December 21st, 2011
Dear Family and Friends,
As the year comes to an end it is amazing to reflect on the year's events and blessings. As many of you know we unexpectedly moved to Ankeny, Iowa in the middle of October. It was the furthest and most permanent move from home I have ever made, but with the help of family and friends the packing and driving went smoothly; in fact it was a fun adventure. While I think often of my friends and family back in Provo/Orem and miss them deeply, I am also very excited for what the future holds for us here in Iowa.
Our little baby girl, Ariana, is now 18 months old (not so much a baby anymore). She adores other children and excitement beams from her face when she is around them. She also loves horses, dogs, and flowers and will sign them repeatedly when she finds them; often seeing them before even I do. Her favorite movie is Tangled and she will even sit through the entire show! We are so excited to be a part of her life and have the opportunity to watch her learn and grow.
Jordan is happy to be here in Iowa so close to his family. He hasn't lived near any of his siblings or parents for many years and is having so much fun with his brother Taylor. He relishes having an iPad 2, especially to discover unique apps and compose music. Jordan also found some fellow musicians in the ward and is now a part of their "jam sessions" playing the guitar and mandolin.
As for me, I have been enjoying exploring my new surroundings. I volunteer at the Red Rock Wildlife Education Center located in a mall near Ankeny. Being a part of conservation education has been a lifelong goal of mine and I am so excited to finally have a place where I can be making a difference in the community. I also started volunteering at the Animal Rescue League of Iowa which rescues cats, dogs, and all sorts of other animals; this helps me get my "pet fix" since we currently can't have any. Last, but not least, my newest calling in the Ankeny 1st ward is to be the Young Women's Camp Leader! I am ecstatic to be a part of these brilliant young womens' spiritual growth and camping experience, and now I have a great excuse to go camping.
Overall, our little family is doing quite well and I feel extremely blessed. While we may be unable to get some of the gadgets or gifts we wanted this Christmas, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the true meaning and joy of Christmas: the birth of the Lord, Jesus Christ. I know that without Him I would never have found joy, peace, and faith to endure the challenges of life. I know that He has a plan for us and that we can trust him as we enter the unknown.
I wish you a very Merry Christmas! May we all remember the true gift and spirit of Christmas: that Jesus Christ was born, that he died for our sins, and that salvation has come.
We love you all,
Cali, Jordan, and Ariana
