Happy Holidays!
The big news of 2009 is that we added quite a few farm animals to our already-animal-filled life. In May we adopted a small pony named Cowboy. A few weeks after that we got three baby goats and named them Banjo, Moon and Cosmo. Sancho, the big pony, was acquired in June. In August we found the final touch to the backyard farm: Brad Pitt the llama. Our first winter with farm animals has started out OK. It is always an adventure finding and moving hay to where you need it. Now I understand much better why many people move their animals to the grass instead of the other way around. I also have a greater appreciation for the simplicity of our flock of laying hens. That is, at least, when they are laying…
Henry turned two in May and the big hit of his birthday was a battery operated four-wheeler. He rides that thing ALL over the place, and has become a bit of a trick rider. As a two year old, he specializes in mayhem and general destruction. What’s special about him is his incredibly sweet nature and physical affection — if you want a great hug, it’s worth waiting around until he’s ready to give you one. Ryan and I are lucky enough to be hugged and kissed by him all day every day (pretty much).
Delia turned six this year. (I know. We can’t believe it either.) She continues to learn from everything she does, only this year we are calling it homeschooling. Around her birthday in October, she started swimming and loves to be in the water even more now that she has experienced displacement in a calm manner (aka FLOATING). Although she didn’t finish last year’s class, she’s trying ice skating again with her eye on the goal of performing in the show. All that pesky practicing between now and then sure is boring, though.
Ryan’s dad, John, is fighting lung cancer so the last few months have seen extra traveling, worry, and uproar. We are so appreciative of the help from many of you, and the well wishes too. We look forward to 2010 with hopes for good health, great memories, and prosperity for all.