqDxOfk9_qbEtIe3tMXNEDWAeKd7r-49EEnBB22LKKml3VGgB1vQEobYBlEm5Tus3Db3E018Rr5_CfmSyQSOmzFMVOwhzHC-h1fAeXfV91O_6dAmv0ZOLXg/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Blue heron. I'm pretty sure he froze in place.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiTNU-sp72XmXXFrLvAvFKFeMiKmTTES8yVgClg7XS8Bec43A2sM3UkJPz4IhnoLFdRfU5zBqhoc8LbFPPXQ4tDwCWvtoizkOI2ZBbnoj7U6J5wFolSIXReiA5qM-kyzL3G2Y6XCJkoDk9SX8zTU5gXVg09T00rIr0PJl_7rMcOxPvYdxV0nii_jlKA/s4032/PXL_20221210_205319440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKiTNU-sp72XmXXFrLvAvFKFeMiKmTTES8yVgClg7XS8Bec43A2sM3UkJPz4IhnoLFdRfU5zBqhoc8LbFPPXQ4tDwCWvtoizkOI2ZBbnoj7U6J5wFolSIXReiA5qM-kyzL3G2Y6XCJkoDk9SX8zTU5gXVg09T00rIr0PJl_7rMcOxPvYdxV0nii_jlKA/s320/PXL_20221210_205319440.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sugar plum fairies</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the other homeschool-related activities my kids have been involved in is a music and performing arts co-op. They have really enjoyed it and it's been really fun to see their musical talents come out. Leah has become proficient in piano, guitar, and recorder, while Lucy and Sean both have taken up the ukulele. Both Leah and Lucy love to do dance as well, and it was fun to watch them at their Christmas concert this year.</div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eD4UngWHdGiNfX4YaLlMBTyl5aqbIKG2-Tgea0EGPimZhLdmsf1VIUnqDF20p9xjNrNGqOjP2zWhAIX5d69pXk65z--ngQtITmuMpY8-1YN08e16-RpLBqA4zjBZ-sGQw8UxvHQMU45ChMu0mv0ON7kcpF9VLCp0tThwfduKGaM5BtH9Asw-HIEaxA/s4032/PXL_20221210_205903103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eD4UngWHdGiNfX4YaLlMBTyl5aqbIKG2-Tgea0EGPimZhLdmsf1VIUnqDF20p9xjNrNGqOjP2zWhAIX5d69pXk65z--ngQtITmuMpY8-1YN08e16-RpLBqA4zjBZ-sGQw8UxvHQMU45ChMu0mv0ON7kcpF9VLCp0tThwfduKGaM5BtH9Asw-HIEaxA/s320/PXL_20221210_205903103.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Smash those bottles</span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzJ4D_Lwm_veDfu-FFSgY2gHThgIl9BHTaUO18oXf49DXjMBqa3kh3dllgllsR9p-PqQFs7I5tGKrSu1A__ZOd46C9OhIkMUhsA2xjaQzUq0rw6qN7Ms2-3lfKNuVI33aqDQOCloQL0W8KWvXSwleSo4HDJKrOc3tAQahPbTH-Twk2rLsnQmSSR0wgQ/s4032/IMG_9075.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzJ4D_Lwm_veDfu-FFSgY2gHThgIl9BHTaUO18oXf49DXjMBqa3kh3dllgllsR9p-PqQFs7I5tGKrSu1A__ZOd46C9OhIkMUhsA2xjaQzUq0rw6qN7Ms2-3lfKNuVI33aqDQOCloQL0W8KWvXSwleSo4HDJKrOc3tAQahPbTH-Twk2rLsnQmSSR0wgQ/s320/IMG_9075.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">She made the dress herself</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I suppose I should tell you about how all the family is doing. Let's start off with the oldest. Leah continues to be a big help around the house with things that we need done. She is rapidly approaching the age at which she gets to babysit for us for free! It's awesome, but at the same time I can't believe my little girl is growing up so fast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7qkO5dgj8g7HOVVm9LkWhkhR4lZRaQUsx7Jk-bgX-LfNgc8q5AqLNDr3CSpRPCb-DZtHe3OYg1QCwpeH988Mp1b_SgKY85bSmXnh2cLEJR4e7DJGpHURctwIg4w22O91EsvS9X52ANM8trn6pZGUgzt3Q4YMB6dkYFfxTWNogKPtqATEWq-Ig-SKJUA/s1800/040AF342-FF01-4913-85D5-73AC1B9657C4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7qkO5dgj8g7HOVVm9LkWhkhR4lZRaQUsx7Jk-bgX-LfNgc8q5AqLNDr3CSpRPCb-DZtHe3OYg1QCwpeH988Mp1b_SgKY85bSmXnh2cLEJR4e7DJGpHURctwIg4w22O91EsvS9X52ANM8trn6pZGUgzt3Q4YMB6dkYFfxTWNogKPtqATEWq-Ig-SKJUA/s320/040AF342-FF01-4913-85D5-73AC1B9657C4.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">First place in visual arts</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This year she's also been involved in Beta Club and entered a few of her art projects into a competition. She won first place in visual arts and fiber arts. I think that boosted her self confidence quite a bit.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KgOqBU23ff39fHqeee9MXWOjyQYkl8uA_78yQ27RmR_oNwtHrcSPbnGP9VLTaCpV3a1If8LT5kVBum0CfufHwc_NYWX8It9Qit8apXi5q1tb0qDU4n7TgymEm7Rz7k4g2h7jzmD_F07IdU5v8jXtL_XVO0jDxxAiy8rb0ugALWxgCQFsv8aTVvuB6Q/s1800/D59D824E-34F7-49BC-AA19-9719A42F3D07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KgOqBU23ff39fHqeee9MXWOjyQYkl8uA_78yQ27RmR_oNwtHrcSPbnGP9VLTaCpV3a1If8LT5kVBum0CfufHwc_NYWX8It9Qit8apXi5q1tb0qDU4n7TgymEm7Rz7k4g2h7jzmD_F07IdU5v8jXtL_XVO0jDxxAiy8rb0ugALWxgCQFsv8aTVvuB6Q/s320/D59D824E-34F7-49BC-AA19-9719A42F3D07.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Learning she has more talent than she realizes</span></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59lPQsCxtNXH2NX4jW473m_mOptmOaVBZhQevfPLdVbOWP664-SRYLz5AkKPOm9IIOcDeJmDj5HJQoDCGaGKD46yStpVL4AhtLpfbiAmr0yikTsWTp-waiDq823xVj_qm66BDwJDDjSinRrXb5ltvGv4O0hixXqgTrxgDmqc-UVnKpsXkt1dvrXccbg/s4032/PXL_20220114_162037000.MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh59lPQsCxtNXH2NX4jW473m_mOptmOaVBZhQevfPLdVbOWP664-SRYLz5AkKPOm9IIOcDeJmDj5HJQoDCGaGKD46yStpVL4AhtLpfbiAmr0yikTsWTp-waiDq823xVj_qm66BDwJDDjSinRrXb5ltvGv4O0hixXqgTrxgDmqc-UVnKpsXkt1dvrXccbg/s320/PXL_20220114_162037000.MP.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A little daddy-daughter date at the range. Pardon the lack of trigger discipline.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I enjoy spending time with her on activities that I wouldn't normally think were her cup of tea. She loves camping, doing art projects, and doing music. It's such a treat to listen to her play the piano or pick up the guitar and I'm amazed at her musical ear.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsabu6FkY0ciOar1nEmvoRFhc7lNIp-SYP8FJXYru4MXUKFCCkZjIf7EByQrFDusRAGW9y0ZU9oy4Bn5eage1Dp4_IrSxlacrilYF0nuHDROd4w5ALprJJusFjHzh_9PfHUy4fDix9hIIkbTmyvShxtfid5eUv3sPLfXBX1Ymnfuu6lmRsrVeiPQK2ng/s4032/PXL_20220213_023250414.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsabu6FkY0ciOar1nEmvoRFhc7lNIp-SYP8FJXYru4MXUKFCCkZjIf7EByQrFDusRAGW9y0ZU9oy4Bn5eage1Dp4_IrSxlacrilYF0nuHDROd4w5ALprJJusFjHzh_9PfHUy4fDix9hIIkbTmyvShxtfid5eUv3sPLfXBX1Ymnfuu6lmRsrVeiPQK2ng/s320/PXL_20220213_023250414.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting ready for the worst night's sleep in a while</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the many medical maladies our family seems to suffer from is sleeping disorders. This year Leah joined the list of other family members who have had a sleep study done. The results of the study led us to get her tonsils removed, although I'm pretty sure she just has plain old sleep apnea like the rest of us. Time (and an additional sleep study coming up) will tell.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVViwQulTuFMbihzoGKeQNV42nla7n7_Ij-DT0rvfe4zidaeXy4foa4usnM_mQlMH9A-Ng2ASPmoqdLbSaMPwobvOB0AUnw2UUI9tjoJPExxehRaDTn-N_Nk0Z96rcReitNsqr5rlkL1QJ5zJUtqOWfQU_E_Db-XEnPqRR65c3m-Q6yyuS7QtYSUUhQ/s4032/IMG_2202.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVViwQulTuFMbihzoGKeQNV42nla7n7_Ij-DT0rvfe4zidaeXy4foa4usnM_mQlMH9A-Ng2ASPmoqdLbSaMPwobvOB0AUnw2UUI9tjoJPExxehRaDTn-N_Nk0Z96rcReitNsqr5rlkL1QJ5zJUtqOWfQU_E_Db-XEnPqRR65c3m-Q6yyuS7QtYSUUhQ/s320/IMG_2202.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Post tonsillectomy</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14PDu885nqG3Vl1V8um1IfkLQbbndMQaugD65NQqoZUz_DZQrf3aaOupqLA4621xn9fo3tjji9CnFj5dyeiR2s8C-FhkmymDukD7_1NFI_d0GLdCCkxxdL5eqQWuPZ-2LTpokpjlAzH_dWbyskpWGIyvKl-7NLdPQTMZL1MyQASOqbdXvE9wtIZFOgg/s3264/PXL_20220128_004529225.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14PDu885nqG3Vl1V8um1IfkLQbbndMQaugD65NQqoZUz_DZQrf3aaOupqLA4621xn9fo3tjji9CnFj5dyeiR2s8C-FhkmymDukD7_1NFI_d0GLdCCkxxdL5eqQWuPZ-2LTpokpjlAzH_dWbyskpWGIyvKl-7NLdPQTMZL1MyQASOqbdXvE9wtIZFOgg/s320/PXL_20220128_004529225.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Spooky just like dad</span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">She is turning into a young woman faster than I would like. But at the same time I see how many great qualities she has in her that will make her a fantastic wife and mother. I only get to have her a few more years.</div></div></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqNvn170ww8k0sNoHNJoszLOYKiJYn9l05k2zL9417EeqB4tmy5s-45LDp1T4Sn5SiwGPkdmAD9xlIur6Re_NidO7z0SI8kXfjCYVoRh-M3PdLjw6pTMh6OfUy4QYivpHiD7DJLbkcdlBk1y3v5fo3XBVB16EsWj2lj8J-5KkHjgL_FM3YjsYVgUwOw/s3263/PXL_20220212_152228006.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3263" data-original-width="2170" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNqNvn170ww8k0sNoHNJoszLOYKiJYn9l05k2zL9417EeqB4tmy5s-45LDp1T4Sn5SiwGPkdmAD9xlIur6Re_NidO7z0SI8kXfjCYVoRh-M3PdLjw6pTMh6OfUy4QYivpHiD7DJLbkcdlBk1y3v5fo3XBVB16EsWj2lj8J-5KkHjgL_FM3YjsYVgUwOw/s320/PXL_20220212_152228006.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A winter camp out</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Next we have Sean, who is just about as busy as ever. He still keeps us on our toes with how many things he wants to do and all of his interests. He still loves all things electronics-related and still wants to be an engineer when he grows up. I know he's going to be great at it, and I just hope that I can give him the proper foundation to make him successful.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5OBVMIDdL6hMLaE1uHoYPgpkcYpmFJDuj0lqZXYe6udaJk6pgBkmKHVDffXMmUHi0kzhQJX73xiQDyDGiBZrjRCLNvkP4nCRPm1BQE0yV-dOZFJKDVYL1i8JE74e3prxDGiPSrEVlZqLTumtGW5AKDT5ahNrtfwB0buWJ03uAeErhmQxyMoOJOl_fw/s4032/PXL_20221004_004101269.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz5OBVMIDdL6hMLaE1uHoYPgpkcYpmFJDuj0lqZXYe6udaJk6pgBkmKHVDffXMmUHi0kzhQJX73xiQDyDGiBZrjRCLNvkP4nCRPm1BQE0yV-dOZFJKDVYL1i8JE74e3prxDGiPSrEVlZqLTumtGW5AKDT5ahNrtfwB0buWJ03uAeErhmQxyMoOJOl_fw/s320/PXL_20221004_004101269.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Glow bug</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2uT7vQo9YtJlyCOi4Ao69mVT1yyTqKKI2ff2cMUUtMjnR6eZiAol_ZdEP7OYZrII7bKUZVgMY73oS8qD6NgcdeKmv7obPephZsbeFi8ijnM1CqVTa24PZwWbRLyjCleQUI5Gp1eSmuAavc8V6IDcBbSE8uqgn1i3rXb5xJsuHnsd89-Nwk9NBSpVfw/s4032/PXL_20220707_161917378-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk2uT7vQo9YtJlyCOi4Ao69mVT1yyTqKKI2ff2cMUUtMjnR6eZiAol_ZdEP7OYZrII7bKUZVgMY73oS8qD6NgcdeKmv7obPephZsbeFi8ijnM1CqVTa24PZwWbRLyjCleQUI5Gp1eSmuAavc8V6IDcBbSE8uqgn1i3rXb5xJsuHnsd89-Nwk9NBSpVfw/s320/PXL_20220707_161917378-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Perch!</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>He and I have been able to have a few fun outings together, and I truly wish that I could have more time to spend with him one-on-one. One of the things about Sean and his ADHD is that when it's just me and him together, I get to see the real him. He's a sweet and sensitive kid with a good heart. And boy, howdy, is he intelligent. I swear, he absorbs so much information whenever he sees, hears, or reads anything.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbZUMFr9pyF5EAFLbusoXu4fFva8UMGSBtu7QdbaX8NvgNeUDqeSIuopzNzCrkzMoYAyfZa6ACxC3VMEtc3eIdusqU2KqjLVnNluhld711OLwPnYGcZYA_byaX_SSOWUlDQOFx6DkHB_D1jr_I7ukx544tuHwGQ42S9r6VdOoaxNZPqXhKp8kFGsIoA/s4032/IMG_9643.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEbZUMFr9pyF5EAFLbusoXu4fFva8UMGSBtu7QdbaX8NvgNeUDqeSIuopzNzCrkzMoYAyfZa6ACxC3VMEtc3eIdusqU2KqjLVnNluhld711OLwPnYGcZYA_byaX_SSOWUlDQOFx6DkHB_D1jr_I7ukx544tuHwGQ42S9r6VdOoaxNZPqXhKp8kFGsIoA/s320/IMG_9643.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Up close and personal with nature</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkvCQ3P8vyx3Y7NzaaG__tLfv1T93BrNlakoE7tWiBmRViMvsPHnXhkQbBPU_1uZvqlvVx5VmynL8m7uTVfFqqqy-UlP2iBKPilRzIiOYIFKpvXbPMQyjce9cgsrQsnD9mlMgsCjIm8dlXmYRoa9XZOJK8j-elyXi8W0RRKHQHcZ_DjjafVVgHNKYrg/s3264/PXL_20220319_170530591-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCkvCQ3P8vyx3Y7NzaaG__tLfv1T93BrNlakoE7tWiBmRViMvsPHnXhkQbBPU_1uZvqlvVx5VmynL8m7uTVfFqqqy-UlP2iBKPilRzIiOYIFKpvXbPMQyjce9cgsrQsnD9mlMgsCjIm8dlXmYRoa9XZOJK8j-elyXi8W0RRKHQHcZ_DjjafVVgHNKYrg/s320/PXL_20220319_170530591-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My little cowboy</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsI26jlDWgjYwXMfK_-xIjTCTClHPdquhc8QMgeZhJf0URIf9hWYBYEbJB8ArpPHPZrCUoJGCui5b2PPukRsRLpvb5DAR403GcMXUcLOc6UItzWMQZcCzuE9c8ZTkouPQcfSPpBWYmIeSLYrbFxbWK9cjQy5utA-Logxn7_6C9LzQROsyVyUh5d-OXg/s4032/IMG_2037.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpsI26jlDWgjYwXMfK_-xIjTCTClHPdquhc8QMgeZhJf0URIf9hWYBYEbJB8ArpPHPZrCUoJGCui5b2PPukRsRLpvb5DAR403GcMXUcLOc6UItzWMQZcCzuE9c8ZTkouPQcfSPpBWYmIeSLYrbFxbWK9cjQy5utA-Logxn7_6C9LzQROsyVyUh5d-OXg/s320/IMG_2037.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tarzan!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the things we've learned about in regards to his ADHD is that it can affect his fine motor skills. His brain thinks faster than his limbs and extremities can react, so he is often a bit uncoordinated. This year we enrolled him in occupational therapy, which has been great for him. He loves it and his therapist does such an amazing job with him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDibWeolZOtC9xYbSpYWHT5j2Bx-o24gPl3AmGXgf75RFowrTfvcz_zTc6liWmmaieFbk3fhO5656YnItDEj65G5MZ5Hj94NhA9HzySHPPCzU0gmomS4WiOCXQNb-hhO7uKVqqetnIjAspHYOENB24DlOBm5vMJCPUyTHxC48AdFsvNq1AWDlW30Ig1Q/s4032/IMG_2072.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDibWeolZOtC9xYbSpYWHT5j2Bx-o24gPl3AmGXgf75RFowrTfvcz_zTc6liWmmaieFbk3fhO5656YnItDEj65G5MZ5Hj94NhA9HzySHPPCzU0gmomS4WiOCXQNb-hhO7uKVqqetnIjAspHYOENB24DlOBm5vMJCPUyTHxC48AdFsvNq1AWDlW30Ig1Q/s320/IMG_2072.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting familiar with his body</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAEe1vf-J-Evj8WbD_o6yLtInhQqPVi66NyLZ9zLCJemeWfReOxU3iGa7zTXTHlhHm6rSl2QK0A8l0FV_Sg2NhgVVS5SUquAEo1gMAUoVChH_iqJbU0AR8KnkaZ2NjjOphwbihFjwqElWP2d8MFqc0Z7nqhCbpbnmTu7Goo63neFQLsZTbGtz5UVYuQ/s4032/IMG_2098.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuAEe1vf-J-Evj8WbD_o6yLtInhQqPVi66NyLZ9zLCJemeWfReOxU3iGa7zTXTHlhHm6rSl2QK0A8l0FV_Sg2NhgVVS5SUquAEo1gMAUoVChH_iqJbU0AR8KnkaZ2NjjOphwbihFjwqElWP2d8MFqc0Z7nqhCbpbnmTu7Goo63neFQLsZTbGtz5UVYuQ/s320/IMG_2098.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I don't know how he gets comfortable this way, but I find him like this all too often</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">He still loves to code, loves to build, and loves brisket. I swear, anytime I make anything meat-related, he asks for at least four helpings during the course of one dinner. He's a growing boy, but he sure is still skinny.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TNtPf2IBIgsXvJHyZ15sXandL4oGIQxqmT1XvK6LJi8Vf3wZMMVn3t4frpif0UbTlutQ1ZxRSWQ0F23CAHJ6Ck1pfDYKirGJWJaziE32LqEICwHvknohIRq3J9JcOIFMjyDEHJbIn8ueGEU02JDBeGLTz9vrlGuqMm34oYsr_iHn6q7tVr-O_42Scg/s4032/PXL_20220903_152309791.MP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2TNtPf2IBIgsXvJHyZ15sXandL4oGIQxqmT1XvK6LJi8Vf3wZMMVn3t4frpif0UbTlutQ1ZxRSWQ0F23CAHJ6Ck1pfDYKirGJWJaziE32LqEICwHvknohIRq3J9JcOIFMjyDEHJbIn8ueGEU02JDBeGLTz9vrlGuqMm34oYsr_iHn6q7tVr-O_42Scg/s320/PXL_20220903_152309791.MP.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Safety first</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>He is always the first one that wants to help... as long as he's the one who thought of it. Quite often after a church activity I am struggling to find him, only to discover that he has been busy trying to put chairs away. He's a handful at times, but he's a really good kid.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc566HQwH6h88Jn-6AoycypEV2ZR8vLRjytPqHf6kTMBde2OQ6Jh6M1l16WjCyK6aGPp1cd_C3dUODM3yp5vB6ODO5D1-krZgxkRC2Ru62Eub70Fr6nJGOQINpttcnSkRwpUb_LsnYJcplV6Gxh7MCJdgP6QSjXyOM1O0VH4nsE1aP4Vx4Bk0ruYu-Q/s2706/PXL_20220205_014452988.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2706" data-original-width="2274" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKc566HQwH6h88Jn-6AoycypEV2ZR8vLRjytPqHf6kTMBde2OQ6Jh6M1l16WjCyK6aGPp1cd_C3dUODM3yp5vB6ODO5D1-krZgxkRC2Ru62Eub70Fr6nJGOQINpttcnSkRwpUb_LsnYJcplV6Gxh7MCJdgP6QSjXyOM1O0VH4nsE1aP4Vx4Bk0ruYu-Q/s320/PXL_20220205_014452988.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="269" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Daddy daughter dance</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Next we have my Lucy Goose who turned seven years old this year. She's full of heart, energy, and lots of enthusiasm. Quite often she is the one in the family who wants to go visit neighbors and bring treats to friends.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61oG_G7DVvoxwGT1yHHo97kahjFOQzJX-3RimFJHU7OavhcbuCJamDNavqD3OfXILVYAzO2XoR4cykcp_ruO1Misybu8_zxYK2M6iJB9i_umr2XXouNV7VDh9Sbt0avmTQ5C3uajgacvmbtVHXBgUF_f2SuD1YLyo8dQtAw95c6MxH6nAj-8QIyI31A/s1936/image000000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1936" data-original-width="1089" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh61oG_G7DVvoxwGT1yHHo97kahjFOQzJX-3RimFJHU7OavhcbuCJamDNavqD3OfXILVYAzO2XoR4cykcp_ruO1Misybu8_zxYK2M6iJB9i_umr2XXouNV7VDh9Sbt0avmTQ5C3uajgacvmbtVHXBgUF_f2SuD1YLyo8dQtAw95c6MxH6nAj-8QIyI31A/s320/image000000.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pre-tonsillectomy drugs</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've been on a quest with Lucy to help her in her development, especially within her mouth region. Like Leah, she wound up getting her tonsils out in hopes that it would make her sleep better. In addition, she has had a palette expander installed in her mouth that will hopefully stimulate her mouth to grow to fit the size of tongue that she has. It is a huge blessing to be able to be in a place with resources to address these types of developmental problems that our family seems to be fighting against.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5vdOJ5b9E8Gk7sJLbsGxJZotvOwq7wSMNfG3oFYzgicAkt9yU3pnoH2_HcihW8ubYC0NeQBEKixZ_fyTo7oS1GgNzCmSUdq044oxjEB62TEJd5ELztEtlz4p6Yzh-iSs2iZjg4ghLg_9e2EWYDWR7Ev36L3qQf-gFb9OqQ6xdWuqCVWah43vJI7JHA/s4032/PXL_20220707_140749710-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW5vdOJ5b9E8Gk7sJLbsGxJZotvOwq7wSMNfG3oFYzgicAkt9yU3pnoH2_HcihW8ubYC0NeQBEKixZ_fyTo7oS1GgNzCmSUdq044oxjEB62TEJd5ELztEtlz4p6Yzh-iSs2iZjg4ghLg_9e2EWYDWR7Ev36L3qQf-gFb9OqQ6xdWuqCVWah43vJI7JHA/s320/PXL_20220707_140749710-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Her trout</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lucy is another girl that loves the outdoors and camping. I'm really grateful that my kids enjoy spending time in nature with me. It's really quite an enjoyable experience to get away from the electronics and noise of the suburban world and just get out in the trees.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishkTQH07cUAq50Ti3w8uB6pbsp9ui2gxx9D1WN8Oi9d0iG8lerZQ6-phEBx-EO3s_wUV7WodnAQYxOOeNTRSI-ug0rp-2-KvJa0cpgsSLUUtPtf1ovUdDj_9H7ggqRc-px89pMhiVxdtJDAwmAfiLskfyJOnylUHiYQMmc258XHWaY3txQBkWdOTP-A/s3220/PXL_20220326_122439999.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3220" data-original-width="2660" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishkTQH07cUAq50Ti3w8uB6pbsp9ui2gxx9D1WN8Oi9d0iG8lerZQ6-phEBx-EO3s_wUV7WodnAQYxOOeNTRSI-ug0rp-2-KvJa0cpgsSLUUtPtf1ovUdDj_9H7ggqRc-px89pMhiVxdtJDAwmAfiLskfyJOnylUHiYQMmc258XHWaY3txQBkWdOTP-A/s320/PXL_20220326_122439999.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="264" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Early rising during camping</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-wKdIV5WuroRRaRCei9xx975vPfn-hr2VDmp046zL2NKrWAcPxrn0IU0nWJoY5_bISm8a9I-we7m6k2VCo1tAiO0PipKNwrm-1wi91rlavQwPrTrlPEdG_MESkxWF3ZXKlwSVCHuCVrQ53stfzn1OeCA4uDR5hJSDlopvTjfdXcyOuLxmWvCBHVpzg/s4032/PXL_20220709_001741417.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP-wKdIV5WuroRRaRCei9xx975vPfn-hr2VDmp046zL2NKrWAcPxrn0IU0nWJoY5_bISm8a9I-we7m6k2VCo1tAiO0PipKNwrm-1wi91rlavQwPrTrlPEdG_MESkxWF3ZXKlwSVCHuCVrQ53stfzn1OeCA4uDR5hJSDlopvTjfdXcyOuLxmWvCBHVpzg/s320/PXL_20220709_001741417.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Making a wish</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Lucy's getting quite adept with her art skills as well. It surprises me how well my girls see the world through an artistic lens. I wish I had more time to spend on projects like that with them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9o19Bu_e2byBS21zdz0rQYOwcGv1w81PLvrf7IEdQGs6LkPtyXwPhTq75WAySgEzBgWZ6wgTdebJp2KUx1DOoqK05sZ9WUP9QadHPOdYnyMmxBQDF8BH9b5VOATwIQxtGLqrXXNwgkeUVCurKZoT3CFpYGu6BrPhivVK7-QjIRDp27LpTPDLD9Lh2mw/s4032/PXL_20221118_131907604.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9o19Bu_e2byBS21zdz0rQYOwcGv1w81PLvrf7IEdQGs6LkPtyXwPhTq75WAySgEzBgWZ6wgTdebJp2KUx1DOoqK05sZ9WUP9QadHPOdYnyMmxBQDF8BH9b5VOATwIQxtGLqrXXNwgkeUVCurKZoT3CFpYGu6BrPhivVK7-QjIRDp27LpTPDLD9Lh2mw/s320/PXL_20221118_131907604.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">She could put Rudolph to shame with that red nose</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqmTKPeXRLJtnlEeCLheNmRgr45kyvjtWTy64mSLbhunS6ScHdO5FAhZK5NzW_Ut0Eslz-tbID7WkiQaBKHimA7jqx6g5EEcbC1EITBs9c4j9_OYdEqJGSXuQ5UQnsHif9sFQ6AaIJd9SZfa7DZZ_KoKv5y_XZ48x9RjZvj0vp-cm9BNyTFxlf6XC4w/s4032/PXL_20221118_195830828.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPqmTKPeXRLJtnlEeCLheNmRgr45kyvjtWTy64mSLbhunS6ScHdO5FAhZK5NzW_Ut0Eslz-tbID7WkiQaBKHimA7jqx6g5EEcbC1EITBs9c4j9_OYdEqJGSXuQ5UQnsHif9sFQ6AaIJd9SZfa7DZZ_KoKv5y_XZ48x9RjZvj0vp-cm9BNyTFxlf6XC4w/s320/PXL_20221118_195830828.MP-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Camping fun building Island Bob 2.0</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Overall Lucy has the most spunk (and emotional variance) of my kids. When she loves something, she loves it with all the passion of her heart.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35Nj8x6jcbDX0bEscEdXrz2u-oQvFlwsK38a9q1xpoF37zTTkv8ewaQRjuHcSK4OvnFXrOyIvLXLbFQIlQjTB3qlT38hSxxFMoZuh7YSwdE-dHYg4oxku5CNbni2lf2TXc1Ltd2mzNgDSDUqUQnJrMW1wv2zmMt6Lgxpe_0ZEg_CqSG2IwLMTJL2QhA/s2530/PXL_20221118_205512135.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2159" data-original-width="2530" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj35Nj8x6jcbDX0bEscEdXrz2u-oQvFlwsK38a9q1xpoF37zTTkv8ewaQRjuHcSK4OvnFXrOyIvLXLbFQIlQjTB3qlT38hSxxFMoZuh7YSwdE-dHYg4oxku5CNbni2lf2TXc1Ltd2mzNgDSDUqUQnJrMW1wv2zmMt6Lgxpe_0ZEg_CqSG2IwLMTJL2QhA/s320/PXL_20221118_205512135.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My Lucy Goose</span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4rvZptWDLLeZiOo4JJ1KeJV_0L5Zr-YY3BgGPiwRiz4bkhXbJwparNId-hOtoW5Ka5Gvj43Ozl6vN_HGzuwQP-2jLVjo5vdazoOEQZVZxwnS1qQcDhE8CDi4wNf4Kdv56fA63pyMqw6bAsN2q8c7i0b15TM36O7GSDCNFd14rogQog8e4qcLhdkeXA/s4032/PXL_20220909_161843665.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS4rvZptWDLLeZiOo4JJ1KeJV_0L5Zr-YY3BgGPiwRiz4bkhXbJwparNId-hOtoW5Ka5Gvj43Ozl6vN_HGzuwQP-2jLVjo5vdazoOEQZVZxwnS1qQcDhE8CDi4wNf4Kdv56fA63pyMqw6bAsN2q8c7i0b15TM36O7GSDCNFd14rogQog8e4qcLhdkeXA/s320/PXL_20220909_161843665.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ice cream grins</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Riding up like a caboose is our youngest, Malcolm. This year he turned three, and oh boy is he a threenager. He's such a goofy kid and he reminds me a lot of myself at times. I certainly hope he does a lot better in life than I did because he's got lots of potential.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCDh0TgRsF2TQmXkf-TnHOIjE4owIXP4zc7irhgLzXggiKE5-bjS2Oxv-gBmyWGfPGPD-Fuy2WL3fNLP5cWBa_uHUA5Qop7zxuPj7RQdpO82TsTsnTIeSxy3-E14axfSxhwThrVlpRZXYe-DRyGx24FzW-psF5l3dfYUNkSrU2fVvShmOCo7dE77bmw/s4032/PXL_20220507_010536558.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguCDh0TgRsF2TQmXkf-TnHOIjE4owIXP4zc7irhgLzXggiKE5-bjS2Oxv-gBmyWGfPGPD-Fuy2WL3fNLP5cWBa_uHUA5Qop7zxuPj7RQdpO82TsTsnTIeSxy3-E14axfSxhwThrVlpRZXYe-DRyGx24FzW-psF5l3dfYUNkSrU2fVvShmOCo7dE77bmw/s320/PXL_20220507_010536558.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pretty accurate summation of his role in the family</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB8U0yS5PaqLK2uxMtOXp0_hZinQcHn90YgA4Kcw0RbPYWZW_oOXw8X7-0ttmMjsZNgB4yEL7ZlyfCXB4_NgnpYTOTzWOWUdtyhjF5BJu2XRlJMXwm-G7EqBZ4XqnHSdmJ_vh7G5viGaVL3ZeFaLOsnz3gfMBtx_rl8N6xCtqCPsOXQoJa9ngWj9EBQ/s4032/IMG_0635.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTB8U0yS5PaqLK2uxMtOXp0_hZinQcHn90YgA4Kcw0RbPYWZW_oOXw8X7-0ttmMjsZNgB4yEL7ZlyfCXB4_NgnpYTOTzWOWUdtyhjF5BJu2XRlJMXwm-G7EqBZ4XqnHSdmJ_vh7G5viGaVL3ZeFaLOsnz3gfMBtx_rl8N6xCtqCPsOXQoJa9ngWj9EBQ/s320/IMG_0635.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Appropriating culture</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>He is constantly being doted on by his older siblings and some days he's got me wrapped around his little finger. He can be such a punk sometimes, but he often follows that up with sweet kisses and snuggles.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwPHn7PAUyIplKls2zTx_t99EvwsPhrbFxE0s4DK4JPR6r-JIb5sfDLnTvXe-XJYzZSWkzvDe4w-gnGvSPU9V5eQoMLjtM0DShg3wz6sOsA4SZsRMxRH-bDf7-7q7_XQjTiOuu08RKlvQ2HCWz-IEjlz5hm1ZEEdpsPjEZjqxkNdQBJGe8cFGuFCMKQ/s4032/IMG_0903.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglwPHn7PAUyIplKls2zTx_t99EvwsPhrbFxE0s4DK4JPR6r-JIb5sfDLnTvXe-XJYzZSWkzvDe4w-gnGvSPU9V5eQoMLjtM0DShg3wz6sOsA4SZsRMxRH-bDf7-7q7_XQjTiOuu08RKlvQ2HCWz-IEjlz5hm1ZEEdpsPjEZjqxkNdQBJGe8cFGuFCMKQ/s320/IMG_0903.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting to know uncle Barry</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoDSVMfUAEaQBAExP0-LcUhri2z70HDlnXVH__kkVvoYoC963WkcBdEu28hZ4rPHkR5DXnX1dmQ-7vvX8-rl6P2ufnLwk3rHalocn56bZyLE_t_MA-N55S9YkkGDozUFLA2jI5Bwuq_Sf5tLxO5bCM8PT-CaJ1qgIlku5U1qgPosJvNrvlhgS5iqt0w/s4032/IMG_1495.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoDSVMfUAEaQBAExP0-LcUhri2z70HDlnXVH__kkVvoYoC963WkcBdEu28hZ4rPHkR5DXnX1dmQ-7vvX8-rl6P2ufnLwk3rHalocn56bZyLE_t_MA-N55S9YkkGDozUFLA2jI5Bwuq_Sf5tLxO5bCM8PT-CaJ1qgIlku5U1qgPosJvNrvlhgS5iqt0w/s320/IMG_1495.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bedtime stories at grandma's house</span></div><div><br /></div><div>One of his favorite (and mine) pastimes is to read books before bed. Sometimes it depends on how much energy I have in me, but that usually puts things right. He loves to play with Play Doh, trains, cars, and blocks. Pretty much that's all he does in life right now, and it confuses him when I have to leave and go to work.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_du9aMmIjNUj-vkMxUhLQfmfeYIFflcrVvrkT9lBUcPL6juqesLslu0BUVmK0JxePJFR8Twh9OUnJeWjaNf9Io7qXkLzq8djPoMYFZCc_wejLfhipOXPKp0c6OD4FpkoeZ9jMtqEcp_8t-2ASzV4abRuz-nJ52BG04ygT2D26sgYDhOGCkdF1f_dOxQ/s1795/45CD2B7B-2C0D-449F-A83C-E901991F82ED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1795" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_du9aMmIjNUj-vkMxUhLQfmfeYIFflcrVvrkT9lBUcPL6juqesLslu0BUVmK0JxePJFR8Twh9OUnJeWjaNf9Io7qXkLzq8djPoMYFZCc_wejLfhipOXPKp0c6OD4FpkoeZ9jMtqEcp_8t-2ASzV4abRuz-nJ52BG04ygT2D26sgYDhOGCkdF1f_dOxQ/s320/45CD2B7B-2C0D-449F-A83C-E901991F82ED.jpg" width="257" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ready for action</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zF0k0FYzfvT-q8_P7wy-y0hI9bcsFj0j9M60Ec1uR5-NdDVCNxhUTyu22MYgQzenNY8Y6Cjfqefiqvh9swL9waHojVHgfpvcse2QtfFU1YJIDxOEnvJmi-H5ODxQu6nTzcMHzIj2p7pUh0B4TSrMqO7BV50vulJpmr1jfsNp8tKJKUYZKCRsi6HYCw/s4032/PXL_20221003_000445931.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_zF0k0FYzfvT-q8_P7wy-y0hI9bcsFj0j9M60Ec1uR5-NdDVCNxhUTyu22MYgQzenNY8Y6Cjfqefiqvh9swL9waHojVHgfpvcse2QtfFU1YJIDxOEnvJmi-H5ODxQu6nTzcMHzIj2p7pUh0B4TSrMqO7BV50vulJpmr1jfsNp8tKJKUYZKCRsi6HYCw/s320/PXL_20221003_000445931.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">This kid was born for the outdoors</span></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the things this kid loves is being outside. It's probably because he's stuck inside with his siblings so much during the summer. If you get him outside, he just loves to run. He's not quite sure about camping yet, but he loves it when we can go somewhere... as long as it isn't far from home.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFjcqe9bu1twHSqqjhQFTeDLmytzbo8QDjuJ1FeVuRaNMDzJHf68Fc51KsVEA_mYo-Pfj4vHyp-szbrSZh9x2ZBnh71s5EGQDNz-GMat0aZP-QAwF6VEeLDHONAtAdaVqujS0pSGFwGrOYQ3BZBvtvQa058T-x7etBwDuFRKuIMc7NTW1G3VnmXytEg/s3088/IMG_0183.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpFjcqe9bu1twHSqqjhQFTeDLmytzbo8QDjuJ1FeVuRaNMDzJHf68Fc51KsVEA_mYo-Pfj4vHyp-szbrSZh9x2ZBnh71s5EGQDNz-GMat0aZP-QAwF6VEeLDHONAtAdaVqujS0pSGFwGrOYQ3BZBvtvQa058T-x7etBwDuFRKuIMc7NTW1G3VnmXytEg/s320/IMG_0183.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My lovely wife and one of our timeshare dogs, Luna</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>Next up Sarah has been busy this year making sure our kids are prepared for life. She is 100% teacher, 100% volunteer, and 100% medical researcher, which shows that she's giving 3X as much effort as a normal person in any circumstance. I seriously don't know how she is able to fit it all in, but I am grateful that I have her as a partner in this.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9OLu1RazmXi_tSt0TjcIp1zuIhQ8lL1pXzLhf4sd2zXszi7h24bw4Tf5SL1uJIgKm_aIPqoa5n4GjTOh6zFEIyVWL78T-2soyMnSzFx2mHDzh4lrX_4F-kT6xhVXiUzsdGxNpqK8WxZhFU_KfedBzMjSnoqM_kTR9VI3bhlBJcM8MAiRcHD2YG9iAFQ/s4032/IMG_2034.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9OLu1RazmXi_tSt0TjcIp1zuIhQ8lL1pXzLhf4sd2zXszi7h24bw4Tf5SL1uJIgKm_aIPqoa5n4GjTOh6zFEIyVWL78T-2soyMnSzFx2mHDzh4lrX_4F-kT6xhVXiUzsdGxNpqK8WxZhFU_KfedBzMjSnoqM_kTR9VI3bhlBJcM8MAiRcHD2YG9iAFQ/s320/IMG_2034.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Tasty confusion</span></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div>I've tried to make sure she has enough time to do things with friends, or get some peace. I wish I could do more for her (or with her), but this is the part of life that we're in right now, I guess.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxfhANB5nNi1MCM1R-qatjbnjzp_j6dPL0251K2nB0P-Yyp6422K11DMMzl86kmAjSn1cNQ53yWesUfKGAwJ5iIbhczMl-XAyCf-nQTFsMvDg7LeUff8xn8I4ot4yY4ahNxpTgqvRjbVvGeXLCvLCdCW46_Z8dG_HKLfDxs4HrxTguwE8HT-8cs2OQg/s4032/PXL_20221113_173526448.PORTRAIT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpxfhANB5nNi1MCM1R-qatjbnjzp_j6dPL0251K2nB0P-Yyp6422K11DMMzl86kmAjSn1cNQ53yWesUfKGAwJ5iIbhczMl-XAyCf-nQTFsMvDg7LeUff8xn8I4ot4yY4ahNxpTgqvRjbVvGeXLCvLCdCW46_Z8dG_HKLfDxs4HrxTguwE8HT-8cs2OQg/s320/PXL_20221113_173526448.PORTRAIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Soapmaker extraordinaire</span></div><br /><div>One of the amazing things she has done over the past year is refined her skills in soapmaking. This lady has come up with some crazy-good concoctions in the cleansing department. It's been so much fun to see her get so passionate about them and see the fun things she creates.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fjlEyqgN6wGRqr4QjpufGYDBR3S8MmAp-VwqyfFX54ZsPWYbuHzu1X39XBNTduQ31Sibm6Sz7K0rb7SefB7S_011ArWzr37wNJ_1LtrdTEB6slJgXSxdX4djC-Bk6nDKKKpSDYc9yCOmEySx8xEsFGPxYdUjojYzAaBGsDXMQBLiamTEvQ_r6AnavA/s4032/IMG_2618.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4fjlEyqgN6wGRqr4QjpufGYDBR3S8MmAp-VwqyfFX54ZsPWYbuHzu1X39XBNTduQ31Sibm6Sz7K0rb7SefB7S_011ArWzr37wNJ_1LtrdTEB6slJgXSxdX4djC-Bk6nDKKKpSDYc9yCOmEySx8xEsFGPxYdUjojYzAaBGsDXMQBLiamTEvQ_r6AnavA/s320/IMG_2618.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Yummy cranberry soaps</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrxIAWb8ia02AJwvDc75YMkonz1_qO77XEU8woDooZJO_jbN6nJSFfupA1fUJIWazEB-6S-8Pni_4t55xLLhTxN8NvxCWAk7N68IdVTK8dOpqlciMaqZbwRiquec7eGG9IkA2z77s4nDPZDPq09ae_uucp1Zj_zd3BVQNpAcLdb3lH_uTnNHzhDH-qw/s3264/PXL_20220708_125814891.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrxIAWb8ia02AJwvDc75YMkonz1_qO77XEU8woDooZJO_jbN6nJSFfupA1fUJIWazEB-6S-8Pni_4t55xLLhTxN8NvxCWAk7N68IdVTK8dOpqlciMaqZbwRiquec7eGG9IkA2z77s4nDPZDPq09ae_uucp1Zj_zd3BVQNpAcLdb3lH_uTnNHzhDH-qw/s320/PXL_20220708_125814891.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Fuzzy goofball in his happy place</span></div><div><br /></div><div>As for me, well, I'm still hanging in there. I'm busy trying to be the best dad that I can be, given the circumstances that we live with. I'd like to think that I am doing a decent job, but I also have good kids. I'm glad they love going camping with me and I hope that we can continue that tradition in the future. It's preparing them for the inevitable apocalypse where we all have to don our leather and barbed wire outfits roaming the land in search of petroleum products. That and it's fun to do.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVK4bvMbMr2FWLrodcQOluJ-hcdQHXHVqfQkNvppAiEjfOLr88ozeT6UfdkVFC3vondmrDzVoTHcwWDz2G1NvK8wXYHbTc7-HVyNGg8aZULw9hjdJhq-j26APAc30wRa_X6r8bHr8YgOSYxsnYq6mMawoZho_ARtAA0PNOokg-Z8GaC-H_a5CQD392g/s4032/IMG_0236.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLVK4bvMbMr2FWLrodcQOluJ-hcdQHXHVqfQkNvppAiEjfOLr88ozeT6UfdkVFC3vondmrDzVoTHcwWDz2G1NvK8wXYHbTc7-HVyNGg8aZULw9hjdJhq-j26APAc30wRa_X6r8bHr8YgOSYxsnYq6mMawoZho_ARtAA0PNOokg-Z8GaC-H_a5CQD392g/s320/IMG_0236.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">No, we're not getting a dog and that's final!</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With the passing of our beloved timeshare dog, Philly, and our other timeshare dog Luna moving to California, I'll admit that I'm missing a few doggy snuggles these days. We've tended other dogs, in the meantime but we miss our regular customers. I'm still not getting a dog, though. We like the positives of having a dog without any of the responsibilities.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7bRiRU65NbI0vmTSmqEG6GAyFhd-hV5f1Emzw9xD2T7Jh4c919-BJ7OI0nruZc7yP_QhP_FAbVjY-LTSvn-Oewlb_cLm-R6aOYfcXPCgBPap97UnlyrVdnAHwPF5fGy1EQp9Ea7VxcEIwP5q3RhGDXKsdpkhYTjnWJu4nq4A--c560-o8RFZt1DRwA/s4032/5B5ABEC8-9C14-49B1-9C44-0687EDC74BD0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB7bRiRU65NbI0vmTSmqEG6GAyFhd-hV5f1Emzw9xD2T7Jh4c919-BJ7OI0nruZc7yP_QhP_FAbVjY-LTSvn-Oewlb_cLm-R6aOYfcXPCgBPap97UnlyrVdnAHwPF5fGy1EQp9Ea7VxcEIwP5q3RhGDXKsdpkhYTjnWJu4nq4A--c560-o8RFZt1DRwA/s320/5B5ABEC8-9C14-49B1-9C44-0687EDC74BD0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Trying to work from home</span></div><div><br /></div><div>Work continues to go well for me. I am still doing work at NASA at Johnson Space Center, still working on cool things. This year we launched Artemis I, which was a huge milestone for the agency. It's been exciting to be a part of it. In addition to working at NASA, I have also been working more internally with my company on the proposal development team, developing graphics for business proposals. I didn't know if I would enjoy it or not when I first started it , but I really grew to love the complexity of the concepts and strategies I have been learning. Additionally, it's given me a chance to rub elbows with the company's senior management and get to know some really smart people.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1utwQXIs5YYy2rm-jeK0mp8fNBetXo8_I6YBCfwKhjhtHTfaWTD6FS7uNUrnIvA-NLpMrX3zWTLnJzvnYRJa-XnKQpfRUGBxBFOJNDGqEveoXBdPvyDfvcyh6d5uVNAC9wv8di6kpmET42Q-YaQU14dglK20o20aNudHJA33bIPfJzNpBBCXt4F2BQ/s4032/PXL_20220716_153634556-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv1utwQXIs5YYy2rm-jeK0mp8fNBetXo8_I6YBCfwKhjhtHTfaWTD6FS7uNUrnIvA-NLpMrX3zWTLnJzvnYRJa-XnKQpfRUGBxBFOJNDGqEveoXBdPvyDfvcyh6d5uVNAC9wv8di6kpmET42Q-YaQU14dglK20o20aNudHJA33bIPfJzNpBBCXt4F2BQ/s320/PXL_20220716_153634556-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bradley's Birthday Brisket</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I continue to dabble in the alchemy of smoked meats. Seriously, though, I finally figured out a lot of what it takes to get a good brisket. My smoker has been used quite a bit over the past year, and I don't regret a single meal made on it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdMXUtQ-IuoKtL1KayMyB2lH_smxLk-5K3Qm29woXtGctnb1zTas8MXHt1lfnt_NAaTHmCrtgRBzCSf-xHfEWZaNZQW3zad118ihYHK8e5TXse-booBvY3ohkc0_A8SWLwQvfxl1ZpLhSLBBlEZAOm3EKtJUa5ZORnz30MWk9MRr-A1pnRf5yxYcmMA/s4032/IMG_0383.