2013

Christmas 2013

Hello all,

Mike continues to work at the U. He bought a new digital camera recently and now spends a lot of time looking at lenses and other paraphernalia online.

I am continuing to homeschool Stephen and Serena. I am also continuing my role as "play mom." I am producer again. Since I didn't think I was busy enough, I decided to co-chair a booth at the St Raphael parish festival, become treasurer for the parish women's group (Rosary Society) and chair a game booth at the parish Christmas bazaar.

Joel (age 22) flew the coop. His new nest is in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, a suburb of Madison. He has his first full- time job working for Epic, a medical software company. He has made several trips back to Minnesota, including three in his two months of living in Wisconsin. Although he finished his UST classes in December 2012, his graduation ceremony wasn't until May 2013 (which was one of his first three trips back to Minnesota.

Paul (age 19) decided to attend college closer to home this year. He is now enrolled at Saint John Vianney Seminary and attends classes at the University of Saint Thomas. So far he loves it, although he misses his friends from Loras. In October, he had a “free” weekend and brought two other seminarians home with him. And no, this wasn't a total surprise as he played “priest” when he was younger and always enjoyed (and still does enjoy) altar serving.

Stephen (age 14) is still involved in his Squires club and recently joined the Core Team, the Saint Raphael senior high youth group that has spiritual activities and plans events for the junior high school kids. He is also in ROC, the two-year St Raphael confirmation preparation program. He is the oldest child at home (most of time) with Joel moved out and Paul at college most of the year.

Serena (age 12) is gearing up for her fourth theatrical performance, this time as a talking tree and a Munchkin in The Wizard of OZ. Serena is singing in the St Raphael school choir and participated on the St Raphael soccer team again. She enjoys going Saturday Night Alive, the monthly junior high youth activity at St Raphael.

Merry Christmas,

The Hedmans