Poor kid, he's been on his mission 18 months before we remembered the blog option. Enjoy!
Monday, November 4, 2013
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Monday, February 23, 2009
Post Rainier Update
Hello Family and Friends!
Many of you know about our annual snow camping trip (the boys that is) at Paradise on Mt. Rainier. Well, we just got back from the 2009 version and yes, everyone survived!
We hiked from paradise up to Deadhorse basin below the trail to Camp Muir. The daytime temp was 45+ and sunny -- it was glorious. Taylor, Tanner, and James went this year but Dallin was home with the flu so he missed out. Despite the idyllic conditions for hiking and viewing all there is to see from that vantage point . . . the snow conditions for digging caves were the worst I've ever seen. A January rain up to about 7,000 ft. resulted in ice layers about 3-4 ft. deep, approx. 3 ft below the surface -- exactly where we needed to dig our shelters.
For me (James) the resolution was easy . . . I pitched a tent. Everyone else dug caves or built an igloo and spent a minimum of 8 hours doing it. The ice was really tough to work through and in the end, I had to dig 2 caves for the scouts because they couldn't do it alone.
I took a quick hike under the stars down to the car to get extra supplies and food for what experience has taught me is inevitable; unprepared scouts whimpering like babies through the night. My extras supplies would be needed.
When I returned to the camp I was told all the boys were safely in bed and the camp was prepared for the night. Now I trust other people, but I always like to check for myself. What I found was amazing given our experience last year. In 2008 our scout master awoke eye to eye with a fox holding his (the Scoutmaster's) new Goretex gloves in its mouth. That's another story entirely, but suffice to say he chased the fox all night and never got his gloves back. Having recounted that story many times since last year, I was surprised to find on this night socks, food supplies, granola bars, MRE's, Chocolate bars and yes, gloves strewn about the camp. I picked them up and threw them in the caves for safe keeping. Much to the chagrin of the 2 foxes who by that point were already roaming our camp.
Taylor was still awake as he had been digging all day and was taking a late dinner. I sat down for some quality time and just as we were looking at the stars and getting into some quality father/son bonding, we heard a horrible sound. Across the camp and from under a tarp burst a young man spewing vomit on the otherwise white snow. It was his beef stew dinner -- apparently "didn't agree with his stomach". I went to attend to his needs and make sure he was OK, which he was, and then hung out with Taylor a bit before going to bed.
I heard some rustling and voices during the night but didn't think much of it. Then I awoke about 4 am in a panic. You see, one hazard of snow caves is that they sometimes shrink while you're in them. The effect of breathing warm air into cold snow walls has the effect of the walls and ceiling coming in on you during the night -- usually no big deal. I thought Tanner's cave was deep enough (I dug a lot of it) but then realized in the night that with 3 kids in one cave I should go check on them. To my horror, Tanner and his mates were not in the cave! I frantically began searching around and found all 3 of them in their sleeping bags, wrapped in a tarp, in a pit that had been dug the day before. They were fine, they were warm (enough to survive), and they were safe . . . so I went back to bed. Our Scoutmaster had learned a thing or 2 since last year and in checking on the boys moved them during the night (the aforementioned raucous) AND he slept in a tent this year.
We all woke up the next morning, no frostbite or obvious signs of hypothermia and only modest losses to the scavenging foxes -- we lost 1 MRE and 1 sleeping bag stuff sack (what does a fox do with a stuff sack?!).
Of course the normal issues we had trained for and discussed occurred -- water was frozen, boots were frozen solid, socks and gloves that were left out over night were useless. All of these things are avoidable. But until the boys actually go on one of these outings and experience it, they don't realize the reality of it or the reality of the consequences. So I pulled out the extra gloves and socks I had retrieved the night before from the car and shared them with those in need. You would've thought I was St. Nick himself!
We got down the Mountain much quicker than we had gotten up. I left 2nd to last form camp and was among the first to arrive at the bottom (these guys moved very slowly). Along the way though I collected all kinds of great stuff - one boy lost his military shovel and Taylor left a trail of pringles all the way down the mountain. When the foxes have an obesity problem this spring I know right where to point out the suspect. I arrived at the bottom just in time to see a really sweet Suburban with a Rooftop carrier that looks just like mine pulling up to the trail head. Thing is, this looked a lot like our car and the teenager driving it looked a lot like my kid . . . except he doesn't have a license so it couldn't be him. But it was. The temptation was too great. Taylor had to demonstrate his supreme coolness by driving the Suburban -- I promptly took his keys indefinitely and told him the rangers "carry real guns and write real tickets".
It was a really great trip and a lot of fun things happened along the way. But it wouldn't be a scout trip in our car if someone didn't barf in the car on the way home. You guessed it, same kid that lost his beef stew the night before. But this time we brought a bowl so no mess in the car. I love being prepared!
Many of you know about our annual snow camping trip (the boys that is) at Paradise on Mt. Rainier. Well, we just got back from the 2009 version and yes, everyone survived!
We hiked from paradise up to Deadhorse basin below the trail to Camp Muir. The daytime temp was 45+ and sunny -- it was glorious. Taylor, Tanner, and James went this year but Dallin was home with the flu so he missed out. Despite the idyllic conditions for hiking and viewing all there is to see from that vantage point . . . the snow conditions for digging caves were the worst I've ever seen. A January rain up to about 7,000 ft. resulted in ice layers about 3-4 ft. deep, approx. 3 ft below the surface -- exactly where we needed to dig our shelters.