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxdMXUtQ-IuoKtL1KayMyB2lH_smxLk-5K3Qm29woXtGctnb1zTas8MXHt1lfnt_NAaTHmCrtgRBzCSf-xHfEWZaNZQW3zad118ihYHK8e5TXse-booBvY3ohkc0_A8SWLwQvfxl1ZpLhSLBBlEZAOm3EKtJUa5ZORnz30MWk9MRr-A1pnRf5yxYcmMA/s320/IMG_0383.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The mighty hunting dog waiting for gravity to do its job</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatPbBcqtMUilc8y7qC3mrVr_gFLHNSdUUA2S0_QRtqBTUXhHMXuaJY3CoEbWfcFMIACwBzoqMr8tpicpMG3sT_NvGwHZW7cEH0JrHVKC9SJjxTuJdSeSG9dVPBPtS48jVm5CcWXzrIcSDr1FsBs3eGFwK6WbGzrlNi2oFvaWOCDJMjnfoYNwkFi5xmA/s4032/PXL_20221113_215003192.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhatPbBcqtMUilc8y7qC3mrVr_gFLHNSdUUA2S0_QRtqBTUXhHMXuaJY3CoEbWfcFMIACwBzoqMr8tpicpMG3sT_NvGwHZW7cEH0JrHVKC9SJjxTuJdSeSG9dVPBPtS48jVm5CcWXzrIcSDr1FsBs3eGFwK6WbGzrlNi2oFvaWOCDJMjnfoYNwkFi5xmA/s320/PXL_20221113_215003192.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Over-the-top pot roast</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ0jRB73OPyJ-1-eCNzpy_7RjUTSdXuUGuppQfwvivNTAKgkS-l7nJimZBsfnMpDJd3E2N7tvwX0cyb8ZYEQ-q5qF76UUOqXufJmOD3MzOj2KI2SyIyoFJ9DE9YyapI4ETqZtTZfYzZX3HXO7QtGV3ELijJ7PXYyksJpsWDs7YK-JTss41OV8teZljw/s4032/PXL_20220821_213852157.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ0jRB73OPyJ-1-eCNzpy_7RjUTSdXuUGuppQfwvivNTAKgkS-l7nJimZBsfnMpDJd3E2N7tvwX0cyb8ZYEQ-q5qF76UUOqXufJmOD3MzOj2KI2SyIyoFJ9DE9YyapI4ETqZtTZfYzZX3HXO7QtGV3ELijJ7PXYyksJpsWDs7YK-JTss41OV8teZljw/s320/PXL_20220821_213852157.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Calzone made with poolish</span></div><div><br /></div><div>This year I also decided to learn how to bake bread. It's always been a mystery to me and I've left the job up to my wife. However, I wanted to learn how to do it on my own, so I started with some basic recipes. It's led me to make way more bread than I probably should, but I have loved doing it. It also helps that my kids complement me every time I make something. I also learned what poolish is and why it's important for making pizza dough.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6roC-QlR8ynhWAXHa-Gi880fcGBirVsKjK2aJb5e7nSplbmlbWY5JjLltJxWSrGDfeHNaTGckSHEa2W1fHmsN6EC3wczhtJH_KUFqIYFw-9smyGUkfe7hRwPwpJOgcak1QTPBwbnvMd3Lo-XejAjMIXau0cc6CEjGwQFtFaTIbMD9SyUYHHorAmMpUg/s3404/PXL_20221023_203443780-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2345" data-original-width="3404" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6roC-QlR8ynhWAXHa-Gi880fcGBirVsKjK2aJb5e7nSplbmlbWY5JjLltJxWSrGDfeHNaTGckSHEa2W1fHmsN6EC3wczhtJH_KUFqIYFw-9smyGUkfe7hRwPwpJOgcak1QTPBwbnvMd3Lo-XejAjMIXau0cc6CEjGwQFtFaTIbMD9SyUYHHorAmMpUg/s320/PXL_20221023_203443780-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A little hobby to make some extra dough</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwW5WC65tM7d4v0NdGuifKPU5c_Tn0c5bsro9O7fK8VR4d2rNvPMs86LNapljX_G1cjM-l1jDpcB-URx9g1yNEWGHn5VSegZGL0agPi9V1zAWH90sCCphBSBL_LPaq8dFdY34uxh5hCG9ZKJQQZnC7BVnQrlelXLEk936FNAEi4xc8FGgRJGOGKC9mQ/s4032/PXL_20220903_195230719-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpwW5WC65tM7d4v0NdGuifKPU5c_Tn0c5bsro9O7fK8VR4d2rNvPMs86LNapljX_G1cjM-l1jDpcB-URx9g1yNEWGHn5VSegZGL0agPi9V1zAWH90sCCphBSBL_LPaq8dFdY34uxh5hCG9ZKJQQZnC7BVnQrlelXLEk936FNAEi4xc8FGgRJGOGKC9mQ/s320/PXL_20220903_195230719-01.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting back into the groove</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With my kids getting into music, we decided to get out all my old guitars and hang them on the wall. In the past they've been sitting under a bed or something, out of the way of tiny fingers. However, now that they're out, I've been trying to get back into playing on them. I still don't get much time, but it's been nice to jam out occasionally.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIGhGgMiO5qaHvT1zFxQLdiR3LdnELSWmeYX5Q0AKOeno6GWqlmxohmJPDZfrm7fkoiGfPpaXdd8BZdMG0Z77O7_7MyZuOxPCxyky5L-NjxElFQeI4MoOvwDUSVzPJeoEZU91bVXzUkiq-iHH7qV06q1tZTIjfQCxMkjehXEDHAMgpIvijdc1R49KDQ/s3145/PXL_20221023_151636964.MP-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3145" data-original-width="2193" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJIGhGgMiO5qaHvT1zFxQLdiR3LdnELSWmeYX5Q0AKOeno6GWqlmxohmJPDZfrm7fkoiGfPpaXdd8BZdMG0Z77O7_7MyZuOxPCxyky5L-NjxElFQeI4MoOvwDUSVzPJeoEZU91bVXzUkiq-iHH7qV06q1tZTIjfQCxMkjehXEDHAMgpIvijdc1R49KDQ/s320/PXL_20221023_151636964.MP-01.jpeg" width="223" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mental health issues are few and far between, but they still suck</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In terms of my mental health, I can say that over the past year, I've actually been fairly stable. The combined regimen of a CPAP and new medication has helped keep my mood stable. I can count on one hand the times I've had some issues over the past year, which is way less than I have been able to before. I still have some issues to work out, but it's nice to be in a place where I am not in despair every single waking hour.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLN_D8UwApGSRP0XXgMr6UX-NvOYnC1WhB0l7KsDS6DhjvrZktI2C1MdMd_6EFu8UUkFNDB8AHiJOpDd2Y9-DDZ0A_rUsc1w6tCsMR1Fdn7kw-dNq3d005_stQQ73U6KJUAn4NYVuCEdsaEqupKSHjFxdp2yYkcWqrQdnfc_Egkg7B-ALPyJRdXC4xw/s3264/PXL_20221002_235944712.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBLN_D8UwApGSRP0XXgMr6UX-NvOYnC1WhB0l7KsDS6DhjvrZktI2C1MdMd_6EFu8UUkFNDB8AHiJOpDd2Y9-DDZ0A_rUsc1w6tCsMR1Fdn7kw-dNq3d005_stQQ73U6KJUAn4NYVuCEdsaEqupKSHjFxdp2yYkcWqrQdnfc_Egkg7B-ALPyJRdXC4xw/s320/PXL_20221002_235944712.PORTRAIT-01.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My gaggle of redheads</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Overall I can't complain about my life. Anything that has been a struggle, has mainly been viewed in the end as an inconvenience in the end. We haven't had any real bad tragedy in our lives and compared to the rest of the world, we're doing pretty darn good. I just wish we could share some of that goodwill with others.</div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7hbnFfuk9r2nxavyqFep4cF-HR_e6AkTnsX3B41u_6CIkfalPjMpFh_jFVdG78CYrs6hb-VWJ0PmVeeaHtmBUaZStNbs6WBMIANWfPCKpHWeflIi31atKI8Wd6WPbqq_y3s8wVSTHHyqi8dd8ezWPQt7LFiURtkf5KMPiSZmkBhR4rDtHW33CfICrQ/s4032/IMG_2936.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7hbnFfuk9r2nxavyqFep4cF-HR_e6AkTnsX3B41u_6CIkfalPjMpFh_jFVdG78CYrs6hb-VWJ0PmVeeaHtmBUaZStNbs6WBMIANWfPCKpHWeflIi31atKI8Wd6WPbqq_y3s8wVSTHHyqi8dd8ezWPQt7LFiURtkf5KMPiSZmkBhR4rDtHW33CfICrQ/s320/IMG_2936.HEIC" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Frolicking around Candy Cane Lane</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I really don't know what to ask for for Christmas, Santa. I don't have time to play with toys, and I don't have money to buy toys anyway. I guess all I want is to be able to do a better job at using my time wisely. That's the one thing I can't earn any more of, no matter how hard I try. My clock in still ticking, my kids are still growing, and I'm not getting any younger. If there's any way you could enhance the time I do have, that is probably what would be best for me. I've got everything I want, especially when all I want is my family and good memories.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So we'll see you when we see you this year, Santa. Stay warm as you traverse the snowy skies this Christmas. You know where we'll be: snug asleep, dreaming of smoked meats.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Brad</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. Okay, so maybe if you've got a spare top of the line graphics PC with an RTX 4090 and the latest and greatest VR headset, I'd take one of those. I love to play Microsoft Flight Simulator in VR...</span></div></div>Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-50367381718020879342021-12-23T20:37:00.000-07:002021-12-23T20:37:13.377-07:00Dear Santa: An Open Letter in 2021<p> Dear Santa,</p><p>Well, here we stand again on the precipice of a new year and I find myself penning (well, typing, actually) my annual letter to you. I'm not sure, given the current circumstances in the world today, how well your Elf Intelligence Agency (EIA) has been able to ascertain about the past year in our home in particular, but I can say that things have looked a lot better overall for the Reynolds clan in Texas.</p><p></p><p>Anyway, how are you doing? Is your workshop in danger of sinking into the Arctic Ocean due to climate change, or is that all a bit of hyperbole? How have you been handling the issues regarding the current global pandemic? I'm assuming that between you, Bigfoot, and Nessie, all of you are competing for the title of "Most Isolated Being on Earth", so I am hoping that you haven't had to deal with all the nonsensicalities associated with managing high population areas during a plague. That makes me curious: does COVID-19 affect elves? It's been found in animals, so I can assume that the elf species is a closer genetic match to humans than a pug. Anyway, I hope you've stayed safe this past year.</p><p>As for us, well, I can sort of say that 2021 was probably the year we may have overcompensated a bit. With the weariness that 2020 left us and the prospect of vaccinations on the horizon, we started making quite a few plans to make the new year better than ever, in spite of what the current sociopolitical climate may have been.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbA_8epYhX7pTZQPplZVV1AtZgAZnXTlJ3EriNnM3IL6kOpoDnkd_-raucg9XvoRPxp4jjhedJIIw92OZ2J_vwL01V57zhpG8OhmofIP8p0Q0OfKA2SBddhgxO1cCfTuvJFsxcuXZbHVUrUY9pEW0nAg26_L2J0fA7to2LAXto6Y1BCF6cOWIp7KH_Fw=s3088" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbA_8epYhX7pTZQPplZVV1AtZgAZnXTlJ3EriNnM3IL6kOpoDnkd_-raucg9XvoRPxp4jjhedJIIw92OZ2J_vwL01V57zhpG8OhmofIP8p0Q0OfKA2SBddhgxO1cCfTuvJFsxcuXZbHVUrUY9pEW0nAg26_L2J0fA7to2LAXto6Y1BCF6cOWIp7KH_Fw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cuties. Way better than that Netflix movie.</span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Sarah and I started off the year by celebrating our 10th year of marriage. I couldn't believe we've been together a decade, but she managed to stick with me through all the ridiculousness that I constantly bring to our union.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiwXlhagU7Zz2nJWLibQzvNMDNMug7iJb7dlhYsRzEtlfBCbtyEQ5jp198abQA_o6VVmz7oBlta-FTmviPc9gRQZfUnE9gmHNUWz0P5Y-0d6x3ug5jC69HC9-RNpBGEnhtTR-eiHz7mEjWCIAjpNCZqM0SWp4m9WQ_gA6Y5DcRJjADZI9izyoYWtIPfsg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiwXlhagU7Zz2nJWLibQzvNMDNMug7iJb7dlhYsRzEtlfBCbtyEQ5jp198abQA_o6VVmz7oBlta-FTmviPc9gRQZfUnE9gmHNUWz0P5Y-0d6x3ug5jC69HC9-RNpBGEnhtTR-eiHz7mEjWCIAjpNCZqM0SWp4m9WQ_gA6Y5DcRJjADZI9izyoYWtIPfsg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I love to see that happy face.</span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We had stated that we'd love to do something like go to a tropical island for our anniversary, but COVID put the kibosh on that idea. Instead I managed to take her to a sub-tropical island that was much more affordable and easier to access: Galvestion, TX! Now, although it's only a 30 minute drive from our house, the truth is that we hadn't spent much time exploring the island in any real sense, so that was a nice opportunity to do so.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFa7I2kcdE-33pdtPTOd9WyyxfU_LGNdnepqoBpAC9UZAvd_Ajh4UGrY_4I3Sk7HnScf3KbiNdI3fKdtF3ZuVD3YGbMyfKFgRel2QyiLZaSajH9W542Kgp6u6QHNvT-EXXCxNq57RVbv1uDt20C28rlRPWqC5qeydZB8upMH48TQxVItCVKAk_gmFs6A=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhFa7I2kcdE-33pdtPTOd9WyyxfU_LGNdnepqoBpAC9UZAvd_Ajh4UGrY_4I3Sk7HnScf3KbiNdI3fKdtF3ZuVD3YGbMyfKFgRel2QyiLZaSajH9W542Kgp6u6QHNvT-EXXCxNq57RVbv1uDt20C28rlRPWqC5qeydZB8upMH48TQxVItCVKAk_gmFs6A=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">I know, I'm adorable.</span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We got a couple's massage (one of Sarah's bucket list items), had a wonderful seafood dinner at Gaidos, visited Moody Mansion, toured Bishop's Palace, and stayed at the Coppersmith Inn (a wonderful bed and breakfast being renovated by an energetic young couple). It was a wonderful trip that we will treasure forever, and it provided us with a great chance to remember what it was like when it was just the two of us. Truthfully, we only had about two months before Sarah got pregnant with Leah, so our time as newlyweds didn't last long. It's mainly been a decade of being in a family while learning how to be married. So far, so good.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpTYPhxe32hFXfN6k3SM67vXEBdLj41ovVkbg-zDXlhWRco1gzBaJty7RAdq5l5d-JaD3_6Bc7UMQAOzVMH-PyD3c7ItgIOO-_jNNSAA4zy3o3EqIJIbJd-M--uuCis8SXGjzjSCze_2Lu8VJ04U_fP2LUl8Kcm6H-FC1K6Wl2iihDDHQUpVvY9GXMGA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgpTYPhxe32hFXfN6k3SM67vXEBdLj41ovVkbg-zDXlhWRco1gzBaJty7RAdq5l5d-JaD3_6Bc7UMQAOzVMH-PyD3c7ItgIOO-_jNNSAA4zy3o3EqIJIbJd-M--uuCis8SXGjzjSCze_2Lu8VJ04U_fP2LUl8Kcm6H-FC1K6Wl2iihDDHQUpVvY9GXMGA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">W<span style="text-align: left;">arm love on a frigid Valentine's Day</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">The next month we were in for an unusual surprise from your wintery rival Jack Frost, who managed to unleash a furiously frigid winter storm upon the Lone Star State that we weren't prepared for. If you recall, the power grid in Texas is separate and unregulated, which in part means that we can't draw from other states when the going gets tough. Well, the going got tough and the power grid almost entirely collapsed, leaving many in the state without power as the temperatures outside were down to 10 degrees.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSiVw5jxE3736vdMoq2Kf0aTN_xyedxx6eYbv2AMAJi-4yVirAA22sbEmkxLNyx6A5e9DJQL30ioVN2dywyq7LJ2GhxhLtKovvXcWqgPN8MbOH44Vx7726XYyabdFgFBY1kKuJcRz4l8zrz8mm1g9M5OvqVY2rNw84f_gkfXZKS_1QRU8dWOXAylz-dQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgSiVw5jxE3736vdMoq2Kf0aTN_xyedxx6eYbv2AMAJi-4yVirAA22sbEmkxLNyx6A5e9DJQL30ioVN2dywyq7LJ2GhxhLtKovvXcWqgPN8MbOH44Vx7726XYyabdFgFBY1kKuJcRz4l8zrz8mm1g9M5OvqVY2rNw84f_gkfXZKS_1QRU8dWOXAylz-dQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">"Grandma" Hanks was a great surrogate for the biological grandparents</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We lost power for many days, which made the temperatures inside dip down into the 50s. I still managed to have power at work, so I went there during the day, but Sarah and the kids managed to find refuge over at the Hanks Family's home nearby. Over all the time where they were cycling out power to keep things from collapsing, they thankfully didn't have much time out. On the other hand, I would spend the nights in our cold home just to make sure I was there in case any of the pipes broke and I needed to shut off the water. I also got to use my generator for the first time, which was ironic because I got it in case a hurricane took out our power. I never thought I'd almost freeze to death in Texas.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6_eiGz-uRLfighmzC9Xr-gS5pBZRUFdUDEuwaup0iTLC2FGtrhPRyhk9HPqplqClL-osUaAjImpuKU8Odh-blTEYo80t-ZKlrwNkcmGUFdEAbggGdqh1QJHUTZDiZHO42im-_Wqj8If4pvUCKNQ_xeFHDd4TJvhkjDB9-HeutGzNDbOSJy7jggRty5A=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi6_eiGz-uRLfighmzC9Xr-gS5pBZRUFdUDEuwaup0iTLC2FGtrhPRyhk9HPqplqClL-osUaAjImpuKU8Odh-blTEYo80t-ZKlrwNkcmGUFdEAbggGdqh1QJHUTZDiZHO42im-_Wqj8If4pvUCKNQ_xeFHDd4TJvhkjDB9-HeutGzNDbOSJy7jggRty5A=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Camping breakfast</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Eventually after a week things thawed out and life continued as normal. We continued our tradition this year of me taking the kids camping together, which was a lot of fun. They complain, bicker, and argue a lot during these trips, but come away saying that they had the best time ever, so I try to power through the exhaustion of taking care of three kids while not in their normal environment.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJMP-B70uEJqAGIBQFgClgFWP3R2JyHYF27IZ5JW5PXFjp__Rh6J7TN_eyxVAIVkfHz2CYxd25n0UoCxYuWZJhtMLy8SwM5uHb0MCFKCyZhhr99UGhgNgSfbefX7mSfQxYj8KI09hzsspUYU-ZBpBNDA1PaevtnaCFGkieTmMR2WvS1-KUEe5thBc1hA=s3088" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2320" data-original-width="3088" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJMP-B70uEJqAGIBQFgClgFWP3R2JyHYF27IZ5JW5PXFjp__Rh6J7TN_eyxVAIVkfHz2CYxd25n0UoCxYuWZJhtMLy8SwM5uHb0MCFKCyZhhr99UGhgNgSfbefX7mSfQxYj8KI09hzsspUYU-ZBpBNDA1PaevtnaCFGkieTmMR2WvS1-KUEe5thBc1hA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Fish Lake - Relaxation at its finest</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">As per her usual annual routine, Sarah took the kids and drove out to Utah and Idaho for a number of weeks. She was able to go see a number of friends and visit family. The first stop, thankfully, is most often the family cabin at Fish Lake. I love to go there, but this year I wasn't able to make it there. Maybe next year.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGDrseqUBDUspUmoz-x_sLPCDWUWbwUZHBk6sx7hjHeoHyskTgqfgxylnNAPYXgURMuqtEjCbY16FGqhm9are87c8-Ne0emu_SPBiS1i0Vds6LgAIPLMAhY2xI74c4sJQTsTvayHPHWcYabCI024w5lR07y8fYrMPxYJM_Iyf_Jz3jyinU5CIgFPjLBA=s1080" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1080" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhGDrseqUBDUspUmoz-x_sLPCDWUWbwUZHBk6sx7hjHeoHyskTgqfgxylnNAPYXgURMuqtEjCbY16FGqhm9are87c8-Ne0emu_SPBiS1i0Vds6LgAIPLMAhY2xI74c4sJQTsTvayHPHWcYabCI024w5lR07y8fYrMPxYJM_Iyf_Jz3jyinU5CIgFPjLBA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="text-align: left;">Reunion </span><strike style="text-align: left;">2020 </strike><span style="text-align: left;">2021</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">One of the main reasons we went was for a Reynolds Family reunion. The original was supposed to happen in 2020, but got delayed for obvious reasons. We all were able to gather at a set of nice vacation homes in St. George, Utah, and spend some time together. Overall it was great to see everyone that we could, although having to take care of little kids made it hard to get in the visiting with family that I wanted to do.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzCKXx4lscpQN2PGt2Ejw1vK62PwaEzWiGB_w-l-_WRVfR1P_FjZslk4WHlwVahJFb2W8BXQqhMpdB3tj7pqTAqgSSgpobU-6YC1JdL3LxDx3NFlVOM-kWI1mtkgexhz8KMURjuY4BYkSSMQn7e2abzrMkD04fKNt68DDQvC3ZiUcuK7S-SJheGH04FA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzCKXx4lscpQN2PGt2Ejw1vK62PwaEzWiGB_w-l-_WRVfR1P_FjZslk4WHlwVahJFb2W8BXQqhMpdB3tj7pqTAqgSSgpobU-6YC1JdL3LxDx3NFlVOM-kWI1mtkgexhz8KMURjuY4BYkSSMQn7e2abzrMkD04fKNt68DDQvC3ZiUcuK7S-SJheGH04FA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A big day for Sean</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">One of the fortunate things we were able to do this year was have Sean be baptized at the family reunion. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, many other family members were able to attend virtually and see him make the decision to follow in the steps of Jesus Christ.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilev8PqQ5OGdn98XXr7iQDPgP52XSgYK7o_kk2oHDYWjZwYWrEqZBoV2SsNoo3XK9SXxB8trKvomUL8-tGxWtDWpnY9E67zNiWLqOh9BhEdPmrjKIMQMyZhKasIb34ECf9CC8KI94EJSOqgImosQ-8mS4ljFIhc_6q8vfopc36_I5iQ9QVp8mH4cZudg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEilev8PqQ5OGdn98XXr7iQDPgP52XSgYK7o_kk2oHDYWjZwYWrEqZBoV2SsNoo3XK9SXxB8trKvomUL8-tGxWtDWpnY9E67zNiWLqOh9BhEdPmrjKIMQMyZhKasIb34ECf9CC8KI94EJSOqgImosQ-8mS4ljFIhc_6q8vfopc36_I5iQ9QVp8mH4cZudg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Grandpa Richardson & cousins</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Sarah spent lots of time in Idaho getting the chance to be with family. I think my kids really enjoyed the freedom they had at Grandma and Grandpa's house, especially with a trampoline and big yard to play in.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoBZdgrNporZ3Rrrh37DI9hVQReZUng9fkiSWpbypMvrnzLSJN6-2GbKtly237Kdj8aynosQlCKGglU7SC_ITvQvkpPuyeTV1NuNpxahLZFDshV8RbgtmZThwrOOY3wjDKLAcoa_AhtG34Oa1xi_xfRygx6QuTV720XCJ50TzyhbZLy0F5na88rYOBPQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhoBZdgrNporZ3Rrrh37DI9hVQReZUng9fkiSWpbypMvrnzLSJN6-2GbKtly237Kdj8aynosQlCKGglU7SC_ITvQvkpPuyeTV1NuNpxahLZFDshV8RbgtmZThwrOOY3wjDKLAcoa_AhtG34Oa1xi_xfRygx6QuTV720XCJ50TzyhbZLy0F5na88rYOBPQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Grandma Richardson snuggles are the best</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Because their circumstances don't allow Sarah's parents to easily travel these days, I'm grateful that my kids can go to them and spend time with them. I may be alone for weeks at a time, but I know the sacrifice is worth it. Plus the house stays very clean while they're gone.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEil_dqiiK-b_IvynuZeKlt_SeVXXzsGlotseJPDkoxmTawD72qwFHSfn1L2J9M7Xj6fWx6TKOxJYFb6KdgplAw1WNl4MYZ1LbVxV04uL-34v8nIU9XcNF-gGfnl8GOgnp0u6Hl8WuyH3jak6crioN02rvPqs3oueNs0LF8iZEBH-RmBxSvNG_5OuzfHkw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEil_dqiiK-b_IvynuZeKlt_SeVXXzsGlotseJPDkoxmTawD72qwFHSfn1L2J9M7Xj6fWx6TKOxJYFb6KdgplAw1WNl4MYZ1LbVxV04uL-34v8nIU9XcNF-gGfnl8GOgnp0u6Hl8WuyH3jak6crioN02rvPqs3oueNs0LF8iZEBH-RmBxSvNG_5OuzfHkw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Malcolm bonding with Uncle Barry</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I think it's important that the kids get to know their extended family. Mine is pretty small, relatively speaking. I only have one uncle that I actually know, and two aunts. That makes for small reunions when it's not me and the brothers.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigcANn79U9M2MlcZ5Yb_2j86A60xuLku-OGZPcVIF2rNOxTi8BXaD5_DveyNFxG4ADelzAKobBrteNdx9nC69CkeKlJRjCF9_l2nUWG0sXD69DXHcPeC9ZGxZ5BJ3KPDNnDl8RYX6Snzpeu8THVcRcnJnybqA6YtndUte27Jasnq7FxIUShusGEPhiKg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigcANn79U9M2MlcZ5Yb_2j86A60xuLku-OGZPcVIF2rNOxTi8BXaD5_DveyNFxG4ADelzAKobBrteNdx9nC69CkeKlJRjCF9_l2nUWG0sXD69DXHcPeC9ZGxZ5BJ3KPDNnDl8RYX6Snzpeu8THVcRcnJnybqA6YtndUte27Jasnq7FxIUShusGEPhiKg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Frenectomy & tongue tie</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Once their travels were over with, the three oldest kids had a minor surgical procedure that will be helpful for them with the development of their mouths. There is still some therapy that they need to do, but I'm glad we could get them some early intervention to hopefully help with other aspects in their lives.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAToMM8zW0vCfIBCPve7Fx2eNpv-_I6UFBfJs02WfY0Ot2zkqbTg3mO2IufVBOTniGYW8tfA8KHl2TOClPztSvgTfJTUHGJKQdSdccdKaQyQ-quMLqHhyCyorKNgGz_aL8oFbZLBvK47T_ZOLqyoVRnVBlw0t53OFNkpB9K1lPnCLOIFHt5NqfHgnvfQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhAToMM8zW0vCfIBCPve7Fx2eNpv-_I6UFBfJs02WfY0Ot2zkqbTg3mO2IufVBOTniGYW8tfA8KHl2TOClPztSvgTfJTUHGJKQdSdccdKaQyQ-quMLqHhyCyorKNgGz_aL8oFbZLBvK47T_ZOLqyoVRnVBlw0t53OFNkpB9K1lPnCLOIFHt5NqfHgnvfQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Activity days</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I can't believe it, but my two oldest kids are finally at a point there they have church activities every other week. We're entering into the stage of life where we're busy for the sake of our children, making sure they get every opportunity they need in order to advance.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1HYulUj7hFcB9uSHr0sgNIM8il4BFI56NjZhP5bO3ZtWLrZAy7Kq8OswM4yEucIYEWwKz9pfwe3ApTRZiRx3rk5d3NlcZ3hH7Ys49WKwqXIJqhF4pfuJZd2UcOo_7v5wJD8YGD-PClGzJTAB-f2jjr9HdTnY9VmjHBCcOAqXop6lFFnlKQNAKAlzWSQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh1HYulUj7hFcB9uSHr0sgNIM8il4BFI56NjZhP5bO3ZtWLrZAy7Kq8OswM4yEucIYEWwKz9pfwe3ApTRZiRx3rk5d3NlcZ3hH7Ys49WKwqXIJqhF4pfuJZd2UcOo_7v5wJD8YGD-PClGzJTAB-f2jjr9HdTnY9VmjHBCcOAqXop6lFFnlKQNAKAlzWSQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A long-overdue addition to our home</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">One of the coolest things we've been involved in during this past year is a homeschool music and performing arts co-op. It's a well-oiled organization that has been great at exposing our kids to the type of musical instruction that we haven't been able to provide them at home. I just never seem to have the time, and I don't seem to have the teaching talent when it comes to musical instruments. As part of this new endeavor, we got a Yamaha Clavinova electric piano. It's been a beautiful addition to our home and I really love seeing the kids get on it and plinking out tunes by ear. Sometimes I even try to sit down and tickle the ivories, but it's hard to do when you're a guitarist and don't have the coordination to move your hands independent of each other.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzBUndxDznqs9RWk83SQ6hYfYCW3A4LS1xnGHzsD5ZKRoY0eqTa3OlVoA3unqwMjkhaMgbyZr14I-yE35vtvv-4ltP-6BE0K599VWgqy_shlnypiqrd7IdMnEdpw9PEmRFRptzwfADd1QavXbqcGZKStW6trwU4qaYviuwndfJk-GZ3cD_ghXFio3gvQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgzBUndxDznqs9RWk83SQ6hYfYCW3A4LS1xnGHzsD5ZKRoY0eqTa3OlVoA3unqwMjkhaMgbyZr14I-yE35vtvv-4ltP-6BE0K599VWgqy_shlnypiqrd7IdMnEdpw9PEmRFRptzwfADd1QavXbqcGZKStW6trwU4qaYviuwndfJk-GZ3cD_ghXFio3gvQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">COVID patient with emotional support dog</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">In spite of all the precautions and vaccinations, I wound up contracting COVID-19 this year. I honestly don't know how I got it because I was the only one in the family that ever tested positive in spite of being in close contact with everyone in my immediate family. Thankfully, however, my symptoms were very mild. I lost the ability to smell for about a week and got slightly fatigued. It was more of an inconvenience than anything else, which I am grateful for. I know this disease isn't something to joke with. I came out of it just fine, which I attribute to the vaccine's efficacy. I knew I probably wasn't going to avoid COVID-19 the rest of my life, but I am grateful that the impact wasn't really significant. Others haven't been that fortunate.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7SMCx4vX7AX_knTGZ8O_d2ZZI3dhI1F5X8JszZSKLtgBnJq2_20n_6aWmy3cQf3u2zhPVvvQ8xb0gHQhaWMAe8H3JbVwx7Iapp5NjTTpXipxAdKt9x4mRPbT_T65nXDtVeHKe9eOrYv1WExCAU69AatAXJuzznpyKCQlSEW7ewQSYX4XaV4EIYNaGGA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj7SMCx4vX7AX_knTGZ8O_d2ZZI3dhI1F5X8JszZSKLtgBnJq2_20n_6aWmy3cQf3u2zhPVvvQ8xb0gHQhaWMAe8H3JbVwx7Iapp5NjTTpXipxAdKt9x4mRPbT_T65nXDtVeHKe9eOrYv1WExCAU69AatAXJuzznpyKCQlSEW7ewQSYX4XaV4EIYNaGGA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Taekwondo testing. Tiny tigers taking task.</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We are still doing taekwondo as a family, which I immensely enjoy. I think I enjoy it more than the kids, but that's probably because the only time we are able to do it is in the evening when they're tired. I'm sure they'd love it if it was a morning activity.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5lhp_jRWziJkyGA-zSyKWaw66qXgtIjcdSWt1omUllCW-O6pVRhZPH-IWBtQbJtvWeglCqznyiNJumISA06svuOHJTBKmZkhLRVchjTyxobEyxDV0lWGmxAwzOxT7GEV593DGCUYEavUG-3rG23JbKq5t1isoIkf2-_-vWQ5qg_Ptx6hECmXyctPwmw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2268" data-original-width="4032" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj5lhp_jRWziJkyGA-zSyKWaw66qXgtIjcdSWt1omUllCW-O6pVRhZPH-IWBtQbJtvWeglCqznyiNJumISA06svuOHJTBKmZkhLRVchjTyxobEyxDV0lWGmxAwzOxT7GEV593DGCUYEavUG-3rG23JbKq5t1isoIkf2-_-vWQ5qg_Ptx6hECmXyctPwmw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Texas Taekwondo Twister Tournament</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We even were brave enough to enter into the largest tournament in Texas, which made for a fun family trip to Dallas. The kids got to experience competition and did their best in their age ranges. I competed as well and wound up placing third in forms (kata in karate terms). I almost placed third in combat sparring but lost by the timer at the last minute of my round. In terms of being my first tournament, I'd say I did pretty good.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguh3IikrnjuT9E9-2MOqigfW6wyeF9Fn09kFa3PeBiEVNBsDgadgAMkGrAQvSzJbgowWZP24kW65ygaz0IKbmx-opScEy28YwDmENy1_UdniFgrP6szp6SGcK41_J1jjLsqa8PFCnRQnWYQW_EY5ycHI6QXJH6lifvmUJpkFH58RKAijmOZlhZD3nCnA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEguh3IikrnjuT9E9-2MOqigfW6wyeF9Fn09kFa3PeBiEVNBsDgadgAMkGrAQvSzJbgowWZP24kW65ygaz0IKbmx-opScEy28YwDmENy1_UdniFgrP6szp6SGcK41_J1jjLsqa8PFCnRQnWYQW_EY5ycHI6QXJH6lifvmUJpkFH58RKAijmOZlhZD3nCnA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Early morning flights are exhausting</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">One of the exciting things we were also able to do was to go visit Sarah's brother and his family up in southern Oregon. We had an early morning flight that day (5AM), followed by a 4-hour drive to their home, so it made for an exhausting travel day.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0uIZL_Ru-3s9m7YWlpsQ6I11Hur8UPA9jh_zYuAUZwRb-o1mgycxnfo_IQ5WsVI6nAWek9t3JAnwUp8R_UfrB4gLlGW0RkHARJRWyIfkPISNwR3svVC7nq7qZyPny5UivTSsGqab7nAjwUqUu_Wfon6g8qgVAhzOnUEaHPQh8nk3-NYJqL_BxU2skBw=s6000" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi0uIZL_Ru-3s9m7YWlpsQ6I11Hur8UPA9jh_zYuAUZwRb-o1mgycxnfo_IQ5WsVI6nAWek9t3JAnwUp8R_UfrB4gLlGW0RkHARJRWyIfkPISNwR3svVC7nq7qZyPny5UivTSsGqab7nAjwUqUu_Wfon6g8qgVAhzOnUEaHPQh8nk3-NYJqL_BxU2skBw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Putting around the country club</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I love seeing the kids interact with their cousins. I never had cousins close to my age growing up. Plus, I had a cumulative total of six cousins from both my mom and dad's sides of the family, so my odds weren't that great. To see my kids have an abundance of "built in friends" is something that I cherish.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyyQIE7TJiUykE3KfmOeEbd82kSRqkVR0nj3Q9lLpu9gza3M-vWHKvbGsDVqjh_qfiO-gFnaILXe1MB-HTmuzFDfYudPhnKtO7aOq0C4_NvLG_rNN1IakDCXm_cqdqiBSmYDWrTvo0Y9l4I9ZPkh9Jz224tzfuNtnwA6jFeHmHU0Yw2TwRn-D60XYSJg=s4521" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3538" data-original-width="4521" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgyyQIE7TJiUykE3KfmOeEbd82kSRqkVR0nj3Q9lLpu9gza3M-vWHKvbGsDVqjh_qfiO-gFnaILXe1MB-HTmuzFDfYudPhnKtO7aOq0C4_NvLG_rNN1IakDCXm_cqdqiBSmYDWrTvo0Y9l4I9ZPkh9Jz224tzfuNtnwA6jFeHmHU0Yw2TwRn-D60XYSJg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Little beauties</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We had a lot of fun with them exploring the venues around their area. We rode the jet boats on the Rogue River, hiked in the redwoods, and enjoyed some time at the beach.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg--SiuVJ5Ph7_6BPfN46Ft3Wre3VJrL3STakjVzoIW-Quxt3u-ckriUreKCuifMGVdJsHziX_bIAdlUSC4v9UD14jQtColRsZoHLQbDq-gwHjT9MLYDrXOS89g7RFwN84-ycfwuG2pu8el1_UK4iWnGSmy2IQYLOxPHvRWdS6xaZQh4OnMHx7CyFEkYA=s4854" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3296" data-original-width="4854" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg--SiuVJ5Ph7_6BPfN46Ft3Wre3VJrL3STakjVzoIW-Quxt3u-ckriUreKCuifMGVdJsHziX_bIAdlUSC4v9UD14jQtColRsZoHLQbDq-gwHjT9MLYDrXOS89g7RFwN84-ycfwuG2pu8el1_UK4iWnGSmy2IQYLOxPHvRWdS6xaZQh4OnMHx7CyFEkYA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cousin power!</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I do love the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. It's always held a special place in my heart.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDC24SXj69M0tcaobus4z8cSd54eGdX4P0j4sKK0daKq8Du991xSP2K-QBcycdPMSjz1DCDsg-7N5GI4seFsnT0zGuPDdeyll9MkcXHPoMjXtxfHoza8FZ1TZFlWmNdMXWYXZdoAIae99rde81dYso_NxuDsckGbhveIA9TLYOGqHxYMzx492Cgj_JDw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjDC24SXj69M0tcaobus4z8cSd54eGdX4P0j4sKK0daKq8Du991xSP2K-QBcycdPMSjz1DCDsg-7N5GI4seFsnT0zGuPDdeyll9MkcXHPoMjXtxfHoza8FZ1TZFlWmNdMXWYXZdoAIae99rde81dYso_NxuDsckGbhveIA9TLYOGqHxYMzx492Cgj_JDw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The best way to stay warm at the Pacific Northwest beaches</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">When it was time to head back to Texas, there were lots of tears shed by my kids. They love all their cousins so much and it's always hard for them to be so far away. I'm hoping that someway, somehow we can be closer to them, but I don't see that happening in the near future.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgn0lf3-2qcjit4cCf1EMpHAwzQztWpcLuN3Qk0WfnKARvUiHpYADehkRSMdRtSp5dYWUzIHBFw7ftkiTBUhL4ZZEWFciGc8NF53amCKqTjTMy1w7HE_Z1xsnKX7C7AEZXh7GtxqAVGImoNv9I2MSATDatnDZnvKdEBhN9eeDlkB6-Lm6-z6H8s0-9ZVA=s2365" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2330" data-original-width="2365" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgn0lf3-2qcjit4cCf1EMpHAwzQztWpcLuN3Qk0WfnKARvUiHpYADehkRSMdRtSp5dYWUzIHBFw7ftkiTBUhL4ZZEWFciGc8NF53amCKqTjTMy1w7HE_Z1xsnKX7C7AEZXh7GtxqAVGImoNv9I2MSATDatnDZnvKdEBhN9eeDlkB6-Lm6-z6H8s0-9ZVA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Getting a room</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">When October came around I had made the decision that Sarah and I needed to get out together again. We had so much fun in Galveston for our anniversary and after a very taxing summer we needed some alone time. So we got some great help from our friends to watch the kids and we spent a day in downtown Houston taking in the sights and smells.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh65wxsJdGjq1EUHrSHvH-Gu_l7IuD4oYfilgt7jN2yySpIWBnDK9nFm1gnsqs7qq1x07lwqvnPFwBxIk9gqhegEcTet1-rg1PKZqz6Fx-WErRPuzh8Va-p9Z956kkbxzdPF9BMrC6kNioYbOC8GOQin1ZflfPyrKBBbuVoYh9OsHb9n-_lTFcP-W6IMg=s2534" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2534" data-original-width="2323" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh65wxsJdGjq1EUHrSHvH-Gu_l7IuD4oYfilgt7jN2yySpIWBnDK9nFm1gnsqs7qq1x07lwqvnPFwBxIk9gqhegEcTet1-rg1PKZqz6Fx-WErRPuzh8Va-p9Z956kkbxzdPF9BMrC6kNioYbOC8GOQin1ZflfPyrKBBbuVoYh9OsHb9n-_lTFcP-W6IMg=s320" width="293" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Street tacos at their finest</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Houston has more restaurants than any other city I've lived in and the food is pretty diverse. Because of its unique location we get to partake of TexMex, Texas BBQ, and Cajun food quite often. One of my new favorite pastimes is to go try a new restaurant every so often with my wife. So far we haven't run out of places to try.