Time for a family update

A few things have transpired lately which would seem to warrant some commentary.

First off, Traven's health has been getting gradually better. He usually sleeps through the night, and is coughing less. He is 6 months old now, and full of personality. When he gets excited about something (usually singing on the tv), he sticks out his arms and legs and kind of sounds like a monkey. It is very amusing. He is good for about 30 - 40 minutes of church, before he gets bored and wants to be walked around. He is sitting up, and will spend a little time on the floor, but usually prefers to be walked around or put in his jumper.

I am trying to get ready to run the Ogden marathon in May, but am really struggling. I am slower than I have been in years and just can't seem to find the groove. I am worried about Ogden and about the Wasatch Back in June. I'm not sure what is wrong with me.

Lori's brother Brett has decided to divorce his wife. This is a painful process to watch, especially considering they have 3 young children. It is heartbreaking to see the problems being caused for them because of parental decisions. I continue to hope and pray for the best, but I honestly am not sure what the best solution would be.

Now that Kaylee is 16, we see her a lot less. It makes me sad and happy at the same time. The sad is just a bit of missing her being around. I am happy that she has made good friends and enjoys getting out of the house. She also has a job, which she doesn't exactly like, but does enjoy the income.

Braden has grown several inches and has been playing basketball and getting in shape to run on my Wasatch Back team. He has changed a lot over the past year.

Jason is still working hard at school. I feel bad sometimes because it feels like I am constantly having to remind him to do homework.

Alyssa is still doing great in school. She has some good friends and is constantly wanting to be on the go as well.

All in all, I feel very blessed and lucky to be where I am at in life. Sometimes I let things get to me. I live in fear of my company either downsizing me out of a job, getting bought out by another company, or simply fading into oblivion. I worry about the state of our economy and nation, and wonder what type of future my children will have. But then I remember the important thing is to do what I can to help them, and to have faith that things will work out as they should. I am grateful to have a great wife to keep me in line and help me out. I am very thankful for five wonderful children.

My sister Charlotte tells me my sister Patty is moving back to St. George and will be staying with my parents. It should be interesting to see how that works out. I don't hear much out of my sister Karen.

I am really excited to go backpacking with Braden and Jason this summer. I think I will try to sale my trailer, since it looks like the young men will be doing a lot of backpacking over the upcoming years.

I am also excited for spring. Winter sucks.