For me (James) the resolution was easy . . . I pitched a tent. Everyone else dug caves or built an igloo and spent a minimum of 8 hours doing it. The ice was really tough to work through and in the end, I had to dig 2 caves for the scouts because they couldn't do it alone.
I took a quick hike under the stars down to the car to get extra supplies and food for what experience has taught me is inevitable; unprepared scouts whimpering like babies through the night. My extras supplies would be needed.
When I returned to the camp I was told all the boys were safely in bed and the camp was prepared for the night. Now I trust other people, but I always like to check for myself. What I found was amazing given our experience last year. In 2008 our scout master awoke eye to eye with a fox holding his (the Scoutmaster's) new Goretex gloves in its mouth. That's another story entirely, but suffice to say he chased the fox all night and never got his gloves back. Having recounted that story many times since last year, I was surprised to find on this night socks, food supplies, granola bars, MRE's, Chocolate bars and yes, gloves strewn about the camp. I picked them up and threw them in the caves for safe keeping. Much to the chagrin of the 2 foxes who by that point were already roaming our camp.
Taylor was still awake as he had been digging all day and was taking a late dinner. I sat down for some quality time and just as we were looking at the stars and getting into some quality father/son bonding, we heard a horrible sound. Across the camp and from under a tarp burst a young man spewing vomit on the otherwise white snow. It was his beef stew dinner -- apparently "didn't agree with his stomach". I went to attend to his needs and make sure he was OK, which he was, and then hung out with Taylor a bit before going to bed.
I heard some rustling and voices during the night but didn't think much of it. Then I awoke about 4 am in a panic. You see, one hazard of snow caves is that they sometimes shrink while you're in them. The effect of breathing warm air into cold snow walls has the effect of the walls and ceiling coming in on you during the night -- usually no big deal. I thought Tanner's cave was deep enough (I dug a lot of it) but then realized in the night that with 3 kids in one cave I should go check on them. To my horror, Tanner and his mates were not in the cave! I frantically began searching around and found all 3 of them in their sleeping bags, wrapped in a tarp, in a pit that had been dug the day before. They were fine, they were warm (enough to survive), and they were safe . . . so I went back to bed. Our Scoutmaster had learned a thing or 2 since last year and in checking on the boys moved them during the night (the aforementioned raucous) AND he slept in a tent this year.
We all woke up the next morning, no frostbite or obvious signs of hypothermia and only modest losses to the scavenging foxes -- we lost 1 MRE and 1 sleeping bag stuff sack (what does a fox do with a stuff sack?!).
Of course the normal issues we had trained for and discussed occurred -- water was frozen, boots were frozen solid, socks and gloves that were left out over night were useless. All of these things are avoidable. But until the boys actually go on one of these outings and experience it, they don't realize the reality of it or the reality of the consequences. So I pulled out the extra gloves and socks I had retrieved the night before from the car and shared them with those in need. You would've thought I was St. Nick himself!
We got down the Mountain much quicker than we had gotten up. I left 2nd to last form camp and was among the first to arrive at the bottom (these guys moved very slowly). Along the way though I collected all kinds of great stuff - one boy lost his military shovel and Taylor left a trail of pringles all the way down the mountain. When the foxes have an obesity problem this spring I know right where to point out the suspect. I arrived at the bottom just in time to see a really sweet Suburban with a Rooftop carrier that looks just like mine pulling up to the trail head. Thing is, this looked a lot like our car and the teenager driving it looked a lot like my kid . . . except he doesn't have a license so it couldn't be him. But it was. The temptation was too great. Taylor had to demonstrate his supreme coolness by driving the Suburban -- I promptly took his keys indefinitely and told him the rangers "carry real guns and write real tickets".
It was a really great trip and a lot of fun things happened along the way. But it wouldn't be a scout trip in our car if someone didn't barf in the car on the way home. You guessed it, same kid that lost his beef stew the night before. But this time we brought a bowl so no mess in the car. I love being prepared!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
New Reed Family Blog
Hey Family and Friends,
Check out our new Blog! We've posted our last 2 years of Christmas letters and some pictures on the site. Let us know what you think.
James and Kresta
Check out our new Blog! We've posted our last 2 years of Christmas letters and some pictures on the site. Let us know what you think.
James and Kresta
2008 Christmas Letter
Friends and Family,
In an effort to be more green (not really, this is the fastest, cheapest, and lowest overhead way to do a Christmas letter) we've decided to go online with our annual update. We had yet another eventful year with many trips and events with friends and family that helped add texture to an already over scheduled life. Kresta and James went to Hawaii in May where we visited with Debbie(Kresta's sister) and Bryon for a few days before heading to Kauai for some much needed R&R.
The older boys (Taylor and Tanner) participated in a LDS Dance Festival in the Tacoma Dome that took months and month of preparation and culminated in an event with literally thousands of other kids. Taylor's Group peformed the Disco (it was a huge hit and Taylor is quite the dancer). Tanner performed in the "Get Your Head in the Game" performance and also in the Choir that had a role in the entire presentation. It took a lot of extra commitment and preparation but we were so proud Tanner was willing to do that. We can't adequately describe what an amazing experience it was. I (James writing) really thought the whole premise was kind of silly, but when all 11 stakes and nearly 3,000 kids came together for those several days -- the event was amazing. It was entertaining for the thousands of community members who attended and was great for the kids to hear from Brad Wilcox, and Sister Dalton among others. It was truly a great experience.
