Still Alive

(Sechelt Beach, Sunshine Coast)

Hello! Yes, the Haffners are still alive. Wow, I cannot believe it has been a year since I posted! I have become lazy with Facebook as you just upload your pictures to it and that is that. However, I have been reminded that not everyone is on Facebook and that the commentary is not there, so I am back. Here is a snapshot of the Haffner Four.

(Grace & Claire in our front yard)

(Grace @ Savary Island)

I would say the main change in the last year has been Grace. She is now 31/2 and is coming out of the toddler phase and becoming a little girl. I often call her baby and she quickly informs me that "I am not a baby, I'm a girl!" I am blessed to have many girlfriends with babies that I can snuggle because I do love that baby stage. . .but not enough to have another! Grace is attending a community play school program which she loves. I think she loves the fact that she goes to school just like Claire. And she is in a ballet class which I will video and upload for you all to see as it is just the best thing to watch. I think I go from laughter to tears in minutes.

(Claire's first day of grade 1)

Claire's big change is her height! That girl is growing like a weed. She loves school and would rather go sick then stay at home as school is her "favourite." As Claire would say she is a "grade oner" in that great beginning stage of reading and writing. She wants to know how to spell everything which means our days of spelling things out so the girls do not understand are numbered. Claire continues to play soccer and she has taken an interest in art specifically drawing.

(Mike and Claire @ Bridal Falls)

(An enormous penguin & Claire)

Mike continues to teach high school science and math classes. Unfortunately with his back issues, he no longer can play basketball but still gives his time to coaching. He is fortunate to have a wife who played basketball for 9 years, so I understand the time constraints as it is a busy time for him from November to March. He also helps coach Claire's soccer team when needed.

(My Dad and I, Pender Harbour hike)

Last but not least, me. I am finally starting to find a balance between family, friends and school. I have returned to UBC to work on my M.Ed in early childhood which I am really enjoying. I am holding down the home front and most of the time we find ourselves happy and healthy.

We are truly blessed to have such great family and friends. Thank you for sharing in our joys over the last year, and I promise to update more often. All the best! The Haffners

(Our Hershey Kiss and fierce Kitty)