Christmas was a little different this year for a number of reasons. My mother was diagnosed with Dementia on December 20th, so we were all processing the news throughout the week. We have known for a number of years that something was not quite right. Now that we have a name for it, we are able to have a little more grace, but also begin to pray for Wisdom in how to handle this disease. Many people have asked how I am handling it. I asked God what I was to do, and he said to take it as it comes. So, that is how I am handling it. Please pray for my parents. My dad needs grace, patience and energy. My mother needs hope and healing. She is so frustrated most of the time and gets emotional.

Christmas was also different because we lost a member of our family to divorce. We are all adjusting to the changes in our family, but also learning to lean more on our source of comfort.
I'm not sure how I accomplished this, but I managed to leave Christmas with my family without taking pictures of my older nephews. I spent so much time with them, and only got a pic of Landon watching TV with my Dad!! They have the same lower lip. So cute!!

We spent a lot of time with "todder Bowden", Gabe & Anita's son. He is growing so fast and has his own unique communication system. He doesn't say much other than "ball", but he has signs for all kinds of things that let you know what he wants. He is a joy!!

There are few things I love more than getting out into nature. Colorado is a blessing to me, because it provides so much free entertainment. We have been having unseasonably warm weather, so my roommate and I decided to take advantage of it a couple Saturdays ago. We went for a 4 mile hike in a field with the flatirons in the distance. It was GLORIOUS!!

Last week I was given the opportunity to travel to Missouri for Recruiting. I flew to Kansas City, MO. and met with some supporters and friends who live in that area. The following day, Amanda Sanders (Crossover Alumnus '09 & 10) and I drove across the state to Hannibal, MO. We attended the Women's game at Hannibal-Lagrange College where Alumnus, Kayla Hruby plays.

We met with Kayla's team and several of them, including the coach, showed interest in coming with us in 2011. We are excited to see how many of them commit to come.

I spent the end of the week in St. Louis with my sister-in-law Erin and my Nephews, Logan (aka Rico) and Landon (aka Joe). We had a blast shopping, ice skating, playing games and working out to Just Dance 2. If you have never played, you should buy a Wii and get that game! It's a great workout, and SOOOOO much fun!! The boys also taught me how to play the Monopoly card game. I can't wait to see them at Christmas so that we can play some more!!

Please be praying for my family. One of my brothers is seeking a divorce and my mother is struggling with her health. We trust God to see us through!

Blessings!