We had another Rowley Reunion this year that was held at Grandma and Grandpa Rowley's house. It was tons of fun. Later in the summer James and Kresta went white-water rafting near Leavenworth, WA. It was Kresta's first time . . . and she LOVED it! We plan on doing that again. Now for the family updates . . . sorry if this is a bit boring for you, it's strangely cathartic for me:
James: Is changing Jobs again. After 8 years with 2 companies (Intel and T-Mobile) I'll be starting my 3rd job in the last 3.5 years. I left Mikron's top finance job to take another shot at Sr. Leadership in a major fortune 500 corporation. You know the type: a stable institution with a long track record of success . . . so I picked WaMu. Should probably stop there. WaMu has been great -- I've led the Finance for Marketing and eCommerce for the bank, worked with some amazingly talented people, and formed some life-long friendships. With the integration with JP Morgan I was offered a position in Columbus, Ohio as CFO of their Debit business. Certainly an honor, but not the right thing for our family at this time. We have always been blessed and this situation was no different. My first boss from Intel called and that led to a Director position with a fantastic consultancy called Alvarez & Marsal. Start date is February 2nd -- check next year's letter for how that's going.
Kresta: Is doing awesome! She is the Primary President in our ward and works very hard to give her best. The Primary is the children's Sunday School organization in our church and she has full responsibility for all kids ages 3-11. Kresta continues to Homeschool Tanner, Dallin, Haley, and McKay and while the work is arduous, she loves the influence she's able to have on our children and she does a great job at it. They all have tested well-above their respective grade levels on standardized tests which I believe is a testament to the quality of teaching they receive. Re: her cancer, Kresta is doing really well. Her cancer levels are the lowest they've ever been since diagnosis and continue to drop. We're sure grateful for that progress -- having a chance to reflect on our mortality over these last 6 years has truly changed our family perspective. Life is short. Enjoy every minute. And the big news for Kresta . . . she's planning to return to school this year! Fall 2009 will be her target relaunch and we're all very proud of her. It will mean changes for some of our kids in terms of now going to public schools but they've all responded in very mature and understanding ways. We'll be cheering her all the way. Once more thing, she took Tanner to the Midnight showing of the new movie Twilight . . . and then saw it 2 more times. That's right, 3 times she's seen that movie . . . I'm almost jealous (JK).
Ladies first . . .
Haley: is doing wonderfully and now is 9 years old. It has been really fun to hear her singing her heart out almost every day. One day we were driving in the car and I turned to Kresta and commented on how much her voice was evolving. She no longer sounds like a little kid -- she really has a good voice! Of course, I think that comes from the constant practice. She enjoys activities days with other young women her age at church and this summer attended the Peninsula High School volleyball camp. We're not sure if it will continue, but Haley is very tall -- literally head and shoulders above all the other girls her age. If that continues and she gets a bit more aggressive (she helps girls up on the soccer field when she accidentally runs over them) we could have a future WNBA star on our hands. Watch for updates. More than anything, we really appreciate having Haley as our daughter. She is an amazing help with McKay and Olivia often acting as a little Mommy -- giving them spelling tests for "fun", fixing them meals, helping at bed time, and many other things. She is a delight to have in our family.
Olivia: is now 3 and is the Queen of the Reed household . . . and knows it! She constantly amazes us with her intelligence, curiosity, and ability as a munchkin to physically dominate her older siblings. She has got McKay's number and manhandles him whenever she feels like it. Except for those times, she is the sweetest little spirit we could have dreamed of; I can't imagine our family without her -- we would be incomplete. This year Olivia has been attending a Lutheran pre-school which is kind of interesting as she loves wearing her BYU shirts there and may be the most vocal fan under 4 years old in the BYU following. Whenever there is a football game on she asks, "Is this the BYU?" and then chants "B. Y. U."; it's pretty funny. Olivia may be the best worker in our family: picking weeds, folding laundry, asking "Dad, what can I do for you?" -- she is constantly engaged in something useful. And it's a good thing because she has LOTS of energy.
Now for the Boys:
Taylor: is now 15 and is a very good son. He serves in church as the Teacher's Quorum President and is very faithful and diligent in his service. He's a really good student too as he has decided he wants to be a surgeon. We'll see if he sticks with that but it's great motivation to do well and he is doing that. Taylor missed most of his Freshman baseball campaign with a broken arm suffered at a winter scout campout. We had a great camp and on our way out he broke his arm sledding. Taylor has been cursed with one of the wackiest Father's on the planet and I didn't respond very well as this was 2 days prior to try-outs. He got to play in a few games at the end of the year and ended up working out with a select team during the fall. We'll see where we go from here. As mentioned, he was in dance festival which was very cool. Later he went to scout camp and earned his BSA lifeguard which is quite an accomplishment. He's working on his Eagle advancement (albeit slowly) and hopes to complete that this year. Later on we had a high adventure activity fall through but I was not going to allow it to fail . . . so we camped at the lake for a few days, played xbox until 3am, water skied, wake-boarded, and hung out. And wouldn't you know? Taylor got a shard of Metal in his eye! We spent part of the week in the ER getting the fragments DRILLED out of his eye. But alas, all is well and he's not injured as of this writing. He also finished driver's ed this year so is gallivanting about with us in tow -- he'll get his license AFTER he gets his Eagle. He's a great kid with many admirable qualities and we're lucky to have him as our oldest.