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifI9i3rGGyGSDibo4ALCwaazKrxUWLIx5SBuqEg8-6qhbIjlx20PhAZ7f0I850o0CBgnURdIqlxm9SLd2koEfIOzIjTzbRw8PO0XgenLMs8Z1YKNWP_qb1UWs1fe6hWWJQsmgXIvsjDKiRwZGj3ofP_snCxB6hEjXcCCAi1E0spVVWdka47N6QbSVFOg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEifI9i3rGGyGSDibo4ALCwaazKrxUWLIx5SBuqEg8-6qhbIjlx20PhAZ7f0I850o0CBgnURdIqlxm9SLd2koEfIOzIjTzbRw8PO0XgenLMs8Z1YKNWP_qb1UWs1fe6hWWJQsmgXIvsjDKiRwZGj3ofP_snCxB6hEjXcCCAi1E0spVVWdka47N6QbSVFOg=s320" width="320" /></a>'</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The day I finally became a man</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">And speaking of food, this is the year I finally was able to get something that I've been longing for years to get. They say that once a man reaches a certain age he either needs to get into repairing cars or smoking meats. Given my love of food and the lack of space in our home, I went with the latter. I got a Traeger grill and became an instant evangelist for the brand. I like to think of Traeger owners the same as pilots. One of my favorite pilot joke is, "How can you tell if there's a pilot in the room? He'll tell you." It's ironically the same way with Traeger grill owners. We even have our own virtual community that we call the "Traegerhood."</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnFkDowpy-JjnfDRVDJgbcwBF4DxmQF7xb6YvpT5ka5T_dABAkvisZt_qQ8obgts4bRGVcVATzHQoeRh7M4lYBIHwBZs8wbMpLoJLts-PoFw0c6Gda7n44U9U46VDrdUdfCCb9ZDZEioYaywynFJvSa9a0BlOIRrakIdfeotojJvMJG5NVb5hnJJQVbA=s3903" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2606" data-original-width="3903" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnFkDowpy-JjnfDRVDJgbcwBF4DxmQF7xb6YvpT5ka5T_dABAkvisZt_qQ8obgts4bRGVcVATzHQoeRh7M4lYBIHwBZs8wbMpLoJLts-PoFw0c6Gda7n44U9U46VDrdUdfCCb9ZDZEioYaywynFJvSa9a0BlOIRrakIdfeotojJvMJG5NVb5hnJJQVbA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Smoked salmon, a.k.a. pink gold</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">So far I've tried a variety of things on it. One of the favorite family dishes was smoked salmon. We picked that sucker clean when we were done.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXH4r9aUxObKXn7AoE2n_ubyKBIKMDg9MPkQy5r-3LzojjmJ9SHsLpuTQdPXuvtbusdic0O4Jagjrrn-JqBzjbGVsdCJGWqdaquH6P6noh9qJS9VyUuV29C-J7XvxNTu0J4GpHsz1vprNAWILDqDJiTcyAtVdYDycVX8KJpcotergzrBZKdtv6IvJ9LA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhXH4r9aUxObKXn7AoE2n_ubyKBIKMDg9MPkQy5r-3LzojjmJ9SHsLpuTQdPXuvtbusdic0O4Jagjrrn-JqBzjbGVsdCJGWqdaquH6P6noh9qJS9VyUuV29C-J7XvxNTu0J4GpHsz1vprNAWILDqDJiTcyAtVdYDycVX8KJpcotergzrBZKdtv6IvJ9LA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Best beef jerky I've had</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I've also made a few batches of beef jerky with it, which was some of the juiciest I've ever had. The first batch made about 4 pounds and it didn't even last a week.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8wPBRuQmAjYkLcaeyEafExB4jUUH-zOcMKIgGV6JHrLwB1B8-5rLxIwpub0v5ORObBF5QNMrsCbWjuYZV_5Vy5JcBr1WpDhKjgINA47-oe-B-HPvzodmZ7th0Y7tgzbqdNelolpqPofl0uSlXUBuZh7h3gNv7t3SOHIgevNsgbQfE0qpQfdYyHgrrkQ=s3317" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2186" data-original-width="3317" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg8wPBRuQmAjYkLcaeyEafExB4jUUH-zOcMKIgGV6JHrLwB1B8-5rLxIwpub0v5ORObBF5QNMrsCbWjuYZV_5Vy5JcBr1WpDhKjgINA47-oe-B-HPvzodmZ7th0Y7tgzbqdNelolpqPofl0uSlXUBuZh7h3gNv7t3SOHIgevNsgbQfE0qpQfdYyHgrrkQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Smoked chili is not very chilly</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">For our church chili cook-off I wound up doing it on the Traeger. There wasn't much left when I picked the pot back up.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrd-Jp4xJMkRlAo2xaKvo0oFUxeL3Z5yhbj5DcC1c3pL7myJTdCbMmeM236d4cNAodmNdRLtwDnogrEphccVCWVjKMPN9im3Aj2tA0qc7Fyr_UJfPD5n8ibsvllvgQeOMV4iEwD5nR2MqeybfZpAl_RQdr2qk5TU-Yt09r_O3f51glU74uJWoZW0T5Uw=s3577" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2324" data-original-width="3577" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjrd-Jp4xJMkRlAo2xaKvo0oFUxeL3Z5yhbj5DcC1c3pL7myJTdCbMmeM236d4cNAodmNdRLtwDnogrEphccVCWVjKMPN9im3Aj2tA0qc7Fyr_UJfPD5n8ibsvllvgQeOMV4iEwD5nR2MqeybfZpAl_RQdr2qk5TU-Yt09r_O3f51glU74uJWoZW0T5Uw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brisket came out delicious on the first try</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I even tried the piece de resistance of Texas barbecue: beef brisket. It turned out really tasty the first time around, but now I'm learning things every time I do a cook. But, look at me, I'm evangelizing it to you, St. Nick! You can see how we Traeger owners are a unique breed that are just excited to cook stuff.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIuklJiQWjs2Cnw5LzX3IQz_5wRy-cf8Wk76TssYZPEiP_kVnetFcS-RQWdJ3oO2rXmaj46bzPPRI-PmiSq2DQK3I4lXCWlmhHtcMqevvVhKcPma-ekiLMPCBphdTQn5n7mUIIgAkxkJYP5ik6lja3pM5P_EzDpO3CYyY3iG0ftPLrFfb8DGAPGi4aXg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjIuklJiQWjs2Cnw5LzX3IQz_5wRy-cf8Wk76TssYZPEiP_kVnetFcS-RQWdJ3oO2rXmaj46bzPPRI-PmiSq2DQK3I4lXCWlmhHtcMqevvVhKcPma-ekiLMPCBphdTQn5n7mUIIgAkxkJYP5ik6lja3pM5P_EzDpO3CYyY3iG0ftPLrFfb8DGAPGi4aXg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Noble D&D warriors battling it out</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I have still taken up the hobby of running Dungeon and Dragons games for my kids and their characters, although this year I don't think I did that many. They really get into playing their characters and Leah has taken to playing a ranger like a bugbear to swamp grass. I really wish I could do more of that for them, but work and activities seem to take most of my free time these days.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHTrrRT3IoU2hrNv0nwLnKErvqNWBGOvZZN0gzIc_SQpnUmkncW1cPXbjmdnN5Zp2nAAPJevnGaoJVlGkYnrZdhDM8dwuSUFuSTn5dkORqp7c0SN8Z15dT52NHdoI25aK8FfwtUPGy6f1vEW70Y2hDRhc8ipL-Gl3QE4dPbbnXOw2rWKvyW2P7lPoAMg=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgHTrrRT3IoU2hrNv0nwLnKErvqNWBGOvZZN0gzIc_SQpnUmkncW1cPXbjmdnN5Zp2nAAPJevnGaoJVlGkYnrZdhDM8dwuSUFuSTn5dkORqp7c0SN8Z15dT52NHdoI25aK8FfwtUPGy6f1vEW70Y2hDRhc8ipL-Gl3QE4dPbbnXOw2rWKvyW2P7lPoAMg=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gregariously geeking out</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Occasionally I get the chance to let my geek flag fly high, especially when it comes to playing tabletop games. I have a few friends that are able to get together for wargaming and role-playing adventures. It's hard to do when you have kids, but I have a great time every time I come away from it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0NRln24sVc6iSny5UNp0J1r45LVSPA5UK5cUuZuIDhrm2LMSJQFdQKzVldqhGNiXkqrwVJypKVeyCuKtwGN_DFwyDmeJ01QSpg4dNXPbu4PulMV4cY6dROnKT-bhOKaWvoRFIwZOoN0ScPkYGKUilTHc0VhSLeepiE4y8n3IYkvwfwb_dZob6dnVcaQ=s3639" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2930" data-original-width="3639" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj0NRln24sVc6iSny5UNp0J1r45LVSPA5UK5cUuZuIDhrm2LMSJQFdQKzVldqhGNiXkqrwVJypKVeyCuKtwGN_DFwyDmeJ01QSpg4dNXPbu4PulMV4cY6dROnKT-bhOKaWvoRFIwZOoN0ScPkYGKUilTHc0VhSLeepiE4y8n3IYkvwfwb_dZob6dnVcaQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The live action remake of "Gravity Falls" is going to be epic...</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">This summer during our trip to Oregon my kids were introduced to the cartoon "Gravity Falls" and promptly decided that our family Halloween costume should be the characters from the show. I busily got to work developing the props and backgrounds needed to complete the theme. At our church's trunk-or-treat we were able to blow everyone away with our totally accurate recreation of the Mystery Shack made from cardboard. I even won the prize for best individual costume, mainly because I whited out my hair and beard and no one honestly recognized me. Now that's a sign of a good costume if you ask me.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMN8w2lp_Tx5VeLdqxKGoc4lvsDYhjNjF0rY7S_-lpCBR3LbALkJ6wFnhcmzKmVQLKkLGIRyfT_HEdKQqXMumyoMEIHyBb-zXXE0xbkYyjp7vlcPWjdyfuL42zuJQOrxvZWW0U3Ss15MHpdZYDU3rCk52N11sxmooiFLJHSZb3jrnjzUQPgxanFW_7ZA=s3616" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3616" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjMN8w2lp_Tx5VeLdqxKGoc4lvsDYhjNjF0rY7S_-lpCBR3LbALkJ6wFnhcmzKmVQLKkLGIRyfT_HEdKQqXMumyoMEIHyBb-zXXE0xbkYyjp7vlcPWjdyfuL42zuJQOrxvZWW0U3Ss15MHpdZYDU3rCk52N11sxmooiFLJHSZb3jrnjzUQPgxanFW_7ZA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cousin time in Wakulla Springs</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">After years of waiting, we finally were able to take a family trip to Florida for some fun. One of the things we did on the way was stop for the night in Wakulla Springs, one of the largest freshwater springs in the United States. This place was, consequently, also the filming location for the old movie "Creature from the Black Lagoon." We stayed the night at the lodge there, which was really quite fun. In the morning we were able to meet up with my brother Dave and his family who were staying nearby, and we took a river cruise along with them to tour the spring. It was good to catch up and spend some more time with cousins.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH9ojG5A_8ojn3WflFN0t-rZ7TLcIcjWxtVVuUM4wl1a6o5dJLseCQfCeJb_di7P6xPzrWPCec9-W9u6URz5TOQNX4Bk6XKqOhrNM84xjNzTkQlhYcgqo79L7nC0rxteLyR8z3N4jsqw5NUmxXUwDwZgw1UgtPrvJkqj2LRppiG8B_qktXvAFHvBFPdg=s3263" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3263" data-original-width="2057" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiH9ojG5A_8ojn3WflFN0t-rZ7TLcIcjWxtVVuUM4wl1a6o5dJLseCQfCeJb_di7P6xPzrWPCec9-W9u6URz5TOQNX4Bk6XKqOhrNM84xjNzTkQlhYcgqo79L7nC0rxteLyR8z3N4jsqw5NUmxXUwDwZgw1UgtPrvJkqj2LRppiG8B_qktXvAFHvBFPdg=s320" width="202" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Little legs. Big spirit.</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I have to admit that the kids did great on this trip, even though we really were going at full throttle the entire time. Malcolm held his own really well, but there were times when he just tuckered right out.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfAyMiCeLykpkyRqU2JVF-e_diLXxL6Ce5nH5vxWp2WdLCO2ZPGOVor2iAaDhubsdJcIPtkIIN3PWhReHwBHAbPCEYA1JyMEvWdegjOBctD6yMtqUPyXXTd27xcgOBjYUZzNohvmjmoCPudX5n2vcWJUgiSxbzpum6r-YGly18R2C6B2a9WMIs4Y-JyA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjfAyMiCeLykpkyRqU2JVF-e_diLXxL6Ce5nH5vxWp2WdLCO2ZPGOVor2iAaDhubsdJcIPtkIIN3PWhReHwBHAbPCEYA1JyMEvWdegjOBctD6yMtqUPyXXTd27xcgOBjYUZzNohvmjmoCPudX5n2vcWJUgiSxbzpum6r-YGly18R2C6B2a9WMIs4Y-JyA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A piece of history</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">My parents were able to join us on this trip, which was both convenient and memorable. One of our first stops was going to Kennedy Space Center to see the exhibits there. Being the NASA nerd that I am (hey, it pays the bills), it was fun to take my kids to see the awesome exhibits they have there. I think they were just a little too young for some of it, but it was fun to take them anyway. One of the touching moments for me was seeing the Atlantis shuttle orbiter in its final resting place. I had watched many launches and landings of space shuttles over the years and to see one in person was quite humbling. Much of my childhood was wrapped up in space activities and to see one of the artifacts that I had watched and read about so many times really blew me away.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUySfFEF4mvmetYLqWckM8HO-hWJfbG7cviBpYWYcOvjs9jrekXZrCz720tUGWqimlpLUKm91i2s6LDxlwljXifmCLjEmzBvewIXKs7BCNDw-7twVh952AKYBnUXAFryXaKb_edu40UBDal0A55Fxr_lwIIxQ8IlX6t4LjqpFiqLyObfP1CNGjUK8fog=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiUySfFEF4mvmetYLqWckM8HO-hWJfbG7cviBpYWYcOvjs9jrekXZrCz720tUGWqimlpLUKm91i2s6LDxlwljXifmCLjEmzBvewIXKs7BCNDw-7twVh952AKYBnUXAFryXaKb_edu40UBDal0A55Fxr_lwIIxQ8IlX6t4LjqpFiqLyObfP1CNGjUK8fog=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Found some of my work in the wild</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">One of the things about my job is that I never know who is going to use my work. When we were touring the KSC visitor center, I managed to see one of the models I created being used in some wall artwork. It made me chuckle. I also saw some of my animation work being shown in some of the presentations. I wondered how many people there would be surprised if I mentioned to them, "Hey, I made that!"<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyZJeYiPBwjM_E1HhyoXn6HhSYPi6UlgnVffPEMCflWgV42dYkEzmI9r84x8pI1-HJ5VrwimSD-c5a32o1oPDsNRQYHfdqwPJ00Q4476o0Z7BUDzDTZBPNKhI-oCPy5QNrsntaAq3Bw6IQbMfpE2-ShdyTNFZX-E7XOeTYUJOVjJK_g40bv-BDv3tvIw=s3046" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3046" data-original-width="2926" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiyZJeYiPBwjM_E1HhyoXn6HhSYPi6UlgnVffPEMCflWgV42dYkEzmI9r84x8pI1-HJ5VrwimSD-c5a32o1oPDsNRQYHfdqwPJ00Q4476o0Z7BUDzDTZBPNKhI-oCPy5QNrsntaAq3Bw6IQbMfpE2-ShdyTNFZX-E7XOeTYUJOVjJK_g40bv-BDv3tvIw=s320" width="307" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The Happiest Place on Earth (for Disney shareholders)</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Of course the main event for the trip was visiting Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. We had made the decision that when we decided to go to the theme parks that the youngest would have to be at least five years old. When Malcolm came into our family, we decided to rethink our strategy and decided to go for it. We were planning on going in 2020, but, you know...</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8YS5twcMVk3unqNDW45rFvUyPPbJJaZ9sr6IJP8rAEue-v7Vs22Jp2zzIy4AvGwCC7gAfuUU6--9X9Sh5arcY-yDxAjiKbcW1E4YBSWDybrXlJbVzyA1iRIoUfY3pwxg9G6zY9gy2uTG3tMZE6pZIYe3tG10RMmJhCdU5OxCnai3J4Eu7_XDYOac-mA=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8YS5twcMVk3unqNDW45rFvUyPPbJJaZ9sr6IJP8rAEue-v7Vs22Jp2zzIy4AvGwCC7gAfuUU6--9X9Sh5arcY-yDxAjiKbcW1E4YBSWDybrXlJbVzyA1iRIoUfY3pwxg9G6zY9gy2uTG3tMZE6pZIYe3tG10RMmJhCdU5OxCnai3J4Eu7_XDYOac-mA=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Magic carpet ride</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">Actually I think half of the people that were there at the same time as us were planning on going in 2020 but had to change their plans. We were supposedly going at a time when it wasn't supposed to be busy, but it felt packed anyway. Either way, though, we made the magic happen.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjt0g4Kym0PTyw6C8KZ4aiWK6GovmQYhyjGuBdTGjuAE6Qx3cMGsISHvwMrYzic1dIlDsdjgZQtnXTJKdasuX6o_xDeuha8h-dpxQSbkoVwSj0PeGANPZ5qN536zLK6x5Os-4cvKO81C-hK4LjvbzTkzkrFHyh50pllDMDtPbOTGV_vo9UPyz2zIvEI9Q=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjt0g4Kym0PTyw6C8KZ4aiWK6GovmQYhyjGuBdTGjuAE6Qx3cMGsISHvwMrYzic1dIlDsdjgZQtnXTJKdasuX6o_xDeuha8h-dpxQSbkoVwSj0PeGANPZ5qN536zLK6x5Os-4cvKO81C-hK4LjvbzTkzkrFHyh50pllDMDtPbOTGV_vo9UPyz2zIvEI9Q=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Almost a five year old again</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">I have to admit that one of the coolest places we visited was the Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge land at Hollywood Studios. They really went all out on the theming and it really pays off. We stood in a lot of long lines, but thankfully every time my kids admitted that they thought it was totally worth it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0u8ddj7sG3H6pm76JWmIfH6SPoWSguMe8q6ujkeJXsDNBsA3l8kg2LAcxhplS4rkoyOrgvtoOHxqPo_33iotVZAdqy2fvxGWc7qFr2H8QPSK_C6HWCcWWUhkndNGLlD9RYqIhpDXbFyu23f-wSumxBgp-A9USitK8X_DLh1A2oMFBwicxAUUdS4Xf5g=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh0u8ddj7sG3H6pm76JWmIfH6SPoWSguMe8q6ujkeJXsDNBsA3l8kg2LAcxhplS4rkoyOrgvtoOHxqPo_33iotVZAdqy2fvxGWc7qFr2H8QPSK_C6HWCcWWUhkndNGLlD9RYqIhpDXbFyu23f-wSumxBgp-A9USitK8X_DLh1A2oMFBwicxAUUdS4Xf5g=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Literally making new friends</span></span></div><p style="text-align: left;">We did all the typical stuff for the kids like making droids and getting Harry Potter wands, which made for a fun time. Boy howdy, though, do they nickel and dime you there. I can't believe how much we had to pay for certain below average pieces of food. It was nuts. Well, not actual nuts, but it definitely was crazy. I wonder what the upcharge for nuts actually is?</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzL1QOs4l1s_uZQQrUtv1vxNta6dVB80NKJIlil_wbYHwW9GRfJ17WQ9parjNTGniJp_THQveu5u1j72usaPhnJepdgWbkmbtC2fJnfVW29SjW8x8ZKSM3yYPT0UJsG_Pjfs6VgTzmB8fpCQ2xJJa_iur65LQhSKjsD9Si9-v_FNkqUMVOFaQR-VbVnQ=s3539" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="3539" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhzL1QOs4l1s_uZQQrUtv1vxNta6dVB80NKJIlil_wbYHwW9GRfJ17WQ9parjNTGniJp_THQveu5u1j72usaPhnJepdgWbkmbtC2fJnfVW29SjW8x8ZKSM3yYPT0UJsG_Pjfs6VgTzmB8fpCQ2xJJa_iur65LQhSKjsD9Si9-v_FNkqUMVOFaQR-VbVnQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The faces that make it all worth it</span></span></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">However, the money never compares to the smiles on my kids' faces and hearing them say how much fun they had. They were sad that the vacation was ending, but knew that we had made some wonderful memories that we'll take with us forever. One of these days we'll go back and probably spend more time at Universal Studios until Disney gets their heads back into gear.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia8OmA9gJjCEWaNC5E9-80hGN1e9txEPyUCcorBh8WxD62bLrzP3oPSb_R4565w4cxjw8WQ5tJooRx28x-y0ms7f6Ns06fEgyfRUfz-XUeyru5wG8bEcraOMGWR2kFhQQaWlu4R-qiUwDej-BL6ftgaK8bcFn5HJD0sdKD_QrY-53oYiu3jOPsrVHQQw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEia8OmA9gJjCEWaNC5E9-80hGN1e9txEPyUCcorBh8WxD62bLrzP3oPSb_R4565w4cxjw8WQ5tJooRx28x-y0ms7f6Ns06fEgyfRUfz-XUeyru5wG8bEcraOMGWR2kFhQQaWlu4R-qiUwDej-BL6ftgaK8bcFn5HJD0sdKD_QrY-53oYiu3jOPsrVHQQw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Saying goodbye is hard</span></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the unfortunate things we had to do was say goodbye to our time-share bulldog, Philly. She was ten years old and had developed a tumor that was just making her miserable. Her family, the Schonemans, decided it was time for her to have some peace. The kids learned second-hand about how hard it is to lose a pet, and many tears were shed. The day before they had to put her down, we went over to spend a while with her and say our last mortal goodbyes to her. She's been an important part of our lives, even though she wasn't really ours to begin with.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvKQvVTzN73U7-ISOddrppFptAKS1yN84zOdsaZcg7ppnJX0t9f2CPJszQLIW-X4mlYosfPX57m0kvKsJw8MPEi301YLnfXNvqimzqbGzbHfSyPlgNUoA4bpFxSCmf7Tz1UV3xc-b-crCv26ySV2uX2K1SiGvzscDTv2aLXratfvo7WFEF6vzQNluiSg=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgvKQvVTzN73U7-ISOddrppFptAKS1yN84zOdsaZcg7ppnJX0t9f2CPJszQLIW-X4mlYosfPX57m0kvKsJw8MPEi301YLnfXNvqimzqbGzbHfSyPlgNUoA4bpFxSCmf7Tz1UV3xc-b-crCv26ySV2uX2K1SiGvzscDTv2aLXratfvo7WFEF6vzQNluiSg=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Last bit of Philly love</span></div><div><br /></div><div>As my final parting token to her, I gave her a bowl of cracklins that I made from beef brisket fat. I don't think I've ever seen her so energetically devoted to devouring food before. It was a great last meal to have. Honestly, out of all the Christmas gifts I have given this year, I think that one was the best.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTs8ZSZkMmdGjSaIK8ZbKxKRkcFF5VdTpz3Slrc1r1Hre9dcglV5lEn-OURw5axt_QzapvBsKUgwR4o7rnEQhDtQyGHAgffzzgifMupfDH36PQV9jt6g_gC4Pi_wWnR8rzxd3xAjmgtXM9-xjrUCzR3VywG4-Z4dlzscLaxVSVaebsjzL5f7AW48Kbiw=s2256" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2180" data-original-width="2256" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiTs8ZSZkMmdGjSaIK8ZbKxKRkcFF5VdTpz3Slrc1r1Hre9dcglV5lEn-OURw5axt_QzapvBsKUgwR4o7rnEQhDtQyGHAgffzzgifMupfDH36PQV9jt6g_gC4Pi_wWnR8rzxd3xAjmgtXM9-xjrUCzR3VywG4-Z4dlzscLaxVSVaebsjzL5f7AW48Kbiw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My mini-me</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Anyway, Santa, that's how our year has gone. I skipped over a few things, but touched on a lot of the important parts of our journey around the sun. Now I guess you'd like to know a bit about how our individual family members are doing, right? Let's start with Malcolm.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVDhVTPAzvHG_oFk4g5kNM4Soya3TobB-QGFCMG-MrR10X0ZX8iPDu9dGB7J9s02yOIrdLoIMsoliXYZdIc3lE_P6VSkhXBxHBBzoZHSMc7MbK1B4aD7dvE8HsYwdSq6INu2uMbs9C1moV2q5w1Gv6NXjj3ICG72GjP2oQY7DVkC5Ocbw_ua0Q3BZ8fA=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiVDhVTPAzvHG_oFk4g5kNM4Soya3TobB-QGFCMG-MrR10X0ZX8iPDu9dGB7J9s02yOIrdLoIMsoliXYZdIc3lE_P6VSkhXBxHBBzoZHSMc7MbK1B4aD7dvE8HsYwdSq6INu2uMbs9C1moV2q5w1Gv6NXjj3ICG72GjP2oQY7DVkC5Ocbw_ua0Q3BZ8fA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Deep in concentration</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>I call Malcolm my mini-me for so many reasons, mainly because he is almost like a little redheaded clone of myself. I find his attitudes and mannerisms to familiar to my own that it's almost uncanny. Recently he's taken to playing with cars a lot and enjoying doing coloring and drawing.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisQhyNtq_UzFkzWhhbsBwck0CvhhM1hQYx7BDrlMxms5j2O1ncQguwgK1ej34V1s4eUrEqzivI9F0AqpJKOoyoVd7iyC3z-Zse5NiNSzD__TCLaqmN0A-586oKG4oal3_80TsgBXn0m0FUfdd6j_eEqVPSlDD7rX0I-iKVkZmAQyrIeQR1NmTqpfMxjw=s1440" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="1440" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisQhyNtq_UzFkzWhhbsBwck0CvhhM1hQYx7BDrlMxms5j2O1ncQguwgK1ej34V1s4eUrEqzivI9F0AqpJKOoyoVd7iyC3z-Zse5NiNSzD__TCLaqmN0A-586oKG4oal3_80TsgBXn0m0FUfdd6j_eEqVPSlDD7rX0I-iKVkZmAQyrIeQR1NmTqpfMxjw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cool dude</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>He has taken the role of being the youngest in great stride and continually captivates everyone's attention. He gets most of the love in the family and he is greatly accomplished at throwing two-year old side glances with any chance he can get. It's quite hilarious to see.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjooeGgGadof9fP64fR36b1xJJE-74KAjughgx6QCp_mNUVTK5omjgx0MbyZrLlW9rCHLz9vIC4iIwWb5zGw4vt__HpQiFAUtr7baw01Tw_LeLIbtU5iaJUqh0oq1aH67508N3Q-p2we9jzqzU3ftPW0Di7Epkm2aP6bNxRkEIhuqObWYyi6SNuy3aFnQ=s3296" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3022" data-original-width="3296" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjooeGgGadof9fP64fR36b1xJJE-74KAjughgx6QCp_mNUVTK5omjgx0MbyZrLlW9rCHLz9vIC4iIwWb5zGw4vt__HpQiFAUtr7baw01Tw_LeLIbtU5iaJUqh0oq1aH67508N3Q-p2we9jzqzU3ftPW0Di7Epkm2aP6bNxRkEIhuqObWYyi6SNuy3aFnQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Such a two-nager, but a lot of fun</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Malcolm turned two this year, which means he gets partially posessed by demons on occasion for no reason. In spite of this little setback, he's still one of my most loving and affectionate children. Every snuggle with Malcom is a whole body snuggle, which is one of the best things ever.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgL32ETN8gC6VWResaf283_riUJZKK29YXtw2BxbdRYunBGqYAmruA9wAF2x4lHtBIaKyYiR1cGBgf9E_HCSqDJGUTFuF3eWx1y5JO8-tQeGamaL9KgDuvyd7p1FvIv3Y8ySah_Hx8Jdhb6m9bWvUjSQzXm4VkV_1qOCefzNybxNNbhRtwMZYcoeVk2iw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgL32ETN8gC6VWResaf283_riUJZKK29YXtw2BxbdRYunBGqYAmruA9wAF2x4lHtBIaKyYiR1cGBgf9E_HCSqDJGUTFuF3eWx1y5JO8-tQeGamaL9KgDuvyd7p1FvIv3Y8ySah_Hx8Jdhb6m9bWvUjSQzXm4VkV_1qOCefzNybxNNbhRtwMZYcoeVk2iw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Snow angel</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Next we have Lucy who turned six this year. She still is determined to demonstrate her independence on every single thing she does and thinks she needs to prove herself at every chance. I'm not sure if that's for lack of something on our part, the consequences of being child number three, or if it's just her personality. Either way, this girl is almost always totally emotionally invested in everything she does. It makes for some great passion projects.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4VZOJZveT4qDLZiT6LpHMlIIiZtEkVrl7Nikt8mXe7iNHOoF1lwK6Vwb6Vp2Xs5muxPldMN1EIQD8Ixq9ZmGT6awWqujhInW4BeW6-XBKbu5Lx2az_wQV252hVLWC2KV0ka3VOP8Wjbam7Teq46whPfKDXYxqsH_7oCHuEmJyCSUMXWep06VUsdQoWQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi4VZOJZveT4qDLZiT6LpHMlIIiZtEkVrl7Nikt8mXe7iNHOoF1lwK6Vwb6Vp2Xs5muxPldMN1EIQD8Ixq9ZmGT6awWqujhInW4BeW6-XBKbu5Lx2az_wQV252hVLWC2KV0ka3VOP8Wjbam7Teq46whPfKDXYxqsH_7oCHuEmJyCSUMXWep06VUsdQoWQ=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Big and independent. Or so she thinks.</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Lucy has taken to her role as big sister with all the maternal instincts she can muster. I constantly find her trying to be a third mother to Malcolm and wanting to help him out with whatever task he finds himself in. Sometimes they're the best of friends and sometimes they are a hornet's nest on fire. Lucy also continually finds ways to spend time with people outside our family. She has taken it upon herself to be the best of friends with our elderly neighbors and occasionally pops on over with a treat or art project for them that she made herself. She is kind, passionate, and as fun-loving as ever.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqEIhnAShol2m9lVosVjQ0lT0Ys5bbMD1bLL7TymMmqWa0TQsH3Bzz0v8D2vb7q2-JrfbIctrgrZtJlbx7JTqjLUhWNSHIY7bP4lJfW1QAHABaxoWrkXY86XKMoWkXn6Q1qXiw0YHy4Pgf-BK5zKLKwqN50Ov_2OY6KGZhnLmOVHgpY479z58b1TZatA=s4724" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3386" data-original-width="4724" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjqEIhnAShol2m9lVosVjQ0lT0Ys5bbMD1bLL7TymMmqWa0TQsH3Bzz0v8D2vb7q2-JrfbIctrgrZtJlbx7JTqjLUhWNSHIY7bP4lJfW1QAHABaxoWrkXY86XKMoWkXn6Q1qXiw0YHy4Pgf-BK5zKLKwqN50Ov_2OY6KGZhnLmOVHgpY479z58b1TZatA=s320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Double-hatting it for camping</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>When it comes to Sean I both tear my hair out and am floored by his abilities. He continually tends to push the limits when it comes to my patience, but I recognize that he's going to go great places once he can learn to channel his boundless creativity. He's taken to the music co-op really well and I am impressed by his ability to pick out melodies he knows on the piano. The latest one he is working on is "I'm Still Alive" from the video game Portal.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibvrhwF-uB_7TGZXeKi76l9KUYuiYvUZpO4Cs58-OuTXZDLAnClIHs7Pe9seGztpF5Ypxa9ygORrYIZFLjDdyQDd7kOorytveuHQjqVP_Imdz4dRVQ6ds0moP0ctSTlrTwEbsKDkKGaP2NfraC-otOpB-zcbwQFT6HYHIUYiFjIgXw6j-YCBVAZwiftw=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibvrhwF-uB_7TGZXeKi76l9KUYuiYvUZpO4Cs58-OuTXZDLAnClIHs7Pe9seGztpF5Ypxa9ygORrYIZFLjDdyQDd7kOorytveuHQjqVP_Imdz4dRVQ6ds0moP0ctSTlrTwEbsKDkKGaP2NfraC-otOpB-zcbwQFT6HYHIUYiFjIgXw6j-YCBVAZwiftw=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Boundless enthusiasm</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>He still is into everything technology related and I feel like I'm going to have to be one step ahead of him to ensure that he doesn't do anything to ruin his life or the life of others. It's scary how well he takes to anything computer-related, and I can see now how my parents felt overwhelmed by trying to learn about technology. Anyway, he still tells everyone that he wants to be an engineer some day, so if you can find something in your sack for him that fits the bill I'm sure he'll appreciate it.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAKaGuBvoE94hQZFg4uqXbE2jaaSoia2J6cSWdabMCQRsOQYn_Ha3tqmb1Jorbqur31E9fW_b1zqFYrLkMNMtm4twhJZyU8cjWBLeTc0fZnrn0J3yOqUA--wMbpQD1dZNmNlDfVr-KJ5t3ioMddrjWCAr7wgZCU1vRXgRlBnL7A366svnva8QlMJAQ6Q=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgAKaGuBvoE94hQZFg4uqXbE2jaaSoia2J6cSWdabMCQRsOQYn_Ha3tqmb1Jorbqur31E9fW_b1zqFYrLkMNMtm4twhJZyU8cjWBLeTc0fZnrn0J3yOqUA--wMbpQD1dZNmNlDfVr-KJ5t3ioMddrjWCAr7wgZCU1vRXgRlBnL7A366svnva8QlMJAQ6Q=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A calm and mature soul</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>At the head of the pack is Leah, my calm-souled daughter. I have to admit that when I need a little bit of peace and sanity, I look to her. She does get a little crazy at times, but that's okay. She's still a kid, although her maturity doesn't feel like it sometimes. She reminds me a lot of her mother. Give her a book and an art pad and she's good to go for days. I enjoy the times I get to spend with her because I know her kind and loving soul will always try to cheer me up.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpy7r7uqBVNG3b2GrQDjddFtyeqLusxo6LrKYLNYAbmpr_lAIpKzpS5_sRcKMEZfViZCSj7uuVrHlY_Db9Jhr3kJiioeGU0gFT_YoxEy8c1MlsAIEYN8MO1yN3yWJCKYcYvvHiQKXYu8nm4aBqK5J6z0iSGsPWRrPAxVEoZrRdJkFHVo0wSVvuwKQTsQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjpy7r7uqBVNG3b2GrQDjddFtyeqLusxo6LrKYLNYAbmpr_lAIpKzpS5_sRcKMEZfViZCSj7uuVrHlY_Db9Jhr3kJiioeGU0gFT_YoxEy8c1MlsAIEYN8MO1yN3yWJCKYcYvvHiQKXYu8nm4aBqK5J6z0iSGsPWRrPAxVEoZrRdJkFHVo0wSVvuwKQTsQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">My pretty lady</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Sarah continues to amaze me with how much she takes on herself every day. She is still homeschooling the kids, so she acts as their teacher, mother, caretaker, chauffer, nurse, and hostage negotiator on a daily basis. I have learned over the past few years that she really doesn't need me to be around to be an effective mom. But it is nice to be wanted. Between taking care of the kids, she is still actively involved in church and continually serves those around us. She really amazes me with all that she continually puts up with.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibZGdM7p8st8U_y7iP05lG-PSSlYyGnOJZtOiQng2Rq4kTk5q8AiYBc3zTatFnYtevJ-jy_DNOIE0YwtY1reKW8A9ROnsOB6HOR3SUgm2IU0nAd1zkUVsyhXKJuJjK6uPtLsoyzzH7ixMN3OFe1uceXTy3eOwUMIo0H2hx5aEa1tVzyNLBAjZhw-8eVQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEibZGdM7p8st8U_y7iP05lG-PSSlYyGnOJZtOiQng2Rq4kTk5q8AiYBc3zTatFnYtevJ-jy_DNOIE0YwtY1reKW8A9ROnsOB6HOR3SUgm2IU0nAd1zkUVsyhXKJuJjK6uPtLsoyzzH7ixMN3OFe1uceXTy3eOwUMIo0H2hx5aEa1tVzyNLBAjZhw-8eVQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Some of her best creations: soap and tiny human</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>By the way, she has made really great use of the present you got her last Christmas. If you remember, she got soap making supplies and really took off with it. She even managed to sell a few over the past year. Maybe some day she can make it into a part-time jobby (job + hobby), but for now she just does it for relaxation and de-stressing. I hope she gets to do more over the next year because it is fun to see her do the things that bring her joy. That's one of the reasons I married her.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhS0n8waru3ODriFV1RdnjmBcBvfJrPPZBMLfdaZHrhRAOAnOUM-8YfN162jX9hGMPqMEdsJXukthOGKsfomT7JwGY_WhfZYTaZZHy0K29aiTT0h6haXBbIiGxhKy3JWIwHwxVKOn57Z4Z9lbbPG3BTxhAgkdq7xqnn8KQ9Bzibe4oLCUThV7BainLtEQ=s4032" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhS0n8waru3ODriFV1RdnjmBcBvfJrPPZBMLfdaZHrhRAOAnOUM-8YfN162jX9hGMPqMEdsJXukthOGKsfomT7JwGY_WhfZYTaZZHy0K29aiTT0h6haXBbIiGxhKy3JWIwHwxVKOn57Z4Z9lbbPG3BTxhAgkdq7xqnn8KQ9Bzibe4oLCUThV7BainLtEQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Yes, still here in 2021</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>As for me, well, this year was a transformative year for me. If you remember I've written before about my mental health struggles over the past few decades. This year I was falling back into a funk and after a while I just was getting tired of it. So I decided to throw everything to the wall to see what stuck, medically speaking. Thanks to some insight into the similar mental health challenges of those genetically related to me, I changed my medication to something that had a bit more of a stimulating kick to it. At first it didn't do a whole lot, but once I got into the full dosage I was feeling a bit better. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH6mo3r-tbXs48VZj5ZAefa5fIxYjmIHBX7gjm1dAknb4Fh9CGxOGIkpieZKclgsYOZo993gG8hlVETpeSS0YBfk4bc-jytUr5fRQ_3PeLPhivZmpmtC50rBLr0tlcj4SfaHN7AKUJ6sqX7s0fCp1UrzGl1jn-_-6AbUyXz_XBqB5BhvDP5AaNJTmyEQ=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhH6mo3r-tbXs48VZj5ZAefa5fIxYjmIHBX7gjm1dAknb4Fh9CGxOGIkpieZKclgsYOZo993gG8hlVETpeSS0YBfk4bc-jytUr5fRQ_3PeLPhivZmpmtC50rBLr0tlcj4SfaHN7AKUJ6sqX7s0fCp1UrzGl1jn-_-6AbUyXz_XBqB5BhvDP5AaNJTmyEQ=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cyberpunk elephants of the nocturnal realm unite!</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the other things that I did was go and get a sleep study and it turns out, unsurprisingly, that I have sleep apnea. According to their results, I was waking up an average of 16 times a night and my blood oxygen levels was getting down to about 84%. It was no surprise that I was tired all the time and didn't have the cognition to make good health choices. So I was able to get myself a CPAP machine before they all got stuck in the mess that is the country's shipping system. I can honestly say now that I can't imagine myself without this device. Not only do I have energy to go all day, I feel like my lungs have larger capacity than they've ever had before. I would normally finish my taekwondo lesson exhausted and unable to do anything. Now I finish and think to myself, "I could do some more." It's wonderful. In addition to this change, I also enrolled in a medically managed weight loss program where I managed to lose about 80 pounds, which helped out a lot. So this was the year that I finally focused on my health instead of worrying about taking care of kids or my wife. So far I'm doing much better than I have in decades. I'm hoping that I can keep it up, although the holiday treats have been hard to avoid. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpwT1Bdwn3OQ13U0Jxcx_qI1CphEdgqcNQI-YCU2UcnZFX-1PJESwYhxYEAzLDi2mdgQ-3uoyimpY5gC1eOClQ7jY1roXY7V69039-K2imJHKf6Zi-OhSa2dIPR8ZfhVIpUr6-FGXK-D0xErgX8nnxE-_fBHmV0ktaxo1dV5-UL5fbNFUXoHC635-TzA=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhpwT1Bdwn3OQ13U0Jxcx_qI1CphEdgqcNQI-YCU2UcnZFX-1PJESwYhxYEAzLDi2mdgQ-3uoyimpY5gC1eOClQ7jY1roXY7V69039-K2imJHKf6Zi-OhSa2dIPR8ZfhVIpUr6-FGXK-D0xErgX8nnxE-_fBHmV0ktaxo1dV5-UL5fbNFUXoHC635-TzA=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The smell of gunpowder in the Texas sun</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>In addition to the many challenges I've had, I've tried to keep up with the hobbies that make me feel more manly. I still like to go shooting when I can and have added way more trinkets to my AR than is probably practical. I try to do some 3D printing when I have time, and I still like to geek out in painting miniatures. I wish I had more time to do some construction work around the house, but right now it doesn't seem like an easy possibility. With the kids being much younger it's hard to find the time and money to do things like that.