Let's see, what should I call this? A Christmas Letter? No, it's too late for that. A New Year letter? No. How about: THE LETTER.

Greetings to our family and friends! 2008 was a wonderful year for us. Here are a few of the highlights.

Lincoln (almost 2): He started out the year as a scrawny baby in the 13th percentile for weight. He grew quite a bit this year, and now weighs in at a whopping 32 lbs. (92nd percentile!) He's always happy and full of energy. He's sweet, obedient, laid back, and pretty much the most perfect baby anyone could ask for. My only complaint is when I have to lug him out of bed with his four blankets and any stuffed animals that might have napped with him. My arms definitely get a work out with this one.



Alyssa (4): Alyssa's life revolves around all things girly, pink, princessy, & glittery. She spends hours pretending and dressing up. She loves being with her family and helping me cook. She always takes her spot up on the counter to help me knead bread or make cookies. She loves to play with her friends, too, and "Blinkin" (Lincoln) is usually nominated as the handsome prince who has to dance with and marry all of the girls. He responds by trying to take off with their dollies and hide.



Joseph (8): Joe's biggest highlight of the year was his baptism in May. He's super smart and super sweet. He loves to read, roller blade, play games, and ride his bike. He says his favorite moments of 2008 are: a date with Mom and Dad to Kangaroo Zoo, winning the reflections contest with his painting titled "Colors", Friday night pizza and movies, and our annual trip to Bear Lake. He constantly stumps us with his deep questions.



Isaac (10): Ike is also super smart. He started piano lessons this year, and amazes us with his ability to sight read music. He also had fun this year playing basketball on Jr. Jazz, racing around on his bike and roller blades, winning everyone he plays in any game, and winning his school science fair with his project called, "Magnets R Cool." He is a great example of spiritual strength to his little brothers and sister.



Me!: My favorite things this year were spending time with family, being in our beautiful new house, serving in the church as a Young Women advisor then Wolf den leader, and getting in shape. I'm so grateful for my family and feel like with them by my side, I could lose everything else and still be happy.

Swen: Swen is staying busy as the Elders Quorum President of a giant ward, a Realtor in a stinky economy, and a Daddy of 4 kids. He has been a trooper this year, working extra hard to make things work since real estate isn't exactly booming right now. We're all excited when he can spend time at home with the family because he always makes us laugh.

We are grateful for our Father in Heaven and his watchful care for us. We are grateful for our Savior and his love and sacrifice for us. And we are thankful for the strength we receive from all of our loved ones. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and we know 2009 will be a fantastic year for us all!

Love, The Howards

P.S. Feel free to comment, and come back as often as you'd like for Howard family updates!