Tanner: is now 13 and has a hilarious dry wit about him. Tonight I called a family council for a a very important topic. Before I could even start Tanner says dead-pan: "I want a raise." He's like that every day and it keeps us laughing. Tanner serves in his Deacon's Quorum Presidency as the 2nd councilor and has done a great job training the new Deacons on their duties as they come into the Quorum. He's a legend at Scout camp each year for earning so many merit badges and could possibly earn his Eagle this year too if he really tries. Tanner's big thing this year has been in learning to play guitar. He actually starts formal training tomorrow but in the last several months has taught himself some of the basics of classic guitar and already has several songs in his repertoire. He loves to read and is always doing it -- I often have to turn lights on for him because he's so engaged in his book that he forgets to turn on the lights. Tanner is above all else, a really fun kid who has a super testimony of the gospel. We really love having him in our home; our days would be much duller and less humorous if he weren't here to keep it light.
Dallin: is now 11 and has many talents. It was apparent early on that this boy has a real shot at being very special on the piano -- he is naturally gifted on the piano and improving daily. We have generally told our kids they need to be able to play hymns but Kresta has repeatedly informed me regarding Dallin, "we're not letting him stop lessons." Dallin completed his tour of duty in Cub Scouts this year and is now into Boy Scouts. He'll be the first to tell you he's not a huge fan of scouts but he does enjoy camping and hiking and I look forward to having him with us on more and more outings. He earned his Arrow of Light which is an award he is allowed to also wear on his Boy Scout uniform. He participated in the Pinewood Derby for the final time and after winning out right each of the last 2 years he was middle of the pack this time. I was never more proud of him than at the derby this year. We put very little time into this year's car. Dallin wanted to let others taste victory (I was totally opposed to this strategy BTW). He was amazing in how gracefully he congratulated his friends and genuinely felt happy for their victories. He taught Dad that day. I have to mention some of Dallin's quirks: he's a "lurker" as Kresta calls it, he finds his way into adult discussions and before you realize it he's in the middle getting all the dirt, he should be a spy; he loves little kids, he's just wonderful with toddler aged kids; and he's a defender of his brothers, he will do anything to keep his brothers and especially Tanner out of trouble. Dallin's just a great overall son and brother and we love him a lot.
McKay: is 6 and is at a very fun stage. The other day early in the morning (he, Olivia, and I are the early risers in the family) he said very seriously, "Dad . . . never trust a Genie" -- and then walked away. He says hilarious stuff like that all the time! He has of course been a big part of all our family fun this year but he was most engaged in his swim lessons. We feel it's very important that our kids all swim well and so, we've had them all in swim lesson off and on. One day during an open swim McKay asked if I wanted to see his back stroke. I answered in the affirmative and he flipped over, thrashed like a fish OUT of water -- arms and legs flailing, water flying everywhere -- looking like he was drowning . . . and not moving an inch. He jumped up with a huge smile on his face seeking my praise and basking in his accomplishment. It was a really funny sight to behold and one I will always remember. The boys and I also took McKay on a Scout hike this year up to Lena Lakes in the Olympic Forest. I gave him a whistle and told him to blow it if he saw any bears and . . . next time I saw him was a few hours and 5 miles later. He was among the first group up the mountain without even a single complaint. He beat the scout I was accompanying up the mountain by over 30 minutes. It was really fun. McKay is really a delight and in those moments where we peel him away from anything electronic (he's seriously addicted to video games) he has a super personality. We love having him in our family and seeing him pal around and play with Olivia is one of the sweet blessings of parenthood we get to enjoy. They are buddies.
Among our other activities already mentioned, we took many ski trips, had Grandma and Grandpa Reed here when we were in Hawaii, and made an October trip for an MBA reunion to Utah. We reunited with many beloved friends and family in each of these adventures and had a great time doing so.
Above all, our testimonies of Jesus Christ have been strengthened this year. Our beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley passed away this year. In his place a great man and Prophet of God named Thomas S. Monson has been called and our witness of that transition has served to strengthen our faith. For certainly our Father in Heaven loves us and would never lead us on this earth without his servants to lead and guide us.
It is our holiday wish that each of you who may read this will enjoy this season. Take a little time to serve your fellow man, to love a little more, and to thank God above for the birth of his only Begotten Son, even Jesus Christ. We know that they love us and they love you and that our common cause to come to this earth is an outward manifestation of that love. This is our collective opportunity to learn and to grow.
Merry Christmas and a most Joyous New Year,
The Reeds James, Kresta, Taylor, Tanner, Dallin, Haley, McKay, Olivia, and Helaman (the Dog)
In an effort to be more green (not really, this is the fastest, cheapest, and lowest overhead way to do a Christmas letter) we've decided to go online with our annual update. We had yet another eventful year with many trips and events with friends and family that helped add texture to an already over scheduled life. Kresta and James went to Hawaii in May where we visited with Debbie(Kresta's sister) and Bryon for a few days before heading to Kauai for some much needed R&R.
The older boys (Taylor and Tanner) participated in a LDS Dance Festival in the Tacoma Dome that took months and month of preparation and culminated in an event with literally thousands of other kids. Taylor's Group peformed the Disco (it was a huge hit and Taylor is quite the dancer). Tanner performed in the "Get Your Head in the Game" performance and also in the Choir that had a role in the entire presentation. It took a lot of extra commitment and preparation but we were so proud Tanner was willing to do that. We can't adequately describe what an amazing experience it was. I (James writing) really thought the whole premise was kind of silly, but when all 11 stakes and nearly 3,000 kids came together for those several days -- the event was amazing. It was entertaining for the thousands of community members who attended and was great for the kids to hear from Brad Wilcox, and Sister Dalton among others. It was truly a great experience.