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdKI8Y2dRuNjIzSntVOBHfjSLLErYd0BjeIOKvdj9dRSzUZpgc-hHxF_mixpD2U0kheThmXXcWLOLhXlz2HhoggawKLZo2Qv_PaY6JGmhFc3Mnb4pWyazj8lCyJI2sjtL01AcPJqjI47sqPNvfnzqfx2l6Goqf7LCqVJN3MojY0UU641j9URZ4IkRt_g=s3264" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjdKI8Y2dRuNjIzSntVOBHfjSLLErYd0BjeIOKvdj9dRSzUZpgc-hHxF_mixpD2U0kheThmXXcWLOLhXlz2HhoggawKLZo2Qv_PaY6JGmhFc3Mnb4pWyazj8lCyJI2sjtL01AcPJqjI47sqPNvfnzqfx2l6Goqf7LCqVJN3MojY0UU641j9URZ4IkRt_g=s320" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Happy Holidays from the Reynolds Family</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Anyway, Santa, if you've gotten this far, I applaud you. You're very kind to read to the end. (The same goes to any bystanders who have read this.) I certainly appreciate your ability to maintain the tradition you do every year. Heaven knows it's needed. I don't know if I really have anything to wish for myself for Christmas, honestly. I have everything I need and more. I guess if I could ask for anything, it would be more time. I don't have time to enjoy all the things have already, so it doesn't make any sense to ask for more stuff that I won't use. As I said, we sort of overcompensated this year on the amount of things that we did. However, I have created more memories this year than I have in the past few years combined. Our trips were filled with lots of exciting and enjoyable times, and our bellies were full of good food. I only wish that we had more time with family and friends. It's those times that I look forward to the most. Being isolated from the rest of our extended family has been hard, but it's also made it so we have made foundational memories of our own.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So I don't know if you have any magical items in your bag that would give me some more hours in the day or the ability to slow down the good times so they last longer, but that's my wish. My kids are growing up too fast and I can't seem to keep up with them. The vacations seem to go by too fast. The hours I spend away from home seem to outweigh the ones I spend caring to my family. The past year has shown how fragile life is for all of us and I want to make sure that mine counts for something worthwhile.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So Merry Christmas again, Santa! I'm grateful that we get to have you visit our home each year. It's fun to see my kids open up their gifts and rummage through their stockings. I look forward to that moment every year, and every year I am not disappointed. Thank you for reminding us of the gift given to us two millennia ago, and encouraging us to celebrate it every year. It's truly the only gift we have that we'll never be able to fully pay back.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Sincerely,</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">-Brad Reynolds</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.S. I don't know if we'll have any sweets, but feel free to partake of the leftover turkey in fridge. I smoked it on the Traeger.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.P.S. Speaking of things that sound like 'Traeger,' I'm open to the idea of a Jaeger fighting robot again, mainly to make my commute to work more interesting.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">P.P.P.S. Did I mention I got a Traeger? Please bring wood pellets.</div><p></p></div>Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-22411113243473733112020-12-11T13:08:00.002-07:002020-12-11T13:08:30.196-07:00Dear Santa: An Open Letter in 2020<p> Dear Santa,</p><p>(Sigh)... Where do we begin? There's no mincing words that this year has been a rough one. I'll go so far as to even qualify that this year was the hardest I've seen during my relatively brief lifetime. I'm sure you're no stranger to the chaos that has enveloped the globe, given your extensive intelligence network of elves.</p><p>Anyway, how have you been? Are you well? I'm assuming that your extreme isolation at the North Pole has shielded you from the pandemic, correct? I would advise an extra layer of personal protective equipment this year as you venture from house to house, just as a note of caution. From what I can tell, you're in one of the highest risk categories with advanced age. 2020 has already taken a large number of significant people away from us. I'd die inside if it took you as well. Please be safe. You know, Amazon has these autonomous delivery drones that you might want to check out, although I can't imagine them being that helpful in delivering something like a barbecue grill.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiii83KVon_0H98vLuASZLieaV2UFmiHSTfdCkgZ13k-VnUGO1p7Zcq3JX54laNx92UNA3W66Bw8gLRrLhPGvVuMz6YzuQbDTxkODQQzIwopLrk7POwlEQokYPP32-OYVHZlUFvAoplC51L/s6000/DSC_0360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiii83KVon_0H98vLuASZLieaV2UFmiHSTfdCkgZ13k-VnUGO1p7Zcq3JX54laNx92UNA3W66Bw8gLRrLhPGvVuMz6YzuQbDTxkODQQzIwopLrk7POwlEQokYPP32-OYVHZlUFvAoplC51L/s320/DSC_0360.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">Our outing to try and find alligators at Brazos Bend wasn't too fruitful...</div></span><p>As for us, we've had a fairly oscillating year, much like many others. However, I'd be very ungrateful if I didn't mention how blessed our family has been during everything that has gone on. We started the year off with a visit from Sarah's oldest brother and his family. It was nice to see their family and it's remarkable how much their kids have grown. Our kids love to spend time with their cousins. We had the wonderful opportunity to share with them many of the things in Texas that we love and we were sad to see them leave.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGXGfSnx6rHYggBiwI99ujXsGyLWOIA454qqraW7QaFffBfeZ4W2jOQQbm44XUOWQlfMu-LtSi-YDcbnT_YQk2cHdFW3mFpGimzMeCfQHUaO2adPVPZQx1iQkXEacTLx8n4utweC1m2anN/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGXGfSnx6rHYggBiwI99ujXsGyLWOIA454qqraW7QaFffBfeZ4W2jOQQbm44XUOWQlfMu-LtSi-YDcbnT_YQk2cHdFW3mFpGimzMeCfQHUaO2adPVPZQx1iQkXEacTLx8n4utweC1m2anN/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Chef Bradley. A no-Michelin-star chef.</span></div><p>This year Sarah and I decided to try and <i>do</i> more instead of <i>having</i> more. One of the fun things we got to do was to do a cooking class for date night where we (attempted to) learn how to make a few British baked goods. It definitely was a challenge, especially considering that the cooking instructor hadn't made the dishes herself. However, we had fun enjoying a new experience.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNS5XK9jfiqqav97oz0qwoBnru7xLFU-7ZkjxEMqmQhClHTTS0SWwh1y5ItW8rFC2Tc3n7GKMPC6DPmP8mvUMOoZyX_uHtY9y2SUyBCIEpLCN2C59p8GaJP5Y3sWeLfTo_yP68-EulhZS/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtNS5XK9jfiqqav97oz0qwoBnru7xLFU-7ZkjxEMqmQhClHTTS0SWwh1y5ItW8rFC2Tc3n7GKMPC6DPmP8mvUMOoZyX_uHtY9y2SUyBCIEpLCN2C59p8GaJP5Y3sWeLfTo_yP68-EulhZS/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Mordenkainen would be proud</span></div><br />One of the fun things I've been able to do this year is to introduce my children to the world of roleplaying games. Last Christmas, as you remember, I received the complete set of rulebooks for Dungeons & Dragons, and thankfully none of them required me to convert religions to Satanism. Although my kids are too young for the full thing, I managed to simplify things enough to make it easy for them to enjoy. I've played with them on a few adventures and it's always fun to see how they decide to react to the situations I place them in. They definitely are able to access the full depth of their imaginations.<div><p></p><p><a aria-label="Photo - Landscape - Mar 30, 2020, 12:56:56 PM" class="p137Zd" href="https://photos.google.com/photo/AF1QipOLiusz5bVSgLUaHgYLJIvDEliDd5PhBKolyixe" jsaction="click:eQuaEb;focus:AHmuwe; blur:O22p3e;" tabindex="0"></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBtFW3PYrGA8v-dgyyf92q88nlvducFj-MpobllajDQu_FCpKmnAPoLzjPt2uEBKhuWzhshqKkakZMRd8v1-ja3-Uk_Cv2MXw-aY0Xy2Sr9-x3KOcO7kSrSGGmxKM3XefDEpDFsnK4zIm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJBtFW3PYrGA8v-dgyyf92q88nlvducFj-MpobllajDQu_FCpKmnAPoLzjPt2uEBKhuWzhshqKkakZMRd8v1-ja3-Uk_Cv2MXw-aY0Xy2Sr9-x3KOcO7kSrSGGmxKM3XefDEpDFsnK4zIm/" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">You can never have enough miniatures.</span></div><p></p><p></p><div aria-hidden="true" class="eGiHwc"></div><div aria-hidden="true" class="KYCEmd"></div><p>The addition, having a 3D printer has allowed me the ability to create way too many miniatures for our games. It's more of a relaxing hobby for me rather than a requirement to play the games, but I have embraced it wholeheartedly. You see, I really wanted to get into this stuff as a kid, but never had the resources to buy a bunch of lead figurines and lots of acrylic paints. Now that I'm an adult, well, I've embraced my inner nerd fully without a care in the world as to how I am perceived. I don't get to do it nearly enough, thanks to spending my evenings getting a little boy to go to sleep. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mriXmZyX2jHXH8tuluSW_q6N4FTPYBJsUvb1Ei02y0ELuXt-jTtYITivczBRyLb6tmt-HApu5kjki10shyphenhyphenzBb8sxYUxYiGfU1GriDQhKJRhvIvVJOJOdlBLmLNAqhyOiueRXQ7JuCxqU/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mriXmZyX2jHXH8tuluSW_q6N4FTPYBJsUvb1Ei02y0ELuXt-jTtYITivczBRyLb6tmt-HApu5kjki10shyphenhyphenzBb8sxYUxYiGfU1GriDQhKJRhvIvVJOJOdlBLmLNAqhyOiueRXQ7JuCxqU/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The picture says it all...</span></div><br />The beginning of the year wasn't without a few challenges. Sean had to have his tonsils out, due to reasons that I'll discuss later. The recovery process, as you probably know, isn't too hard, but mainly tedious. For about two weeks we had to alternate giving him either acetaminophen or ibuprofen every six hours to help him maintain the pain. Additionally, he couldn't eat solid (or more accurately hard) foods for a while as well. I don't know if this kid will ever eat pudding and yogurt again.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBxfse1Cw_MbP5qLyyxDGSdJcDAEdvXX9plMjsakvBagzzm8nEh-_MIbLYeGgyHXPqg29-FePESndmhut6hZW7P4OtZiB4YGzV-rWV-dYilqPMMYaPLV_VTrNZEvPTztvlGqwXzUtgWB2/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmBxfse1Cw_MbP5qLyyxDGSdJcDAEdvXX9plMjsakvBagzzm8nEh-_MIbLYeGgyHXPqg29-FePESndmhut6hZW7P4OtZiB4YGzV-rWV-dYilqPMMYaPLV_VTrNZEvPTztvlGqwXzUtgWB2/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Camping at Sea Rim State Park on the coast</span></div><br />We had some wonderful times during the first few months, like when my oldest and I went camping on the Texas coast in somewhat chilly weather. I love going camping with my kids, mainly because I get to spend some one-on-one time with them in addition to getting to teach them about the outdoors. I don't want them to be totally helpless if they have to do without electricity or running water. Also I want them to enjoy the beauty of the earth that surrounds them.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQcTFL4dXabySEFoBIDNc7GluQ8xGXob6OCB9jICqe7Z2qkSSRjKVrjpjPCAAmlxvFkcSZ1U88dqb1goQ8DdVX7cYYVs43agqbaWJRAG1GcfjBeNiMDktZeNhhi9b4NKpLPg5jBC1XC7l/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQcTFL4dXabySEFoBIDNc7GluQ8xGXob6OCB9jICqe7Z2qkSSRjKVrjpjPCAAmlxvFkcSZ1U88dqb1goQ8DdVX7cYYVs43agqbaWJRAG1GcfjBeNiMDktZeNhhi9b4NKpLPg5jBC1XC7l/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bracing for impact</span></div><br />Well, you can guess what started happening in March. Our kids went on spring break... then COVID added another week to their spring break. Then another week. Then I got sent home (with my work computer, thankfully) to be at home for a few weeks until things started to cool down...<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvHnzHF_LtXzYg2dAUjIJ_2wB0q1CS1QRkg1Jzv7IMOOZtwImBDCFbMq3NrO9rUN0WxtR-P-D2NOJOu6hhdCER8_ZVPRqAZ9au4punIbeQD58sGif18lpDo1aZTldu_45JZMXgTZ-4nPK/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvHnzHF_LtXzYg2dAUjIJ_2wB0q1CS1QRkg1Jzv7IMOOZtwImBDCFbMq3NrO9rUN0WxtR-P-D2NOJOu6hhdCER8_ZVPRqAZ9au4punIbeQD58sGif18lpDo1aZTldu_45JZMXgTZ-4nPK/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cosmic yoga</span></div><br />A few weeks turned into a few months, which has turned into the rest of the year. We had to learn how to adapt to online school and online work, all while trying to keep ourselves and our friends safe from this unknown, unseen threat.<p></p><div class="RY3tic" data-latest-bg="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3e_dVmKAKe_H3cfudcCcu_cKdm5lrxCsaMfgb9X9B3_gbus4FjG4NsA0mjyBJgJ6eEoMnPNo4b6MSzbt0MJy5z6Q-pLd5Id7tM2Vq_bBFzWLb99tjlY2iX4F_A3WnJFYkIujxoisGSHvyp_4ih4yrH44MB6bgaC8NLtKhMFD2uLIUFibluqi7ko-zJwiFIqQSc6lFHIlkztCuXLYJmfZkZg_HBjamoWChXzcXeHw0-21TXfQkXeaI7oBicAzAF2lSTi5o12tMQYr-sWS92zg42MZFdjZrqBSTioIkAPqhl_Y9_Px1eb5kl6dyGwgdShpchO946iBBMRXPyFPAAp3gHfWtJunJhp-HDIWXUpU28VIz5pr0QjfoGLwtWF6ESDJymjX67NyDGlHppaycOB5KGpGxvJ65cB1-_4D310LDD75Vv4Ty5QvHXKIiO6APLi1nVRUeuMJCBJLI6oheHxhBzmT3GD-DI2GSr6AhFZNttno6TblRTHkOqPcBjvDKYrFQSbdC_Dw9uORKaeqFG8eBWZaUN0AoFlcZghe-ASbi7tNWW8VWhygQFYq5QYz679UFbS7sxPPzUxtFUDZ_ZrQp8tQBtmQR6V14SELaXY1oc9VjujEIXv1tByCQ2q4nMRZyA-uwwJihgCyI2zCtW9tHq7wle537lQgk_Uz-9gd0-W_W2LpHWBDNKdi9vxrr2txLHMmsFHRrbE2nuvm28KQg=w291-h218-no?authuser=0" style="background-image: url("https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3e_dVmKAKe_H3cfudcCcu_cKdm5lrxCsaMfgb9X9B3_gbus4FjG4NsA0mjyBJgJ6eEoMnPNo4b6MSzbt0MJy5z6Q-pLd5Id7tM2Vq_bBFzWLb99tjlY2iX4F_A3WnJFYkIujxoisGSHvyp_4ih4yrH44MB6bgaC8NLtKhMFD2uLIUFibluqi7ko-zJwiFIqQSc6lFHIlkztCuXLYJmfZkZg_HBjamoWChXzcXeHw0-21TXfQkXeaI7oBicAzAF2lSTi5o12tMQYr-sWS92zg42MZFdjZrqBSTioIkAPqhl_Y9_Px1eb5kl6dyGwgdShpchO946iBBMRXPyFPAAp3gHfWtJunJhp-HDIWXUpU28VIz5pr0QjfoGLwtWF6ESDJymjX67NyDGlHppaycOB5KGpGxvJ65cB1-_4D310LDD75Vv4Ty5QvHXKIiO6APLi1nVRUeuMJCBJLI6oheHxhBzmT3GD-DI2GSr6AhFZNttno6TblRTHkOqPcBjvDKYrFQSbdC_Dw9uORKaeqFG8eBWZaUN0AoFlcZghe-ASbi7tNWW8VWhygQFYq5QYz679UFbS7sxPPzUxtFUDZ_ZrQp8tQBtmQR6V14SELaXY1oc9VjujEIXv1tByCQ2q4nMRZyA-uwwJihgCyI2zCtW9tHq7wle537lQgk_Uz-9gd0-W_W2LpHWBDNKdi9vxrr2txLHMmsFHRrbE2nuvm28KQg=w291-h218-no?authuser=0"), url("https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/ACtC-3e_dVmKAKe_H3cfudcCcu_cKdm5lrxCsaMfgb9X9B3_gbus4FjG4NsA0mjyBJgJ6eEoMnPNo4b6MSzbt0MJy5z6Q-pLd5Id7tM2Vq_bBFzWLb99tjlY2iX4F_A3WnJFYkIujxoisGSHvyp_4ih4yrH44MB6bgaC8NLtKhMFD2uLIUFibluqi7ko-zJwiFIqQSc6lFHIlkztCuXLYJmfZkZg_HBjamoWChXzcXeHw0-21TXfQkXeaI7oBicAzAF2lSTi5o12tMQYr-sWS92zg42MZFdjZrqBSTioIkAPqhl_Y9_Px1eb5kl6dyGwgdShpchO946iBBMRXPyFPAAp3gHfWtJunJhp-HDIWXUpU28VIz5pr0QjfoGLwtWF6ESDJymjX67NyDGlHppaycOB5KGpGxvJ65cB1-_4D310LDD75Vv4Ty5QvHXKIiO6APLi1nVRUeuMJCBJLI6oheHxhBzmT3GD-DI2GSr6AhFZNttno6TblRTHkOqPcBjvDKYrFQSbdC_Dw9uORKaeqFG8eBWZaUN0AoFlcZghe-ASbi7tNWW8VWhygQFYq5QYz679UFbS7sxPPzUxtFUDZ_ZrQp8tQBtmQR6V14SELaXY1oc9VjujEIXv1tByCQ2q4nMRZyA-uwwJihgCyI2zCtW9tHq7wle537lQgk_Uz-9gd0-W_W2LpHWBDNKdi9vxrr2txLHMmsFHRrbE2nuvm28KQg=w72-h54-k-rw-no?authuser=0"); opacity: 1;"></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhXvzZZMe1h6twtiytfddTP4GQsvahbv6v2jE4gVn60jur5UQ8WG3_0_tC8qSId_7AtGE3m6SP9kB-U1EMfi6s7P1z2Mj4mDy8UImJxqWh1jebku9opSrTL0Ka2s-Ewsfd3YoATiEPF1W/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnhXvzZZMe1h6twtiytfddTP4GQsvahbv6v2jE4gVn60jur5UQ8WG3_0_tC8qSId_7AtGE3m6SP9kB-U1EMfi6s7P1z2Mj4mDy8UImJxqWh1jebku9opSrTL0Ka2s-Ewsfd3YoATiEPF1W/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">A much smaller space to practice in</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Some things got more difficult, such as doing Taekwondo. We were relegated to participating in our family room over an online connection. Sometimes we understood what was going on, other times, we didn't.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcvy6yqUySEwSj5i7o_ddgoptWWNmwXe2iMB81UA9lIV6ulBMuNs7HZJ_XWU5GLF1Hxea8e7plU38d_kLst6QA0jOLcp_T6eEqET8S9C7UGxWT30dmFcEzN4Mzkqdz-6RkyCWfQvWySAK/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcvy6yqUySEwSj5i7o_ddgoptWWNmwXe2iMB81UA9lIV6ulBMuNs7HZJ_XWU5GLF1Hxea8e7plU38d_kLst6QA0jOLcp_T6eEqET8S9C7UGxWT30dmFcEzN4Mzkqdz-6RkyCWfQvWySAK/" width="180" /></a></div><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ranking up</span><br /><br /></div>However, we did manage to actually progress a bit, even though it was frustrating. I think the hard part for the kids was the lack of consistent structure. Even though they are free thinkers, they want someone to provide them with some structure to build upon. Being left to their own online, often with lots of technical and organizational difficulties, made them feel isolated and confused.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaS-NHLIrfNDn5as9oGLq608NmVVtTwqnhW6D7lsys3wzYQfmfiXX1DZ1AjGnLcVOzMKFUBcDiyJsWbo4WW8R3gkqVbgIho-DTdSI3OijSbnz9lKojrwewOwusFKwOBjtHuNE3Ir1uETAJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaS-NHLIrfNDn5as9oGLq608NmVVtTwqnhW6D7lsys3wzYQfmfiXX1DZ1AjGnLcVOzMKFUBcDiyJsWbo4WW8R3gkqVbgIho-DTdSI3OijSbnz9lKojrwewOwusFKwOBjtHuNE3Ir1uETAJ/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Trying to teach about music and audio waveforms</span></div><div><br /></div>It wasn't all bad. Often there were many silver linings to our circumstances. Although they were lacking their regular music teacher, I tried to step in and teach them a few things about how music is made. One of these days I'll hopefully be able to get them to sit down for some lessons.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAz-hGRZ1oX8mpjn7M7KD4jvuzl-CEBVhl8_FfJRobDnwVBZD5aRhM9c4VG717f9L8NaEeAspC5salfBhMfK3V-DTxH6oUU5JSNZyeZXiAT6pCNf_qktlyWGa2YJO8ISy6MqXOHLOIGYj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHAz-hGRZ1oX8mpjn7M7KD4jvuzl-CEBVhl8_FfJRobDnwVBZD5aRhM9c4VG717f9L8NaEeAspC5salfBhMfK3V-DTxH6oUU5JSNZyeZXiAT6pCNf_qktlyWGa2YJO8ISy6MqXOHLOIGYj/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Brad's fix-it and repair shop</span></div><br />One of the nice things about working from home was that if the family needed me, I didn't have to wait in order to help them. I could also come and share meals with my kids on a daily basis and even have them randomly come up to me during the day in order to just give me a hug. If anyone at the office ever came up and give me a hug, I would really wonder.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIJkpKkQ_K3oJy90wxF1RR78oKXZ4OuAkz0RWDz7QF69J-SVnIx_SydsGLmwoNSOKzaZ3aho8sBVfDSdhGgzgaComN2qhx-cb25Vjzje25hCxYhpxBnqIlJ_HqLv-j9-ev0bmFOfGSILX/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIJkpKkQ_K3oJy90wxF1RR78oKXZ4OuAkz0RWDz7QF69J-SVnIx_SydsGLmwoNSOKzaZ3aho8sBVfDSdhGgzgaComN2qhx-cb25Vjzje25hCxYhpxBnqIlJ_HqLv-j9-ev0bmFOfGSILX/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sean turns 7... with a bang!</span></div><br />Birthdays this year were also all pretty low key. None of the kids had a party that consisted of anyone more than their immediate family members. As I mentioned before, we've been realizing, after being stuck at home for long periods of time, more and more we wanted to <i>do</i> things rather than <i>have</i> things.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VR-6h7bF_rILsySlqPbFmdWKngDJytiDLCHjkTP2woYJRsPicnLECQNeOho6yEBqK3UfMUXjTVHsS5UPJZE6uwBGCmNcJ7mHGvIasMN-2wceDfcq1lh10ZQbTXj2iSXppmhvKZdLILcj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_VR-6h7bF_rILsySlqPbFmdWKngDJytiDLCHjkTP2woYJRsPicnLECQNeOho6yEBqK3UfMUXjTVHsS5UPJZE6uwBGCmNcJ7mHGvIasMN-2wceDfcq1lh10ZQbTXj2iSXppmhvKZdLILcj/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">There is beauty all around...</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I think one of the hardest things for me personally was that our church meetings were restricted for many months. We did have the opportunity to do church at home, but I believe that I probably would have enjoyed it more had the kids been a little older. As it was, our primary and sacrament meetings some days were only a few minutes long, mainly out of frustration on all parts. I think they are all just too comfortable with Mom and Dad, rather than designated teachers. Combine that with being at home for <i>literally every other event in your life</i>, and you've got a recipe for some wiggly kiddos.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nCwfJdbVrT4Td-Cg6wimkryAi4rYW0Ss1F8G55W7eab0kDjfRVSif1Wz_vJpnMJXC08seBunizsDFNvGiobJAghiGXSmkne4tJ9xDs2rRX4aspj-G3eYXDsTOGEDMK-iijlwla368fXE/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9nCwfJdbVrT4Td-Cg6wimkryAi4rYW0Ss1F8G55W7eab0kDjfRVSif1Wz_vJpnMJXC08seBunizsDFNvGiobJAghiGXSmkne4tJ9xDs2rRX4aspj-G3eYXDsTOGEDMK-iijlwla368fXE/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Cooling off in the pool</span></div><div><br /></div>Things sort of came to a frustrating head at the beginning of summer when the kids were officially done with school. (They unofficially were done with school for about a month before.) A prolonged lack of sleep due to a teething baby combined with a monotonous work schedule sent me into a downward mental spiral and I broke down under the pressures of being at home. Seeing this, my caring, understanding wife took the kids up to Dallas to a friend's house for a few days so I could have some peace and quiet in addition to being able to get a lot of work done around the house. They had a great time up there and wound up playing in the pool a lot. It was a decent way to start off the summer.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqZFSeO8D0tOPTVm-KxqgjrBqXOQUupBvCRSj6ToL2wmpEsShj8jH0KyL3bJpQOrKGAKuyQBSOL_DGU0mNjWwCMh4RD75V3JYFo517ktnhhML01OIt_2pzZhBNRpXp7rWvJxgZo3iNIye/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGqZFSeO8D0tOPTVm-KxqgjrBqXOQUupBvCRSj6ToL2wmpEsShj8jH0KyL3bJpQOrKGAKuyQBSOL_DGU0mNjWwCMh4RD75V3JYFo517ktnhhML01OIt_2pzZhBNRpXp7rWvJxgZo3iNIye/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">The waves rocked him to sleep</span></div><div><br /></div><div>After the family came back I realized that we really needed a break together as a family. We were supposed to go in June to a family reunion on my side of the family, but all travel plans continued to get cancelled. It was during this time that I decided that, if we're going to go on a family trip, we should probably do it at a location that is filled with chlorine that would kill any pathogens that come our way.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYD08Mzy3g2A7pfd2MPc2fRyES5DW6q4rdeK6SOhTdfaWWwroeb3CjsCLV1t2Pk2PgI0Kd_sg1tJijVlkxW2RLLonbTizlEDbTuqHCsqhpWiiOtokkIqlyS7si6MOcZ3hvw4zjGkhpkoZN/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYD08Mzy3g2A7pfd2MPc2fRyES5DW6q4rdeK6SOhTdfaWWwroeb3CjsCLV1t2Pk2PgI0Kd_sg1tJijVlkxW2RLLonbTizlEDbTuqHCsqhpWiiOtokkIqlyS7si6MOcZ3hvw4zjGkhpkoZN/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Floating in the wave pool</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>So after the 4th of July weekend, I took time off of work and we spent a few nights at Great Wolf Lodge up in Dallas. I had been wanting for a long time to go there with my kids, but couldn't justify the cost. This finally provided me the chance to take our family on our first real fun-centered family vacation.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7XI3gnPI650ONtMGHxdr-Cp83A7k4WMZmCUaTKspeCjHRXc7i7aM5Mt984JYkyZXZFMEwXepL_WPHVovS9ZcjKMAOpFkWIBNKmDW5UOnrwuLYcxRO47xZiCO_R22ocblpCFFnNFErHQ0/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7XI3gnPI650ONtMGHxdr-Cp83A7k4WMZmCUaTKspeCjHRXc7i7aM5Mt984JYkyZXZFMEwXepL_WPHVovS9ZcjKMAOpFkWIBNKmDW5UOnrwuLYcxRO47xZiCO_R22ocblpCFFnNFErHQ0/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I am a fish. Just ask my brothers.</span></div><br />Our visit there was fantastic, mostly because they limited their capacity to 30%. We had a lot of room to do whatever water activity we wanted. The kids had a blast and we made some fantastic memories. I hope sometime in the future to be able to do some more fun things with them (like Disneyworld... when it goes back to normal).</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzOQfNfm2yw6JSQuQXJAnBUY1LDj3hy6sXlqnvEoDCcGYgw9gPnVqW83G8vuf7RcJ3ddwvgQiY97v1E5cVfMd_fk_ZMB7uzjs9aN6neBSn0aS5ANWHjiHAxPgSCmrXNz6stcYLUPaUSLO/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrzOQfNfm2yw6JSQuQXJAnBUY1LDj3hy6sXlqnvEoDCcGYgw9gPnVqW83G8vuf7RcJ3ddwvgQiY97v1E5cVfMd_fk_ZMB7uzjs9aN6neBSn0aS5ANWHjiHAxPgSCmrXNz6stcYLUPaUSLO/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Almost akin to "Lord of the Flies"</span></div><br />As summer approached its end, we had a difficult decision to make in regards to the kids' schooling for the next year. After a lot of studying, thought, and prayer, we decided to make the choice to homeschool the kids. (Well, it was mostly Sarah's decision since she was the one who was going to take the brunt of it all.) Having made that decision, Sarah realized that she could make her own schedule and do school from anywhere she wanted. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_lIPzLBJBe-I_f8nC99sucSHfy57hyphenhyphenKDO81sBfI9vc6zywscVNeg9-KeDpn8qbgTAdUuxjZCWCIcTeuijvjmA5nfo7gD4B4uoHKECBplOLu7AmXf8q-h85NvIh30jxKMNhQR7j9a1mdX/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY_lIPzLBJBe-I_f8nC99sucSHfy57hyphenhyphenKDO81sBfI9vc6zywscVNeg9-KeDpn8qbgTAdUuxjZCWCIcTeuijvjmA5nfo7gD4B4uoHKECBplOLu7AmXf8q-h85NvIh30jxKMNhQR7j9a1mdX/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Adventure is out there</span></div><br />With this newfound freedom, she decided that she would venture out on a six week trip to Utah and Idaho to see the family we didn't get to see over the summer. I thought she was crazy, but that she was also strong enough to do it. So at the end of August, we bid adieu to each other and she managed to transport, teach, and care for the kids on her own. I stayed home because, well, someone had to finance the whole thing. Just when they left, however...</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0652Og2vRrB4Baba-6Udau_OLuzLMnugzo3HQ0lJdchBaayz8_s5CYAMkageDCRs8YuMnvsipI_NoeI2ufgZ-r9BPcpZgZBc6w_7AQdbM0Vav-QnsxIPktGetfHekeMOppkimOk7zSL57/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0652Og2vRrB4Baba-6Udau_OLuzLMnugzo3HQ0lJdchBaayz8_s5CYAMkageDCRs8YuMnvsipI_NoeI2ufgZ-r9BPcpZgZBc6w_7AQdbM0Vav-QnsxIPktGetfHekeMOppkimOk7zSL57/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">One tree cleaned up</span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCR_igziGKxk7coO19MJBBF2YTeR9G4VdgceAcqKN8j7ndw5jKlPPw2GabE7tEUvkZ3O9Yz-igW30ygYXYtnVeY8oHFB2MixLtv3Uu19R_EnYrFJ0awjz7XHW-Uz13Ew1B1ZAbOcQo5E/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOHCR_igziGKxk7coO19MJBBF2YTeR9G4VdgceAcqKN8j7ndw5jKlPPw2GabE7tEUvkZ3O9Yz-igW30ygYXYtnVeY8oHFB2MixLtv3Uu19R_EnYrFJ0awjz7XHW-Uz13Ew1B1ZAbOcQo5E/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">So much debris</span></div><div><br /></div><div>... a troublesome category 3 hurricane started forming in the gulf on a path that was likely to hit Houston. I was faced with the decision of fleeing to somewhere safe, or hunkering down to ride out the storm. After some consideration, I realized that I had a house full of food and emergency supplies, plenty to survive for a few weeks. So I anxiously prepared everything around the house, awaiting the landfall of the hurricane that was going to bring such brutal winds and rain to the area that we would be without power for weeks... but it never reached me. At the last minute the storm veered east and decimated Louisiana. Consequentially, a few weeks later, I wound up heading out with a few other folks from church to do some cleanup. If you don't know, Santa, Louisiana in September is abut as hot and humid as it can get. I had to take short breaks in the shade every 20 minutes in order to keep from overheating. We did what we could at the home we were assigned, but they had some big trees that were too large for us to haul away completely. All in all, I hope we helped a bit.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMidVCbppE-oOvTHvOB_BvnszoDSFPyX30Ny9B0P8sWgVx6z7SJNWB6ecX9RJN_Dzckm9TTLHgOQQNkvmVCGqyJNcC8i7nhWO9T4WJKfz3gP0_sscd5OHYEjWAFjFVgPocnoCYEj3YPGAr/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMidVCbppE-oOvTHvOB_BvnszoDSFPyX30Ny9B0P8sWgVx6z7SJNWB6ecX9RJN_Dzckm9TTLHgOQQNkvmVCGqyJNcC8i7nhWO9T4WJKfz3gP0_sscd5OHYEjWAFjFVgPocnoCYEj3YPGAr/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Trapped in a rain covered tent!</span></div><br /></div>After what seemed like forever, my little family finally got back home. My youngest didn't recognize me at all at first, but eventually decided that I was okay. Once we got settled back into a regular routine, I decided to start doing more adventurous things like taking the kids camping again.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_aUDwThvIq9mcAKL_3nQpIPNbnerr6Rgjy7dwr7wQUOxvK4TnvW5Qa1QfLG9elxMIHYx1e28M_0TBr92OtCvzKUVOGTtD2DctafUhMV77XriFeoFdMDO6OQp3iSMEjc2MtidMHyTfcAO/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1523" data-original-width="2048" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_aUDwThvIq9mcAKL_3nQpIPNbnerr6Rgjy7dwr7wQUOxvK4TnvW5Qa1QfLG9elxMIHYx1e28M_0TBr92OtCvzKUVOGTtD2DctafUhMV77XriFeoFdMDO6OQp3iSMEjc2MtidMHyTfcAO/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Something lurking in the background</span></div><br />We've enjoyed quite a few activities together. Now that they are doing homeschool, I have the chances on my days off to take them on field trips to let them enjoy and learn about the great outdoors. We're still working through the kinks, but we'll figure out something. We're now sliding into the holiday season with gratitude in our hearts that things have gone so well for us this year in spite of all that has been going on in the world.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzQcYi7uTmqoViqQsl4TZsPN6CvUvXRBNIsH7omH6Wxbsepi9XYNcDvvBo9F0y5IDn8nH_Rog5PKTGLEv-t4_tQmbOhgCuAJlwLiALzlfiNlPEnh8TWEjXS4n9LYKJtBzDrGcCSu2E8E4/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWzQcYi7uTmqoViqQsl4TZsPN6CvUvXRBNIsH7omH6Wxbsepi9XYNcDvvBo9F0y5IDn8nH_Rog5PKTGLEv-t4_tQmbOhgCuAJlwLiALzlfiNlPEnh8TWEjXS4n9LYKJtBzDrGcCSu2E8E4/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Back when he was little</span></div><br />Well, enough about our adventures this year, Santa. I'm sure you'd like to hear about the rest of the family and how they are doing. We'll start off with the youngest, Malcolm.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8kqIqunElWWRcCUer38ce01NR4yKPTxvsQss3SGw0oRPjAoeGF3oVYKqOgl0P49CZfaYiIzlQGfKrxCqwknAm1wl5yNu48dhL1aYakr3K3mmAPH68BLzb1YA8T5qXeZluY2fmbQfVRR1/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM8kqIqunElWWRcCUer38ce01NR4yKPTxvsQss3SGw0oRPjAoeGF3oVYKqOgl0P49CZfaYiIzlQGfKrxCqwknAm1wl5yNu48dhL1aYakr3K3mmAPH68BLzb1YA8T5qXeZluY2fmbQfVRR1/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Clone of Bradley</span></div><br />I think that this kid is the one who most closely resembles my genetic makeup. If I look at pictures of myself as a baby and compare them to his pictures, I can't tell much of a difference. It's almost like looking into a time-machine enabled mirror.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1hv1xgACdxM6DnTw30KTVQ19Ie05IcyHoIkdIgEVVVA96QCNRCxjtckp1qaRUfAJMvCNSg-Z7uOmcA6zn44DnZ7HohoQqGWn6hxdpSlG8j6PXCWp96S4fOwgKT4wSM-hyJTaR-Q9ET4Y/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi1hv1xgACdxM6DnTw30KTVQ19Ie05IcyHoIkdIgEVVVA96QCNRCxjtckp1qaRUfAJMvCNSg-Z7uOmcA6zn44DnZ7HohoQqGWn6hxdpSlG8j6PXCWp96S4fOwgKT4wSM-hyJTaR-Q9ET4Y/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Check out the smolder</span></div><br />I think this kid was exactly what we needed to finish off our little family with. He has such a fun and loving personality that I can never get enough of.</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7zF63Q5OVhav-4aML3DdoOCCr2IEYgacmDV-JO76CNH26M4c6ZQ4ITRb8y_7h5z3TKedYmOJ9hx-wyfG8ptf8SR9Qvncw3-7b4mSfXo_jVy8dbD6TiaZHcVOPe2BbSa70tKUNSEN5jIw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl7zF63Q5OVhav-4aML3DdoOCCr2IEYgacmDV-JO76CNH26M4c6ZQ4ITRb8y_7h5z3TKedYmOJ9hx-wyfG8ptf8SR9Qvncw3-7b4mSfXo_jVy8dbD6TiaZHcVOPe2BbSa70tKUNSEN5jIw/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I'm sure he has a good point</span></div><br /></div><div>He just turned one in October and has quickly learned that he now get into almost anything if he wants to. However, he's quick to be obedient if you tell him that he shouldn't be doing something. Quite often, whenever he sees me, he runs over to me to give me a big hug and a snuggle. I can't tell you how much I appreciate those moments after a long, hard day at work. So far he hasn't been able to communicate to us what he wants for Christmas, but I'm sure he'd be happy with even just a box of tissues or something. I'll leave it up to you.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKH_GFgCkdkavJRmvIbe7VVspG2IDyzAAvQMPu7oD38MBNDTFjMpQoIYmLlnnTstGig-PM935EkRQtrBkrgS_fih2D0OOH_6KxGmq46lJY-Ylce9Xm0ubuGE0_j62O5_FyWKbpvUx3unz/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKH_GFgCkdkavJRmvIbe7VVspG2IDyzAAvQMPu7oD38MBNDTFjMpQoIYmLlnnTstGig-PM935EkRQtrBkrgS_fih2D0OOH_6KxGmq46lJY-Ylce9Xm0ubuGE0_j62O5_FyWKbpvUx3unz/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Golden sunshine</span></div><div><br /></div>Next up we have our little Lucy. I think I can best describe her as being fully invested in her choices. If she loves something, she loves it passionately. If she doesn't want to do something, it's impossible to convince her why it's a good idea to do it. If she laughs, it's with her whole being. If she cries, she feels it in her whole heart. This little girl likes to live life to its fullest.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjv7AHvoMoXaZdpDFVxTmXR_Wp7t4W_XSLsqiRo_cCNcT0w_t1d1Pp2-y6O-fkjs-KLfVgUDJ1897BbIsf7XKPwJ18aPhek9TZ2837eO_yCRvYRfVqd1VrD4KbQIp6ksgUzTy6wWnglJ_/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSjv7AHvoMoXaZdpDFVxTmXR_Wp7t4W_XSLsqiRo_cCNcT0w_t1d1Pp2-y6O-fkjs-KLfVgUDJ1897BbIsf7XKPwJ18aPhek9TZ2837eO_yCRvYRfVqd1VrD4KbQIp6ksgUzTy6wWnglJ_/" width="160" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Goofy, yet sweet</span></div><br />I think homeschool has hit her pretty hard. She was getting ready to go full time to Pre-K 4 this year and was disappointed that she wasn't going to get to go like her older brother and sister did. In spite of all that, she has made some wonderful progress in her education. She can read a few books and is working on all sorts of math and art skills. She says that for Christmas she wants a pink bear, mainly because her other siblings all have teddy bears and she doesn't (even though she has tons of stuffed animals). Again, I'll leave that to you.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajBIFfKQZOsRpy0_PnoaVpiifspMxMApD5f2uHUDDFTXlyDT1TVj6H-DacJgZfakJJx_pGlrJBKvEx7oZaOxSYk-dbzqtsugnpqFvYRxZ4X3QCTnnGQzSyW3EkQpi8N6NJwy2yzCqwR1C/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajBIFfKQZOsRpy0_PnoaVpiifspMxMApD5f2uHUDDFTXlyDT1TVj6H-DacJgZfakJJx_pGlrJBKvEx7oZaOxSYk-dbzqtsugnpqFvYRxZ4X3QCTnnGQzSyW3EkQpi8N6NJwy2yzCqwR1C/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hey, Sean! Smile for the... okay, I guess you got it...