Dearest Family & Friends,

We hope this season finds you all doing well. Christmas is our favorite time of year, and I’m looking forward to the slower pace the season brings. I enjoy getting caught up with each of you – our family and friends mean so much to us! We don’t see many of you nearly often enough. Here’s what’s new with us:

Adyson, 7, is in the 2^nd grade this year. Her favorite activities are art, reading, running, dance and cheerleading. We are trying to pinpoint an activity that she feels very passionate about and trying lots of new things. It’s no surprise to us that she is a wonderful student and Big Sister of 3. She will begin homeschooling after Christmas for a short time, and will continue on to Metro Christian Academy again in the Fall.

Cade, 5, is in his “bonus” year in Pre-K. What a blessing his new school and teacher have been to us. He loves school, and is very diligent with his studies. He plays on the Knights outdoor soccer team, a TSCH indoor team, and does Little Kickers every week. He loves playing outside with his neighborhood friends, helping in the kitchen, and is a true outdoorsman.  Cade asked Jesus to be his Lord and Savior this Fall – a true joy for us all to witness.

Hunter, 3, and is home with me every day. He is observant, intuitive, shy, and extremely strong-willed. We have really enjoyed our time together while the older kids are at school. Most days you can find him in costume and barefoot engrossed in imaginary play. Hunter recently joined Cade’s Little Kickers class, which is a HUGE step out of his comfort zone – it has been so good for him, and he is excited to play outdoor soccer soon. Hunter asked Jesus into his heart on December 2^nd – there is no greater joy as a parent.

Holden, 10 months, has been the most perfect addition to our family. He has been so easy and so tolerant of our busy life. He is perfectly healthy, and lights up our whole world. He absolutely ADORES his older brothers and sister, and he has brought each of us so much joy. Even after 3 others, those special “firsts” never lose their luster. We cherish his every growth and progression like he’s our first baby.

Dave celebrated his 5^th year with Superior Pipeline and was promoted to Manager of Gas Supply this year. He spends his free time teaching the boys “man things” at the deer lease, watching OSU sports, and spoiling his girls.

As for me, I have been joyously consumed by my family and keeping our home happy, healthy, and thriving. I don’t always succeed, but I know this is the job made just for me. I enjoy my role as Wife, Homeroom Mom (x2), Cheer Sponsor, and Mom of four under age seven. It’s a challenge every, single day.

In a word, you will notice that a common theme for our year is “JOY”. We are healthier, more content, and more blessed this year than ever before, and my heart overflows with the JOY as we are showered with His abundant love and grace. We know 2014 will be an even bigger year for our family, with many exciting changes ahead.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Blessed 2014,

Dave, Allie, Adyson, Cade, Hunter, and Holden Hodges