Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas Family and Friends!
A 2009 Barnett Family Update

By far the most exciting thing in 2009 was the arrival of Grace Estela! She came February 20th and is now 9 months old. She just cut her first tooth, claps at the sound of music, waves at everything (including herself), and gnaws ineffectually on slices of apple. Although she isn’t crawling, she’s an efficient roller who nimbly navigates her way around the house until she gets hung up under a footstool. She’s an amazing and beautiful baby, who brings us constant joy by her smiles, laughter, and sweet spirit. Through Gracie, God reminds us of the happy and joyful attitude He has towards us.

Caleb, now 2 ½, has also been a ton of fun this year. His sensitive, sweet, inquisitive and detailed personality is a gift. He’s total little boy, frequently running laps through the kitchen and living room with his right arm raised as if holding some curious imaginary torch. Known best for his fascination with eating, Caleb will most often be found at the snack table for the duration of any given play-date. Caleb also loves his classes – First Five and Kindersmusik (Gracie loves them just as much!). Speaking of music, I doubt our little introvert will ever be a performer, but he has some pretty hilarious impromptu singing and dancing sessions. Caleb loves to sing and read books. Building Geo Trax, marble runs and doing art are favorite daddy moments. And he continues to be mommy’s little boy and good buddy – giving her hugs, snuggling and desiring her companionship throughout the day.

Going from a family of three to four has been a blessing. There is nothing quite like the joy and innocence that kids inherently bring to a home. Gracie adores Caleb. And Caleb has taken to G-baby…G-bear…Baby Gracie…“Gra-cie-yah” quite well. He enjoys mimicking her sounds and playing with her toys. There has been nothing quite as cute as seeing the two of them interact, and make each other laugh and smile.

Melissa, by God’s grace, is still able to stay home raising our kids, loves it and does an amazing job. She is savoring this season of life, and all God has in it for her and her family. Since she spends all day momming, Melissa continues to be thankful for the Chicks with Tots group and other friends in town, allowing for some social/play time. Melissa has been tutoring a high schooler named Kai for the past 3 years, and still really enjoys that time too. A highlight for Melissa, and our whole family, was Michelle and Erik’s wedding on May 30th. It couldn’t have been more special with Jason officiating and the four of us being part of the ceremony. That was a day we will never forget, and we are thankful to have Erik officially apart of our family.

Year 3 at the Visual Arts & Design Academy (vadasbhs.org) was good, but challenging in many ways. Navigating an organization through change and budget cuts had its ups and downs – but the staff Dan works with is amazing and the teaching part of his job continues to be fun and fulfilling. Dan does an amazing job balancing work and his family. I know I am partial, but I really think I have the best husband and dad to our kids! He cares for them so well and loves being with them.

After taking 2 years off, we began a home group through our church. We structured it in a way that took care of the babysitting problem, and also allowed for some meaningful time to connect with others on a spiritual level. We alternate guys and ladies meeting from week to week. We really missed the connection to community and have both been blessed by this time together.

With all that said, we wish you a year filled with God’s abiding love, blessing, peace and joy. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Dan, Melissa, Caleb and Grace


The following family shots were taken in November at a nearby beach by my friend and talented photographer, Raya Carlisle