2008 in Review

What a year it has been for us. Many ups and downs but with God’s help we made it through the year and are prepared for what’s in store for us in 2009.

There were some tough times in 2008. In February we lost my mother 1 week before her 68th birthday. She died from MSA which took 3.5 years for the disease to destroy her body. Her mind was very sharp up to the end but the body couldn’t last. Then in September we lost my Aunt Drew, my father’s older sister. This leaves my dad with a older sister and younger brother still living from his family. A week later we received news that Beth’s Uncle Dick passed away from a long battle with cancer. This was her dad’s older brother and leaving him as the sole survivor in his family.

There were many blessings in 2008. The first great grandchild on Beth’s side of the family was born in February. Audrey was born 3 days after my mom passed away. In May we became grandparents when Andrew was born. Then in August Jamie married Amanda adding another to the family. I’ve even heard rumors there may have been some engagements over the Christmas season so there is the potential of more additions to the family. Also, even with the economic turn down everybody is still working.

As we look forward to 2009 we ask God for His guidance and strength for all of us. Everything from the economy, our christian believes, our health and our families will challenge us this year but only God can get us through it. God has a plan for every one of us and we pray His Will will be done.

John coming home soon

Just talked to John and he is in Missouri. He is planning to be home tomorrow. He is ready to get home and see his son Andrew James. AJ will be 3 weeks old tomorrow. Boy time flies. Becca will be glad to see him so she can get some sleep and let John change some diapers.

AJ meets great grandpa

Great grandpa Wood meets Andrew James for the first time at Ron’s house. He held him for a long time and you could tell he wished mom was there too. He struggles at times since mom passed away in February but it’s times like this which help to heal his heart.

Also, we celebrated Joshua’s 9th birthday today. We all met at Ron’s house Sunday afternoon and was surprised by some strong storms later in the day. We survived and Josh opened his gifts. Happy Birthday fella. Click on the photos link to see more pictures from today.

Andrew James is home now

On Friday, May 30, Andrew James and Becca left the hospital and went home. They are resting and mother is not getting a lot of sleep. Daddy is getting anxious to see him but still not able to get his trucking company to let him come home for a few days.

New grandparents on May 28

We have been blessed with our first grandson Andrew James born on 5/28/08 at 1558. Our son John, the father has not seen him yet because he’s a truck driver and not able to get home. Click on photos to see more pictures of AJ.