We had another Rowley Reunion this year that was held at Grandma and Grandpa Rowley's house. It was tons of fun. Later in the summer James and Kresta went white-water rafting near Leavenworth, WA. It was Kresta's first time . . . and she LOVED it! We plan on doing that again. Now for the family updates . . . sorry if this is a bit boring for you, it's strangely cathartic for me:
James: Is changing Jobs again. After 8 years with 2 companies (Intel and T-Mobile) I'll be starting my 3rd job in the last 3.5 years. I left Mikron's top finance job to take another shot at Sr. Leadership in a major fortune 500 corporation. You know the type: a stable institution with a long track record of success . . . so I picked WaMu. Should probably stop there. WaMu has been great -- I've led the Finance for Marketing and eCommerce for the bank, worked with some amazingly talented people, and formed some life-long friendships. With the integration with JP Morgan I was offered a position in Columbus, Ohio as CFO of their Debit business. Certainly an honor, but not the right thing for our family at this time. We have always been blessed and this situation was no different. My first boss from Intel called and that led to a Director position with a fantastic consultancy called Alvarez & Marsal. Start date is February 2nd -- check next year's letter for how that's going.
Kresta: Is doing awesome! She is the Primary President in our ward and works very hard to give her best. The Primary is the children's Sunday School organization in our church and she has full responsibility for all kids ages 3-11. Kresta continues to Homeschool Tanner, Dallin, Haley, and McKay and while the work is arduous, she loves the influence she's able to have on our children and she does a great job at it. They all have tested well-above their respective grade levels on standardized tests which I believe is a testament to the quality of teaching they receive. Re: her cancer, Kresta is doing really well. Her cancer levels are the lowest they've ever been since diagnosis and continue to drop. We're sure grateful for that progress -- having a chance to reflect on our mortality over these last 6 years has truly changed our family perspective. Life is short. Enjoy every minute. And the big news for Kresta . . . she's planning to return to school this year! Fall 2009 will be her target relaunch and we're all very proud of her. It will mean changes for some of our kids in terms of now going to public schools but they've all responded in very mature and understanding ways. We'll be cheering her all the way. Once more thing, she took Tanner to the Midnight showing of the new movie Twilight . . . and then saw it 2 more times. That's right, 3 times she's seen that movie . . . I'm almost jealous (JK).
Ladies first . . .
Haley: is doing wonderfully and now is 9 years old. It has been really fun to hear her singing her heart out almost every day. One day we were driving in the car and I turned to Kresta and commented on how much her voice was evolving. She no longer sounds like a little kid -- she really has a good voice! Of course, I think that comes from the constant practice. She enjoys activities days with other young women her age at church and this summer attended the Peninsula High School volleyball camp. We're not sure if it will continue, but Haley is very tall -- literally head and shoulders above all the other girls her age. If that continues and she gets a bit more aggressive (she helps girls up on the soccer field when she accidentally runs over them) we could have a future WNBA star on our hands. Watch for updates. More than anything, we really appreciate having Haley as our daughter. She is an amazing help with McKay and Olivia often acting as a little Mommy -- giving them spelling tests for "fun", fixing them meals, helping at bed time, and many other things. She is a delight to have in our family.
Olivia: is now 3 and is the Queen of the Reed household . . . and knows it! She constantly amazes us with her intelligence, curiosity, and ability as a munchkin to physically dominate her older siblings. She has got McKay's number and manhandles him whenever she feels like it. Except for those times, she is the sweetest little spirit we could have dreamed of; I can't imagine our family without her -- we would be incomplete. This year Olivia has been attending a Lutheran pre-school which is kind of interesting as she loves wearing her BYU shirts there and may be the most vocal fan under 4 years old in the BYU following. Whenever there is a football game on she asks, "Is this the BYU?" and then chants "B. Y. U."; it's pretty funny. Olivia may be the best worker in our family: picking weeds, folding laundry, asking "Dad, what can I do for you?" -- she is constantly engaged in something useful. And it's a good thing because she has LOTS of energy.
Now for the Boys:
Taylor: is now 15 and is a very good son. He serves in church as the Teacher's Quorum President and is very faithful and diligent in his service. He's a really good student too as he has decided he wants to be a surgeon. We'll see if he sticks with that but it's great motivation to do well and he is doing that. Taylor missed most of his Freshman baseball campaign with a broken arm suffered at a winter scout campout. We had a great camp and on our way out he broke his arm sledding. Taylor has been cursed with one of the wackiest Father's on the planet and I didn't respond very well as this was 2 days prior to try-outs. He got to play in a few games at the end of the year and ended up working out with a select team during the fall. We'll see where we go from here. As mentioned, he was in dance festival which was very cool. Later he went to scout camp and earned his BSA lifeguard which is quite an accomplishment. He's working on his Eagle advancement (albeit slowly) and hopes to complete that this year. Later on we had a high adventure activity fall through but I was not going to allow it to fail . . . so we camped at the lake for a few days, played xbox until 3am, water skied, wake-boarded, and hung out. And wouldn't you know? Taylor got a shard of Metal in his eye! We spent part of the week in the ER getting the fragments DRILLED out of his eye. But alas, all is well and he's not injured as of this writing. He also finished driver's ed this year so is gallivanting about with us in tow -- he'll get his license AFTER he gets his Eagle. He's a great kid with many admirable qualities and we're lucky to have him as our oldest.
