Hello Family and Friends,
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! All is well here in Georgia, and we’re finishing up year two (of three) of our assignment at Fort Benning. We likely have one year left here before the Army tells us what great adventure we’re onto next.
We have enjoyed the freedom of mainland living and being able to get in the car and go explore. This year’s travels took us to Washington DC for spring break, where we enjoyed touring our nation’s capital and visiting various monuments and museums. We went back home to Hawaii for nearly two months this summer and soaked up the sunshine by hiking, lounging at the beach and filling our bellies with all our favorite local foods. And thanks to Elana’s mom, Kim, who is here for an extended stay, we were able to take our first kids-free vacation and attend a Military Chaplain Retreat down in Asheville, NC.
As a family we continue to create Live Lists (sounds better than a Bucket List) for wherever we are stationed and have enjoyed participating in activities like fishing, kayaking, white-water rafting, ziplining, running 5K’s, hiking, peach picking, watching a Braves game, jumping off the Airborne towers and more! We’ve also tried hard to instill a love of learning in our kiddos, and both are flourishing at their school and various activities.
Nathan (age 11) has made the transition to middle school and is enjoying a greater variety of teachers, subjects and independence in the 6th grade. He continues to play for his school’s golf team, but has recently discovered a love for lacrosse. Language Arts is his favorite subject and it’s evident as he thoroughly enjoys TOME Society (book club) and is currently preparing for his school’s spelling bee finals next month.
Alison (age 9) is in the 4th grade. She’s stepped out of her comfort zone this year and was elected class representative for student council, and held the role of narrator for our chapel’s Christmas program. She continues to develop her creative side through art lessons (one of her paintings was recently selected for display in our local museum), playing the piano and reading. Her favorite subjects in school are Math and STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math).
Roland continues to work as the Chaplain of the historic 1st Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment and serves at the Airborne Chapel where he ministers to Officer Candidates and Airborne School Students.
In addition to playing taxi and keeping the home running smoothly, Elana was recruited for a marketing job with Soldier Photos and Military Frames, here on base. She also serves as the Leadership Training Coordinator and helps lead Bible studies for PWOC, the chapel women’s ministry group on post.
This past year has been wonderful for our family and we pray that this holiday season is memorable for each of you. Wishing you all a new year filled with exciting adventures and God’s blessings!
With Love & Aloha, Roland, Elana, Nathan & Alison