Family Letter for 2008...

Happy 2009 Family and Friends!

2008 wasn't our easiest year, but Chad and I believe our family is closer than ever because of it. Since I'm not very good at the whole Christmas-letter thing, but I was influenced as a child by David Letterman's style of record keeping, I hope you'll enjoy…

2008 's Top Ten List of Barnett Family Events

10) We bought our dream house!!! Built in 1889, there are a lot of "projects" ahead of us, but it's ours and we love it- especially the ward we ended up in. IT ROCKS!

9) Baby Michael went from an infant who could barely rollover, to a whopping 24 lb. climbing, running and cuddling little boy, who likes brushing his hair and teeth every morning. That is A LOT of progress for one year. Go Michael!

8) Sophia is growing gracefully, learning and developing her own personality. While she is stubborn and smart like her mother and sensitive and sweet like her Daddy, Sophia is definitely her own person. We are grateful for her energy (although it scares us sometimes,) enthusiasm and love. "I luuh-ve you. I luuh-ve you..."

7) Chad was recently called to be the Ward Financial Clerk, which has kept him very busy. Eva was called to be Ward Choir Conductor and enjoyed writing a Christmas program narrative to go along with the music. In both capacities, we're making more friends and growing closer to each other through supporting each other.

6) Eva was asked to write a local theatre's Christmas play, a musical adaptation of "Babes in Toyland." The show was double-cast and performed throughout December to laughing, paying audiences. Best of all, the theatre has asked if she'd be willing to write for them again.

5) Chad lost his "dream job" when the company went bankrupt due to home foreclosures. As a result, Chad started his own woodworking business, Denman Woods. He now has his own shop in Ogden (No more hour+ commute, yay!) and is designing and building custom kitchens, bathrooms, and furniture pieces. He loves his job, and Eva loves seeing him doing something he loves. If you're interested, check out www.denmanwoods.com at the end of January!

4) Eva's anxiety/depression worsened, leading to having the kids in fulltime daycare while she took a break. During this time, Eva painted and set-up Chad's office and showroom at his shop. Also, after many prayers and priesthood blessings she's watching the kids fulltime again and loving (almost) every minute of it. Dancing and singing to High School Musical, Barbie’s “The Princess and the Pauper” and Mamma Mia has been a fun way for all three of them to pass the time.
3) Sophia had her first major injury, falling on the sidewalk and splitting her front tooth off. There was a lot of blood and difficulty trying to see the injury. Luckily Eva had an early Christmas purchase in the trunk, a doll, so that calmed her down. With some sedatives and quick dental work she looked like brand new. Mom and Dad have also fully recovered from this highly stressful event. :)

2) Eva began this blog (which she hopes to maintain on a WEEKLY basis this year) and her own, http://evamelissabarnett.blogspot.com/ She loves comments and knowing people read it, so say hi and please pass it on! Also, she's started her myspace page, http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=391631214 and is looking forward to getting more of her music recorded and out there for anyone!

1) We are all still together. Chad has stayed so strong during this year's ups and downs. Even the kids it seems have understood somehow when we've needed a hug or something to make us laugh. They're only 2 and 1, but they are crucial, strong, uplifting members of our family. We know we're far away from many family, high school and college friends, but there is so much love and power in the four of us. I'm astounded to think what this year will bring as we continue to grow individually and get in touch with you all again.

Best Wishes for an AMAZING 2009!

With Lots of Love,
Chad, Eva, Sophia and Michael