Seasons greetings and happy holidays from the Stephenson family. This month we celebrate our fifth anniversary in London and continue to enjoy this wonderful city, as well as its accessibility to the rest of the world. During 2014 we returned to the United States to see family, hiked the Great Wall in China, camped in a ger (tent) in rural Mongolia, relaxed on a beach in Portugal, and retraced Dracula’s footsteps in Transylvania (Romania). If that wasn’t enough, we also took advantage of the cultural events in London, including musicals, plays, sports, and concerts. Above all, we were delighted to have friends and family visit!
Cami turned eight in April and was baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She started school in January and enjoys the extra curricular activities, such as cooking club and piano. She continues to dance and won first place in the school talent show.
Hannah just turned 12 and advanced into the Young Women organization at church. She loves school, and like Cami, all of the extra activities. This year she played soccer, basketball, and track.
Caleb started school in September and ended Becca’s 16 years of homeschooling. He’s constantly training as a competitive gymnast, including the week he spent in Pennsylvania at gym camp. Chris, Becca, and Caleb toured Greece together to celebrate his 13th birthday and enjoyed the sites of Athens, as well as hiking Mount Olympus.
Emma turned 16 this year. In addition to regular classes, voice lessons, and guitar, she participated in a field trip to France and Belgium, an EFY youth camp, and a solo trip to see Grandpa and Grandma in California – where she received her driver’s permit. Now we just need to find a time to practice on the right side of the road.
This year we succumbed to relentless kid pressure and “finally†have a dog. Keira is a poogle (cross between poodle and beagle) and we love her. Becca and Keira have become close through long walks and time alone at home. Becca has also had various callings in the Relief Society at church and currently is the primary chorister. She joined her parents for a short trip to Paris during their visit this year.
Chris continues to travel through Europe for real estate development work and serve in the stake presidency at church. Becca planned a wonderful surprise party to celebrate his 40th birthday this year. It’s amazing how quickly time marches on.
I love you all so much! I’m happy to hear you are doing well and having incredible adventures. I truly hope we make it out there sooner than later, but I also hope, that maybe someday you make it back to California ; )