</span></div><div><br /></div>Next in line we have Sean. This kid still likes to keep us on our toes. He is interested in building, playing, learning, scheming, devising, inventing... you name it, he likes to do it. He's pretty smart and has a frighteningly good memory. I think he is having a hard time with homeschool mainly because he misses his friends and all the social interaction that comes with it. I probably lose my patience the most with him because he tends to get distracted a lot. However, he loves fiercely and is obedient to what we say... as soon as we can get him to pay attention enough to listen.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KGMw0kQjg0LCkxvar3G6J0025cLKPD5zZrIIb3H6MIeT1P_awkPYt8ovFf4koeuXyo3TKU6E6mlmwR9aaz5FKnY25nB4fo1Z3dLSqT7_4W3lwN-aMVBHN-YRQ6E3YdE7AoAbd25oP_ne/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8KGMw0kQjg0LCkxvar3G6J0025cLKPD5zZrIIb3H6MIeT1P_awkPYt8ovFf4koeuXyo3TKU6E6mlmwR9aaz5FKnY25nB4fo1Z3dLSqT7_4W3lwN-aMVBHN-YRQ6E3YdE7AoAbd25oP_ne/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Could you sleep in that?</span></div><br />This little guy also has been through the medical ringer this year and has had more COVID tests than he would care to have in his lifetime. You see, he snores like a congested pug at nights, which we could tell was making him very exhausted and not able to focus. He was diagnosed with mild sleep apnea and we set about on a journey to discover what was going on. After getting tonsils out, having a few throat scopes, and having multiple sleep studies, they finally determined that the cause of his troubles was due to having a tongue that grew faster than the rest of him. So now, after a long, complicated process, he has a CPAP machine that he dutifully wears each night. Ever since he started wearing that, I haven't heard him snore once. In terms of behavior, I haven't seen a ton of improvement other than he has more energy to get distracted with.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9srBR_fSCHzscZdbDxtKTPBgq3a3qrXStGoJeLFA3cTsu0a3akMZ6eKCY_XezidhMrv8kDsGf5NcxxM2ll1rvSI499Z7_cCjn9KlWA3m6GU3TJTJbysegpu3fki63VKkYhwAM-PjbaVdm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3264" data-original-width="2448" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9srBR_fSCHzscZdbDxtKTPBgq3a3qrXStGoJeLFA3cTsu0a3akMZ6eKCY_XezidhMrv8kDsGf5NcxxM2ll1rvSI499Z7_cCjn9KlWA3m6GU3TJTJbysegpu3fki63VKkYhwAM-PjbaVdm/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Taking a stroll on the beach before another sleep study</span></div><br />If you'll remember, Santa, Sean asked for a drone and a hoverboard. Given the thought that he might accidentally run over his little brother, I'd say it's probably okay to think of something else to bring.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWfDknVMk-PqzBlszhhjAREBDCbeRIPC4xdVodjmv10xPAoJPDkRTr69qBdzvj_gIKLgaiQn8EtM9SEFyxC4JJ8b_fUm48hxwRhP7uKnrNZSSvXr_0WAE9IRAXMgWETQnv4O0z17GBeDL/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWfDknVMk-PqzBlszhhjAREBDCbeRIPC4xdVodjmv10xPAoJPDkRTr69qBdzvj_gIKLgaiQn8EtM9SEFyxC4JJ8b_fUm48hxwRhP7uKnrNZSSvXr_0WAE9IRAXMgWETQnv4O0z17GBeDL/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Daddy daughter dates are the best. So are fried pickles.</span></div><br />Finally we come to my oldest, Leah. I can't tell you how appreciative I am that she is leading the way for the rest of the kids in the family. She is loving, kind, and sweet. She's probably helped out more than she'd like to when it comes to watching over Malcolm, but she has developed such a sweet bond with him. It melts my heart to see how strong her motherly instincts are and it makes me proud when she makes righteous choices.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVhST1ihohyphenhyphen7b6PTlqh7n_zmCunYQ3S6jAoLiFKBeDdmSEHaot1zMlw9d0ayoqU3haZmCHxKSm0Es7jdtGsNGM42bdh7JqKFB2tSUmfXKf7aCdxtmyz-tjqSHR690nr3URt0cZy4vHzWm/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxVhST1ihohyphenhyphen7b6PTlqh7n_zmCunYQ3S6jAoLiFKBeDdmSEHaot1zMlw9d0ayoqU3haZmCHxKSm0Es7jdtGsNGM42bdh7JqKFB2tSUmfXKf7aCdxtmyz-tjqSHR690nr3URt0cZy4vHzWm/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nothing quite like an older sister to look out for you</span></div><br />You can rarely find this girl without a book or drawing instrument in her hands. She can't get enough of reading, drawing, music, and anything else to engage her creative side. She hasn't really told us what she wants for Christmas, and, if you can believe this, she's starting to question your existence! Every so often she'll describe to me ways that she'll spy on you during your visit to our home. Sometimes she'll even flat our ask me if <i>I'm</i> Santa. Preposterous! She must have heard that nonsense in public school. Glad we're homeschooling her now. I'll leave it up to you to determine what to bring her. Heaven knows that all too soon, I won't know how to handle her.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6qVw7SeuMilN9l5FMli-YeJgQjoKx3UjaSwI_7B5U1JoLATrIoadwNKN2zsTkYadagxDLzPGY52H0554NjRn2nzPL8XTHHal-tkzflOth5b1GXIabGklmT9qx4bGut8hyrOW2zj4ZEpj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz6qVw7SeuMilN9l5FMli-YeJgQjoKx3UjaSwI_7B5U1JoLATrIoadwNKN2zsTkYadagxDLzPGY52H0554NjRn2nzPL8XTHHal-tkzflOth5b1GXIabGklmT9qx4bGut8hyrOW2zj4ZEpj/" width="319" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Pet sitting is one of her favorite pastimes</span></div><br />I learned something very important thing about my wife this year: She doesn't need me. I don't mean that in a negative light. I just learned exactly how strong, powerful, and yet patient my wife really is. I watched her tackle online school, keeping kids entertained over the summer, and taking a six week long road trip with four kids by herself! She's flabbergasts me with all that she does. I break down quite often while she still moves forward. The thing that warms my heart is to know that, in spite of my personal shortcomings, she still chooses me. That boggles my mind most days, but I am forever grateful that she does choose me. I can be pretty ridiculous.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mnjF8BEWszFooEKHKcrZRXmOyXpgHJHHLILTS57Wi15LGXP1uggcyZCmKcgT2fgpJ5bml9-u7Muh9lBEv4Dcs99YpTBjJT5Wsf2iq17vHGPtBdulhucNQHj8Vi2J9527jBJBMZPow36c/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1539" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mnjF8BEWszFooEKHKcrZRXmOyXpgHJHHLILTS57Wi15LGXP1uggcyZCmKcgT2fgpJ5bml9-u7Muh9lBEv4Dcs99YpTBjJT5Wsf2iq17vHGPtBdulhucNQHj8Vi2J9527jBJBMZPow36c/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">I don't think I could ask for a better mom for my kids</span></div><br />She still loves doing all sorts of creative things like quilting, cooking, decorating our home, engaging in a good book, and seeing just how many people during the course of a week she can help. I seriously don't know how she is able to tackle everything, but I am grateful to have her by my side. I can't think of a better woman to compliment me in all the areas I consistently need help with. She deserves whatever good things you can slip into her stocking this year. That and a week's long vacation.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-pMQoHO0dhWsXHVNMvRkrEltCtUEchjdWsijejszxRIhwX9Zz_yxGs199hl2PjL48sGntzCS8UnrGi_2DD6i_BzuGQod1t6mqDbIdoyNUoSjEkQ5xyuCWH0bPzS2mqDuqBRuUw9Bu4op/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf-pMQoHO0dhWsXHVNMvRkrEltCtUEchjdWsijejszxRIhwX9Zz_yxGs199hl2PjL48sGntzCS8UnrGi_2DD6i_BzuGQod1t6mqDbIdoyNUoSjEkQ5xyuCWH0bPzS2mqDuqBRuUw9Bu4op/" width="180" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Wear a mask, they said...</span></div><br />As for me, 2020 has been a mixed bag. I have mainly been inconvenienced, not devistated, by all the problems that have beset the world this year. I'm still working at NASA, doing the same thing: making pretty pictures of things that don't exist. My company's been good to me and I'm trying to make a definitive forward plan. So much has been in flux over the past few years, but things in my career path have been a bit more defined as of late. I still say that I don't know what I want to be when I grow up and that the perfect job for me probably hasn't been invented yet.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG062mSO1J3ez5aqKT_DJoUaKYT8p9f9MNrHT61C32dR0Ll5IBeb5OpqDz-HSFIMo4F62qVbaL6q4yMerj0YHU6KLFhb_v7tY-L585kvNPy9SeHqa4UKxu0t-vqi9tsZGo3qIA_mIA9GXR/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1564" data-original-width="726" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG062mSO1J3ez5aqKT_DJoUaKYT8p9f9MNrHT61C32dR0Ll5IBeb5OpqDz-HSFIMo4F62qVbaL6q4yMerj0YHU6KLFhb_v7tY-L585kvNPy9SeHqa4UKxu0t-vqi9tsZGo3qIA_mIA9GXR/" width="111" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">New COVID-19 attire</span></div><br />One thing about being home for so long was that I got the chance to flex a bit of creative muscle. I worked way too long on my first cosplay costume. However, it managed to turn some heads and I learned a great deal along the way. I spent an embarrassingly long time 3D printing parts of the costume, but it turned out pretty good. Not quite sure I'll have the time in the future to work on something like that, but it was a fun exercise.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiugaecn-fllwZ7Zm2UYtw4AKXlyA35SA12a9NCOmtlleyXWuXkWWQLVK89oUL_X4N6v93hRPnL6lxcehv3YXCess7spBEL0WtJGJlKFXw9-Fkla9770rJ1Vw4R7MkExBB0pe4-ZW7hzC/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1079" data-original-width="1080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDiugaecn-fllwZ7Zm2UYtw4AKXlyA35SA12a9NCOmtlleyXWuXkWWQLVK89oUL_X4N6v93hRPnL6lxcehv3YXCess7spBEL0WtJGJlKFXw9-Fkla9770rJ1Vw4R7MkExBB0pe4-ZW7hzC/" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Together</span></div><br />If you remember from last year, I spoke a great deal about my mental health issues and I wish I could say that things are better, but I can't. I can just say that they're more of the same, but not any worse. That's okay, though. I lived 35 years previously without treating anything. I'm sure that I can make the rest of my years on earth with the right management. I know 2020 didn't help much in regards to my mental health. The one thing that I appreciate is that many more people are willing to talk openly about the subject. I hope that, in my sharing of my own personal struggles, that people don't pity me, but rather I lend an unseen hand to those who struggle in silence. You know just how badly the global circumstances have hit people. I just hope that those who suffer know they don't do it alone.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFGlipr4UtAx_iy1G646RPKcF-v2htlM4zAYeOKUD4ST0RgJC1kTTW2zGHVLRVWYzWFHztAvjna2qK3KAaxnm-nRU_r6QFao7DlE4tX7TMU0nW7MMylTdqSGkv156yuYiYnv53ow5VtCj/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeFGlipr4UtAx_iy1G646RPKcF-v2htlM4zAYeOKUD4ST0RgJC1kTTW2zGHVLRVWYzWFHztAvjna2qK3KAaxnm-nRU_r6QFao7DlE4tX7TMU0nW7MMylTdqSGkv156yuYiYnv53ow5VtCj/" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Happy Holidays from the Reynolds Family</span></div><br />So, Santa, I'm not quite sure where to go from here. This year has really put us all through the ringer. I think the hardest part, especially in the country where I live, is the utter dissolution of trust in leadership and authority. Whether it be in politics, science, or other institutions, I think it's fair to say that people all over feel deceived. The United States just went through one of the most volatile elections in recent history where both sides of the political spectrum were prompted and coerced to demonize anyone that didn't conform to their way of thinking. (If you ask some people, it's not over yet.) I've seen so much misery and vitriol this year that it's hard to sum up what to ask you for. There's been so much darkness all year long thrown at us, that I believe many feel lost, listless, and without direction or purpose. Heaven knows that sometimes I have felt similarly at times over the past year.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yXWoKi5x3lw" width="320" youtube-src-id="yXWoKi5x3lw"></iframe></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>I guess, maybe, that's why I love Christmas so much. It a time when we can bring light to the darkness. The older I get, the more and more I appreciate the true celebration of Christmas. Don't get me wrong, I love the presents and celebration. I have to curb my desire to spoil my kids every year. However, the older I get, the more I realize just how much I need the gift that was given to me two thousand years ago. In the above video of "The Christ Child", at the very end it depicts the arrival of the wise men to the home of Jesus. I am immensely impacted by the portrayal of the wise man as he meets the toddler Jesus. This man, with all the powers and authority that the world could offer him, is utterly humbled when he is in the presence of the Savior of the world. Even though this man could have everything, it is all nothing compared to the priceless gift of being freed from the pains and injustices that mortality imparts upon us. It brings me to tears every time I watch it because I know oh so well the mistakes I consistently make and the darkness I have to wander through. The peace of knowing that it isn't going to all be in vain lights my path, even in the darkest of nights.</div><div><br /></div><div>So Santa, I guess my wish this year is for more light. More light for myself. More light for my family. More light for the world. I don't know how exactly you can bring that light to us, but I'm pretty sure that's what we need. Every time I see the lights of my Christmas tree, I remind myself that during the time when it is the darkest outside, we go to great lengths to bring the light in. Please help to bring us all some light. Let it wash away the pains, hatred, and division that have plagued our lands. Let it heal up the broken hearts and wipe away the tears. Let it reunite the divided and isolated families. Let it bring peace to those that have known nothing but heartache and turmoil this year.</div><div><br /></div><div>Santa, I don't know how you can do it. But I believe in you.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Sincerely,</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-Brad</div><div><br /></div><div>P.S. If we do meet on Christmas Eve, let's remember to stay 6 feet away from each other.</div><div><br /></div><div>P.P.S. I'm not asking for a Jeager fighting robot this year because, quite frankly, I've run out of room at my house.</div><div><br /></div><div>P.P.P.S. And for the love of all things toy-related, would you please get that poor kid a nerf gun.</div></div>Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0Houston, TX, USA29.7604267 -95.36980281.4501928638211545 -130.5260528 58.070660536178849 -60.2135528tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-88092105490186567042019-12-23T11:52:00.001-07:002019-12-23T11:52:26.816-07:00Dear Santa - An Open Letter to 2019Dear Santa,<br />
<br />
Another year has come to pass and once again I find myself penning (well, typing, actually) another message your way. This year has been filled with various ups and downs, but I seem to be on my feet as we approach Christmas, so that is nice. How are you doing up at the North Pole? I'm still waiting to hear if climate change has reached your workshop yet. I certainly hope you are staying afloat of things, both figuratively and literally.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The capitol building in Austin, TX</span></div>
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This year has been quite the eventful year with plenty that has left us feeling both rewarded and exhausted. Sarah and I started off the year with a short anniversary trip to Austin. Neither of us had ever been before and we thought it was important that we experience the capitol of our beloved state firsthand. Needless to say, the town lived up to its motto of "Keep Austin Weird." I kept thinking to myself that someone had spilled some San Francisco on my Texas. Either way, we had a nice weekend to ourselves away from the kids.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">They truly are magical</span></div>
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We have discovered many things about Texas that we really enjoy and tried to fill the year with as many fun activities as we could. Our friends were kind enough to gift us with some tickets to see the Magical Winter Lights down south of us. It was the start to many fun adventures during the year.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Camping at Sea Rim State Park</span></div>
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I have tried my best to take my kids camping as often as I can. I feel like it gives them a chance to unplug from the electronic lifestyle they've grown accustomed to and to just enjoy being kids. Someone once said that my generation may be the last ones to go and play outside. I fear they may be right. Although if my kids tried playing outside in our current climate nine months out of the year they'd probably get heatstroke... </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Huh? How did that happen?</span></div>
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So in February we discovered that we had an unexpected stowaway from our getaway to Austin. Sarah and I had been debating on having a fourth child, seeing as we were already exhausted with the three we had. However, it seems like the universe had different plans for us. It was an unexpected, yet welcomed surprise. When Sarah told me about it, I was just getting out of the shower. I was so surprised that for the next half hour, I forgot to put any underwear on.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This is where the magic happens</span></div>
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I wanted to thank you profusely for last year's present: the 3D printer. I have made an embarrassingly large proportion of things out of it and it never gives me any guff. It's nice to be able to have the capacity to bring my digital creations to life and hold them in the palm of my hand. </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">One of my favorite things about Houston</span></div>
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This year we were able to host one of my friends from my teenage years and her daughter as we explored the many things that Houston has to offer. One of the things we did was take them to the Houston Rodeo and Livestock Show, which is the one of the largest rodeos in the world. It's always fun for me to go and spend time with my family looking at all the exhibits and vendors there. I think it's important to appreciate the hard-working jobs that got us to where we are today. Being a cowboy certainly isn't something I wanted to do as a kid, but I certainly love the idea as an adult.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bulldog bliss</span></div>
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I'm sort of a stingy parent when it comes to animals in the house. Although I did have hamsters and a dog growing up, I have come to realize how convenient it is to<i> not</i> have pets. Ergo, I have tolerated being a pet-sitter. One frequent visitor we have to the house is Philly the bulldog. To be honest, she's about as hard to sit as a potted plant, but we still love her. </div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Furry friends</span></div>
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My kids also got the experience of caring for a pair of guinea pigs and learned just how skittish they can be. Oddly enough, during the entire time, I was the only one that ever got bitten.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Not a pet</span></div>
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One of the things we did this year that has paid off is that we actually bought a membership to a museum. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of my favorite places to visit in Houston. There are so many exhibits to explore, but I have to admit that my favorite one is the gemstone exhibit. It's so fascinating to me to see how things naturally form. Change one chemical and, poof, you've got a completely different structure.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Probably the best student out of the three</span></div>
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One of the things we did in anticipation for the upcoming summer trip was to enroll the kids in swim school. I was very impressed with what the teachers were able to do with my kids and, although not all of them can do laps, they at least know enough to be safe around water.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Hiking the river in Capitol Reef</span></div>
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This summer Sarah and the kids left me in Houston to go visit family out in Utah and Idaho. There were plenty of adventures for them out there and I was able to take part with them eventually. We hiked in Capitol Reef, explored Craters of the Moon National Monument, enjoyed a day at Lagoon, had a family reunion, and enjoyed some quiet time at Fish Lake. With a pregnant mother, we probably did way more than we should have, but at this point, I hope to give them as many positive memories of childhood as I can.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">They were crack shots</span></div>
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I've been trying to make sure my kids were exposed to the same sort of rugged activities I was as a kid, in part because I don't want them to be afraid of the world. This summer I started them off on learning about firearms and firearm safety. With all the unfortunate tragedies in this country over the past year, I wanted them to learn firsthand how to respect their second amendment rights. They were both crack shots once I got them onto a modern firearm and they had loads of fun.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This is why you break the board the first time</span></div>
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One of the things we've also enjoyed this year is doing taekwondo together as a family. Our city recreation center has a deal where the entire family can train for only $25 a month. We started the kids earlier in the year and once Leah had advanced into the beginners class I decided to join her. I figured I could go and watch her do lessons while I sat around or else I could join in the fun and get some exercise. I haven't regretted a moment of it and have had lots of fun getting back into martial arts. I did karate as a child, but never got up to my black belt. Now I'm on a track where I can do it together with my family.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">It was good to see a smile</span></div>
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In spite of all the fun things we experienced this year, there has been some real trials. This past summer my dad started getting unexpected back pain which progressed into him being completely incapacitated. They eventually diagnosed him with a bacterial infection in his spine and also a misalignment of his SI joint, but they took their sweet time doing so. It was the first time in my life that I've seen my dad completely disheartened. This year he was also going to turn 80, and we wanted to have a fun family celebration for him. However, since Sarah was due to give birth around his birthday, we decided it would be better to have a smaller surprise celebration with him around Labor Day. So myself and all my brothers sneakily got to Utah and surprised him as he was sitting in his recliner. It was a tender moment to see my dad realize that he had a lot of close personal support in spite of the pain that he had been facing. He's nowhere near fully recovered right now, but we think he's finally on a track to getting back to normal. He lost a lot of strength during those months he was incapacitated, so now he's got the hard task of doing physical therapy to regrow some muscle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWQ3SlJ6uQGvl8byTqlT80jGu8JCwtogAn6eN2ft0RiJj7NG5N-fWBODsWutn1SbFzK-7ZOJCCO9g6ES_fAUmA0ocO6Foi0O8UmPkJ_BcfDkjFsOG7nhQ49Q6gOxkZ6nMc0yl4mAGYGwy/s1600/DSC_0127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWQ3SlJ6uQGvl8byTqlT80jGu8JCwtogAn6eN2ft0RiJj7NG5N-fWBODsWutn1SbFzK-7ZOJCCO9g6ES_fAUmA0ocO6Foi0O8UmPkJ_BcfDkjFsOG7nhQ49Q6gOxkZ6nMc0yl4mAGYGwy/s320/DSC_0127.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Passing on the knowledge</span></div>
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This entire ordeal sort of drove home to me how important my family is. I have plenty of friends who don't have their parents around anymore. I feel fortunate that my parents are around still and able to do what they have been able to do. Most importantly I am grateful that they have a chance to interact with my kids. I hope they form some long-lasting memories of their grandparents.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX75iOl7Ph_XSzGWuVtwi-O32YYBuotqDY5qHK6od-0dUWsaa0WGloXZNJ1Rv-zGVsIfMyp2PC88O8db80C7CwawNACPUV3Q9xTKwIuf_z2mQGhYoMlVVOj8oh-YWiGE9kXyVZLS26-R7E/s1600/IMG_8268.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX75iOl7Ph_XSzGWuVtwi-O32YYBuotqDY5qHK6od-0dUWsaa0WGloXZNJ1Rv-zGVsIfMyp2PC88O8db80C7CwawNACPUV3Q9xTKwIuf_z2mQGhYoMlVVOj8oh-YWiGE9kXyVZLS26-R7E/s320/IMG_8268.heic" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Goofballs</span></div>
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Speaking of my kids, they both frustrate and thrill me to death. I constantly struggle to keep up with the messes they make and also their boundless enthusiasm for life. The oldest three thankfully are all old enough to play Minecraft together (even though Lucy has very little idea what she is doing), so they can enjoy being collectively creative. They play together more than they play with other kids, which is quite a contrast to how I grew up.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47P0wIx47e8eyw2iPO6IPVaTXg8L3m-hORQ_wlHVhHtelngOQQCZrf8avnOacMW6jCpmdqvkJWe42pvG8mIO4dG5LTm6fcb2RNn_uPjiv5hnDNRD_O23p1jFuCfmLIFg0aKGjhMd879Gs/s1600/IMG_8582.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47P0wIx47e8eyw2iPO6IPVaTXg8L3m-hORQ_wlHVhHtelngOQQCZrf8avnOacMW6jCpmdqvkJWe42pvG8mIO4dG5LTm6fcb2RNn_uPjiv5hnDNRD_O23p1jFuCfmLIFg0aKGjhMd879Gs/s320/IMG_8582.heic" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">First day jitters</span></div>
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It's quite rewarding to see them support and love each other. I really have been blessed with good kids, even though they sometimes are too much for me to handle.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkANonL14MGau_ET4adwzoqtWZmZR1xEe5OJFs42pIJR2rNUoaX3O765416s_UWku7IV7ul8G2PM-D700ehHjxqhpViVXY4ZERQU7CUmWGyFhHpwRMkwCUAfboAE0Qeja0IiBSwbWLyXeI/s1600/DSC_0130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkANonL14MGau_ET4adwzoqtWZmZR1xEe5OJFs42pIJR2rNUoaX3O765416s_UWku7IV7ul8G2PM-D700ehHjxqhpViVXY4ZERQU7CUmWGyFhHpwRMkwCUAfboAE0Qeja0IiBSwbWLyXeI/s320/DSC_0130.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Little Leah Lou</span></div>
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My little Leah Lou isn't so little anymore. It has been fun to see her start to grow into being a young woman. She has a tender heart and cares for everyone in the family. I've seen her maternal instinct kick in on more than one occasion (especially as it relates to her baby brother) and I know she is on a good path. This year she started participating in the gifted and talented program at her school, which she was hoping for.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSiOkR28aqy_YRQtbX_kDsnr1jYc6FmmtAgozoeFO6Kg6QCHOfDje8win3eh2BcfqE0SbSb0z1vt4GNXRnZDX8TA9zwuNqMHAD3kwddQoEuUOyTfz6c2lRkIrvsepVz9P3IG7zQ0_QZ66/s1600/DSC_0328.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgSiOkR28aqy_YRQtbX_kDsnr1jYc6FmmtAgozoeFO6Kg6QCHOfDje8win3eh2BcfqE0SbSb0z1vt4GNXRnZDX8TA9zwuNqMHAD3kwddQoEuUOyTfz6c2lRkIrvsepVz9P3IG7zQ0_QZ66/s320/DSC_0328.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A happy day for all</span></div>
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This year Leah also made the decision to be baptized, which she has been looking forward to all year long. It was a very happy day for us, especially since both her grandmas were able to come to witness it. Even though we were far away from family, we were blessed to be joined on that day by countless friends that we have here in Texas.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eIlzrpJ2kT0pTAFJ0YJeXzDXK3VO0Z67iYnIrmTII5hXjy_j7HQXxPSlYG57Qq_E7gopL9QVtzmUcFy_JuzxJAbdOluJfS8hgxmvGgGdP956oMET9ERVYkKW3XNbaeyZqE3KXX3zzJik/s1600/DSC_0080.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-eIlzrpJ2kT0pTAFJ0YJeXzDXK3VO0Z67iYnIrmTII5hXjy_j7HQXxPSlYG57Qq_E7gopL9QVtzmUcFy_JuzxJAbdOluJfS8hgxmvGgGdP956oMET9ERVYkKW3XNbaeyZqE3KXX3zzJik/s320/DSC_0080.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ground control to Major Tom...</span></div>
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My oldest boy certainly keeps us on our toes. One of the things he certainly doesn't lack is courage. My boy isn't afraid of being social to anyone. In fact, I think he'd be comfortable living with another family every day if you let him. He loves people, inventing things, reading, writing, and playing Minecraft. Although he often taxes my patience with his lack of focus, he surprises me with his creativity and drive. He started first grade this year and has continued his participation with the gifted and talented program at school.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4whciR0e1waioL2ngc-hJYl4awodDdz4GMQthX7P7RgSMxbwEZI8Rv12mw2eggy_61UbMy8QRoHBDJgVwCFzno1KgLxAernXbRcAwLhlaYg5m9MhqVxCrCxVSTO4SuUe4op_PiTBkkmHc/s1600/IMG_20191214_093748_911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4whciR0e1waioL2ngc-hJYl4awodDdz4GMQthX7P7RgSMxbwEZI8Rv12mw2eggy_61UbMy8QRoHBDJgVwCFzno1KgLxAernXbRcAwLhlaYg5m9MhqVxCrCxVSTO4SuUe4op_PiTBkkmHc/s320/IMG_20191214_093748_911.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I think this would be more appropriately referred to as a "sleepless study"</span></div>
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Can you double check for me to make sure that Sean is still on the "Nice List"? The reason I ask is because he has manifested some more behavior problems both at home and at school this year. The thing is that he doesn't fit the bill as a kid with ADHD as he can have laser focus on a task and obsession with it, almost to the extreme. Anyway, we recently had a sleep study done, as we think he just might not be getting enough quality sleep at night. We're still waiting to hear back from the doctor's office, but we hope we can get some help for him. Sean is a sweet-hearted kid with a tender soul.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiq5kFJukMSv35_nOLAxsrGW7u2ZXTP14aeypYiNHrgIq9cxGEnszMM8lxWzQciPp0VXBf7z17eLGGlFxy3VQSwfQ8_qOgIyAQo5Y2DFDj8O0xFKU7ToS5ntsdLpY8a0EiNfbPOKAX4_8l/s1600/DSC_0112.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiq5kFJukMSv35_nOLAxsrGW7u2ZXTP14aeypYiNHrgIq9cxGEnszMM8lxWzQciPp0VXBf7z17eLGGlFxy3VQSwfQ8_qOgIyAQo5Y2DFDj8O0xFKU7ToS5ntsdLpY8a0EiNfbPOKAX4_8l/s320/DSC_0112.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Probably the most photogenic of the kids</span></div>
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Where to begin with Lucy? She is sweet, kind, and loving to the extreme. This girl loves to be creative, whether is be coloring, playing with clay, painting, or building with blocks. She was supposed to start Pre-K 3 this year, but due to a change in district policy, she wasn't able to. That really made her discouraged, but in the meantime she has been participating in speech therapy at the elementary school and a preschool group with friends.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0ZsJy3-v_rJBE0KLOuTEmysi5DepalKlUVjSJWgsy2OA2EuU4FiU47-iRyj6BtM8AvE-WJ7b22mlK4rCHT5KgHGNouo-brgw9Rug2Cm8PNGNUKSeUMPg-CoLthP5l1XceM2AgbtUh-Md/s1600/DSC_0280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia0ZsJy3-v_rJBE0KLOuTEmysi5DepalKlUVjSJWgsy2OA2EuU4FiU47-iRyj6BtM8AvE-WJ7b22mlK4rCHT5KgHGNouo-brgw9Rug2Cm8PNGNUKSeUMPg-CoLthP5l1XceM2AgbtUh-Md/s320/DSC_0280.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Merry Christmas!</span></div>
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Lucy just wants to be one of the big kids and is constantly trying to show how capable she is to us and her siblings. She just wants to be involved and is learning (sometimes through struggles) that it pays to be a helper in life.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiqmHL7oopYM7cc4qT-5cR9A_x47UpcM1wiRfcIx8dvi33N-eINudKEmGuzv6W4-JxwFGekVnrZbKMuAdfgCsVPMK8SiY1KzFq80eh0DjDiMhO1_PH9_ZM1W_RZQixbGVUx_w-6qaCFq3/s1600/DSC_0219.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiqmHL7oopYM7cc4qT-5cR9A_x47UpcM1wiRfcIx8dvi33N-eINudKEmGuzv6W4-JxwFGekVnrZbKMuAdfgCsVPMK8SiY1KzFq80eh0DjDiMhO1_PH9_ZM1W_RZQixbGVUx_w-6qaCFq3/s320/DSC_0219.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">My Mal Pal</span></div>
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At last we come to Malcolm. He joined our little family on October 3rd of this year and has been an exhausting blessing ever since. I can't say much about his activities aside from the fact that he eats, sleeps, and poops. We are getting more and more smiles from the little guy every day and I can't begin say how much of a relief it is to have such a mellow baby as our last one. I'm excited to see how this little guy develops.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbeQAmayyh6wKJhk2IL8VV9yYbYzuVrMzUOTaar0udY1NVfPPHrhjh2yaHi5ZT7R0gDK8rAUYdqEKlA9bfELYSnOciqpGbZfAgnfUxDCOXRRfSjw-vYQCd52fBEdLMpO8WMW21XFj7btq/s1600/IMG_8996.heic" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1203" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXbeQAmayyh6wKJhk2IL8VV9yYbYzuVrMzUOTaar0udY1NVfPPHrhjh2yaHi5ZT7R0gDK8rAUYdqEKlA9bfELYSnOciqpGbZfAgnfUxDCOXRRfSjw-vYQCd52fBEdLMpO8WMW21XFj7btq/s320/IMG_8996.heic" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Making a person is hard work, y'all</span></div>
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As for Sarah, I think this picture sums up her life perfectly. For almost the past year she's been attached in one way or another to this little guy and has managed to somehow care for the other children along the way. She spends most of her time caring for others, whether is be volunteering at the elementary school or serving her friends. A lot of the time I know she is exhausted at the end of the day with the prospect of another full day ahead in the morning. She continues to amaze me at how much she cares for others and how willingly she offers up her time to help out those she cares for.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV4cv-iOcz6knydBZNZvMpW0cJtuMS20E7AB1z8SD2c3PZLaHkEIhdI1kW6TGXfhmRLdGRRW_hQCqlIsZe4N6nXTRZdXszrvbhoUl9vMN5mNdqP1yLIKoEYp1bNldxFOftzojEC3eRLPd/s1600/20191204_114848.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTV4cv-iOcz6knydBZNZvMpW0cJtuMS20E7AB1z8SD2c3PZLaHkEIhdI1kW6TGXfhmRLdGRRW_hQCqlIsZe4N6nXTRZdXszrvbhoUl9vMN5mNdqP1yLIKoEYp1bNldxFOftzojEC3eRLPd/s320/20191204_114848.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Still working at "Space Disneyland"</span></div>
