We are alive and well, which might surprise you if our typical correspondence with you has been at the holidays. Apparently our last attempt at the annual update was four years ago. We're so grateful for those who have persisted in keeping in touch anyway!
Although our kids both moved away to college two years ago, 2021 was our first year with a completely empty nest. We are embracing the quiet, and enjoy visits with them whenever we have the chance. Having young adults is really quite a treat!
Lee is now working for T-Mobile since they merged with Sprint in summer of 2020. He finally met his new colleagues in person in October when they returned to the office three days a week. It's a big change for Lee and his former Sprint colleagues, who have been telecommuting full time for several years. One thing that thankfully hasn't changed for him is softball in the summers, still the highlight of his year.
Tracy continues to enjoy her part-time photography business. Her photography excursions sometimes just happen to lead her down one of the very scenic roads to the kids. She bit the bullet and painted the kitchen cabinets this summer, getting the ball rolling on some updates needed after over 20 years in the same home. She still enjoys leading her women's Bible study, finally in person again this fall after a year and a half on Zoom.
Ben is a senior at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF), majoring in Math and Data Science. After enduring the dorm life during covid, he was thrilled to move into a house with a bunch of friends across from campus in June. Finally he is having "The College Experience". Besides classes, he stays on the go with rock climbing club, rec hockey (trying out goalie this year), running tech for worship nights at InterVarsity, working at the grocery store, and shout casting for League of Legends (it's like being a sports commentator, but for e-sports). We got to see him on Friday nights for softball with Lee all summer.
Bethany is a junior at Winona State University, majoring in Criminal Justice and Psychology. She is in her second year of living with friends across the street from campus, which she has loved. She's working in security for WSU, and leading small group for Chi Alpha, a student ministry. This past summer Bethany worked at Custer State Park in South Dakota as a hostess in the State Game Lodge dining room, and also worked with a team to lead Sunday worship services in the campground chapel. It was literally a home where the buffalo roam--it was legit to call in late for work if the bison were too close to the door for you to get out.
While covid has slowed down our travels over the past couple of years, we purchased a state parks pass this year and discovered some beautiful places closer to home. We spent Mother's Day with Lee's family in Georgia for the first time ever, took trips to drop Bethany off and pick her up again in South Dakota, and spent a long weekend with friends in Texas in November. Here's hoping we can all get back out and explore the world soon!
We thank God for the unique and special ways he uses each of you to touch our lives. Wishing you and those you love a healthy holiday season, and a new year blessed with God's love, peace, and joy.
Lee and Tracy
