Merry Christmas, from the Kelly Family 2009

Dear Family and Friends,

With grateful hearts we review the past year:

Joseph still works as a regional purchasing agent for Ferguson Enterprises. Despite the recession's effects on the company, we are still thankful for his job. He also continues to serve faithfully as the Elder's Quorum President in our ward. This past year, he finished building a beautiful bunk bed for the boys, and is currently building a bunk bed for the girls. Joseph is also very fond of the 2nd amendment, and purchased Annalee a handgun for her birthday. He has been teaching her everything she needs to know about gun safety and shooting techniques.

Annalee continues to enjoy mothering four wonderful children who have endless energy. She has expanded her teaching studio to 37 students, which she miraculously teaches every school morning from 5:30-7:30 a.m. while the children sleep, as well as during the day before the oldest children get home from school. She also completed a life-long goal this fall by playing the famous Beethoven's 9th Symphony with the Idaho Falls Symphony. She has also accepted invitations to play first violin with the Teton Chamber Orchestra in Idaho Falls as well, and enjoyed playing with the well-known violinist Jenny Oaks Baker, and CMA winner Collin Raye.

Josh will be 10 years old on Christmas Day, and continues to be the 'gift that keeps on giving.' He does well in school and loves science. He also enjoys scouts and going shooting with his Dad out on the desert. His favorite memory this past year was camping with his family in Missoula, Montana while visiting his great -grandparents. He endures his piano studies with his mother as his teacher, but hopes to move on to more exciting musical venues by someday learning the trombone.

Emma is 7 and thrives in her 2nd grade class. She was placed in a gifted reading program at school and can often be found with her nose in a Harry Potter book. Her parents recently caught her reading The Ensign in a corner, for some light, recreational reading. She loves soccer, and despite being very small for her age, was the quickest runner on her team. She is excelling in her violin studies and has been asked to perform at the Zions Bank 'Lights On' celebration.

Caleb is...well, Caleb. His mother's theory is that her sole purpose in this life is to keep this boy alive. He is energetic and naughty, although gratefully this year, we have had no arson incidents involving the toaster or matches. His prayers give us humor and joy. Here are a couple of recent examples: "Thank you that we could have blessings; thank you that we could get created. And thank you for potty treats." "...and thank you that I can say 'oopsies' after I spit on someone."

Elizabeth will be 3 in January and has been a patient, beautiful daughter. Unfortunately, she has been reluctant to get potty trained, but loves playing her 1/64th size violin whenever it's not hidden away. She loves playing with her babies and snuggling Mom and Dad.

May your families be blessed with an abundance of joy and love this coming year because of our Savior Jesus Christ.