Post a Comment On: The Family

Merry Christmas from the McDonalds
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Wishing all our friends and family Happy Holidays.
We've had another great year in 2011, which we are grateful for as we know there has been much hurt for others. Our prayers and hearts are with those who need it.
Since Christian is writing the letter this year, it will be very list-like. That's the kind of guy he is.
Cory is still teaching 4th grade at Mills Elementary and enjoying it. She is teaming with a new teacher this year and of course has a whole new batch of kids, so life is always new and adventurous. It's great to "work" at something you love doing.
Christian is still at the Statesman and still the Online Projects Editor, but has also added duties as Data Editor, meaning he is helping the investigative team with stories that deal with databases or large spreadsheets and such. New skills, new challenges and a couple of front page bylines.
But it's the boys lives that have changed the most. They both have had significant growth (physically, mentally and emotionally) and accomplishments! Sean earned his black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Brian earned his Eagle Scout award after completing his project building agility training equipment for the Texas Hearing and Service Dogs. Both boys attending the National Youth Leadership Training for scouts during the summer. Brian and Christian hiked for 10-days at Philmont Scout Ranch ... a wonderful experience. Sean was elected Senior Patrol Leader, giving him a "direct nagging link" to the Scoutmaster, his dad. Brian started 9th grade at Bowie High School, ran on the Cross Country team, placing as the second freshman at the district meet. Brian has also been using his running skills to help his dad train for a marathon in February. They are also looking forward to a 15-mile run through Big Bend National Park in January. Brian has continued to play soccer, his team moving back into a select league this past year. Sean is excelling in 8th grade and is generally doing well. He'll apply to attend the Liberal Arts and Science Academy at LBJ High School next year. We started 2011 with a New Year's Day hike, like we've done over the last several years. In 2001 we visited Pedernales Falls State Park with the Reyes family. Still one of our favorite parks, and so close to home. On the first day of 2012, we plan to hike the trails of Bastrop State Park, to support their efforts to rebound after a devastating wildfire this past summer. They say 70% of their trails are open, so we hope to see new life growing from the burned remains. Our state parks need your help ... they are asking for donations, or better yet, just visit one or several this coming year.