It’s hard to believe that it’s time once again for our annual holiday note — somehow another full trip around the sun has flown by! This year, like the last, was filled with so many wonderful moments, both big and small, that we’re truly grateful for.

Ellie, now 11 (or 12, depending on when this reaches you!), started her 6th-grade year at East Prairie Middle School. She continues to amaze not just us but also her teachers with her kindness, dry sense of humor, and outside-the-box thinking. She’s burning the candle at both ends this year, joining choir, band (flute), and industrial arts. Health-wise, she remains strong and healthy following her open-heart surgery two summers ago — something we’re thankful for every single day. Our kind-hearted girl with a passion for art and music keeps us smiling, and we can’t wait to see all the wonderful things she’ll do in the coming year.

Alistar, now 7 and in 1st grade at Northward Elementary, had a big surprise this year: he was chosen as the crown bearer for the high school homecoming coronation! He and a classmate got to take part in all the festivities — the parade, the football game, and even the dance. The homecoming game fell on his birthday, which he declared “the best birthday ever.” He’s also become quite the reader and shows all the makings of a future engineer with his love of building and problem-solving. We can’t wait to see where that creative little brain takes him next.

Laran celebrated his second year with Area Wide Technologies in April. He continues to thrive in his role as office manager and has expanded his skill set into sales and on-site tech work. When he’s not working, he’s on the golf course chasing that perfect round — he’s especially proud of his personal best score of 76 on our local par-72 course! He’s also rediscovered his love of music, spending more time playing guitar and writing songs again.

As for me, I started a full-time role as a teaching assistant at our local high school in August. It’s been both challenging and rewarding — if you don’t know what “67” is or have never been called “bruh,” consider yourself fortunate! I’m still reading whenever I can and soaking up as much quality time with the kids as possible, which truly is the best part of it all.

We had some great adventures this year — a trip to Tennessee with Laran’s family (highly recommend Ruby Falls’ underground waterfall!), a Beitz family reunion in St. Louis in July, and a final summer hurrah to Holiday World with one of Alistar’s best buddies. It was a lovely, joy-filled season and a wonderful year overall.

As we wrap up 2025, we’re wishing all of you a blessed and beautiful holiday season. May you never lose sight of the little everyday miracles that brighten your path. We’re thinking of you and wishing all the best things for you and those you love.

With love,

    The Crawfords