Tanner: is now 13 and has a hilarious dry wit about him. Tonight I called a family council for a a very important topic. Before I could even start Tanner says dead-pan: "I want a raise." He's like that every day and it keeps us laughing. Tanner serves in his Deacon's Quorum Presidency as the 2nd councilor and has done a great job training the new Deacons on their duties as they come into the Quorum. He's a legend at Scout camp each year for earning so many merit badges and could possibly earn his Eagle this year too if he really tries. Tanner's big thing this year has been in learning to play guitar. He actually starts formal training tomorrow but in the last several months has taught himself some of the basics of classic guitar and already has several songs in his repertoire. He loves to read and is always doing it -- I often have to turn lights on for him because he's so engaged in his book that he forgets to turn on the lights. Tanner is above all else, a really fun kid who has a super testimony of the gospel. We really love having him in our home; our days would be much duller and less humorous if he weren't here to keep it light.
Dallin: is now 11 and has many talents. It was apparent early on that this boy has a real shot at being very special on the piano -- he is naturally gifted on the piano and improving daily. We have generally told our kids they need to be able to play hymns but Kresta has repeatedly informed me regarding Dallin, "we're not letting him stop lessons." Dallin completed his tour of duty in Cub Scouts this year and is now into Boy Scouts. He'll be the first to tell you he's not a huge fan of scouts but he does enjoy camping and hiking and I look forward to having him with us on more and more outings. He earned his Arrow of Light which is an award he is allowed to also wear on his Boy Scout uniform. He participated in the Pinewood Derby for the final time and after winning out right each of the last 2 years he was middle of the pack this time. I was never more proud of him than at the derby this year. We put very little time into this year's car. Dallin wanted to let others taste victory (I was totally opposed to this strategy BTW). He was amazing in how gracefully he congratulated his friends and genuinely felt happy for their victories. He taught Dad that day. I have to mention some of Dallin's quirks: he's a "lurker" as Kresta calls it, he finds his way into adult discussions and before you realize it he's in the middle getting all the dirt, he should be a spy; he loves little kids, he's just wonderful with toddler aged kids; and he's a defender of his brothers, he will do anything to keep his brothers and especially Tanner out of trouble. Dallin's just a great overall son and brother and we love him a lot.
McKay: is 6 and is at a very fun stage. The other day early in the morning (he, Olivia, and I are the early risers in the family) he said very seriously, "Dad . . . never trust a Genie" -- and then walked away. He says hilarious stuff like that all the time! He has of course been a big part of all our family fun this year but he was most engaged in his swim lessons. We feel it's very important that our kids all swim well and so, we've had them all in swim lesson off and on. One day during an open swim McKay asked if I wanted to see his back stroke. I answered in the affirmative and he flipped over, thrashed like a fish OUT of water -- arms and legs flailing, water flying everywhere -- looking like he was drowning . . . and not moving an inch. He jumped up with a huge smile on his face seeking my praise and basking in his accomplishment. It was a really funny sight to behold and one I will always remember. The boys and I also took McKay on a Scout hike this year up to Lena Lakes in the Olympic Forest. I gave him a whistle and told him to blow it if he saw any bears and . . . next time I saw him was a few hours and 5 miles later. He was among the first group up the mountain without even a single complaint. He beat the scout I was accompanying up the mountain by over 30 minutes. It was really fun. McKay is really a delight and in those moments where we peel him away from anything electronic (he's seriously addicted to video games) he has a super personality. We love having him in our family and seeing him pal around and play with Olivia is one of the sweet blessings of parenthood we get to enjoy. They are buddies.
Among our other activities already mentioned, we took many ski trips, had Grandma and Grandpa Reed here when we were in Hawaii, and made an October trip for an MBA reunion to Utah. We reunited with many beloved friends and family in each of these adventures and had a great time doing so.
Above all, our testimonies of Jesus Christ have been strengthened this year. Our beloved Prophet Gordon B. Hinckley passed away this year. In his place a great man and Prophet of God named Thomas S. Monson has been called and our witness of that transition has served to strengthen our faith. For certainly our Father in Heaven loves us and would never lead us on this earth without his servants to lead and guide us.
It is our holiday wish that each of you who may read this will enjoy this season. Take a little time to serve your fellow man, to love a little more, and to thank God above for the birth of his only Begotten Son, even Jesus Christ. We know that they love us and they love you and that our common cause to come to this earth is an outward manifestation of that love. This is our collective opportunity to learn and to grow.
Merry Christmas and a most Joyous New Year,
The Reeds James, Kresta, Taylor, Tanner, Dallin, Haley, McKay, Olivia, and Helaman (the Dog)
2007 Christmas Letter (Never Sent)
As another year comes to an end we pause to celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ and reflect on all of the blessings and events of 2007 and look forward to another exciting year.
Like many years before, 2007 involved yet another move for the Reeds – this time back to Gig Harbor, WA not too far from Kresta’s parents and where James and Kresta started this happy clan. Also like many years gone by, James changed jobs again too! This time he’s returned to "big business" taking a finance role at WaMu in Seattle. He often advises business students, "if you like corporate finance, work where finance is the product" . . . and now, for the first time, he finally has.
