A Look Back at '25

 It's a funny dynamic as we age that we don't often see it in ourselves. It isn't until we look at others around us and notice the increase in years that we realize that we too must be getting older. For me it is hard to believe that we have a 17 year old and two 15 year olds. Babies are fun and all, but as our kids get older we find ourselves really delighting in their company. Our kids entertain, make us laugh and they push us to grow and learn new things.

We manage to soak up lots of life together. The family traveled to Camp Wojtyla for a portion of the summer. It is there that we leave the busyness and franticness of life behind and work to live the words of John 10:10. "I have come that you might have life, and have it to the full." It is easy to live life to the full at 7,800ft in a gorgeous alpine meadow with the peaks of the Rocky Mountains lingering nearby. We are so blessed to be welcomed into the Camp W community with open arms.  

The beauty of hospitality is that it doesn't matter whether one is receiving or pouring out, it is all so good. We love to host and many visitors graced us with their presence this year. We love knowing that people can be themselves, let down their guard and soak up some midwest living when they stop in for a visit. If you haven't made it out yet, please come on by! We've had some great visits throughout the nation this year and we're grateful to all who open their doors to us as well. 

Last year, we stole an idea from a friend and started a new tradition. Everyone in the family writes a letter to their future self to be opened on the following New Year's Eve. Andrew told us, "I'm going to read this and if it doesn't move me, then I won't be writing another letter to myself for next year." He finished reading his letter written last year and stated that he would once again be writing to himself. The motto of the state of Wisconsin is one word, Forward. Forward we go, into another year. Another year of striving to live life to the full and to be who God called us to be. Thanks for reading friends. Forward we go, I can't wait to read the letter to myself and I can't wait to write a post to all of you come the end of 2026. Be well. 

Photos from our time at Camp Wojtyla in Colorado

Other highlights of the year include the annual trip to Lake Tomahawk with Rebecca's family:

Watching Josh waterski:

A quick trip to Door County to see long lost family and get the kayaks wet:

Soaking in the Fall Colors!