Friday, December 19, 2008

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Greetings, here is a brief family update for the year:
Matt has continued to work on his PhD in Computer Science and hopes to finish this coming year. He has published a few papers and started a new thing at BYU called the Web Startup Group. He still makes time for giving train/dino rides to Matthew on his back and enjoys holding Lila in his arms.

Camille is an adoring mother that loves to be home with the children. She seems to always be busy serving others by doing something for somebody. She still occasionally does hair in a friend's salon in Traverse Mountain. She loves hugging both Matthews' and Lila.

Matthew is two years old and loves life. He likes to talk about animals and say his favorite words like Mama, Daddy, Yaya (for grandma), Veve (for Avery), Kekees (for KC), and Yi-ya (for Lila) --- he adores his little sister Lila. He is a smart boy that is always curious and eager to learn new things. He gets plenty of attention from his angelic curly hair and because he still likes to wear his Buzz Lightyear halloween costume around town.

Lila is our little angel. She is so sweet, easy going, and patient. She goes to work with mom and sits and watches contently as mom does hair. She already loves the salon --- a true girl. Lastly, she loves her big brother Matthew.

This year has been a very challenging and spiritual year. On September 1, Matt's father Craig Smith passed away after his 10-year battle with cancer. He was a man of intelligence, insight, and integrity. His family was the most important part of his life. We love him and miss him dearly. On September 3, Camille gave birth to Lila who has brought so much joy and peace into our lives. We know that Grandpa Craig and Lila had a sweet reunion before she came to us. We are grateful for loving parents that have taught us through example. We know that the savior Jesus Christ's perfect example and atonement make it possible for us to repent, become clean, and live again with those we love.

We love you! May the peace and love that comes from above be with you this year.

Love,
Matt, Camille, Matthew, and Lila