BALLET
This Fall Isabelle began classes at the Scenic City Dance Center. She really enjoys time with her friends in class and she gladly displays her dance moves to anyone willing to watch. At the Winter Recital she danced to 'Little Sally One Shoe' using streamers. She definitely has the Gonzalez flair for performing. We're looking forward to what she'll learn during the Spring semester.
HOMESCHOOL
After a disconcerting IEP at Gabe's school last year, we decided to take the plunge and attempt homeschooling. At first Gabe was hesitant, but now that the first semester is over he seems to be enjoying the process. We've been blessed to have some wonderful friends who have offered help all along the way (Thank You!!!), and he enjoys the 2 co-op groups he attends each week. Gabe even acted in a student written play! Not too bad for a kid who the doctor's said would not be able to speak or interact well with his peers.
ROLLIN' WITH A 4.0
Rachael achieved a feat that eluded me during college, finishing a semester with a 4.0!! She worked her tail off to get those grades and I'm so proud of her. She's trying her best to get accepted into nursing school next Fall. I know that she will make a great nurse, she's just got to make past this huge exam that's coming up in the next few weeks! Prayers appreciated.
MISSISSIPPI
In March we were privileged to attend Rachael's Grandmother's 80th birthday party in Greenville, MS. It was my first trip to the Delta and the first time her Grandma had seen Izzy. We had a great time celebrating her Grandma and I even got to see the church where the great bluesman Robert Johnson was buried!
GROWTH
My store achieved growth over last year! We were one of the few stores in our chain to achieve this and I couldn't be more proud of my staff.
TMBG
I was first exposed to They Might Be Giants in college and have loved them ever since. In the Fall, I got to experience their awesomeness first hand with my good buddy Tom at a venue in Nashville. I can't wait to see them again in February as they are making a stop in Chattanooga!!
MONKLINESS
After 14 months in formation, I professed vows as a Third Order Benedictine with the Company of Jesus. Basically, I covenanted to be the hands and feet of Jesus within the structure of lay monastic life which means I pray, read Scripture and the Rule of St. Benedict, commit to a local ministry, and seek to live a life of balance in all areas.
Now the lows...
AUNT EVA
In late August, the world became a little darker as Rachael's beloved Aunt Eva transitioned from this world to the presence of The Father. She was the matriarch of the Gonzalez's, a sweet, strong lady who always had a kind word and wasn't afraid to let you know what she thought. Though her passing was completely unexpected and sad, we know that she is in a place where she doesn't have the worries and concerns she faced here. She is missed.
FLOATING WITH THE CHURCHES
In 2011, we floated around among the churches. We primarily hung out with friends who are planting churches in the city and it was good to see what God is doing in both communities. It was also nice to have the freedom to visit other churches and not feel like we were letting anyone down. However, at the same time not being "planted" anywhere doesn't provide our family with any consistency and I hate having to answer the question, "Where are we going to church this week?"
So there it is, our year in review. Stay tuned for some hopes and goals for 2012!
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