Kresta keeps very busy teaching school at home, teaching piano lessons, shuttling kids to their various acting lessons, sports, piano, church activities, YMCA, and any number of other things. She recently took on a new church responsibility that has her accountable for all children 2-11 in our congregation – it’s a big task but she is more than capable (James writing this) and will do a great job. Our move to Gig Harbor has allowed us to deepen our relationship with Kresta’s family as we see her parents and Sister weekly. It has been great for the kids to be with their cousins and see Grandma and Grandpa Rowley on a more regular basis. It has also given Kresta an opportunity to be involved in her Dad’s care – her parents have been so instrumental in the treatment of Kresta’s cancer; it is truly a blessing to help him in his time of need. We’re very grateful for this time in our lives.
Re: Kresta’s cancer – her levels of disease are the lowest they’ve ever been and we are thankful every day for that. Granted, it’s not gone but we’re much closer to the desired outcome than we were even last year.
Taylor (14) is in high school! If that makes any of you feel old … we’re right there with you. He is an amazing kid who will accomplish great things in his life. Taylor is in early morning seminary where he is a class vice president, is his Teacher’s quorum President at church, and a fantastic son, brother, and friend. He attended BYU baseball camp this summer, batted close to .600 in summer league baseball, went to scout camp (he’s now working on his Eagle), went on a 3 day San Juan Islands ocean kayaking trip for high adventure, and is a budding artist/designer. Some may have heard about his recent surgery – in playing our annual "Turkey Bowl" football game he took a shot to the nose that ultimately required surgery and 2 weeks out of his evolving public life. He’s got work to do to catch up in school but thankfully, he’s ok.
Tanner (12) has been a treat to have as a pre-teen. He is a rock star in scouts where he is already just his time requirement away from his Star rank. His summer camp was epic – he earned 6 total merit badges with 4 of those being required for Eagle. Tanner also received the priesthood and is a Deacon at church. We have rarely seen a young man so serious about his church responsibilities, Tanner is a great example for the other boys to follow as the 2nd counselor in his Deacons’ quorum. He has also really found his calling . . . in the theater! We’re not sure where he got it: Kresta has theater experience in mostly supporting roles and James is dramatic all the time but Tanner really is comfortable on stage and in front of audiences. Watch out on the big screen.
Dallin (10) continues to be such a happy boy. He enjoys scouts where he is a Webelos scout and is working to complete all the requirements for his Arrow of Light. Dallin is a delightful kid who loves to swim, play the piano, and follow Tanner everywhere – they are best buddies. Dallin also has taken his dramatics to the big stage and recently made his debut along-side Tanner and Haley in his role as a peasant turned king. Dallin is a "natural" on the piano – it’s still early to project his full potential, but he loves spending time on the piano, picks up his assigned works (and then some) very quickly, and has shown an uncanny ability to advance quickly. His piano teacher and other authorities on the subject assure us he has an unusual gift; we’ll keep you posted as this develops.
Haley (8) was baptized this year and became a member of our church. We are so proud of her. She is a great swimmer and a good friend to everyone. We are convinced she was sent to us by Heavenly Father when she was to help us with the younger kids – she is an amazing "mommy" with McKay and Olivia. She had an otherwise eventful year too: she sang solos in church on several occasions (her raspy voice is maturing into a very eloquent performer’s voice), sang in the church choir with Kresta, went with James to a Hannah Montana concert, attended the BYU cheerleading camp with her best friend Brooke, flew to Utah with Kresta to attend a wedding in December, and otherwise has just had a lot of fun. She also takes acting classes and piano with Tanner and Dallin.
McKay (5) is a super fun boy – he loves gymnastics, being near Grandma (and often spends the night at her house), enjoys his Joy School class, and especially has enjoyed his cousin and best friend Noah. Those kids are connected at the hip. All of our kids do some sort of snow sport – the oldest 3 snowboard, Haley skis – but McKay LOVES skiing . . . and James is very happy about that. McKay is also very excited to start T-Ball this year and has already started practicing. Watch out, he’s going to be a good one.
Olivia (2) continue to be our "Princess" – just ask her. Call her anything; dear, sweetie, baby, big girl, and she will correct you, "I’m a Princess!" She loves being in nursery with her friends, enjoys singing, thinks she’s in McKay’s joy school (she’s not), and generally rules the family. A big highlight for her was our family trip to Disney World for her 2nd birthday in February. James’ whole family met us there and it was by all accounts a hit. All of our kids got to spend quality time with Grandma and Grandpa Reed and deepen our ties with the entire Reed side of our family. We spent a whole week in the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, MGM, and Animal Kingdom and had a great time. It was all capped by a character lunch with Winnie the Pooh and friends. Planning it felt like a potential train wreck but everything was fantastic. There are few things I enjoy more in life than walking on a plane with 6 kids – you should see people’s faces!
It is hard to believe that Kresta and James celebrated their 15th anniversary this year . . . not hard to believe we "made it" this far but that the time has gone so fast. We could not have imagined where life would take us and where we would be with our family at this point. One thing we know now more than ever is that with the Lord all things are possible. We continue to put our faith in him and direct our lives in a way we believe would please him. The restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. He was indeed laid to rest and three days later rose from the grave a resurrected being. By virtue of his sacrifice we all will one day be resurrected and have the opportunity to live with him and his Father again. We celebrate his life, his mission, and his atoning sacrifice in this holiday season and wish all of you and your loved ones our very best in this Christmas Season.
The Reed Family
Like many years before, 2007 involved yet another move for the Reeds – this time back to Gig Harbor, WA not too far from Kresta’s parents and where James and Kresta started this happy clan. Also like many years gone by, James changed jobs again too! This time he’s returned to "big business" taking a finance role at WaMu in Seattle. He often advises business students, "if you like corporate finance, work where finance is the product" . . . and now, for the first time, he finally has.
