Happy Holiday Times

It's been a great holiday season here in Teramo, for Lydia and her mom and dad. She seemed to enjoy her first Thanksgiving with grandpa Gus and grandma Sandy, as well as her other American friends. And then last week her first Christmas was a good time, too. It was unusual for Brenna and I to be here over the Christmas holiday, and not with our families in the States. But our team had games on the 21st and the 28th, so this year was a new celebration with our little family here in Italy. "Nanny" Hoover has been here, too, and we have enjoyed a good two weeks with her. It's been great having her here. Brenna and I were even able to enjoy a rare night out together at our organization's Christmas party at the team president's house, while Nanny and Lydia hung out together at home.

Gus, Sandy, Brenna, and Lydia say goodbye in Rome

Nanny and Lydia enjoying the big win in Bologna!

Christmas time is always a special time for Brenna and I, as we get to celebrate our Savior's birth. It's always a good time to get together with friends and family, maybe share some gifts and good food, and listen to some good Christmas tunes. But this year was extra special, as we got to celebrate our own little miracle. Lydia is such a precious gift from God, and we have thoroughly enjoyed watching her develop and grow day by day. We hope you all have enjoyed these past couple of weeks of Christmas cheer, and that you and your families have stepped back, and allowed the true calm and peace of this holiday to inspire and refresh your spirit. We send our best wishes to you and your loved ones, and hope to hear from you soon.