I really need to get better about updating this more often. In fact I am going to have to make sure that my entire Web site is up-to-date because we are going to send out a newsletter to our friends and family encouraging them to come visit. I don't want people to leave disappointed.

It is Christmas Eve. I can't believe that the month and the year have gone by so quickly. It seems like just yesterday we were moving out here from Utah. Now we are settled, have friends and have each been through one job (I am on my second, Mia is taking a break). We are started to feel at home out here in Boston. That is quite amazing since most of the people out here have lived here their whole lives, it seems like we should still be outsiders.

I will post again after Christmas so I can describe all the loot I got, but on the eve of all the wanton gift-giving and getting I still have time to reflect.

Reflection in my case means considering how fortunate I am to have a loving family, both my parents and siblings, as well as my wife. I remember a time when I couldn't accept the idea of people loving me. It just didn't seem possible. Now, I know that they do and I live a much richer life because of it.

I reflect on my goals. Professionally I am in a place that wants me to succeed. I can tell already that they consider me an asset and want to give me opportunities to grow with them. I would like that.
Personally, I am able to support my wife and I, which is an important part of being able to plan for a family. I feel that as a person I have matured enough to guide someone else along. This isn't to say that I don't have more growing to do, but I could at least keep one step ahead for a while.
Spiritually I am committed to the gospel of Jesus Christ. It strengthens my relationship with my wife, my family, my friends, and everyone that I meet. My calling at Church allows me to extend a helping hand to people. I feel very humbled and grateful that I have such opportunities constantly.

This has been quite a year. I can only imagine what the next year will bring. I am confident that together Mia and I will make it a good year.