The Sabetha Swinger's Family Christmas Letter

Last year I did an e-Christmas letter and have decided to do the same thing again this year (this will probably become the norm for us). It saves me a lot of time (a precious commodity). Don't they just get thrown away eventually anyway?  :)

So here we go…

Ben still works for Ag Partners Coop in Sabetha. He LOVES going to work everyday, which we are both thankful for. In his wife's opinion, what he enjoys the most is chatting it up with all the local farmers in the area. He is really great at what he does and makes his wife proud. There have been a lot of perks with this job, one of which is an upcoming trip to Florida (can you hear my Woot Woot!). He enjoys helping Menold Brothers with harvest in the fall, playing City League basketball in the winter, and is involved with various activities in our church.

I (Jenna) continue to work at NorthRidge Church as the Communications Coordinator. What a blessing it has been to work here. What other job would let you bring your baby with you? They don't seem to mind Clara's loudness. Having Granny Sheri next door (in the office) has helped keep me sane when Clara won't let me work. A lot of people are curious how it works bringing her with me and this is usually what I tell them: Unless she is napping or my mom has her I get nothing done. I can do a lot from home which is usually the case. It is frustrating at times, but I'm reminded often how blessed we are to be in this situation. Eventually, Clara will probably go to a daycare one or two mornings a week for myself, but also for her to socialize with other kids her age. Something I really enjoyed this fall was playing in a Women's Volleyball League. It was a nice break from everyday routine. I look forward to the weekends my brothers come home from college. My favorite times are times spent with family.

Lastly, we get to Clara Naomi Swinger. WOWEEE!!! This girl never stopped moving in the womb and she still has not stopped moving! Keeping up with her is a full-time job. She is not walking yet, but has no problems getting where she wants to go, which usually is where she shouldn't be. One of Clara's strengths is communication. She lets you know what she wants either by signing, using some words, or by screaming! She can tell you what sheep, cows, dogs, snakes, kitties, and horsies say. We get a kick out of her toothy grin. She has quite a gap right now between her two front teeth:) Clara enjoys being chased, hiding under her blankie, and going to see Kitty Kitty and Buckley at Granny & Papa's house. Her favorite time of the day is when Daddy gets home from work. She gets very excited because she knows Daddy is going to "get her."

Just for fun...I better include Buddy. He is the protector of our house after all (or at least that's what he thinks). Buddy hasn't gotten as much attention this past year…as most of it goes to Clara. He often is found looking longingly into our windows for some love. We try to take him to visit Buckley whenever we can.

I typically give a couple word description for the past year. Last year was "The Year of Big Changes." This year we are going to call "The Year of the Big Surprise." Clara Naomi is going to be a big sister in early June. Not exactly what we had planned for next year, but we feel incredibly blessed to add another member to our family. I haven't felt well again, but as the first trimester ends, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. In my worries about how I am going to handle two babies (I feel maxed out at one), I am constantly reminded of God's grace and faithfulness. It also makes me much more thankful for our great support systems, especially our parents and our co-workers.

Life is busy. We pray that you slow down and take time to enjoy family and friends this holiday season and remember the reason why we celebrate: the birth of our Savior! Hallelujah!

Christmas Blessings to Your Family From Ours,

The Sabetha Swingers

(Ben, Jenna, Clara, Buddy...and Tyrone (that's the nickname for this new babe, if you couldn't guess it was given by Uncle Troy:)