Our Christmas Letter

I finally stopped blogging long enough to write and send our family Christmas letter. Since I know everyone is really interested in our lives, I will share it with you.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE WAGNERS

We wish all our family and friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 2008 was an eventful year for the Wagners in many ways.

We started the year with a trip to Disney World. We took the boys out of school (we are such good parents) and went to Orlando the second week in January. We spent seven days going to the four different parks. We came home exhausted, but with priceless memories.

Bert's status in the squadron changed in August when he became the Executive Officer (XO). Bert and Diane had a chance to enjoy some time together when they went to Command Leadership School in Newport, RI. Diane learned much about the Navy and the responsibilities that come with Command of a Navy squadron. Bert also went on two detachments: In February, he "visited" Italy and Germany, and a few weeks ago he returned from Japan. Bert now has some time at home to help with the homework, dishes, laundry, light bulb replacement, and other manly duties. He also flew many trips for Alaska Airlines, but most of his time was devoted to the Navy and the squadron this year. Alaska Airlines has not been immune from the financial woes of the country. There has been much discussion of furloughs, but for now Bert is safe.

Diane kept herself busy as a mom, wife, den mother, miniature dressmaker, and family historian. She still hasn't figured out the whole XO wife thing, and probably won't until Bert is finished with his command tour. In September, she attended a doll convention in Orlando for her birthday. It was wonderful to meet other collectors and hang out with people who share her interests. Other memories this year include: Almost killing a goat at Disney World, going to Portland with her mother, an appendectomy for Mother's Day, and walking the Freedom Trail in Boston. In October she started a family blog (thewagnersonwhidbeyisland.blogspot.com) check it out if you want to keep up on our "fascinating" life.

Nathan is now a teenager. He is in the 7th grade and doing well in school. In May, he became a member of the National Junior Honor Society. He enjoys band, soccer, tennis and participated in cross country this fall. He just became the Deacon's Quorum President and Patrol Leader in Scouts. His parents still like him, he is a great kid and doesn't have a teenagery attitude yet.

Travis is 9 and in the 3rd grade. He enjoys Cub Scouts, soccer, tennis, and playing with his playmobil and legos. He is doing well in school and his favorite subjects are Math and Art. He has his first male teacher, whom he likes a lot. He is a sweet-natured boy, who is discovering his talents and interests.

Marcus is 5! We can't believe it. Usually by this time we would have added another little brother to the family, but he will remain the baby. He knows how to work the whole baby-of-the- family-thing. He is in his last year of preschool and loves it. He loves books and video games. One of his favorite pastimes is spelling words with his letter magnets on the refrigerator. He loves girls and admits it.

During this Christmas season, we hope you are all safe and healthy. Even during these troubled times it is important to remember our blessings: Family, friends, and faith in the Lord.
Love,

Bert, Diane, Nathan, Travis, and Marcus Wagner