2012 ~ Year in Review

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” ~Ephesians 3:20-21

Dear Family and Friends,

Once again, we find ourselves reflecting on all that the Lord has done in our lives, as a family, over the past year. In some ways it was quite eventful…but in others, it was really made up mostly of simple, everyday moments.

Our son, Titus Ryle, was born on February 7, 2012, at 4:49 p.m. He weighed 7 pounds, 12 ounces, and measured 21 inches long.  He is named for Titus, a Greek convert to Christianity, and the recipient of the New Testament epistle. In Latin, Titus means “A great defender.” In Greek, it means “Honorable.” His middle name, Ryle, is in honor of John Charles (J.C.) Ryle, an Anglican pastor inEngland, in the 1800’s. It is said “that perhaps few men in the nineteenth century did as much for God, for truth, and for righteousness, among the English speaking race, and in the world, as [J.C. Ryle].” Our prayer is that he would grow up to truly live out the meanings of his name. And, that he would be a man of honor, and a great defender of the faith…much like these faithful men of God whose names he bears.

Today, he is an adorable, 10-month-old bundle of energy! Even though he only recently started crawling, he seems determined to be walking (or running!) by the end of the year! He has 6 teeth, and is currently working on (at least) one more. Sleep is still viewed as a somewhat optional activity in his little world…and therefore in mommy’s as well. But, he more than makes up for the lack of sleep with his sweet smiles, contagious laugh, and lots of baby-kisses! He absolutely adores his big sister…and the feeling is mutual!

Hannah is 7-years-old, and in second grade this year. Her favorite subjects seem to vary from day to day, but math, reading, and history can usually be found at the top of her list. She has become a little bookworm this year, and devours pretty much any book she can get her hands on. Right now, her favorites are the Little House on the Prairie series, and the American Girl books. While her little brother is busy getting teeth, this girl has been busy losing them…she has already lost 4 teeth this year! It has been so fun to watch Hannah as a big sister. She dearly loves her little brother, and can often be found by his side. She entertains him, feeds him, comforts him when he cries, cheers for him when he learns something new, and can’t wait to teach him everything she knows! She is quickly (maybe a little too quickly) growing up into such a sweet, joyful, and caring little lady.

Jason is keeping busy with teaching/preaching, counseling, discipleship, and a variety of administrative tasks. He is currently teaching through the book of Proverbs every Sunday. And, he also organized our church’s first marriage conference this past November, with John andJanie Street. We continue to be so thankful for our church family, and for the solid, biblical teaching we receive each week.

My days are full homeschooling Hannah, chasing after Titus, playing outside, building towers (which are promptly, and gleefully, knocked down), and caring for our home. And, I can’t imagine doing anything else! It is a privilege, a joy, and a blessing to care for and serve my family.

May you all have a very merry Christmas celebrating the birth of our Savior, and a year filled with opportunities to serve and worship Him.

By His Grace,

Jason, Veronica, Hannah, & Titus