Christmas Update

Well, the neighborhood is blanketed with snow, my house is decked out with lights and garland, the kids are finishing up with school presentations, teacher gifts are done, and christmas cards are ready to be mailed, so I guess it is about time to do the annual “family update.” This year, in an effort to minimize, modernize and economize, we are coming to you through cyber space, via Pamela’s latest project, the family blog. So here goes our longest entry in the history of our website…

2008 has been quite a year for the Sanchez Family; the most important event was the birth of our third child, Sofia in the beginning of September. S is of course beautiful and a really good baby. She is patient with her big brother and sister who both love to entertain her with singing, dancing and stories. Not only does she have the physical features of her brother and sister, but I think she is going to have a lot of their personality traits as well. She is sweet and very observant for her age, but also does not hesitate to let you know when she is not happy. We look forward to watching her grow and learn.

A is 6 and in the first grade. He is our super hero/power ranger/ninja warrior. He is full of energy and creativity. He loves to play with his friends outside, torment his sister and make Sofia laugh. He is always moving and doing and exploring. He is tender-hearted and has a hard time understanding injustice and cruelty of any kind (except with his sister). He also tries to be a really good friend to everyone. Unfortunately, this desire to please his friends has often lead to undesirable consequences, which has made for some very interesting discussions about friendship, making choices and accepting responsibility for our actions. It has been really fun watching him grow from little boy to big boy. We look forward to seeing him grow from big boy to young man.

V is 4 going on 13. She goes to pre-school 3 days a week. She is our Princess/Horse/Diva. She is all girl, loves to dress up and is always pretending that she is a character or animal from one her books or movies. Even though she loves all things girly, she can go toe to toe with her brother, and also has a pretty good right hook (her mom taught her). She loves to read and watch movies and snack on anything sweet (of course she takes after her mom)! She is always entertaining and trying to make people laugh. She never fails to bring a smile to our faces, even when we want to tear our hair out in frustration at her rapid and confusing mood swings! Everyday is an adventure when you live with a miniature drama queen.

Jorge is as ever the calm in the storm, our rock and constant. He is always there to help with whatever arises. I couldn’t ask for a better husband and father. He loves his children, and truly enjoys playing with them and being with them. He is currently teaching the 11 year olds in primary, which has been a real challenge, because he had never worked in the primary before. Before his first class, I kept asking him, if he was prepared, if he was ready, etc. And he would look at me like, “Yeah, why are you asking, I’ve taught in church before, it’s not exactly rocket science.” Well, after his first class, I saw him in the hall, and with a completely shell-shocked look on his face he said, “This isn’t like gospel doctrine, is it?” :) I just smiled my best “I warned you smile” and gave him a hug. After a bit of study and a lot of prayer, he has evolved his teaching style and I think has really begun to enjoy his calling. It has been wonderful to see the transformation in his class, from one of the most difficult to one of the best behaved. He has been working with his friend in an audio/media duplication business in Orem. However, due to the failing economy, he has been forced to look for another opportunity. We have faith that he will be directed by the Lord and be able to find something that is fulfilling as well as rewarding – and if anyone knows of any positions – please let us know :) .

As for mom, well I am just trying to keep a float, keep the kids dressed (especially difficult with V), fed, somewhat groomed and most importantly loved. The transition to three kids has not been easy, but I am learning and getting better at managing things everyday. I am learning to pick my battles, to laugh at the little stuff and to let a lot of things go. I often have to remind myself that these times are precious and that I will miss these stages in their lives when they are no longer little. I still love to cook and entertain friends and family. And when I have a bit of precious me-time, I love to read, make beaded jewelry and share stories on our blog. I am working with the Young Women as the 1st counselor and really enjoy the time I spend with “My girls.” We love to hear from each of our friends and family. And we are grateful for your influence in our lives. We hope that you all have a safe and happy Christmas and that 2009 is full of all good things.