Family Update

Hello Family and Friends, just wanted to check in.  I know it has been a very long time since updating the blogs.  Part of the problem is that Blogger says that our photo storage is full and we must start paying to store photos and upload anymore.  We are trying to figure out what we are going to do about that.  We have all been sick, passing it around, and having a challenging time.  Lily had some strong asthma struggles which caused several trips into the doctor's office, specialists, several rounds of strong medicines, but we feel we are on a path to prevent this again.  She is on a twice daily inhaler, which she is just a champ at taking.  We will see when the next virus comes around.  In other Lily news, she read a part at Mass during Grandparents day and did a wonderful job, lost her second tooth, has gone to several birthday parties, and last but not least had a fantastic report card and conference.  Matt and I couldn't be more proud of her!  She has such a kind and generous heart and never wants anyone to be sad or hurting.  She is a big help around the house and loves her brothers!!
Sam enjoyed having Lily around the house the last few weeks between Thanksgiving and her sicknesses.  He has enjoyed decorating for Christmas and has found a dinosaur Christmas CD which he is just so excited about.  He has spent hours the last few days in his room playing with the Little People Nativity and listening to his dinosaur songs.  Sam continues to be an easy going, go with the flow, silly boy!  He makes us laugh on a daily basis and he gives the best hugs in the morning!
And now for little Nicholas!  He finally has two little teeth poking up on the bottom.  Long story, but he is taking a bottle full time now and is much happier.  He is back on some acid reflux meds, and has a fabulous new pediatrician.  He is sitting up on his own and eating everything!  I love this stage, sitting up on his own, not crawling or getting into mischief, and eating whatever I feed him without complaining!  He is sleeping better as well!
Matt has been traveling a lot for work.  Over the past month he has had several trips- Vancouver, Eugene, and a fun little trip to Friday Harbor, where he rode a small airplane, and I mean small!!  They just opened a hospital there.  We are excited for Advent!  This time of year is so fun with kids and we love to share the true spirit of Christmas with our children.  They are enjoying our fun traditions such as the Jesse Tree, Advent Wreath Prayers, Good Deed Manger, and we have a new little Advent Calendar with drawers.  Each drawer has something to do and a treat.  It could be a family activity or a random good deed to perform for someone else.  They love it!
Blessings for a wonderful Advent!