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As for me, I'm still chugging along at life. This year at work has been relatively successful. I had the fortune on many occasions to show my management the full range of my capabilities. I feel like it has lead me on a path that could lead to better employment opportunities down the road. In the meantime, I still make fun things at NASA Johnson Space Center. A lot of things I make get international exposure, which is nice to see.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRv7Ckej5acuq5aHMun5FIm0DxDwStJzqpwZtqqNhMCqF64aYs-lcAlGu2U9f0vddgITqGtMUk9nJWhY_tNojQQQ8wGAbMdLl7LBTdXiG0wD9eS_GeW38rqvtZd6d4Nmnf8nGyqc2JKXkH/s1600/KIMG0705.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRv7Ckej5acuq5aHMun5FIm0DxDwStJzqpwZtqqNhMCqF64aYs-lcAlGu2U9f0vddgITqGtMUk9nJWhY_tNojQQQ8wGAbMdLl7LBTdXiG0wD9eS_GeW38rqvtZd6d4Nmnf8nGyqc2JKXkH/s320/KIMG0705.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Maclunkey</span></div>
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In my spare time I've tried to keep my hobbies up. I recently decided to start doing a simplified version of Dungeons and Dragons for my kids to help them understand about cooperative storytelling and improvisation. So far that has been a big hit and I look forward to having many adventures for them in the future. I still love doing virtual reality and am anticipating the day when things get so immersive that I forget where I really am. There are too many fun things that I wish I could do. With the new baby, however, I have a lot less time on my hands than I used to.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Literal footage of me versus my mental health</span></div>
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There is one last thing I wanted to mention, Santa, that I have been reluctant to talk openly on the about in years past. I've been open to friends in private conversations and I've discussed this openly with my church congregation. But I think a lot of people I know would be surprised (or maybe not) to learn that I've struggled with depression for most of my life. I really didn't recognize/acknowledge that I had it until I was about 34 years old. Looking back I've realized that it's been with me in one form or another since I was a child. I finally sought help for the problem when I was on the verge of a mental breakdown and I realized how badly I was hurting my wife and my kids. After talking openly about it with family members, I was surprised to find that many other individuals in my family had the same issues. Turns out the problem has persisted from generation to generation and I just happened to be one of the unlucky ones who got the passed the depression/anxiety genes. <br />
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I only mention this because some of my friends that read this open letter may be thinking to themselves, "Gee this guy seems to have it all together," when in fact most days lately I'm struggling to make it through the day. Even taking an SSRI, I have to be careful about making sure I get enough sleep, otherwise I start going downhill fast. And with a new baby that needs to be taken care of in the middle of the night, a lot of old demons that I thought were gone have begin to show their faces again. It's been extremely hard and there have been days where I've gotten up from the dinner table while the kids have been misbehaving and gone straight to bed. I've been frustrated with all the weight gain I've had, especially after losing so much in years past. However, when you feel horrible every second of the day, you do whatever (no matter how irrational) to make yourself feel "good". And, you know what? Chocolate and cheese make me feel "good".<br />
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Anyway, I struggle to remind myself that my body isn't acting rationally and that my thinking is being affected by my whacked out body chemistry. It's hard to see in the moment, but I try to hold onto the times when things seem "okay". I have plenty of friends that struggle with the same problems I do and I hope they know that they don't struggle alone. I know what it's like to have every moment at church be mired in pain. I know what it's like to be to so riled up from depression that you just want to cause yourself pain to relieve the pressure. I know what it feels like to just not want to be alive (not suicidal, mind you, but just wishing life itself would end so you would be free of the pain). Others I know and care about struggle with this to a varying degree, and I would hope that they know they aren't all by themselves.<br />
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I would just hope that those who are struggling are able to take a moment in the times when things are "okay" and realize just how strong they are. I often have to remind myself how much I accomplished in spite of my struggles with mental illness: I was often in leadership positions in high school, I was an accomplished guitar player, I participated in international science fair, I served a mission for my church, I was at the top of my industrial design program at BYU, I obtained my masters degree, married a wonderful woman, and obtained a job where I regularly meet people who have been to outer space. I have to remember that I've accomplished quite a bit in spite of my mental illness, and for that I am grateful. I know for some people getting up in the morning is an accomplishment and for that I sincerely applaud you. Just know that there's one person in Texas that is rooting for your success, no matter how big or small.<br />
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In speaking of one rooting for your success, I guess that's what we are truly celebrating this Christmas season. In spite of all the darkness that I've waded through, I still try to cling to my relationship with Jesus Christ. He is <i>the one</i> that is rooting for our personal success in our lives. He knows the pains we experience day by day and he has the power to heal them. He has the power to wipe away the tears that come when the burden is just too much. When he asked us to cast our burdens at his feet, he was sincerely offering up his time and energies to let us know that we are worthwhile. I hope that more people feel that this Christmas season and are able to keep it with them once the excitement of the holiday season passes away.<br />
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So, Santa, I seem to have gotten a bit off topic. Usually I guess people tell you what they'd like for Christmas. I've really been thinking about it for a while and I've realized that I just wish I had more time to enjoy the things I already have. If you have any of that in your sack this year, I'd love to have a piece. Time is the one thing I seem to have a deficit on. Just know that I appreciate all the goodwill that you have been spreading over the centuries. I'm sure if people thought more like you did, it would truly feel like Christmas every day.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
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-Brad Reynolds<br />
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P.S. We're watching Philly for Christmas this year, so please watch out for her slobber when you come down the chimney.<br />
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P.P.S. I'd also love a trip to Disneyworld for my family, but it can wait until next year.<br />
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P.P.P.S. Still waiting on that Jaeger Fighting Robot if you have room in your sleigh this year.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-8409989135027826232018-12-21T10:42:00.000-07:002018-12-21T13:54:50.941-07:00An Open Letter to Santa - 2018Dear Santa,<br />
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I hope you've had a wonderful year in 2018, full of peace and joy. I apologize for only corresponding with you once a year, but honestly, things get to convoluted the rest of the year that I tend to forget. I'd be a bad pen pal.<br />
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In spite of all the insanity that has been going on in the rest of the world, I think we have fared nicely here in Houston. This year we tried to focus more on doing "stuff" rather than getting "things." I'm realizing more and more that my kids are growing up more quickly than I'd like. Their clothes seem to get smaller and some of their toys get played with less and less. I've decided that the only things they're going to keep a hold of is the memories I give them, so I've been trying to give them positive experiences that they will take with them the rest of their lives.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">My snow angels</span></div>
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Our year started off with a bang... or more rather, a lack of solar radiation. Due to the the hurricane that came through our area, the jet streams got all messed up and it snowed for the first time since we've lived here. I say "snow" is a loose sense because it really just wound up being frozen humidity. Still, to my kids it was snow.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">They might be awesome</span></div>
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Sarah and I were able to have a wonderful anniversary, albeit a few weeks late. I had noticed that my favorite band, They Might Be Giants, was coming into town. We had a wonderful night together where we drove to Houston Heights and ate some gourmet tacos and dreamed about living in the cozy neighborhoods there. The concert was awesome, as expected, and I was able to introduce my bride to the main staple of my musical consumption. All in all, it will be a night to be remembered.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I might become a cowboy</span></div>
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One of my favorite annual traditions here in Houston is to go to the Rodeo and Livestock Show that they hold downtown. It's one of the few times during the year when I really question when I can justify eating a gigantic piece of meat followed by as many deep-fried desserts as possible... Actually, I probably can't justify that, but either way it's a fun experience. This year I was planning on going with Sarah and Leah, but Sarah wound up getting sick. So it turned into a full-day Daddy-Daughter date and a memorable adventure. Leah was a trooper and had a lot of fun, although she was exhausted by the end. Her favorite thing about the entire experience was going on the roller coaster at the fair (which admittedly gave me whiplash and motion sickness).</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Silly Philly </span></div>
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During various times of the year we've taken to borrowing a bulldog for extended periods of time. Philly has become our quasi-adopted pet and we've loved every minute of it. She may be slobbery, chunky, and lazy, but she's such a gentle animal that tolerates all the love we give her. We're grateful for the chance to get to watch her on the occasions that we do and it's always a pleasure when she comes to visit. I suppose it's like her doggy vacation, because now she knows all the right spots in our house to rest and relax.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Waking from sleep</span></div>
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This year I caught the camping bug. I had taken Leah camping on my own last year, but we had just stayed in a shelter at a local state park. This year I started to invest in more tents and equipment so I could go enjoy the outdoors. I was able to go on the annual Fathers and Sons campout this year with Sean, which was fun. The following month, I decided we'd take the entire family up to Huntsville state park, which turned out to be a beautiful little trip. Granted, there are lots of complications to taking little ones camping, but it's all worth it when they yell out exuberantly "This is the BEST TRIP EVER!"</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Testing out our dragon breath </span></div>
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However, our results with camping in Texas have been mixed. I made the mistake of taking the family camping to Galveston at the beginning of June. It was hot and humid, and I don't think any of us had a good night's sleep. By 8AM the next morning, Sarah and I looked at each other and said, "Let's pack up." By 8:30, we were ready to head home.<br />
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Another time we booked a camping spot at Brazos Bend State Park (one of my favorite places to go) and it rained the entire time. I stood outside of the tent in the rain cooking our dinner while the rest of the family tried to stay dry. There was a brief moment where the rain let up for a few hours so we could get some marshmallow roasting in. Rain spattered the tent all night long and made it difficult to sleep. In addition, the moisture in the air collected all over the inside of the tent, leaving puddles underneath all our gear. In spite of all of this, the kids still exclaimed, "This is the BEST CAMPING TRIP EVER!" You have to know it's worth it if they can still say that.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Reliving history</span></div>
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This summer Sarah bravely took the kids to Utah and Idaho on her own for six weeks while I stayed in Texas and worked. She was able to spend lots of time with family and help her parents get settled into their new home in Idaho. It was a hard absence (although, admittedly, the house stayed very clean and I played a lot of computer games), but eventually I was able to go out and join them in Utah. One of the many things we did during my time was take the kids to Lagoon. I went there every year growing up for my dad's company party. It was fun to have my kids relive some of the experiences I had on some of the rides (not a lot has changed there since the 1960s). Leah surprised me with her daredevil spirit, wanting to go on Colossus, the original double loop roller coaster. We will likely go again next summer as well.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A joyous reunion</span></div>
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One of the other nice things that happened during my visit to Utah was that Sarah surprised me with a birthday party with many of my friends that I grew up with. (I suspected something was up that day, but played along because I love surprises.) It was especially poignant because I discovered that one of my dear friends had gone through some almost fatal health issues over the past few years. It was wonderful to reconnect and see these people face to face instead of on Facebook.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVus1hJcm_xEuHHPU_Ou0YqJxmAYPs-vOXPmxcm_c7LTBcKO8XzYSxLwLaXqejZpErkFwHFoBNHEPSdpx4E665Rlxz3C4Hk9mSUO8c_ynPxJcLtpDr6as7Oq79YppE6O1ACvsCQGg-2z4/s1600/42197935_10156765620709444_1106652122574749696_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="720" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtVus1hJcm_xEuHHPU_Ou0YqJxmAYPs-vOXPmxcm_c7LTBcKO8XzYSxLwLaXqejZpErkFwHFoBNHEPSdpx4E665Rlxz3C4Hk9mSUO8c_ynPxJcLtpDr6as7Oq79YppE6O1ACvsCQGg-2z4/s320/42197935_10156765620709444_1106652122574749696_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">"Reentry"</span></div>
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During this past year I've been rediscovering a lot of passions that have had to be on hold while I've had small kids. One of the endeavors I began was designing my own line of 3D printed jewelry. So far, I have had very few customers, but I really enjoy the process. I've also gotten more into virtual reality, photography, and 3D printing at home in an attempt to complete the nerd trifecta.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85BqnHbNT9p9uesCGIU5yNOEneBhRr3EbW_0nhfnqz9_1As2m1s1wPIT7GptzfTm76RgryiPtnqBzI0mtaLFW-X2nzdvkmHHDn1zUSgzP1i-WlD4khvJ9RzNwDyRrpv58DvS6h0BveHgj/s1600/46460717_10156900231294444_3985351461637718016_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85BqnHbNT9p9uesCGIU5yNOEneBhRr3EbW_0nhfnqz9_1As2m1s1wPIT7GptzfTm76RgryiPtnqBzI0mtaLFW-X2nzdvkmHHDn1zUSgzP1i-WlD4khvJ9RzNwDyRrpv58DvS6h0BveHgj/s320/46460717_10156900231294444_3985351461637718016_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">My girlie</span></div>
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Leah continues to pave the way for the rest of her siblings, finally starting first grade. She loves to create artwork and is quite an avid reader. I frequently find a few chapter books hidden under her pillow so she can read a bit before bed. She is our peace-maker in the house and consistently wants everyone to get along.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5xobgL2oyOLT7RAXxdfootpAwucp9GH4w86qhfJl_fYCE_7lCBv9z_Wa2vi4cu54wywU4AmLCh6BnFHJRDT6XkVld4SGFti4LrnZ4Mxl7KuFJS0HR61Le8cvL7o-2GJU1dP8qmc8gh9m/s1600/43950363_10156817784509444_2595446366150852608_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1080" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ5xobgL2oyOLT7RAXxdfootpAwucp9GH4w86qhfJl_fYCE_7lCBv9z_Wa2vi4cu54wywU4AmLCh6BnFHJRDT6XkVld4SGFti4LrnZ4Mxl7KuFJS0HR61Le8cvL7o-2GJU1dP8qmc8gh9m/s320/43950363_10156817784509444_2595446366150852608_o.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">"The Boy"</span></div>
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Sean still marches to the beat of his own drum, which I suppose is a good thing. There are many times when his antics drive us up the wall, but I am amazed at his capacity to love and engage others. Everyone is a potential friend to my boy. He has many qualities in him that will make him a fantastic leader some day. He is running at 110% from the moment he wakes up in the morning and is always questioning the status quo, looking for a new, inventive way to do things. We were informed by his school this year that they would be testing him for the gifted and talented program. He (along with Leah) just began taking taekwondo lessons at the local civic center with the ambitions of some day obtaining his black belt.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Our Lucy Goose</span></div>
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Lucy has had to adjust to being the youngest at home this year. She's taken to it quite well, having her mother's attention most of the day. She continually amazes us at what she picks up from watching her two older siblings. She has an adorable personality that mixes sweet and sassy, but is always ready for a snuggle. She is practically ready for school since she spends a lot of time there volunteering with her mom quite a bit. In the meantime, we're enjoying her cute dances, kisses, and artwork.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIKmmHlUaVTQjEr-eF0eLALUASwLMdaI1lW1SwdiesjQGbRLuJT49WL3aX86qFxHLTpN7DC_RyOXqPrMh84Kvytr0N7yuKRrTvLCsR5bgqYKXRICCp9Z8GGe3ube5VOlwspAUEMak66Rl/s1600/29598341_10156353662774444_898870267067181029_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIKmmHlUaVTQjEr-eF0eLALUASwLMdaI1lW1SwdiesjQGbRLuJT49WL3aX86qFxHLTpN7DC_RyOXqPrMh84Kvytr0N7yuKRrTvLCsR5bgqYKXRICCp9Z8GGe3ube5VOlwspAUEMak66Rl/s320/29598341_10156353662774444_898870267067181029_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nice haircut!</span></div>
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This year Sarah took a step back from her book selling business in order to volunteer on the school's PTA board. She is the VP of membership, a role which she has been inadvertently training for her entire life. She has taken to volunteering a lot at the school, which has allowed her to be more involved in the lives of our kids while relieving some of the overworked teachers there. This past year she whacked off her long locks in favor of a more manageable hairstyle. (Admittedly, I like her hair any way she wears it!) We still are struggling with getting some better results in regards to her health, but we have enjoyed many wonderful outings together.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6o59blIo6CJeVPzpIsBKyoo4Mx7hxZw15mB9znLiAArQ_Tfx-3lwJbeQd_hFzvb8eTiNnwDPONXslBQVDXjcB1D6OyiGLaBZRHmbt0jbhOrJu1YULkr_pxaTOZdbAS6lRw1aJ-iCnVW7/s1600/38910093_10156669552584444_4190063608853430272_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="810" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ6o59blIo6CJeVPzpIsBKyoo4Mx7hxZw15mB9znLiAArQ_Tfx-3lwJbeQd_hFzvb8eTiNnwDPONXslBQVDXjcB1D6OyiGLaBZRHmbt0jbhOrJu1YULkr_pxaTOZdbAS6lRw1aJ-iCnVW7/s320/38910093_10156669552584444_4190063608853430272_o.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Kids, amiright?</span></div>
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As for me, I'm still doing the same thing as always: being a NASA nerd. It's still quite a thrill sometimes to be a part of history. For example, the other day I had Tom Stafford, Gemini and Apollo program astronaut, randomly walk into my office. Granted, he was really looking for a cup of coffee, but I was happy to oblige him. As I said before, I've been rediscovering a lot of personal passions and am always looking for a way to do what I love and get paid for it. I miss being close to my extended family and a number of my dear friends, but I've realized that where we are right now has rewarded us with many opportunities for our personal and familial growth. </div>
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So, Santa, I've been asking you for years now for a Jaeger fighting robot just in case any kaiju start coming out of the ocean, but I get the feeling you either A) don't have one, B) don't think I need one, or C) don't think I need one YET. I'm going to hope for C. Truth be told, we don't have a lot in our family that we need in terms of material objects. All our needs are met; we enjoy a nice roof over our heads and food in our bellies.</div>
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I can't really ask you for much for myself, but maybe there's something you can do for the world at large. I'm sure you've noticed that things keep getting crazy down here. So many people are addicted to anger, almost looking for the next thing to be outraged over. In a society where we have people who are literally paid to play video games, I find it hard to swallow that we still can find things to be mad at. I know we all have differences in appearance, religion, or economic status, but the one thing that I think we should all have is a sense of decency toward other human beings. It hurts my heart to see such anger being hurled in all directions. I've met many people whom I may disagree with in terms of their policies, but I can't deny that they truly want what is best for others. I just wish that everyone would be able to hold a level of decency towards each other. It's okay to disagree with another individual, but it's also okay to talk to them in order to understand their viewpoint, even if in the end you still don't agree. That seems to be what is missing from the world. I don't know if you've got anything in that bag that would work, but if I had one Christmas wish, it would be that. I am told that rapidly blinking advertisements on the side of a web page have massively successful results, so maybe send out the message that way. If that doesn't work, I'd settle for a solution using psychotropic medications... but it's your call.</div>
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All I know is that I witnessed something that I can only call miraculous happen during and in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey here in Houston. During the chaos so many people went out of their way to make sure everyone was safe. During the cleanup it didn't matter if you were a Jew, Muslim, Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, Buddhist, or Mormon (excuse me, member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints). If you needed help, it was there. When I was mucking out houses, random people would stop by and ask if we needed water or food. Massive donations poured in from all over the community. You see, Harvey didn't discriminate; he hit people both rich and poor. Once you stripped away all the material goods, people were all that was left. They realized what valued: life. I am continually grateful for the sense of decency that was awarded to so many people in need during that time. I just wish that kind of decency would be felt the entire year round.</div>
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So Santa, pack up your sleigh and get ready for a busy night. I hope the weather treats you well. I look forward to your visits every year, especially so now that I have little children. The magic and wonder that is in their eyes on Christmas morning is truly a gift in and of itself.</div>
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Sincerely,</div>
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-Brad Reynolds</div>
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P.S. Okay, so if I can't have the Jaeger fighting robot, can you at least get me a hover tank? I want something I can combat the Houston traffic with.</div>
Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-71676715481950052542017-12-22T20:58:00.001-07:002017-12-22T20:58:30.404-07:00An Open Letter To Santa - 2017Dear Santa,<br />
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Where do I begin? I guess I could just start off with the normal formalities like I always do... How are you? How is the missus? Do you have a good break over the spring or did you have to start early this year? I hope all is well up north, because I'm sure you've heard about all the crazy things going on down here below the Arctic Circle.<br />
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I feel like Billy Joel needs to come out with a sequel to one of his hit songs and title it, "We Didn't Start the Inferno", but have the lyrics reference everything that has happened in 2017. Between Twitter wars, fake news, famine, folly, foibles, forest fires, earthquakes, hurricanes, harassment, scandals, and ongoing war... well, we haven't seemed to feel the adage of "Peace on Earth, Good Will Toward Men." In spite of all of that, however, I am sure you know that we're all doing much better here at the Reynolds home. Here is a bit of what has happened over the past year:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pOwQiqkDAeB6fvNZ1pvfPAPqV_kTMmsnd7x0panwUJ57WLR4uUKX30E9kjPcg1gAcFsUWmDEHCsoHDsUIngbtpVnD7dNNJTO9gqp4SC7G5Sjr8oWgo2Nd76kuV7qWB4lBoVXgLECkiNb/s1600/IMG_20170413_201843.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3pOwQiqkDAeB6fvNZ1pvfPAPqV_kTMmsnd7x0panwUJ57WLR4uUKX30E9kjPcg1gAcFsUWmDEHCsoHDsUIngbtpVnD7dNNJTO9gqp4SC7G5Sjr8oWgo2Nd76kuV7qWB4lBoVXgLECkiNb/s320/IMG_20170413_201843.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Our new sactional</span></div>
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We've been loving our new townhome over the past year. It's amazing what a change of venue will do for your sanity. I wish everyone could have their own piece of quiet to call home. It's perfectly situated where I have a 5 minute commute to work, 2 minute drive to the grocery store, 10 minutes from church, and 5 minutes from the interstate. In addition, the kids can ride the bus to school, which is awesome because we don't have to drive them there every day. We've slowly been trying to make this place our own, which is nice to finally be able to do.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">One of the houses I cleaned out</span></div>
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I'm sure you're meteorological elves have been monitoring the situation here over the past year, and let me tell you... it was a doozy. We have been fairly fortunate living near the Gulf of Mexico that we haven't seen any hurricanes... until this year. Well, by the time Harvey got to us, it was a tropical storm, but it was still pretty devastating, to say the least. It's been estimated that 9 trillion gallons of water was dumped on the greater Houston area. And let me tell you, we felt it. It was very disconcerting for the most part, mainly because it was almost a week of incessant rain. However, our little home fared very well with no significant damage. (All that was happened to us was a wet spot on the ceiling of our bedroom and having one of the flood lights on the garage stop working.) We were fortunate enough to be able to take in some friends from church whose apartment was evacuated due to the ground level being covered by 3 feet of water.<br />
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I can tell you that, in spite of all this, I was proud of the response of my fellow Houstonians. Whereas the situation could have devolved into something akin to the movie "Water World", instead I saw an entire city of millions band together to help out everyone that needed it. It was truly amazing to see the efforts that were put forward to try and get everyone back to normal. I spent a few weekends mucking out houses, which was hard, dirty, and sometimes depressing work. We're going to be having a much more comfortable Christmas than some people this year. However, I am grateful that we've been able to help out where we can.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">One year older and one less tooth</span></div>
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Well, let my tell you about what has been going on with the family. Our oldest, Leah, started Kindergarten this year. I never thought that day would come, but it finally has. And, boy, has she taken to all her subjects in school. Thanks to the loving influence of her Mother's book obsession, Leah has accelerated in her ability to read and write. She keeps surprising us every day with the new things she has learned or observed. She still loves to draw and do all sorts of crafty things. On top of all that, she has a big heart and is often the most helpful around the house. All in all, she's our tender-hearted caring girl.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Seriously, anything he can climb on...</span></div>
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Next we have Sean... We refer to him as our monkey, and for good reason. If he's not climbing on the furniture, he's climbing all over you. He has an endless supply of energy and often wears us out every day. It's like he's on full throttle from the time he wakes up until the time he goes to sleep. There is no down time with him, just like a lot of other little boys, I'm sure. He's a real goofball and always wants to have fun... which can be a bit of a problem when it comes time to do work. He's in his second year of pre-school at the local elementary school and has been doing well. He mainly loves to just be friends with everyone he meets. He still loves all things trains, boats, LEGOs and computers.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Lucy and Philly, one of the dogs we occasionally borrow</span></div>
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Our youngest, Lucy, is a silly little cutie pie. Her nickname is "Goose", mainly because we liked calling her "Lucy Goose" when she was younger. (It's also so I can say to her "Talk to me, Goose" and feel like Maverick from Top Gun.) She is an observant little girl that has picked up really quickly on all the things that her older siblings do. One of the most surprising things that I've been adapting to is her ability to clearly communicate what she wants. The first two kids had a bit of a problem with that, but not Lucy. She knows what she wants and will clearly let you know if you don't have it correct. That being said, she's a funny mix of personality between her brother and sister, which can either drive us crazy or melt our hearts.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Time out at Fish Lake</span></div>
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Sarah has taken a little time off this year from selling books in order to focus on the needs of the kids, which they appreciate. She has helped out quite a bit at their school and is the official "Critter Getter" for the Pre-K classes (she gets to transport animals from one of the other middle schools in the area back to the elementary school so the kids can enjoy that animal for the week). In addition to all of this, she is always one of the first to volunteer to help those in need. Her kind and thoughtful heart is something that I have always admired about her.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Me and the James Webb Space Telescope</span></div>
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As for me, I'm still getting deep into nerd-dom both at home and at work. The work with NASA goes in waves where one day I can be struggling for breath and the next I am really reaching to find productive work. Thankfully, we have been recognized for our work both from our customers and from our company management, and we feel that we have a good place here on the teams we are working with. I still have to pinch myself some days and realize that I work at a pretty cool place. (The other day I got to see the J<a href="https://www.jwst.nasa.gov/">ames Webb Space Telescope</a>... the one that is going to replace the Hubble... And I work down the hall from <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Joe_Engle">Joe Engle</a>, who is a very nice man and refuses to retire from NASA). Additionally, I've been getting into virtual reality development, which unlocks a lot of potential for me. It's really fun to imagine, design, and build a world... and then step into that world. We've hosted a few VR parties at our house and pretty much everyone I've introduced to VR has had a lot of fun with it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gonna need a new wardrobe</span></div>
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This year brought some changes for me, health-wise, where I started a nutritional plan along with Sarah and subsequently lost 90 pounds. (The stress of the hurricane helped me gain some back, but I'll lose it again... starting in January). I purposely didn't post any pictures of myself on social media the entire time, mainly because I wanted to surprise my extended family when I saw them at a family reunion this summer. I had to get an entire new wardrobe, but it was worth it.<br />
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In truth, Santa, I have no outstanding needs that I wanted to request of you. I mean, sure, everyone would like more money and time, but I really have everything I need. All I would be asking of you are a few superfluous wants. I guess, after cleaning out the muddy, moldy, stained memories of people's lives from the aftermath of a tropical storm, my attitude on what was necessary changed a bit. Some people I got to help out lost all their worldly possessions. But thankfully, none of them lost their lives. I've been very blessed and I recognize that. I have a good family that loves me, a number of great friends, and the ability to provide for our basic needs. I couldn't really ask for more this year.<br />
