Christmas 2001

ThomasKids.com Christmas 2001 Letter

(2001) Happy Christmas to everyone!

Well, what to say about 2001? It is definitely been a year of changes. It has made us all count our blessings a little more, I think, and hold those we love a little closer. It has made us much more aware of all the evil in the world, but, even more so, made us aware of the tremendous kindness and love that we are all capable of. It has made us so thankful for all we have, especially for all of our friends and family. You are all our greatest treasure.

Our lives have certainly been changed with little Colleen (15 months) in the picture now. You know what they say about that third child making you a little insane? Well, it's all true! She is by far our most flexible baby, as she has had to be on everyone else's schedule, but I have to say she is my most strong-willed also. When she wants something, she definitely lets you know! She has been walking since mid-August, and has been singing "Happy Birthday to You" ever since her birthday in September!

Steven (3 ½ years) started preschool this September. He seems to enjoy it, but getting information out of him is like pulling teeth. He is a man of few words! He is a huge dinosaur lover, big Buzz Lightyear fan, and has become quite the architect with his Lego's. He is the most loving little boy, and also the most stubborn!

Shannon (6 years) started at our parish school, St. Lawrence Martyr, this September. She is doing very well and really loves school and schoolwork. She looks so cute in her uniform. (It brings back lots of memories of my school days!) She also started Irish step-dancing just a month ago, and I think we have finally hit on something that she really loves. She is picking up the steps very quickly, and is constantly "stepping" around the house (even when holding a glass of juice?!?!)

We managed two family vacations this year. We took a long weekend up north to San Jose, CA to see our good friends in February. It was a great trip, but I don't think I would drive again (7 hours) with all three kids. Actually, the kids did great, I'm the one who can't sit still that long! We also went to Carlsbad, CA (all of 1.5 hours away) at the end of October and stayed at a Four Seasons Resort in a gorgeous condo (bigger than my house - three bathrooms!!). That's what I call luxury! Anyway, we went to Sea World and the San Diego Zoo and just relaxed. I didn't want to come home!

Danny surprised me this year by starting the process to convert to Catholicism. It is something I always hoped for, but never wanted to push. We are absolutely thrilled, and he will probably be baptized this Easter. (Mom, did you have anything to do with this?) We have become very involved in our parish, and after leading a CFM group the last two years, have actually taken over the whole CFM program with another couple. It is one of the largest ministries at St Lawrence with about 120 families involved.

Needless to say, that has kept us fairly busy. Danny has also been working hard, but trying to maintain a good balance at home also. He has definitely cut down on his hours since Colleen came along, and is home most evenings for dinner. It has been a great help to me, and the kids love to see him. Colleen is a little "Daddy's girl".

I have realized (after my third baby) why so many stay-at-home moms have help! I actually started having a sitter come once a week for 3-4 hours so I can get out for some personal time (usually running errands ALONE!) It has been a great help, and given me some much needed "sanity" time. My sister, Anne (also a stay-at-home mom), and I actually went to Las Vegas for Mother's Day weekend this year, just the two of us. We had such a great time; I think we want to make it an annual event (hint, hint).

Danny and John (Anne's husband) handled everything at home great, and really enjoyed themselves too!

Quick family update: Not too many changes this year. Next year Danny's sister, Laura and her husband, Eddie are expecting their second (it's a girl!) My step mom, Jane, retired this year. I think she was jealous watching all the fun my Dad was having!
Otherwise, all the rest are doing great and growing up!

Happy 2002 to everyone, and let's all pray for peace on earth in the New Year.

Noreen, Danny, Shannon, Steven & Colleen

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