Highlights of 2008

As we look back on 2008, it's hard to believe another year has passed. We preserved as many memories in picture as we could but more memories we cherish in our thoughts (because a camera wasn't around!!). We are once again in awe of God's goodness to our family and know that with all the uncertainty of jobs, health, finances, etc. we serve a God who is faithful and unchanging.

As soon as the year we began, we were in high gear with soccer all stars. Scott was coaching Brandon's team and Tyler was playing for the U-12 team. In January we had our first tournament in Tucson and continued tournaments through the spring. Here are just a few pictures...

Brandon is a fantastic goal keeper. He makes great saves and of course I'm a nervous wreck on the sidelines!

Tyler's team counted on him to play nearly every minute of every game. He played left defense and between his height and aggressiveness he was an asset on defense.

In May, Tyler graduated from elementary school and looked forward to a great summer and bigger and better things to come in Jr. High!

Tyler's graduation present was a surprise road trip with Scott to San Diego. They got to spend the weekend just the two of them at a Christian Rock Festival.

SUMMER!! Scott didn't teach summer school so that we could take a family vacation to Washington, DC and New York. I earned the trip to DC with Pampered Chef and we added on 3 fun filled days in New York.

Our tour of the Nation's Capital was definitely a highlight!

Arlington Cemetary was a solemn and memorable experience. We were able to witness the laying of the wreath ceremony done at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

We went to a Yankees game during the last season at the stadium. Brandon got a ball during batting practice. Mariano Rivera threw it into the stands for him! (We still don't like the Yankees but that was pretty cool.)

We picked a clear day to go to the top of the Empire State Building. The view was gorgeous.

No trip to New York would be complete without visiting Lady Liberty!

We took an audio tour on Ellis Island. It was fascinating to hear the stories of the immigrants coming to America.


August - We continued with our traditional morning routine for the first day of school. Chocolate milk and donuts make it not seem so bad to end summer!

Brandon is beginning his final year at elementary school and will enjoy his status as a 6th grader! It's hard to imagine Tyler entering Jr. High.






October - Brandon asked for braces for 2 years. This was the day he had been waiting for and now he was nervous!

Now when Brandon smiles there is a gleam in his eye and his teeth! He chose blue bands to match his MSC soccer colors. He is dedicated!


December - Christmas morning found us opening presents at the Carvers. It has been said, "It's better to give than to receive...." But I say... it's pretty nice to get too!! :O)

I hope you have enjoyed this sampling of our year in review. We know that God is good and will be with us in '09.