Beeeelated

I'm back! Oh how I've missed you all! Just wanted to wish you all a Happy New Year! Here's our Christmas letter too...just a little late. Love from the Siehs!

Dear family and friends,

2008 has absolutely flown by, and has been filled with wonderful memories. We want to give you a quick update on our amazingly blessed, never boring, sometimes-a-bit-crazy life!

Our family grew by one as we welcomed Elly Mariah on May 13. Elly was born at 7 lbs, 10 oz, 21 inches long, with a full head of dark hair, dark eyes, and ready to take on the world! Her hair has lightened a bit and her eyes waver between hazel and brown, but she is still the strong, passionate girl we knew she would be from the moment we met her! Elly is a true joy – it’s so much fun to watch her interact with and enjoy her brother, try to roll her way across the floor, and even babble her first words (just for the record…”MAMA” was the very first!)

Cameron turned two on December 5, and is an excellent big brother. He is gentle with Elly, and even endures her grabbing and pinching as she attempts to “love” him back! Cameron is curious as ever, and although he still loves to cuddle, read, and listen to music, his days are mostly filled with learning new sound effects, racing cars on any hard surface available, and preparing for his future as a track star by yelling “ready…set…go!” and speeding around the house. He is becoming quite proficient at his colors and longer phrases, so we usually get a play-by-play of what’s going on in his mind, i.e. as we are driving down the road: “Mommy! Yellow truck! Big truck! Whoa! Bye, truck!” It is a blast to see our little boy’s mind at work!

Caleb is working for Kay Jewelers and is the store manager in Woodbury, MN. We all had to adjust to his commuting farther away from home, but we try to make it out to see him occasionally. His employees are always excited to see Cameron and Elly and give them lots of attention. J Caleb is also assistant coach of the men’s basketball team at North Central University, and enjoys the opportunity to interact with the coaches and young men there.

Most days, you’ll find me (Michelle) at home attempting to synchronize naptimes, mealtimes, and keep clothes clean. It is a joy and blessing to be able to be at home with my babies on a regular basis, and I try my hardest to be patient and enjoy every moment I have with them! I am honored and humbled to have completed my fifth year as the coach of the North Central University women’s cross country team. This impressive group won the women’s NCCAA Championship for the fourth consecutive season this November, and the men’s team took third in their race! Doubly exciting was the fact that my brother, Jay, ran on the men’s team.

Luke 2: 10-11: "Then the angel said to them, do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born; he is Christ the Lord.” Our gift, our salvation, and our hope is in Him and ONLY Him! As Cameron would say, He’s the reason for our “happy heart!” We pray that your new year is safe, healthful and abundantly blessed, and that Joy and Peace fill your home in 2009!