In case I hadn't mentioned it lately I want you all to know how much I love you. This time of year we naturally reflect on family and friends that we can't be near, but I've been doing it so much more so this year. I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas, full of your families and the love of our Savior. Here's a little update on us (I promise the next one will have pictures!)

We are doing wonderfully here in Wyoming. Cory has made huge leaps at work and we're hoping that in just a couple of months he will be the new Accounting Supervisor at work. That would put him only one step below the Chief Financial Officer, which is the highest accounting position you can hold in the private sector. I'm so proud of him. He works so hard for our family and I couldn't have asked for a better eternal companion.

Trace started Kindergarten this year and has learned to read. He's trying bigger books all the time and can't wait until he can read Skippy John Jones all by himself. He's so ready for Christmas to be here. He'd like a pillow pet and I think he'll be pleasantly surprised by Santa this year. He's a peacemaker in our home and I'm can't imagine our family without his gentle spirit.

Kenadee is in Preschool and loves it. She's always making me bracelets out of beads and pictures for her wall, and she loves that she's figuring out what letters do and say. She's very observant and has been watching Trace as he learns to read. As a result she's starting to pick up a few words herself. What a smart girl.

Jaxson is in Kenadee's preschool class as well getting help with his speech. He's made great progress and we can understand almost all of what he says here at home. He's mommy's little spitfire and he loves to play with his brothers and sisters. He keeps us on our toes and says some of the silliest things. We sure love having him in our home!

Mason has become very active and wants nothing more then to be with his brothers and sister causing all sorts of trouble. He refuses to sit in his high chair and wants to be a big kid at the table. He's starting to talk and his two favorite words are "Santa" and "Daddy". Did I mention that he's a cuddler (my first actually) and nothing melts my heart more then to have him wander over and just lay his head on my shoulder. It just makes me smile.

I'm doing well too. I've got 3 terms left and I'll have my bachelors degree. I look forward to being able to spend my evening vegetating on the couch and not doing homework, but I also know how important it will be to our family for me to have a degree should anything ever happen to Cory. It's been a good experience and it will be easier for me to be able to encourage our children to get degree's of their own if I've got one. I'm also anxiously waiting for our second little girl! Kenadee is so excited for a sister and I must admit that the thought of cute, tiny, pink things just makes me smile.

May the spirit of the season warm your homes and families and may our Saviors love be present for the continuing year! We love you all so much and can't wait until we get to be with you again!

Love,

The Hadley Handful