Kresta keeps very busy teaching school at home, teaching piano lessons, shuttling kids to their various acting lessons, sports, piano, church activities, YMCA, and any number of other things. She recently took on a new church responsibility that has her accountable for all children 2-11 in our congregation – it’s a big task but she is more than capable (James writing this) and will do a great job. Our move to Gig Harbor has allowed us to deepen our relationship with Kresta’s family as we see her parents and Sister weekly. It has been great for the kids to be with their cousins and see Grandma and Grandpa Rowley on a more regular basis. It has also given Kresta an opportunity to be involved in her Dad’s care – her parents have been so instrumental in the treatment of Kresta’s cancer; it is truly a blessing to help him in his time of need. We’re very grateful for this time in our lives.
Re: Kresta’s cancer – her levels of disease are the lowest they’ve ever been and we are thankful every day for that. Granted, it’s not gone but we’re much closer to the desired outcome than we were even last year.
Taylor (14) is in high school! If that makes any of you feel old … we’re right there with you. He is an amazing kid who will accomplish great things in his life. Taylor is in early morning seminary where he is a class vice president, is his Teacher’s quorum President at church, and a fantastic son, brother, and friend. He attended BYU baseball camp this summer, batted close to .600 in summer league baseball, went to scout camp (he’s now working on his Eagle), went on a 3 day San Juan Islands ocean kayaking trip for high adventure, and is a budding artist/designer. Some may have heard about his recent surgery – in playing our annual "Turkey Bowl" football game he took a shot to the nose that ultimately required surgery and 2 weeks out of his evolving public life. He’s got work to do to catch up in school but thankfully, he’s ok.
Tanner (12) has been a treat to have as a pre-teen. He is a rock star in scouts where he is already just his time requirement away from his Star rank. His summer camp was epic – he earned 6 total merit badges with 4 of those being required for Eagle. Tanner also received the priesthood and is a Deacon at church. We have rarely seen a young man so serious about his church responsibilities, Tanner is a great example for the other boys to follow as the 2nd counselor in his Deacons’ quorum. He has also really found his calling . . . in the theater! We’re not sure where he got it: Kresta has theater experience in mostly supporting roles and James is dramatic all the time but Tanner really is comfortable on stage and in front of audiences. Watch out on the big screen.
Dallin (10) continues to be such a happy boy. He enjoys scouts where he is a Webelos scout and is working to complete all the requirements for his Arrow of Light. Dallin is a delightful kid who loves to swim, play the piano, and follow Tanner everywhere – they are best buddies. Dallin also has taken his dramatics to the big stage and recently made his debut along-side Tanner and Haley in his role as a peasant turned king. Dallin is a "natural" on the piano – it’s still early to project his full potential, but he loves spending time on the piano, picks up his assigned works (and then some) very quickly, and has shown an uncanny ability to advance quickly. His piano teacher and other authorities on the subject assure us he has an unusual gift; we’ll keep you posted as this develops.
Haley (8) was baptized this year and became a member of our church. We are so proud of her. She is a great swimmer and a good friend to everyone. We are convinced she was sent to us by Heavenly Father when she was to help us with the younger kids – she is an amazing "mommy" with McKay and Olivia. She had an otherwise eventful year too: she sang solos in church on several occasions (her raspy voice is maturing into a very eloquent performer’s voice), sang in the church choir with Kresta, went with James to a Hannah Montana concert, attended the BYU cheerleading camp with her best friend Brooke, flew to Utah with Kresta to attend a wedding in December, and otherwise has just had a lot of fun. She also takes acting classes and piano with Tanner and Dallin.
McKay (5) is a super fun boy – he loves gymnastics, being near Grandma (and often spends the night at her house), enjoys his Joy School class, and especially has enjoyed his cousin and best friend Noah. Those kids are connected at the hip. All of our kids do some sort of snow sport – the oldest 3 snowboard, Haley skis – but McKay LOVES skiing . . . and James is very happy about that. McKay is also very excited to start T-Ball this year and has already started practicing. Watch out, he’s going to be a good one.
Olivia (2) continue to be our "Princess" – just ask her. Call her anything; dear, sweetie, baby, big girl, and she will correct you, "I’m a Princess!" She loves being in nursery with her friends, enjoys singing, thinks she’s in McKay’s joy school (she’s not), and generally rules the family. A big highlight for her was our family trip to Disney World for her 2nd birthday in February. James’ whole family met us there and it was by all accounts a hit. All of our kids got to spend quality time with Grandma and Grandpa Reed and deepen our ties with the entire Reed side of our family. We spent a whole week in the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, MGM, and Animal Kingdom and had a great time. It was all capped by a character lunch with Winnie the Pooh and friends. Planning it felt like a potential train wreck but everything was fantastic. There are few things I enjoy more in life than walking on a plane with 6 kids – you should see people’s faces!
It is hard to believe that Kresta and James celebrated their 15th anniversary this year . . . not hard to believe we "made it" this far but that the time has gone so fast. We could not have imagined where life would take us and where we would be with our family at this point. One thing we know now more than ever is that with the Lord all things are possible. We continue to put our faith in him and direct our lives in a way we believe would please him. The restored Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. He was indeed laid to rest and three days later rose from the grave a resurrected being. By virtue of his sacrifice we all will one day be resurrected and have the opportunity to live with him and his Father again. We celebrate his life, his mission, and his atoning sacrifice in this holiday season and wish all of you and your loved ones our very best in this Christmas Season.
The Reed Family
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