Our Christmas Letter

Apparently, a lot of people could not open our letter, as it was written on an iMac. So . . . here it is. Again, like the last post, get ready for a novel.

Season’s Greetings From The Allred Home!

We hope this merry time finds you happy and well, in the company of loved ones and family.

This year has proven to be a memorable one for our home. A novel could not contain the many memories and experiences we have had—good, bad, and that of learning. We have come to realize that our experience here depends much on our willingness to submit to Heavenly Father’s plan for us. This lesson constantly teaches us to put forth our faith in Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. At this time of the year, we are reminded of the miraculous birth of Jesus. We are reminded to always seek Him, as the Wise Men and sheppards of old did. We are reminded that our time here is unknown—and thus, we strive to emulate Him with works of kindness and service always. We testify that He lives and that He is the Savior of the world!

Some of the more eventful happenings of 2009 include:

February—We traveled to Colorado to see Keri’s mom, after she began experiencing many health issues with her heart. These issues are an ongoing occurrence, and we feel grateful to have her with us. Again, life is fragile, and we treasure our family and loved ones. That same month, we lost a baby. Though this came as devastating news, we were blessed to discover new life just a few months later. We expect a third baby boy on January 22^, 2010.

March/April—Our Camry broke down in a rather expensive way. This required much faith and prayer on our part to submit our will again. As always, our family witnessed miracles, our prayers were answered, and our car was fixed.

June—Matthew finished his first year of pre-school at Pearson Early Childhood, and Ryan completed his first year of teaching high school chemistry. That same month, Ryan and Keri had the opportunity to chaperone a youth trek for church to the LBJ Grasslands. We LOVED working with the youth and had great experiences (regardless of the 117 degree temperature on the heat index). Upon our return, we took a leap of faith and Keri quit working for the movie theatre.

July—This month, we found ourselves faced with many decisions. Houston ISD offered Ryan a job at Westside High School, as a 5A assistant/position football coach and a chemistry teacher. After much prayer, study, and counsel, we took yet another leap of faith and moved our little family to Katy, Texas, just outside of Houston.

August—As the coaching staff needed Ryan immediately and due to scheduling/apartment contract issues, Keri had just 2 days to find a house. Again, through much prayer and guidance, we were led to our current address. The week we were to move, many challenges presented themselves. Our van broke down this time and many issues occurred in getting the problem fixed, as time was a huge factor, Ryan was already living in Houston (staying with wonderful family friends)—leaving Keri without a second vehicle, and finding a place to fix the problem for a reasonable amount did not present itself. Further, Matthew broke his arm this same week, which required surgery just days before our departure (and while all of Ryan’s family was out of town). We also had to find a way to get papers/funds down to Houston in time for closing. What a month! Thankfully, prayers were answered and Keri’s family was able to come down to help. Further, our ward acted as a great support, providing babysitting while Keri stayed in the hospital with Matthew, meals, a spare car, and Priesthood blessings. We could never ask for more. We did move that week, and many prayers were answered.

September—Lots of sickness. Matthew turned 5 and started pre-school at Morton Ranch Elementary. We attended many football games—since this was the only opportunity to see our dad.

October—We smoked our first brisket—real Texas barbeque—for Ryan’s 30^th birthday!

November—Ryan’s football team took the district title, but lost in the first round of the playoffs. They had a great season! Keri started her usual pre-term labor/contractions, which always come a bit early with each pregnancy. This has required her to stay down many days and allow others to serve her. Again, we have a great support system through our ward and many have helped with meals, cleaning, and babysitting. We also traveled to Dallas for Thanksgiving at Ryan’s parents’ and had a great visit. Although Keri spent most of her time down, the boys thoroughly enjoyed a visit to a familiar place with family and lots of LITTLE boys (eight in total). Upon our return from Dallas, basketball started immediately after. This sport has proven much better than football’s schedule. Keri began a small writing job. This brings in a little extra money and will pay for the various surgeries our family will have in January (David—ear and exploratory surgery, Ryan—possibly eye surgery, and Keri—C-section). We are grateful for this answer to prayer (especially since Keri can do it when the boys sleep at night).

December—We find ourselves home for the holidays. Keri’s parents surprised her with a visit for her birthday and David’s 3^rd, and made two little boys very excited. We had a wonderful visit and were sad to see them leave. Over the holiday, we hope to feel more prepared for this new little one and attempt some painting projects.

We try to keep our blog updated. You can access this website via: http://ryanandkeriallred.blogspot.com.

We love you and wish you a merry Christmas and happy New Year!

Love,

The Allreds (Ryan, Keri, Matthew, & David)