This year has flown by with many fulfilling moments of joy and friendship. Our foreign exchange student from France, Perrine, finished off her year graduating in a special ceremony unique to American culture. While here, she enjoyed trying new recipes and book reading. We were grateful to have her, especially with the birth of baby number 3 in March! Gloria Claire Pillman was born rather quickly, and Perrine embraced her role as older sister and Sponsor. We said our melancholy goodbyes as she left for college in Paris, France. We will never forget her, and remain inspired to continue hosting other students!
Now at 9 months old, Gloria makes us laugh with her smiles and enthusiasm to join the fun! She is often found wrestling with her brother and sister, and can pretty well hold her own.
Anna (3) continues to be interested in matching clothing and grows her creativity by designing her own crafts. She is learning how to read and write.
Caleb (2) is another enthusiastic motivator, often heard cheering “Yaaaay!” for life’s achievements. He loves trucks, is learning new colors, and stepping up to new responsibilities.
We had many close family bonding moments this year. Some memorable moments were taking a trip to Ashland in our new burgundy minivan, and enjoying refreshing dips in Lake Superior. While road tripping the North Shore, we visited quaint towns along the way enjoying treats of smoked salmon. We also did many nights of backyard camping in the warm months, and a week at a local resort this September. We caught many large fish, much to our inexperienced surprise!
As fall began, Katie continued her love of teaching with the littles, as well as tutoring a student in reading. She enjoys reading books about cooking and attends the YMCA with neighbors.
Lucas continues into his 5th year at Airborne Athletics. He did some volunteering with the family, and diligently leads with focused direction. He works on his trailer with interest in building and designing other spaces.
We enjoy hosting family events together, watching documentaries as a family, and being active outside. Our love continues to grow and extend beyond our immediate family. We are excited for what lies ahead next year, and remain grateful to a God who loves us too!
Love, The Pillmans
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