Missoula Musings: 2021. Stay the Course

Each year I use this time to stop and reflect on the previous year. This has become a family history and an opportunity to reflect on the year. If 2020 was a year of Transitions, 2021 was a year of Staying the Course. A few things have changed in the lives of the adults in the Marks family- but mostly we all continue to live and work and volunteer in many of the same places as last year. If you need a refresher - check out last year's letter.

Some highlights in 2021 were that we got to see a little more of Liz and Chris and Erik. Liz and Chris were home in July and August and Erik home a couple of times. They love their time with their niece and nephew and vice versa.

We had an opportunity to be together as a family when we all met and stayed at a condo in Big Sky in August and celebrated the wedding of our niece Mariah. We had such a good time being together as a family as well as celebrating with most of the Marks/ Jallings/ Bridges clan. It was a blessing!

The biggest changes to celebrate are the grandkids, Bethany, Freddie and "SpikeJoy" as we call the baby who is due on 2-2-22.

Bethany... 6 years old, in first grade and thriving. She's reading and is also learning to play the piano! Her Papa Ron volunteers in her classroom two days a week, where he gets a big hug from her! She has joined Ron & I hiking (including the M). Winter has found her cross-country skiing and excited about downhill skiing with her dad Ike

She's thrilled about being a big sister again! No doubt she will be a helpful little blessing for her mom and dad.

Freddie.. 3 years, in preschool. He attends day care two days a week, preschool 2 days a week and Friday mornings loves entertaining his two friends, Leo and Logan (also 3 years old) at Nana and Papa's Three Amigo Mornings. His love for any kind of vehicle (but especially loves those with sirens), and can tell you how to make pizza with Papa.

The 3 Amigos! Freddie, Leo & Logan

Grandchild #3 is due on 2-2-22. Mama Kathie is ready for this baby to come anytime! Freddie and Bethany are excited to have a new sibling.

As for Ron and I-- we continue to have many adventures- hiking, biking, boating, camping and skiing. I'm happy to say I've maintained my weight release for the year and walked 4 million steps! It's been wonderful to see new places and have new experiences with each other and with our kids and grandkids. We've seen some beautiful places and had many "lunch with a view" dates. Enjoy our video of our adventures.