I didn't get around to making a Christmas card last year. We had just moved into a new place in Dillon, were in complete survival mode, and our computer wasn’t even set up yet. So, you didn’t hear from us last Christmas. Now looking back we can see that at that time it was as if our lives were a seed that God had buried in the dark dirt, because this year was one of great blessing and growth for everyone in our family. That seed God planted in a new town burst forth into the sunlight, ready for new opportunities, and boy did God deliver them.
Owen celebrated one year at Sysco in October. In that short time he advanced to the top ranks in the Northern Rockies region, which doesn’t surprise us in the least, as he is the hardest worker we know. In his spare time he has been practicing judo as a member of the Butte Judo Club, as well as teaching class while the instructor is on sabbatical. This spring he coached Rhodes in t-ball and did a wonderful job. We are enjoying having him around much more because of his new work schedule, and we are continually reassured that we made the right decision to move, even if it’s to have Owen home more!
I (Nicole) have continued to homeschool the kids while integrating into a new community. I serve as the VP of our local homeschool co-op, and have started singing on the worship team at our church. Half of this year was spent recovering from my third ACL surgery that I had in January. Perhaps the most exciting thing that happened to me this year was shooting my first animal the second to last day of the hunting season this year. Those that know me well will be very surprised at this, since I have had zero interest in hunting my whole life. Something in me changed this year and my brothers took me out to shoot a gun for my first time ever during Thanksgiving vacation. 33 hours later I had a whitetail buck on the ground on my first shot and I was so proud. I am excited to be able to contribute to meat in our freezer for years to come.
Ralston Thomas
Ralston turned 7 in March, and this year has been one of many firsts for him. In January he won a spot in the Missoula Children’s Theatre’s production of Aladdin. He had fun performing on stage at Montana Western for his family who came to see him. He tried several new sports this year: wrestling, baseball and flag football. In June he went on his very first sleep away church camp up in Hyalite canyon. We missed him more than he missed us, which is just a way to say he thrived and had a wonderful time on this big kid adventure. He joined 4H this year, and entered a project into the Beaverhead County Fair. Another first for him was Speech and Debate club, where he participated in the local tournament and did very well. Lastly, he began taking piano lessons again after taking a year hiatus due to our move. He is excited to be playing again.
Rhodes LeRoy
Rhodes turned 5 in October and has grown tremendously this year. He now reads independently and it has given him so much pride and confidence. Rhodes also participated in wrestling, baseball and flag football this year, which were all new sports for him as well. His flag football team won the championship and he is so proud of his first trophy. He has been enjoying going to AWANA each week where he memorizes God’s Word. Rhodes particularly loved helping Owen and I process my deer and grinding it into burger. He seems to take after his dad, because he has loved helping in the kitchen making meals. He has a great sense of style and frequently asks me to “hawk” his hair. He has a silly side that has come out more, and he keeps us laughing on the daily.
Ingram Lynn
Ingram turned 2 in January, which means she is weeks away from being 3. She has loved being apart of the preschool group at our homeschool co-op and is making many friends. She started dance class this year and is thriving in it. She had her first dance recital this month and was very excited to be on the big stage. She is quite a confident girl, and has no trouble keeping her brothers in line. Rhodes tried to get one over on her this year though, and took it upon himself to give her a haircut. He took two big chunks out of her hair, one in the front and one in the back. Please notice how in this picture the carefully placed headband is actually hiding her brother’s hack job! She is full of life and love and joy and she is so precious to us.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a wonderful 2024!
Love from Owen, Nicole, Ralston, Rhodes and Ingram