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We are excited to celebrate another year of God’s blessings on our lives. Every day we’re reminded how good God is and how faithful He proves to be. Let us explain. In April, Steve finished up to his Masters of Engineering Management from the University of Dayton, which unfortunately for us, meant he had to return to the work world after a nine month sabbatical. Considering we suddenly had a lot less sleep and significantly more structure in our lives, we adjusted well. In May, we went to Iowa to attend Brandon and Courtney’s wedding (Alyssa’s brother). It was a great time to see family and catch up, as well as wish them ‘congratulations!’
In June, we vacationed in California! Steve was traveling there on business and Alyssa flew out and joined him for an extended weekend. We spent the first few days in San Diego and toured the zoo and the “island” life of Coronado, with its quaint shops and beachscape. Then we took off for Los Angeles, where we experienced our first L.A. traffic jam. We coped by simply getting off at the nearest exit and cruising the nearby town of Del Mar, one of the world’s richest zip codes! Once in L.A., we toured Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Irvine and Costa Mesa. We even experienced our first earthquake — it seems excitement follows us every where!
At the end of June, we celebrated “Grandma Days” with Steve’s family. Although the festivities were nearby, Columbus, Ohio, we discovered much to do, including the Franklin Park Conservatory, a half-acre life-size topiary garden and the Columbus Zoo!
In July, Alyssa started her new job as a Copywriter for Implications, a small marketing company. She quickly found her niche and became an integral part of the small firm, working with clients, concepting for both print and web collateral, and writing…lots of writing. She’s published several pieces and even become the firm’s photographer. In August, we were on the road again. First to Pennsylvania for Alyssa’s friend Sarah’s wedding, then to Maryland to see Steve’s brother’s family and, finally, in September, to Iowa for Alyssa’s cousin’s wedding.
This fall, we’ve become busy with ministry, from Bible Study Fellowship (BSF) to teaching Sunday School to running sound; we’ve enjoyed investing more in our local church! In September, the Handel clan descended upon Steve's aunt and uncle's ranch in Indianapolis. We enjoyed relaxing at the lake, exploring on the Polaris, fishing, and roasting marshmallows by the fire.
November brought Thanksgiving, with so many reasons to be thankful. We enjoyed our Thanksgiving meal at the Handel's and spent the remainder of the weekend with the Rost family. We went bowling, ate enormous quantities of food, and toured Easton Towne Center in Columbus.
As this year draws to a close, we’re ever thankful for the gift He’s given us in His Son. We’ll continue to pray that God would use us and you to accomplish His purpose in 2006. Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! Love, Steve and Alyssa Handel “She will bear a Son; and you shall call his name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” Matt. 1:21 |
