Christmas Card 2012

Dear Family and Friends,

Each year I start this letter out by saying how big this year has been for us. I love that about life—each year just keeps getting better and better.

Mark graduated from Case Western medical school in May and matched to an internship in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where we have been since June. Next July we will move to Indianapolis for four years to specialize in radiology.  Two weeks after arriving in Grand Rapids Holly had a baby—Elise Camille Broadbent (Ellie). We spent the summer making new friends and becoming acquainted with our new city.   

 

 

 

Mark started work as a doctor on July 1. Mostly it has convinced him that he should have gone into computer programming. He rediscovered the joy of biking, and has been cruising around trails on his 1980's Schwinn. 

Holly, like always, has a dozen projects on her list.  She is working on her Spanish skills, and has integrated herself with the Spanish branch at our church (including their choir). Armed with a kitchen ice cream maker, she has made concoctions such as Cinnamon Ice Cream and Gucci Muu Muu (chocolate curry ice cream). She stays active, and even found time to organize and coach a soccer program for Noah and his friends. 

Noah loves kindergarten even though the days are long for him.  His current aspiration is to be a scientist.  He always wants to do science experiments, which usually involve tearing paper into pieces, or leaving the bathroom sink on at full blast. He is reading well and is great at math.  And of course he loves to wrestle, play cars, and hit Mark with his light saber. He misses his friends from Cleveland, and I know he will miss his new friends when we move again, but he’s excited to live in Indianapolis so he can watch some NASCAR.

Maren is a joy to have in our home.  She can be very feisty and wants things done in her own way, but she is also very sweet and is always trying to help out. She gets up at 11pm to clean her room, and can unload most of the dishwasher by herself. She asks if she is being a “good 'xample, Mommy?”  Her big accomplishment this year is figuring out the potty training thing.  She is at the fun age where everything is a new discovery that will turn into memories. 

 

Elise is such a sweet baby.  She is delighted by Noah and Maren.  They can get her to laugh so easily.  It is amazing how a baby changes so much in the first six months of life.  Ellie grabs at everything now—including our iPad and phones!  She will be crawling in no time.  Everyone who sees her just can’t get over her hair.  She has a ton!  Everyone agrees she looks like a doll. 

We have been so blessed this year, and we are so thankful for our Savior, Jesus Christ and the meaning he gives to our lives.  

Wishing you a merry Christmas,

Mark, Holly, Noah, Maren, and Elise Broadbent