1. Happy Holidays! We hope your year was wonderful. The kids are getting so big, which is
too apparent as they both march themselves into school each morning. Rebecca is in Jr. K
and Hunter is in first grade, and they are both enjoying a new school for Hunter, and
Beck’s first school. Beck has even been awarded student of the month! She is a very good
friend and crafter, and takes her classwork very seriously. Hunter can be found tucked in
his room reading his books. Hunter is still an avid admirer of birds, so we all enjoyed a
visit to the local community zoo. Huntie spent several quiet
minutes communing with a peacock, along with all of the
other animals and some resourceful vultures. I also
got some shots of me with my favorite bird, the
bald eagle, in my old riding team jacket.
Hunter also loved some close-up time with the pelicans in
Florida. We had a great Spring trip to Disney, which included
a night to see a rocket launch, that didn’t, but the kids loved
the windy pier. At the Magic Kingdom, the kids thought we
were walking to Grammy’s house, and the best part was
when they rounded the circle to head down Main Street and
Rebecca saw Cinderella’s castle for the first time! She also had
her first haircut, including pixie dust. We all enjoyed the rides,
characters, and pin-trading.
We also went on our second pirate cruise, wearing all of our
pirate gear, of course. The ride along the shoreline was
a relaxing way for us to recover the day after
Disney, while the kids attended pirate school.
Summer vacation included a drive down to OCNJ, which was a very special
treat for everyone. We went mini golfing, ate pizza on the boards, and
enjoyed several (!) trips to the amusement park. We also found
some yummy food to enjoy, including Beck’s first lobster.
The boys have started to go on some of their own adventures, usually
including a pro-sports event. The girls were a bit luckier in the results of
their pursuits, choosing new eateries and an activity. Beck is a wonderful
dining partner! She’s been known to charm herself dessert from the chefs.
Hunter has become quite the sportsman and big brother. This year
he played Tee-ball on his sister’s team, flag football, and basketball.
He also escorted Beck to her first soccer league games, attended by
Grammy Lynne, Mimi Yvonne, and Pappy Joe on a special weekend.
Both kids are so excited for their winter basketball league.
Another Halloween pairing, Harry Potter and a Dementor
made the rounds of the hood this year, they were a hit!
Michael has been enjoying a new contract position, and is
currently working in Philly, close to the Reading
Terminal Market. We are embarking on a new
venture of sorts, hopefully lots of excitement soon!
While we are very sorry to have lost both Grandfather George and
Great Grandfather Glenn this year, we think of both of them, and
tell the kids about them often. The kids are a reflection of both of
their bright, kind, and gentle ways, and we are so grateful that they
got to spend such meaningful time with their Grandfathers.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! The Ventrones