THE HAMILTONS
This summer we gathered in the Midwest for a three-week celebration of numerous important events, beginning with honoring the lives of our beloved Boppa and Bop (Grandpa and Grandma), then celebrating the careers of two very deserving women *respectfully* (Susan and Mom), followed by Thea's 1st birthday, and shortly thereafter her first steps! And also the baby shower of Kyle and Hilliary!
However the brightest highlight of 2021 has to be the arrival of baby Lawson Gerald Beneventi. This baby has been prayed for and is undoubtedly the culmination of God's faithfulness. We are rejoicing with Kyle and Hill and eager to meet Baby Lawson this Christmas holiday.
However the brightest highlight of 2021 has to be the arrival of baby Lawson Gerald Beneventi. This baby has been prayed for and is undoubtedly the culmination of God's faithfulness. We are rejoicing with Kyle and Hill and eager to meet Baby Lawson this Christmas holiday.
Justin
The majority of 2021 was teaching online. This model required teachers, students, and parents to adapt in ways that were challenging at times. However, we finished as best we could and embraced the summer with eager anticipation.
Over the summer I was approached by my principal with a potential job opportunity. This new position would have me leaving the classroom and entering the library. Now, the library has evolved in a space called the Learning Commons where very little centers around book exchange. Instead, the primary focus encourages students to explore technology and innovation. Today's Learning Commons integrates elements of engineering where students can practice circuit boarding, robotics, coding, 3-D printing, green screen, podcasting, mechanics, and more!
Needless to say with a change this big we needed to consult the Lord. After some time of prayer, I felt the Lord releasing me into this new role. It has been a steep learning curve but I have been working hard and asking a lot of questions to educate myself along the way.
Over the summer I was approached by my principal with a potential job opportunity. This new position would have me leaving the classroom and entering the library. Now, the library has evolved in a space called the Learning Commons where very little centers around book exchange. Instead, the primary focus encourages students to explore technology and innovation. Today's Learning Commons integrates elements of engineering where students can practice circuit boarding, robotics, coding, 3-D printing, green screen, podcasting, mechanics, and more!
Needless to say with a change this big we needed to consult the Lord. After some time of prayer, I felt the Lord releasing me into this new role. It has been a steep learning curve but I have been working hard and asking a lot of questions to educate myself along the way.
Kirby
I feel as though my 2021 can be summed up quite quickly. I was on maternity leave for the year, and while there were moments of simple pleasure, on the whole maternity leave against the backdrop of a global pandemic in the dead of a long Canadian winter felt a lot like the movie Groundhog Day.
However, it got better as Thea got older, spring arrived, and we both settled into a routine. This September, I entered back into the classroom by landing myself a pertinent teaching position! I am now in school three days a week and have been enjoying that work-life balance.
Justin and I are doing well as we navigate our 7th year of marriage. We have discovered that our daughter has naturally brought about a common goal, and our communication, cooperation, and reliance upon one another has grown. It's amazing to think on the thoroughness of God through His design of "family." Namely, by adding one thing (Thea), He brought about an undeniable amount of joy, responsibility, and growth into our lives.
However, it got better as Thea got older, spring arrived, and we both settled into a routine. This September, I entered back into the classroom by landing myself a pertinent teaching position! I am now in school three days a week and have been enjoying that work-life balance.
Justin and I are doing well as we navigate our 7th year of marriage. We have discovered that our daughter has naturally brought about a common goal, and our communication, cooperation, and reliance upon one another has grown. It's amazing to think on the thoroughness of God through His design of "family." Namely, by adding one thing (Thea), He brought about an undeniable amount of joy, responsibility, and growth into our lives.
Thea
But the individual who has experienced the most measurable growth in 2021 is definitely Thea. One year ago Thea was just learning to sit up, sleep through the night, and eat solid foods. Now she is walking, dancing, spinning, signing, speaking (more than 20 words), opening and closing every drawer or cupboard you could imagine, and unraveling every roll of toilet paper she can get her hands on. (Seriously, if we come visit, HIDE your toilet paper and tissue boxes!)
However, some things remain the same. Her little personality continues to be happy, playful, curious, VERY active, and strong (both her will and physical strength!).
However, some things remain the same. Her little personality continues to be happy, playful, curious, VERY active, and strong (both her will and physical strength!).
From the Hamiltons, we wish you a very Merry Christmas as you gather together. May your focus be on God's Son who was given to us. May the love of God never cease to amaze you, and may the fellowship of the Spirit be with you forevermore.