Happy Holidays! Once again we are looking forward to another holiday season as well as reflecting on the year that is coming to an end. The boys are growing up so fast! Seeing life unfold through their innocent eyes helps us remember what is important. In June our beloved dog, Stockton, passed away peacefully under the tree in our backyard. We know we were blessed to have him with us for over 13 years and he will be greatly missed.

Shea turned 6 on March 29th and started 1st grade in September. He enjoys school and proudly accepted the "Student of the Month" award in October for his class. Shea keeps us smiling with his quirky personality. He enjoys playing with his brothers and is always seeking their approval. He finds joy in the littlest things and will try anything once. Although he learned to love video games this year, he seems to prefer being outside making up adventure games.

Ryan turned 8 on August 23rd and is in 2nd grade this year. He excels in school and was accepted into the GATE program last year. Ryan enjoys video games, drawing and hanging out with his brothers. He has begun to break out of his brothers' shadows and from being the middle child by going to the movies and spending more time with his school friends. He's becoming quite the social butterfly, even attracting the eyes of the girls.

Jake turned 10 on August 14th and is in 4th grade. He was also awarded "Student of the Month" in October. Jake's becoming more independent every year. He enjoys hanging out with his friends and is very much a leader. He likes to play video games and still enjoys creating intricate drawings of video games he makes up with his wonderful imagination. He is a great kid that looks out for other people and enjoys being a big brother.

Vacations; In May we took the boys on their first cruise to Mexico. Aunt Julie joined us and we had a wonderful time, despite the cool weather. (Our Christmas card picture was taken on formal night on the cruise.) To make up for the sun we missed on our cruise, in August we spent a few day enjoying some warm Las Vegas weather! The boys love the Flamingo Hilton with its gorgeous pools and water slides. We enjoy spending time together and being a close family.

Jim started training for a marathon earlier in the year, ran in the Huntington Beach 5K Race on July 4th and then the Disney half Marathon in August. In October he finished the Chicago Marathon in just over 4 hours! We are so proud of him!

I'm still working as a Realtor with First Team Real Estate and am proud to say that my business is thriving even in this tough market. Recently, we made the difficult decision to take the boys out of after school care at Terry's house. Although the boys really miss their "second mom", I feel fortunate to have the flexibility with my business to be able to spend more time with the boys in the afternoons.

As this year ends, we look forward to a new year filled with hope. May the New Year bring abundance of peace, love, health, and happiness. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy holiday season.

With love, The Smith Family Jim, Cathy, Jake, Ryan & Shea