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Welcome, loyal friend, to our special 2020 life update. Please drop a quick note so we know you have the scoop. 

As we're sure is true for you, this was an interesting and difficult year. Much of our time felt filled with worry and heartache, but we experienced many moments of joy and plenty of growth. 

Atticus moved from 1st grade to 2nd this year. He completed his first year competing with his school's Odyssey of the Mind team, and had a great experience preparing a clever bug fashion show. STEM Club and tennis team were his favorite extracurriculars before everything was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic. Our favorite scholar made the most of schooling from home with intricate father-facilitated art and science projects, and mentoring his little sister into toddler-hood. Atticus returned to school in person (thank goodness!) in August and enjoys learning from "the world's best teacher", Ms. Bedford. (Ms. Bedford happens to be a Kirk-family friend who has known Cody since he was Isadora's age!) Atticus loves his teacher so much he's requested she progress with him through elementary school, junior high and high school into college. (I never want to eat anything else, but in teacher form.) Atticus is a reading machine and a lover of science podcasts. He continues to build Legos like a maniac and astounds us with his original creations. He has proven himself an extraordinary brother and helper, and loves little babysitting jobs while parents are busy with meal-prep or other important tasks like naps.

Isadora has grown up so much this year. It's easy to forget what a different 12 months can make in the progression of such a little human. She seems to thrive in time at home with her favorite people (Cody and Atticus, AKA "boys"). Izzy turned one in March and started walking/running every place shortly after her birthday. She's refined her spunky, entertaining personality and does all she can to get a giggle from her brother. In contrast to Atticus (a sedate, pensive toddler/preschooler), Isadora is non-stop movement and adventure. She loves to climb and risk-take, and has taken to hiding herself in a favorite cupboard, chuckling to herself as we frantically search for her. Toward the end of the year, she found her voice and now narrates her day non-stop. She has mastered the art of giving commands and elicits obedient hugs, snuggles, and help. 

Cody and Jade continue to work in their respective careers, sometimes finding time to watch a bit of political satire and serve in their community. Cody still works with the youth in their congregation, while Jade coordinates service opportunities. Each has read a few books and listened to a few songs this year. Truly not much exciting to report when you've reached your thirties and are focused on feeding, dressing and shaping your offspring.

We pray for a 2021 of greater understanding and compassion, newfound unity and increased brotherly love! Thank you for being a part of our life. We love you! We love you! We love you!