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Anyway, feel free to stop by our house anyway this year. I know the kids are really looking forward to your visit. I'm still trying to teach them about how it is better to give than receive at Christmas, but they're still little. Maybe one of these years they'll get it.<br />
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Thanks again for all the good you do, Santa. I hope people can look at you and be inspired to take a little time to be selfless in their lives.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
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Brad Reynolds<br />
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P.S. Seriously, though, I've been asking you for years for that Jaeger fighting robot? You going to bring that or what?Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-65996932572269685372016-12-23T07:03:00.000-07:002016-12-23T07:03:20.960-07:00An Open Letter to Santa - 2016<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Dear Santa,</span><br />
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Greetings again after another year. I'm sorry we don't keep in touch more. I guess we both get busy doing our own things during the rest of the year, so that's no surprise. How have the elves been this year? Did your reindeer get enough training over the off-season? I hope the weather currents aren't too harsh for your yuletide present run this year.</div>
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We've been doing a bit better this year in the Reynolds family. We survived another hurricane season without any unfortunate mishaps here in Houston. Thankfully we have also been able to improve out living conditions quite a bit this year after purchasing a townhome just down the road from where we had been living for the past four years. I can tell you going from 1400 square feet to 2200 square feet makes a big difference. Now my children actually have room to run indoors, I have an attic to store boxes, my wife can entertain guests, and I have a bathtub I can actually fit in. Oh, and now I can grill. And I grill a lot. We thankfully moved down the road and it was relatively simple to pull off. We also were able to keep our kids in the same school boundaries and can still attend the same church congregation we've been with since we moved to Texas. It has been a real blessing.</div>
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I'm still gainfully employed at NASA's Johnson Space Center, working on future concepts of human spaceflight missions. I've also started getting back into doing industrial design work on occasion, which is a welcome change from my normal day-to-day tasks. I never seem to have enough time to do the creative things I want and I keep hoping something will change to get me enough mental energy at night to finish the dozens of projects I have dreamed up. Maybe 2017 will be different.</div>
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My wife, Sarah, has had an up and down year, as I'm sure you've heard. After giving birth last year, she sustained an injury in her back that wouldn't go away without surgery. We were all a bit nervous going into it, but it seems as if the problem has been relatively resolved. (Don't get me started on all the mess we had to sort out trying to get the doctor's office and insurance company to actually give each other the right information...) Thankfully she has had a good challenge this year by becoming an independent sales consultant with Usborne Books. She has filled our home with good books for our kids to read and made a difference in the lives of some of the families she has introduced the books to. I'm glad she has found something that she can do from home while the kids still need her. She's been working hard to get going and I'm proud to see her passionate about something.<br />
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My oldest, Leah, just turned five this past month. I can't believe she's been a part of our family for five years. She continually surprises me with how grown up she is getting. She is now old enough to be a help instead of a hinderance and I'm grateful for the many times when she realizes the joy of helping out others. The other night she cleaned up all the toys without being asked, just because she wanted to do something nice. She's becoming quite the artist and loves to draw, color, paint, and play with play dough. I see a lot of myself in her and I love it when we get to do the occasional daddy-daughter dates.</div>
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My son, Sean, is a boy. A three year old boy. And he has more energy than I think I'll ever have again. I don't seem to be able to match the level of activity he seems to constantly be at. I often say that he's got 100% of his mom's genes in him, which isn't bad, but I'm constantly having to learn things about him and how he functions, sort of the opposite of the way I am with Leah. However, he's got a cheery attitude most of the time (even if it is coupled with a three-year old's sass 75% of the time) and is a friend to everyone. Honestly, if you're not a scary monster, you're automatically his friend. He's got a tender heart and even asks for nice things to happen to cartoon characters when he says his prayers at night. It's adorable.</div>
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Lucy, my youngest, has been both a blessing and a curse to me this year. Don't get me wrong, I think she's the cutest baby ever. However, for the first year of her life I have been the one to get up in the middle of the night to take care of her, sometimes multiple times in the same night. My mental health hasn't been that great as a result of it all and I've been exhausted for quite some time. Thankfully she started sleeping through the night a bit more once we moved into our new home. Aside from that, she's a pre-toddler that's just happy to be here. She always gives us smiles, blows us kisses, and will come plop on you to give you a good hug. She's definitely the cuddliest baby I've had, which makes up for all the times she transformed into a banshee-esque night demon.</div>
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I'm sure your elf intelligence network has already informed you that we mortals here down south have had a bit of a rough year during 2016. The country I live in, particularly, has had less than Christmas-level feelings spread around this past year due to the political climate. The recent presidential election brought out mediocre candidates and bad mojo all around. It frankly got exhausting seeing each individual political ideology vilify anyone that deviated from their way of thinking. As we headed into the holiday season, I don't think that feeling really got left behind.</div>
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Don't get me started on all the negative things that I hear about in the news. Between the domestic violence in my nation to the civil unrest I read about abroad, it's been a bit hard to keep the light of hope shining in our hearts. I think people are feeling a lot of darkness in their hearts right now, either due to circumstances or just hidden hurts. I honestly don't think that presents are going to solve that problem, so maybe you have something else in that sack of yours that might help.</div>
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Usually in letters that people send you, they have a list of things that they'd like for Christmas. I honestly can't say that I want anything. I'm just excited to see my kids open their presents on Christmas morning, or to have my wife be surprised at the gift I got her (she's never going to guess it!). I haven't given a single thought to what it is I want. I guess that is something that just comes with getting older. I'm not saying that I'm a selfless human being, by any means. I mean, I'd love to have some new toys to play with or go on some fancy trips with the family, but the truth is that I really don't have time to play anymore. All of the things I need aren't something you can put in your sack: more sleep at night, more self-confidence, more hours in the day (unless you've got a TARDIS... which I might be able to use). </div>
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In the end, I think maybe just a little more hope is something I could use. I haven't had a real vision for the past few years of what I wanted my life to be. It's lead me to become a bit aimless, taking things one day at a time, trying to soak in whatever scraps of inspiration I can find. I'm not totally lost right now, just a little dazed and confused. Probably a lot of people are feeling that way. If there's any way you could trade a few iPhone 7s in the world for some positivity, it would be appreciated by many more beyond myself.</div>
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So anyway, Santa, I hope your trip this Christmas Eve goes according to plan. We'll leave out a plate of cookies for you. Feel free to eat any leftovers in the fridge. I know you need the calories to stay warm. Most of all, have a Merry Christmas!</div>
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Sincerely,</div>
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-Brad Reynolds.</div>
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P.S. If you really, really need to put something under the tree for me this year, here are a few things that I think would be really great: a Gibson ES-355; components for a high-end PC graphics workstation; an all-expense paid trip for the family to go to Disneyworld for a week; lifetime maintenance for any vehicle we own; free tickets to visit family out west; a 60-inch smart television with soundbar; Google Fiber; no more Micheal Bay Transformer movies; and a never-ending block of Parmesan cheese that has great flavor with zero calories.</div>
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P.P.S. I know those are all tall orders, so if you don't have room under the tree for them, no worries. We've already been blessed with way more than we deserve.</div>
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-67211340339986459212015-12-19T06:04:00.002-07:002015-12-19T06:04:24.738-07:00Dear Santa: My Annual Open Christmas Letter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Dear Santa,<br />
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I can't believe it's been almost a year since the last Christmas. How have you been in the meantime? How is the missus? I'd say you've been very busy this year with all the Star Wars merchandise that I've seen floating around. Hopefully there are enough people still on the nice list to make use of them all.<br />
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So if you remember, last year we had to celebrate Chinese Christmas in February since we were out of town when the regular December Christmas celebration was happening. This year, you can plan on a normal Christmas delivery to our home because we'll be staying home. While I like the idea of spending the holidays with family, the reality of making that happen is significantly harder with three kids four and under. I'm hoping for some quiet enjoyable time together this holiday season with just my wife and kids. In fact, this is the first time I'll be taking off work during the holidays and not traveling, so I hope it is enjoyable as I am hoping it will be.<br />
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I have to admit, this past year was a bit of a doozy for my greater family as a whole. 2015 is not going down as one of my most favorite years. It definitely didn't turn out to be anything like what we were promised in "Back to the Future." Sure there are "hoverboards," but even those are causing more battery-exploding accidents than good. This year my greater family has experienced multiple illnesses, including at least three ambulance rides and a number of hospital visits (some with multi-night stays). We've seen hardship for our nieces an nephews. We've seen unemployment and underemployment strike our family. Overall, I'd say it was a net bad year. If you zoom out, a level, there are a number of crises going on in the world that we all wish weren't there.<br />
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However, I don't want to dwell on the negative things going on. Let me tell you about the blessings we have had.<br />
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First off, we were able to have a wonderful vacation this past summer in Destin, Florida. We were happy to discover that place a few years ago and wanted to experience it again. We were lucky to have my parents come out and stay with us. Not only was it a fun time, but I was able to watch my children interact with their grandparents and reap the blessings of knowing them. My parents are two of the greatest human beings I have ever had the pleasure to deal with and it is my hope that my children can grow up remembering them.<br />
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Secondly, my daughter Leah has been blessed to finally get into a pre-K class where she has had a wonderful teacher to help her along with some of her developmental problems. The latest report was that she was doing great academically and might move out of the special education class and into the regular class. It has been such a nice change to actually hear her communicate things to me, even if I can't clearly recognize all the words. (Now, let's hope we can get potty-training down...)<br />
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Thirdly, my little Sean isn't so little anymore. He's a cute, conniving little two-year-old with a pretty big heart. He isn't shy about playing with anyone or going off to explore the world. Unfortunately, that also translates into him not realizing the dangers that could face him. I am constantly trying to make sure he doesn't kill himself or break something valuable, and that continually wears thin on me. However, he can be pretty fun and he has such imagination.<br />
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Fourthly, my little Lucy Mae came to us miraculously about a month and a half ago. We had been anticipating her arrival into our lives for quite some time. However, when it got close to her delivery date, we discovered that she wasn't in the right position and floated between breach and transverse the last week. Even after the doctor tried a painful procedure to try and get her into position, the little girl just wouldn't get to the right spot. The only way we were going to get her out was through a c-section. After lots of prayers by ourselves and our family, we went into the hospital and got all ready for the procedure to happen. We said one last prayer before we were about to go into the operating room and put our fate in the hands of the Lord. The doctor promised to do one last ultrasound before we went in, and we heard her exclaim, "Am I seeing this right?" Lucy had moved head-down into the correct position, sometime right before. We were all overwrought with emotions of gratitude as we learned we were going to have a normal delivery. About twelve hours later, we were holding our little girl. Although she isn't smiling at us yet, she has been such a wonderful blessing to have in our family.<br />
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Finally, I have been blessed with a wonderful wife who has a lot of faith in me. She gives me much more credit than I deserve. This past summer we left the kids with a friend for the weekend and took a trip to San Antonio to celebrate our birthdays. It was one of the nicest trips I've been able to have. You see, Sarah and I never really had much time get to be just "us" at the beginning of our marriage. When we got married, we immediately focused on having kids. Out of the five years we have been married, she has been pregnant half of the time. With all that focus on family, it has made it much harder to learn to be a married couple. So having just a little bit of time to focus on just us was such a wonderful experience. I wish we had more opportunities to do just that.<br />
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So, as you see, Santa, I've already got pretty much all I want, and it's not even Christmas. Sure, I'd love to build a new PC or live in a bigger place. But I don't know if anything will ever compare to the blessings I've listed above. I think this year I finally understood the real meaning of Christmas. I was brought pretty low this year. I'm sure I didn't handle everything with the right amount of patience and longsuffering. I'm sure I made lots of mistakes. However, I realized that there was a way to be forgiven of all my misdeeds, mistakes, and weaknesses. We're celebrating that reason in a few days. My Savior has come and I'm so grateful for His atonement. I'm grateful that I can be made whole after I feel so empty. I'm grateful that even through the darkness of this past year, I can still have a hope for a better existence.<br />
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So, Santa, go ahead and leave some stuff for the kids or whatever you've already got planned. I'm sure we'll enjoy them. Just know that I think we understand why you give presents. I would be pretty generous too if I was celebrating the best news to reach humanity.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
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-Brad Reynolds<br />
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P.S. I forgot one more thing that I am grateful for: George Lucas didn't have anything to do with Star Wars VII.<br />
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P.P.S. I'd really love a TARDIS if you have an extra one lying around...<br />
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<br />Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-86598863915854489722015-09-07T11:41:00.002-06:002015-09-07T11:41:56.738-06:00MACES: Turntable Rendering<div style="text-align: center;">
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-36808155496268113072015-08-06T14:39:00.001-06:002015-08-06T14:39:06.201-06:00MACES: Wrapping things up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It took me almost a year working between projects, but I finally finished up my model of the MACES spacesuit this week.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A heroic shot, because why not? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Various controls for the head and helmet</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Turnaround renderings</span></div>
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Overall I am very pleased with how this turned out. It's nothing all that glamorous compared to other spacesuit designs I have seen on the internet, but it will be a good asset for our studio to have.<br />
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I developed some pretty complex controls to the rig to simplify the time it takes to animate things. Over the past few years of using Modo regularly, I have grown accustomed to how those controls need to be developed. You can dynamically blend the arms between forward and inverse kinematics, open and close the hands, and open the visor and faceplate. There is actually a lot of dynamic math that goes on behind the scenes to make the controls so easy. For example, this is the setup for the left arm:<br />
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I guess all the practice I had in connecting and disconnecting audio visual equipment finally paid off.<br />
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I have a few more tidbits I want to add into this, but for now the base model will be a great addition to our animations.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-57827390432434394612015-06-12T19:17:00.001-06:002015-06-12T19:17:09.447-06:00MACES: An Update on a Work-Work Work in Progress<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the past two weeks between the all important "Let's Plan the Future of Space Exploration for the World" projects, I have been working heavily on our model of the MACES. Last week I was able to spend a few days sculpting out all of the fine details like folds, wrinkles, and stitches on the model. The high resolution ZBrush model was about 90 million polygons in the end with 19 different sub-meshes. It's probably the most detailed ZBrush model I have ever done. I am curious to know if there are faster ways of getting to an end result, or if I really am on par with how other ZBrush artists work elsewhere in the industry.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_v4mC20JWeJhLh0qfM8Z9Od5PiRsJyrWZ2lw3Ow_rBnHWGsM1OU6g-5Cyj1rx83jsSpi0PzNvg6t-zvhRLWvmxvGBExrRuuk_EMMOviklQPSycYKrn1bkrdzQ4OVzXUBzg4QgLCl8W_S2/s1600/MACES_Front_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_v4mC20JWeJhLh0qfM8Z9Od5PiRsJyrWZ2lw3Ow_rBnHWGsM1OU6g-5Cyj1rx83jsSpi0PzNvg6t-zvhRLWvmxvGBExrRuuk_EMMOviklQPSycYKrn1bkrdzQ4OVzXUBzg4QgLCl8W_S2/s320/MACES_Front_2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Compare this shot to the previous post and you'll see all the details.</span></div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqowVTp3VibLU-WvbjKiHk6X1gJ5FOJhws97HmBlGvBCpdQ1Dinf-FtH_S-fr1LCWKLBc6GfT5YuLz96Yv3qAMDNEj67txyXIi6Q31Qadp78c-z8Kl00oUJIkhFnU3UeWPx-ezI9-V1MUW/s1600/MACES_Front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqowVTp3VibLU-WvbjKiHk6X1gJ5FOJhws97HmBlGvBCpdQ1Dinf-FtH_S-fr1LCWKLBc6GfT5YuLz96Yv3qAMDNEj67txyXIi6Q31Qadp78c-z8Kl00oUJIkhFnU3UeWPx-ezI9-V1MUW/s320/MACES_Front.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aYktAi6C77cy-A792Q-zqzswMQgBBaYDFEBpknDdxweSkg4LlEyCCGQisA1NjO6NjBxwZOjB1vTFtvZKDOWloxkafQyWN1qq9QP6DnNUtlY-6pE-1EJkJNQuWs74NMbGL8qw8VDytdpx/s1600/MACES_Back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9aYktAi6C77cy-A792Q-zqzswMQgBBaYDFEBpknDdxweSkg4LlEyCCGQisA1NjO6NjBxwZOjB1vTFtvZKDOWloxkafQyWN1qq9QP6DnNUtlY-6pE-1EJkJNQuWs74NMbGL8qw8VDytdpx/s320/MACES_Back.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The little details like the zippers and stitches are what really sell it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LF7wOySVsBBUECd29G3ddd8CdMBXJTeMNFCT8tJyUMLDrBhm_2j4F65PeA3hW_3MEdYrneIM6U57CPaMU1SAHb0L5H15FFGxvMaLBTtHYX9p0PL5rAJY2jcjusqs0FjqF1iYlL8eh_PS/s1600/MACES_Front_Close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LF7wOySVsBBUECd29G3ddd8CdMBXJTeMNFCT8tJyUMLDrBhm_2j4F65PeA3hW_3MEdYrneIM6U57CPaMU1SAHb0L5H15FFGxvMaLBTtHYX9p0PL5rAJY2jcjusqs0FjqF1iYlL8eh_PS/s320/MACES_Front_Close.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> One of the most important selling points of a model like this is to see bunching and pinching of the fabric along any seams where it is sewn. It is a long and arduous process to get it like that, but in the end it pays off.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CK2WSdi-BUuEybsuZujSVnrbwQ0cdopcv3aDsNfonK9SCkUD0jTx9l-TOJiDU_JD7rvyxsvjCyzObeSdFK7n_qVB673FUvqN4KDk17eyUZT8SsIqiJo-wO47YKnXOSBummw5ccNZ9w-y/s1600/MACES_Back_Close.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CK2WSdi-BUuEybsuZujSVnrbwQ0cdopcv3aDsNfonK9SCkUD0jTx9l-TOJiDU_JD7rvyxsvjCyzObeSdFK7n_qVB673FUvqN4KDk17eyUZT8SsIqiJo-wO47YKnXOSBummw5ccNZ9w-y/s320/MACES_Back_Close.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Right now all of the "wrinkle" data is coming from a single 8K normal map, but I am considering redoing the UVs to fit is into two 8K maps.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8hfE5OhFh-QjEQ8cD0VLLj3CszzV5_vJIwuQrx_3pd6556aLDfyQoNlfz6NK5o1lBHaUGivlua_wxokiUu7RyJTwvta1VJqxl4YtiOeaBi0Yrx4zFWwdH7m0lxhpBfsYL1hyphenhyphen1Z_6Bf-H/s1600/MACES_Hand.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw8hfE5OhFh-QjEQ8cD0VLLj3CszzV5_vJIwuQrx_3pd6556aLDfyQoNlfz6NK5o1lBHaUGivlua_wxokiUu7RyJTwvta1VJqxl4YtiOeaBi0Yrx4zFWwdH7m0lxhpBfsYL1hyphenhyphen1Z_6Bf-H/s320/MACES_Hand.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I still need to create a mask parts of the bump map. The light grey areas shouldn't have a weave pattern in them.</span></div>
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All in all, I am pleased with the progress, although I learned a lot about ZBrush practices along the way. This is the first time I have ever maxed out my computer's RAM using ZBrush, all 24GB of it. I still have to add a lot of other details in the hard-surface parts like the helmet, but this is good progress.</div>
Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-88566310435316750632015-06-03T18:38:00.002-06:002015-06-03T18:38:47.920-06:00New Demo ReelI decided it was time to update my demo reel now that I've worked at NASA for almost three years. I've come a ways since graduation.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/123432226" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe>Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-73794084151957774302015-06-03T18:35:00.003-06:002015-06-03T18:35:36.605-06:00MACES: A Work-Work Work in ProgressEvery once in a while I get the chance to work on something that doesn't fall under the "Sensitive but unclassified" criteria. One of the things I have been working on between projects at work is a newer, more detailed 3D model of the Modified Advanced Crew Escapes Suit, or MACES. Our current one was cobbled together from older models and photographs for textures. Overall, it doesn't look that impressive when you put it against some of our other models.<br />
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Last August we got to go take some reference photos of the MACES in the lab where it is being developed. It was a very fun experience and I can't say that I didn't geek out a bit. This suit is being designed as a launch and reentry suit for the new Orion vehicle. NASA developed the ACES (Advanced Crew Escape Suit) after the Challenger incident and used it all the way through the end of the shuttle program. This is the next generation with a few modifications.<br />
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I was provided a laser scan of the suit and some basic CAD geometry from one of the engineers at the lab. From there, I have been modeling all of the tiny little details of the helmet and adjustment straps. This is as far as I have been able to get in the meantime, but it's ready for ZBrush and textures in Photoshop:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9B54gcm-JWgTClsZHRhAODaFFvKX58Meloui_NS6NV33d8n5LvV_R28AaQqUMjneA4A8mx5smGyJ7cbZV8KD4YjgT4x1BlM3zj86nnb1vcGSBEbEB4Mgv6XiXTs5eqtSXjbvaNVtKrNR/s1600/MACES_Front.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP9B54gcm-JWgTClsZHRhAODaFFvKX58Meloui_NS6NV33d8n5LvV_R28AaQqUMjneA4A8mx5smGyJ7cbZV8KD4YjgT4x1BlM3zj86nnb1vcGSBEbEB4Mgv6XiXTs5eqtSXjbvaNVtKrNR/s320/MACES_Front.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">This is the shape of the suit once it is fully inflated. Modeling the most neutral pose for the suit will ensure realistic movement when I rig and animate it.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmmGgjpUSAwYzFE7TiGrJ5rVE-iefCUUcYOQp87kiTPucWKZdJy7FfnQ6z82N25mK3DTUj-_RPgbEW-7kWWGvp4EUcYJEJ88cAsMetVJreTP_7-zhHcNXZfTiTaoZh0Ld0THdmeBPEeg/s1600/MACES_Back.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpmmGgjpUSAwYzFE7TiGrJ5rVE-iefCUUcYOQp87kiTPucWKZdJy7FfnQ6z82N25mK3DTUj-_RPgbEW-7kWWGvp4EUcYJEJ88cAsMetVJreTP_7-zhHcNXZfTiTaoZh0Ld0THdmeBPEeg/s320/MACES_Back.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I still have to sculpt out all the small details and wrinkles of the torso. Thankfully, the laser scan I was provided helped out with reference and scale quite a bit.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8ITGVEdq9pH_nutBqO8E2bi9WlxnhT8Gw_ZwRSct5WToOexajE84BHjQqNFZEUiM3MnxD5Yt7nunov2SPoLwCUdnUxB4sxKzQTc1s5bwusCNqGz7ZDUCO2QIlR8wkfLLdSd8Iqou0wF7/s1600/MACES_HelmetBack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd8ITGVEdq9pH_nutBqO8E2bi9WlxnhT8Gw_ZwRSct5WToOexajE84BHjQqNFZEUiM3MnxD5Yt7nunov2SPoLwCUdnUxB4sxKzQTc1s5bwusCNqGz7ZDUCO2QIlR8wkfLLdSd8Iqou0wF7/s320/MACES_HelmetBack.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> I just wanted to point out some one of the cool details about these renderings: there is reflective 3M tape on the back of the helmet that slightly refracts the light as is bounces off of it, causing a slight rainbow pattern in the reflections. I found out a way to replicate that here in the shader.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj596Y6Uvf0JKet2fXk_zp8hr8Lp_lPRyiGqrBzCiEQidFUVWUKz1fvnAqLpOFZ632LOqmhmL2pB1Qt-Qq-Z027xbj3Pu6BW-2pg_XmuB3_vGPYOqKr3nAwVzPWvW1UVddlaBbCZHoDMJbE/s1600/MACES_HelmetFront.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj596Y6Uvf0JKet2fXk_zp8hr8Lp_lPRyiGqrBzCiEQidFUVWUKz1fvnAqLpOFZ632LOqmhmL2pB1Qt-Qq-Z027xbj3Pu6BW-2pg_XmuB3_vGPYOqKr3nAwVzPWvW1UVddlaBbCZHoDMJbE/s320/MACES_HelmetFront.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Another interesting note is that the environment image that I used to light the model is actually a panorama of the suit lab that we took the reference photos in. That way I can match up colors and lighting to make sure it looks correct.</span></div>
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One of these days I will finish it all up, but there is a lot left to do. For example, I've got human heads to put in so it looks real, as well as all the rigging that will go into it. In the end, however, I hope to have a fantastic model and demo reel piece.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-70394109056938462542015-01-04T18:27:00.002-07:002015-01-04T18:29:12.730-07:00Chinese Christmas: My Annual Letter to Santa<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.chinesenames.org/images/holidaygreetings/christmas.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.chinesenames.org/images/holidaygreetings/christmas.gif" height="106" width="320" /></a></div>
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Dear Santa,<br />
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I apologize for the lateness in this letter and hope you'll forgive me. As your elf intelligence agency probably has already informed you, my family and I were traveling during most of the month of December and haven't yet been able to celebrate our own family Christmas. I hope this year you will please oblige in in our late celebration of Christmas and bring our presents sometime this next week. We're calling the celebration "Chinese Christmas" since it's coming before the only new year celebration that follows it:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/d_uIyUdjga4" width="560"></iframe></div>
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Anyway, I know that by now you're probably soaking in the jacuzzi still after bringing joy to all the world, but if you don't mind stopping by for our celebration, I'd appreciate it.<br />
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How is the missus? After hundreds of years of marriage, have you guys figured out how to get along in all aspects? That would be some good knowledge to pass along if you've got some. Even though I've been married for almost four years, I'm still learning how to be a husband. Some days I feel like I've got a long way to go.<br />
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Here are my <strike>demands</strike> Christmas wishes for this year, in no order of importance:<br />
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If you could continue sending good antibodies our way this next year, it would be greatly appreciated. Compared to the previous year, our health this year was spectacular. It probably helped that we had two walls in our apartment replaced that had been destroyed by water damage (and likely mold) as well as having the air vents cleaned. It has been nice to have our kids not be coughing all the time and, although they are kids and are prone to sickness, they have been much happier this year.<br />
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Additionally, if you could send some good health and cheer to all our family out there, that would be great. Both mine and Sarah's parents are continually feeling the ticking of Father Time's clock and we would love to have them enjoy some good health this year. Our kids are still young enough that they might not be forming long lasting memories yet and I would like them to remember their grandparents. I was very young when my Grandma Reynolds passed away and I am always wishing that I could have been old enough to remember her. She loved children and I would have liked to remember that.<br />
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If it's at all possible that you could stop Michael Bay from making any more movies, I'm sure many people would appreciate it.<br />
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Also if have any ins within the aerospace community where they need engineering visualization done, I would appreciate knowing about them. I've been very fortunate in my current job to be involved in some high-profile concepts here at NASA and to work with some brilliant people. However, with only one annually renewed contract keeping me employed, I constantly am wondering when it will feel like I have a career path to follow. It gets a little old when the summer rolls around and I get to wonder whether or not I will be able to go to work on October 1st. Some work outside of government entities would be nice, but I'd take any additional contracts at this point.<br />
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If you have any room in your sack for any vacations, that would be splendid. This past year we had our first real "vacation" as a little family when we spent time with some good friends of ours in Destin, Florida. It was one of the nicest times I've had in a while with my family. The venue was great, the company was better, and I have lots of fond memories of that experience. I've realized that I don't really have many desires for "stuff" anymore and that good memories with my kids are what I cherish the most. Hopefully we'll get a chance to spend some quality time somewhere here in the future.<br />
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I honestly don't think there's much else that I could ask for right now, except maybe to spread out that feeling that we feel at Christmas a little longer. I didn't mind delaying Christmas this year, honestly, because that meant that we could enjoy the spirit of the season a bit longer. Heaven knows that the world needs more of that feeling. Maybe I'll just keep delaying Christmas in the Reynolds home further and further until we have that feeling all the year round.<br />
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Just as a reminder, the fireplace is wired shut to keep the kids out of it. I don't know why we have one in Texas, but just remember that when you arrive. Maybe use some sort of quantum teleportation device or something. That chimney is pretty gross. I'll try to leave some good treats out for you on Chinese Christmas Eve. Do you accept fortune cookies?<br />
