Copy Cat

I've had a bit of a debate this year with Christmas cards. When I first started doing cards, I sent them to everyone and their dog, which cost me a pretty penny in postage. And I got, like, 5 in return. So then I decided I'd just send them to the people that sent them to me, but then I was sending some out the day after Christmas. Then I started keeping track, and only sending ones to those that sent them to me the year before. Hmm, that sounds kind of Scroogey.

But anyway, since the world has gotten more electronic and virtual, I'm going to post my Christmas letter following the examples of Amy and Kristy. I'll probably also email, and still send a few cards to those that don't have computer access.

Greetings, family and friends! This year has flown by so quickly; I can't believe it's time to write another Christmas letter. We've been busy busy busy...

Jakob turned 5, and is now in Kindergarten. His first love, Spider-man, has been replaced with Iron man. He played an unenthusiastic season of T-ball in June. He's kind of indifferent about school, but gets really excited when he knows the answer on his homework. He can color, draw, and talk until the cows come home, eat, and get milked. He's as sweet as ever and is a great big brother to his siblings.

Brock is 3 1/2, and is our strong silent guy. He always talks with a purpose and is very earnest in his execution. He's very content to just sit and suck on a blanket's fringe and observe the goings-on in his surroundings. He loves to be pampered and held. He's very protective of his little sister and loves to play with her and his brothers.

Troy is our 2-year-old. He's Very Important and would hang out with the adults over the kids in order to make sure he knows what's happening. He's quite the little ham, and has a bit of sass and temper. He's very mischievous as well, but his cute little smile has saved his life more than once.

Ivy Marie was born May 11, 2008, on Mother's Day no less. She's a sweet little thing and is the most protected girl on the planet with three older brothers that love her and coddle her. She loves to eat, and sleep, and eat, and smile, and eat. She's discovered that sitting is awesome, and can do it forever.

Pete has been working at the INL. He loves him some World of Warcraft in his spare time. He got his 5th "baby" (kidney stone) right before his 30th birthday, and ended up spending the day after his birthday on a surgical table getting it removed. Pete started a blog this year as well: http://iztrebitelya.blogspot.com/

I've been keeping busy being a co-coach for T-ball in June, being a room mother for Jakob's class, being the organist in our ward and 2nd Counselor in Young Women's. I also started blogging, which has become my new favorite hobby. I try to keep it updated with the craziness that 4 little kids can bring into the world: http://natpete.blogspot.com/

I hope this Christmas season brings good luck, good wishes, and good tidings to each of you. May the Spirit of the Lord bless each of your lives as we strive to remember the true meaning of Christmas.

With much love,
Brian "Pete", Natalie, Jakob, Brock, Troy, and Ivy