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Hope you had a good regular Christmas. See you soon!<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
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-Brad Reynolds<br />
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P.S. I don't know if you remember my request from last year, but if you have any room in your sack for a 300 foot tall jaeger fighting robot, I could use one to take care of some of the cockroaches here.<br />
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<a href="http://www.pacificrimmovie.net/wp-content/uploads/pacific-rim-movie-banner-gipsy-danger-jaeger-kaiju.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://www.pacificrimmovie.net/wp-content/uploads/pacific-rim-movie-banner-gipsy-danger-jaeger-kaiju.jpg" height="147" width="320" /></a></div>
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P.P.S. Actually if you have a TARDIS, I wouldn't mind one of those either.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-16964948592140853092014-01-27T15:58:00.001-07:002014-01-27T15:58:55.351-07:00AMA Unclassified: Z-Suit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few weeks ago I lost my office to my ten-month old son. As such, my 3D free time at home is pretty limited. But on the upswing, we don't have to worry about the kids waking each other up in the middle of the night!</div>
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I have been working on a rigged model of the Z-suit for work. This is the next generation suit that NASA will use to replace the <a href="http://www.nasa.gov/audience/foreducators/topnav/materials/listbytype/The_Space_Shuttle_Extravehicular_Mobility_Unit.html">EMU</a>. There are currently two designs, the Z1, which is a soft-torso EVA suit, and the Z2 that incorporates hard-surface elements into a surface suit. Both can be configured to be used in conjunction with the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Suitport">suitport</a>. </div>
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The rig I created has a wide variety of controls, including some sliders to increase the amount of dirt and weathering on the model. I did a few test renders today to get the hang of how easy it was to work the rig:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdkDw_qf_NTuCXQU8xtv4klG1lYkCxcfRhobeIAh2Ed8MScTryoEPOV8w7EMBtGUAf8HX7qKVeTEUn007DiPM4NHFk6Xp_s3_d45WINbGA9evawz1Dcv0ARkcBYeHpL8FYommcopKlAzP/s1600/Test_Render_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSdkDw_qf_NTuCXQU8xtv4klG1lYkCxcfRhobeIAh2Ed8MScTryoEPOV8w7EMBtGUAf8HX7qKVeTEUn007DiPM4NHFk6Xp_s3_d45WINbGA9evawz1Dcv0ARkcBYeHpL8FYommcopKlAzP/s1600/Test_Render_2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">On the surface of the moon </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Surface of Mars</span></div>
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More fun stuff I have worked on. I hope to animate one of these guys here soon.</div>
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-79796993274846300532013-12-23T20:57:00.000-07:002013-12-23T20:57:23.017-07:00Dear Santa: My Letter for 2013Dear Santa,<br />
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Greetings, good sir. How goes life for you this past year? I apologize for not being awake to say hello last Christmas. With a one year old and another on the way, I was pretty beat by the time you made it to our house. But thanks for visiting us last year. I know the kids eventually will look forward to you coming to our house. Right now they're in that state where they are confused that we're encouraging them to rip up the paper covering their gifts when the rest of the year they are forbidden from ripping up paper. I'm sure you've seen it before, though, so I know you're not going to be surprised.<br />
<br />
By the way, I apologize for the inconvenient entry into our apartment this year. I had to wire our fireplace screen shut so that Leah would stop climbing into the fireplace and covering herself with residual ash and grime. By now haven't you figured out quantum tunneling so you can just bypass the chimney altogether? Maybe ask some of those scientists at CERN. They can probably help you out.<br />
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I'm wondering, do you ever get email from spammers in Nigeria asking you for your bank account? I'm sure you already have these people on the naughty list and have their email addresses on file. Your surveillance system is better than the NSA, so I hear. Speaking of that, maybe you can give some pointers to the NSA on how to ethically gather intelligence reports so that they get into less trouble. I understand that there is a need to gather information to try and head off trouble before it begins, but I think some things are getting out of control.<br />
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Speaking of being out of control, this brings me to my first <strike>demand</strike> wish for the year: a brand new U.S. Congress full of people who have never served in office before. I'm sure you've heard by now about the entire fiasco regarding the recent government shutdown that was initiated by congress. In the end, they just wound up proving to me that they only have their next election in mind, not the actual solutions to anyone's problems. I wound up working from home for sixteen days and was only two days away from having to take personal time and vacation in order to get paid and keep my health insurance. Other contractors I work with weren't so lucky and spent a good month wondering how they were going to pay their bills or go to see family during the holidays. Sure, the government wound up reimbursing both them and the civil servants, but that was after the fact when they realized that they goofed up royally. Anyway, if you could spread some common sense among the voters this year, that would be much appreciated. Any of the solutions I have come up with wind up sounding a lot like the end of the Tom Clancy novel "Debt of Honor."<br />
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Another thing I could probably use this year is a few months of good family health. Ever since July, someone in my family has been either sick or injured at one point or another and it is starting to wear on my mental health. My boy Sean suffered from a few seizures this past summer, but we are counting our blessings that he is doing well now. My mother had a good health scare this past November after a surgery and we spent a good deal of time worrying and praying in her behalf. Sarah injured her back badly once during the summer and I injured my back twice in the past six months. Between all that, there have been colds, the flu, and ear infections between myself and my little family. I'm just kind of sick of it all (pun intended). So if you have some sort of panacea that you could slip into our stockings this year, I would appreciate it.<br />
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Work continues to go well, although I know we could use a few more customers. We are doing well here at Johnson Space Center, but right now our work is limited solely to one team. More contracts equals more stability for my job, despite the fact that it means more work. I don't know if you have any inroads to anyone in the area here for visualization needs, but I hope we can get the word spread.<br />
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One thing I hope I can trouble you for is a little bit of scheduling magic for my extended family. In a few months Sarah and I are going to go on a cruise with my parents, my brothers, and their wives. Right now we're all on track to be able to go, but I know that last minute things might crop up. If you can have some of your "special tactics" elves please work to ensure that everyone gets to go, I would much appreciate it. This is probably the only time we will all get to go on a vacation like this together and I have been looking forward to it for quite some time. Just to give you an idea, we started trying to plan it when I was a senior in high school, some thirteen years ago. It's taken us over a decade to get it going, so I am hoping that everything goes smoothly.<br />
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I think we've got pretty much everything else covered for now. I know little things will come up that will drive me nuts (like randomly illuminated "maintenance required" lights on the dashboard of the car), but we will handle them. This year has been a little rough on me mentally and physically, but I'm apparently still standing. Save some of your presents for those that really need a little more hope and cheer this holiday season. I'm pretty well off in that regard.<br />
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I hope I see you this year, but if I'm asleep when you come this year, I hope you'll understand. It's not easy wrestling two kiddies. Plus, I'll probably be stuffed full of Indian food this year (Sarah and I have started a new tradition of going out to eat on Christmas Eve at a restaurant of non-Christian persuasion as to not inconvenience the owners). Heaven knows I love my Indian food.<br />
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Take care, good luck on the flight, and watch out for predator drones. I hear they are deadly.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
<br />
-Brad Reynolds<br />
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P.S. If you have room in your sack, I actually wouldn't mind a 200 foot tall jaeger battle robot that I could use to fight any kaiju that I come across:<br />
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-17731282893255619522013-11-23T22:33:00.001-07:002013-11-23T22:34:39.940-07:00Sandboxing - An Experiment in Creative Thought.. Through Video Games!I am a casual "hardcore" gamer. That means that I like immersive video games, but with family life, I don't get to play very often. (It's just as well, though. They can be big wastes of time.) In once sense, though, I find that a video game with a good, well thought out story can be just as stimulating and entertaining as a novel (I'm a Tom Clancy fan myself). However, there are plenty of games out there where you watch a set of scripted cutscenes and are expected to act out someone else's fantastical ideas with the false idea that, because you're holding a controller in your hand, you should be in control. These have often been overdone so much to the point where one can almost sense what is going to happen.<br />
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Game creators have gotten more creative with their story-based games, including parameters that allow you to choose the manner in which you will play the game that will affect the ultimate outcome (the Mass Effect and Deus Ex series being chiefly successful in my mind). However, there is one genre that I have increasingly been rooting for, mainly because it allows for a bit more creative thought in the process: the "Sandbox" style game.<br />
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I spent a lot of time as a child in the sandbox in the backyard, creating countless cities (most of which were destroyed with a cataclysmic flood, i.e. the garden hose). I think that's why I like the sandbox games. By definition, a sandbox game has no set story and no linear gameplay. Some might give you a goal to work towards, but none of them specifically require you to follow a story. Many of them allow you to follow your own creative whims, resulting in some interesting creations. Here are a few of my favorite ones that I have played and why I think they are valuable:<br />
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<i>Sim City 4</i></div>
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Okay, so technically, Sim City is a "simulation" game, but the way I play it, it turns out to be a sandbox game. I have been playing the Sim City series since version one, back when I was in elementary school (I hear the <a href="http://games.slashdot.org/story/13/03/06/155246/simcity-5-how-not-to-design-a-single-player-game">latest incarnation</a> is terrible, though). In it, you act as mayor in a city that you build for whatever purposes you would like. In my eyes, it can be a great teaching tool to show how complex civil management can be. I still can't seem to get my cities to maintain a balanced budget... which is why I cheat.<br />
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So for my game, one of the items I use to cheat is called <a href="http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/28373-money-tree-download/">the Money Tree</a>. It's an object that charges you negative money, so it adds money to your account. Lots of it. So I use those funds to plan out a city, experimenting with the best methods of transit planning, zoning distribution, and city beautification. It turns the simulation into a sandbox, allowing me the freedom to do what my creative mind desires without the frustrations associated with the game. This one will always be in my back pocket, even though my favorite version came out ten years ago.<br />
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<i>Garry's Mod</i></div>
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Originally created as a modification of the Source engine created for the Half Life series of video games, Garry's Mod has garnered a very strong following over the years. One of the things that caught my attention was the physics simulations that the game allowed you to dynamically create. It has allowed many people (granted, with too much time on their hands) to create fantastic mechanisms like the one you can see in the video above.<br />
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<i>Scribblenauts</i></div>
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I first played this brand of game on my niece's Nintendo DS and I had an instant appreciation for it. In the game you play a character with a magic notebook. Whatever this character writes in the notebook will be manifested in real life. The game gives you various puzzles to solve, but leaves it open ended as to how you achieve the puzzle. For example, one of the first levels I played had a cat stuck in a tree with the goal being to get the cat down. Deciding not to try the obvious route, I decided to manifest a chainsaw and cut the tree down (with the cat in it, mind you... I'm not a cat person). The puzzle was solved and I got my reward. I was impressed by how many words were actually programmed into the game. Eventually, I just wanted to see how many things I could type before it got confused. I got to "narwhal" and gave up, because it kept manifesting everything I typed in.<br />
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<i>Spore</i></div>
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I'm actually just getting into this game for the first time, although it has been around for five years. The essence of the game is to guide your way from being a single-celled organism to being the dominant species on the planet. The gameplay isn't incredibly complicated and actually is a lot of fun. A few years ago, though, they released the "creature creator" portion of the game for free, which I was instantly impressed with. It allows you to mix and match body parts to create any type of creature that you wished. I think I have more fun designing the evolutionary upgrades to my creatures than I do actually doing the foraging. <br />
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<i>Kerbal Space Program</i></div>
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I discovered this game over the past year and instantly fell in love with it (probably due to my current job more than anything). In the game you are in charge of the space program of a race of small, green, aliens call Kerbals. Although the game is still in development, it can be incredibly addictive in its current incarnation. You design and build your own spacecraft like tinker toys with (hopefully) the right amount of parts to complete your mission. I have had many launch failures, but in doing so have learned the correct way to build and fly spacecraft.<br />
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Oddly enough, however, this game was better at teaching me orbital mechanics than almost a year of working at a NASA center. It has illustrated for me important spaceflight topics like specific impulse, Delta-V, spacecraft staging, and even proper spacecraft design. Not bad for a game that it technically still "beta."<br />
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<i>Minecraft</i></div>
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Of course, this is probably the most successful grass-roots sandbox game ever developed. For those who haven't heard of it before, I can basically describe it as "digital legos." You can build any blocky creation that your mind desires, as seen in the image above.<br />
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This game actually has a survival mode as well, (you have to go around and collect resources and protect yourself from monsters) which I like playing with other people. My extended family all have this game as well as our own private server that we play on occasionally. By playing with other people, we can divide our labor and collect more resources. This allows for faster construction and overall safety for the group in the world. It is quite fun to see what you can achieve with other people at your side.<br />
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Overall, I think gaming companies could learn something from the more successful sandbox games out there. Nowadays it seems like the only thing being encouraged through mainstream games is more guns, faster cars, more zombies, more aliens, and more turning off your brain. We give babies toys to help stimulate their brain, but often forget that there are still ways of stimulating your brain and having fun while doing it. While I admit that there are plenty of people who waste their time on video games, I would still argue that they are a valuable medium for creative thought. People can waste time crafting, golfing, reading novels, watching reality television, running for political office, etc. Moderation in all things applies across the board, whatever your activity is. However, I believe that video games, like many other mediums, has the same power to instill imagination within individuals.<br />
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So keep calm and game on!Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-2924994231215815542013-11-23T21:23:00.002-07:002013-11-23T21:23:42.229-07:00Thankful for Dry Brine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I normally don't post anything really food-related on this blog that isn't somehow used as an art project first, but I have been meaning to share this. A few years ago I was asked by a friend to cook the turkey for our upcoming Thanksgiving dinner. My first go-around turned out okay, but ever since then I have been searching for the recipe for a perfect turkey.<br />
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In recent years I started looking into the process of brining the turkey before cooking. However, brining in itself can be a messy process since it includes immersing a large, dead piece of poultry in a salty solution for a long period of time. An alternative solution I learned about was dry-brining, which gives the same benefits without the mess. <br />
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Over the past year I have been experimenting with dry-brining poultry and have come across a combination that seems to work fairly well. It leaves the turkey moist, tender, and with just the right amount of salt and herb taste to it. Here is my typical recipe that I follow for a 16 pound turkey:<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
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<ul>
<li>3 1/2 tablespoons kosher salt</li>
<li>1 tablespoon thyme</li>
<li>1 onion</li>
<li>1 orange</li>
<li>4-6 bay leaves</li>
<li>1 cup butter (2 sticks)</li>
<li>Black pepper</li>
<li>Rosemary</li>
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Supplies and equipment:<br />
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Hefty-OneZip-Jumbo-2.5-Gallon-Multi-Purpose-Bags-12-ct/11027203">2.5 gallon storage bag</a></li>
<li>Roasting pan & rack</li>
<li>Aluminum foil</li>
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Preparation:<br />
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I hope the turkey is thawed when you try this, otherwise you'll have a hard time. Typically you want to do your brining for three days. You can do this in two days in a pinch, but the longer it stays in, the better the effects. Three days before your dinner, lay the turkey out on a cookie sheet (or another type of container that will contain any spills). In a small bowl mix together 3 1/2 tablespoons of kosher salt and 1 tablespoon of thyme. You can remove the giblets and place them aside if you're going to be using them. Pat the turkey down with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Rub the salt and thyme mixture on the outside and interior cavity, focusing on the breasts and thighs.<br />
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You will then need to place the salted turkey into the 2.5 gallon storage bag. (Place the giblets in as well if you are going to use them.) Place the turkey in the refrigerator, breast side up. Every 12 hours, massage the breast and thighs of the turkey through the bag, then alternate between breast side up and breast side down.<br />
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At least 8 hours before you need to start cooking the turkey, take it out of the bag and place it on a platter or cookie sheet in the fridge. Pat it down to remove any excess moisture.<br />
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One hour before cooking remove the turkey from the fridge and place at room temperature. Slice the onion and orange into quarters and set aside. Remove the butter from the fridge to soften up and slice into 1 tablespoon sized segments.<br />
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Preheat the oven to 500 degrees. Here's where things can get a bit tricky, but with a careful hand, you can make it work. Carefully separate the skin from the breast and thighs of the turkey, taking care not to tear the skin. Place the pads of butter under the skin and inside the inner cavity. Season beneath the skin with salt, pepper, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stuff quartered onion and orange into inner cavity.<br />
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Place turkey in a roasting pan on top of a roasting rack (I find that if I don't elevate it from the bottom of the pan, it tends to fall apart while cooking... not ideal)When cooking your turkey, follow <a href="http://allrecipes.com/howto/turkey-cooking-time-guide/">the standard guidelines</a> for cooking length. I typically cook mine at 500 degrees for the first 30 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 325 for the remainder of the cooking time. If the skin around the breast starts to look too brown the last hour, I place a light foil tent over it to shield it from the direct heat.<br />
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Once your turkey is done cooking, remove it from the oven and let it sit for 30 minutes lightly tented in aluminum foil. After that, have at it! I hope it turns out good. This method hasn't ever let me down for creating moist, tender, savory turkey that all can enjoy.<br />
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One thing to note is that because of the salt-brining, the drippings might be too salty to be used in any gravy. That is one drawback to this method, but you can always find alternative methods to cook gravy.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-4171281682867426192013-10-30T20:42:00.004-06:002013-10-30T20:42:48.842-06:00Cucurbita Maxima 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have to admit that having two children under the age of 2 sort of drains my desire to do fanciful holiday crafts. However, I've set the bar too high for myself, I suppose. Anyway, this year I decided to do a rendition of Robert Downey Jr. ala Iron Man 3. I recently got to see the movie for the first time (the reason: two kids under the age of 2) and really enjoyed it. Actually, I really like all the Iron Man films, so I think this is a fitting tribute.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> The time waster</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">The time waste-ee</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">I had to put in a shot of my daughter's pumpkin</span></div>
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<a href="http://rfxdesign.blogspot.com/2009/10/cucurbita-maxima-caring-how-to-guide.html">Click here</a> for my comprehensive guide on how to do one of these. I think next year I might try carving one of these out with a rotary tool. No joke. I would love to know how to make these go faster.<br />
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-87081400303721545092013-10-03T18:54:00.001-06:002013-10-03T18:54:53.019-06:00Mark 3 Suit - Grunging it Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even though NASA might be shutdown, that doesn't mean that I have to stop working (yet... but that's another story). In the mean time, I am at home doing some work. I finally got the chance to take the Mark 3 suit into ZBrush to do some fine detailing:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3qlPBiCX4nQBohLmOjTpeHQkICWmSalEQGonawLuXOb9cP15y0OLPYR2WsgcORktzgLrbYedtuGVxV7KLy7NAVNNzmsMLFYEFTn8Ox8ijCnq09gb_oc3GuNf-58mqti7cud3bwON21EB/s1600/Mk3_TestRender_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3qlPBiCX4nQBohLmOjTpeHQkICWmSalEQGonawLuXOb9cP15y0OLPYR2WsgcORktzgLrbYedtuGVxV7KLy7NAVNNzmsMLFYEFTn8Ox8ijCnq09gb_oc3GuNf-58mqti7cud3bwON21EB/s320/Mk3_TestRender_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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After I got to putting back in the seams and wrinkles that didn't show up from the laser scan, I went back and created some grunge maps with added dirt and yellowing of the material. I even programmed in some controls for the rig so you could determine the level of dirt and weathering of the suit to fit whatever needs you had.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHrtpNos9D-kXL_swx067xHRvTZ8sQCmFdO_bja7VZwc2MdEOM_AYQW14PKmEl0iZ4w7kcjzwU_ZANA7hmGpAAwnjjCUFFFw8LtD1JBcNrlQY59MxIBwK7yXIHXrV0XliBDwBNnYrQIcN/s1600/Mk3_TestRender_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHrtpNos9D-kXL_swx067xHRvTZ8sQCmFdO_bja7VZwc2MdEOM_AYQW14PKmEl0iZ4w7kcjzwU_ZANA7hmGpAAwnjjCUFFFw8LtD1JBcNrlQY59MxIBwK7yXIHXrV0XliBDwBNnYrQIcN/s320/Mk3_TestRender_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Now to test it out in an animation. The rigging on this uses Modo's full body IK system, which doesn't always work out for the best.</div>
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Let's hope this shutdown doesn't last too much longer.</div>
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Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-81894252888620870472013-08-22T18:28:00.002-06:002013-08-22T18:28:44.182-06:00NASA: Asteroid Redirect Manned MissionSo for the past few months I have been working hard with the concept analysis team here at NASA JSC, helping them visualize the recently announced asteroid redirect and utilization mission. It has been quite the brain-opening experience, learning about all that goes into planning a mission of this caliber.<br />
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One of the main things that we have been hard at work at here is an animation representing the manned portion of the mission, which is what the JSC team has been focusing on. This animation was presented at a mission formulation review up at NASA headquarters:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/jXvsi7DRyPI" width="400"></iframe></div>
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It was very well received, which was good news for us. We spent a lot of time this go-around making things look realistic and getting everything we could technically accurate. (We had gotten a lot operationally wrong the first time we did an animation of this mission).<br />
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If you're wondering what I personally did in the video, it was pretty much the part from when the two spaceships dock to when they separate. All of the modeling and animation was done in Modo while we did the compositing. To save render time on some of the less complicated vehicle shots, we wound up using <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&ved=0CC4QFjAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.videocopilot.net%2Fproducts%2Felement%2F&ei=E6sWUraGOIWY2gWNk4HIAg&usg=AFQjCNGmJvMazjF0mukETftXdlkmfWcK7g&sig2=0ts-ewYPvEt0eZ6tngmB_A&bvm=bv.51156542,d.b2I">Video CoPilot's Element 3D plugin</a> for After Effects. It took a lot to set up, especially since it doesn't cast shadows, but we wound up getting it in the end. We also got to do our own J.J. Abrams-style lens flares for it, which was a nice touch in the end. We used SonicFire Pro for mixing together the music, which helped out a bunch in the long haul. It's a handy piece of software that anyone who regularly does videos needs to pick up.<br />
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Overall, I am pleased with the results. It's a good blend of artistic interpretation with real engineering planning behind it. Here are a few more still images that I created that were used in the review:<br />
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<br />Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-24906739305424332642013-08-11T09:32:00.001-06:002013-08-11T09:32:29.699-06:00AMA Declassified: Mark 3 Surface Suit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's another peek into my work. We recently got connected to the group here at NASA JSC who are working on the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_III_(space_suit)">Mark 3 surface suit</a>. We showed them a few things that we could do and they were interested in how that could apply to their work. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkq13ENChol_4JhnpG3GvYnA3XYi0q_6QEF0ix1ADy3xJ4BzXeaF4Rg7LcHawIYq5V2_TSQ53SrnotymYgd-rQYfgtrRQjb8-uAEGQ0ndB3aSw2ccRoKoppHPPYmjFH_kMarkiS_So8TI/s1600/Mark+3+Views.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkkq13ENChol_4JhnpG3GvYnA3XYi0q_6QEF0ix1ADy3xJ4BzXeaF4Rg7LcHawIYq5V2_TSQ53SrnotymYgd-rQYfgtrRQjb8-uAEGQ0ndB3aSw2ccRoKoppHPPYmjFH_kMarkiS_So8TI/s320/Mark+3+Views.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As a bit of a test run, they gave us a 3D laser-scan of the Mark 3 surface suit. We quickly did a quick texturing and rendering of the raw file, which was well into the millions of polygons.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ31JfW1kcSKRMVzAbMvFwJhNZAIrKox5v3jnfEnnkeRP1o1ii6nhm8RzgvNTmBztytsYqasGtghN-FOTnCnQ7vQegEok7ARinqw4OMSQ-jlMQhVJC84h7-7Tplhrd9Cmum_PQilihZAVm/s1600/Moon+Surface_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ31JfW1kcSKRMVzAbMvFwJhNZAIrKox5v3jnfEnnkeRP1o1ii6nhm8RzgvNTmBztytsYqasGtghN-FOTnCnQ7vQegEok7ARinqw4OMSQ-jlMQhVJC84h7-7Tplhrd9Cmum_PQilihZAVm/s320/Moon+Surface_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
I am in the process of creating a low-resolution version of the suit, after which I'll project all the details of the high-resolution into a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Normal_mapping">normal map</a>. It should be a good asset to have, once I finish it. It certainly will be hard to create a usable rig for the legs, though, looking at the joints in the hips. I'm still scratching my head about how to tackle that one.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-85708628248357057082013-08-02T09:52:00.000-06:002013-08-02T09:52:13.965-06:00ZBrush - Lunar Surface<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYKlv2OtM0GUMpgFcxhq7XfnCLI_eJB0lMiQ50Hz5axSD_aiaxPRErOKpv_8dBfq-MAtvx-uQJ_28KdNIZmteVyAUfTbE12d9xH1TNVzyOzaOB7bQl2ujA4otUuR6R8ZIxDHjGmbU9BTN/s1600/TestRender.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYKlv2OtM0GUMpgFcxhq7XfnCLI_eJB0lMiQ50Hz5axSD_aiaxPRErOKpv_8dBfq-MAtvx-uQJ_28KdNIZmteVyAUfTbE12d9xH1TNVzyOzaOB7bQl2ujA4otUuR6R8ZIxDHjGmbU9BTN/s320/TestRender.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have been meaning to do a lunar surface ZBrush sculpt for work, and I finally got some time to work at home today. This was knocked out in about three hours. If I was doing it right, I would have split up the UV map into four or more tiles, but as it currently sits, the final texture maps were around 8192x8192 pixels.Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1710042180745391320.post-3439204525066423812013-07-06T12:32:00.001-06:002013-07-06T12:33:18.445-06:00ZBrush 4R6: ZRemesher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I haven't had much free time lately to do 3D stuff on my own at home, but I really wanted to try out a new feature in ZBrush. The latest release included a tool they have been developing called "ZRemesher." It essentially uses complex algorithms to analyze the surfaces of your sculpts to create a base mesh that works with the curves. With the addition of this tool, it makes sculpting that much easier.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt_BI7Wg59tup4wHOGbMFOm0K98ZKFLtgcfjx-5lFCKKPJ2SBnR2hTH7FvkBSoew5BqNIKK2v7mx4hWOYveTal78DvMewB6vD4YdqMmhTldSZIExzMn_i_J22BBGxLp3s9XXWtG8vX666/s1600/OldMan.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="93" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdt_BI7Wg59tup4wHOGbMFOm0K98ZKFLtgcfjx-5lFCKKPJ2SBnR2hTH7FvkBSoew5BqNIKK2v7mx4hWOYveTal78DvMewB6vD4YdqMmhTldSZIExzMn_i_J22BBGxLp3s9XXWtG8vX666/s320/OldMan.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I did the above old man in about two hours in ZBrush. It started off as a Dynamesh sphere where I got it to the proper size. After that, I drew some curves on the surface to suggest how the polygon flow should be generated, then let ZRemesher do its magic. I can't complain:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkasO9uZ6hJhlgB0LS6qeTU3DwrWmRjfCZIUXOKD4Rorhx40aMYlTx1ayEMj3n9ZRq1qo2UpQdQ4PP0bsLP24-nLkLLvvhePbzEmdheJ8oZ4rnBZdXeiigycEtfOjehSlRGC93_XZrNgQt/s1600/OldMan_Polys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkasO9uZ6hJhlgB0LS6qeTU3DwrWmRjfCZIUXOKD4Rorhx40aMYlTx1ayEMj3n9ZRq1qo2UpQdQ4PP0bsLP24-nLkLLvvhePbzEmdheJ8oZ4rnBZdXeiigycEtfOjehSlRGC93_XZrNgQt/s320/OldMan_Polys.jpg" width="282" /></a></div>
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This truly solidifies ZBrush in my mind as a great development tool. It's great to worry about technical details later and just focus on the creative at first.</div>
Bradhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00634756962132345559noreply@blogger.com0