Dear Friends & Family,
In case you missed it in our Christmas card, I’m posting our family letter in this format as well.
For our family, memories of 2010 will revolve around Thailand. It began in January when D’Aun joined Rachel and Kevin for a two-week tour to see the work that Rachel’s organization SOLD does in the country. It deepened when Rachel and Kevin, not yet even married for a full year, moved to Thailand in May. Then as autumn approached, Jedd headed to Thailand for seven weeks to help SOLD film a video. The whole family will complete the Thai connection when Roy goes in early 2011.
Still, it wasn’t completely about Thailand. Here’s a quick update on each of us.
D’Aun loves her life as a farmer and planted another 125 olive trees this year. Surprisingly, the 200 planted a year ago are already producing fruit and she had a mini-harvest in early December! She continues to learn about both the joys and challenges of the farming life, but mostly she just enjoys it all. Well, except for weeds and gophers.
Roy splits his time between real estate and non-profit work. Business is rough for everybody, but he took time for his first ever month long vacation in October. The first part was spent just resting, reading, and enjoying the time off. The second part was traveling through Italy with D’Aun, where they sampled wine, olive oil, and great food.
Rachel continues to lead SOLD as Executive Director, though her role in Thailand is definitely more “hands on” now with the kids and parents. Kevin left his position at his church so he could support Rachel in her work; he also teaches English in Thailand. They will return to the States in mid-2011. And yes, their Cavalier King Charles Spaniel “Berkeley” is with them now and will be coming home as well.
Jedd worked for Goble Properties and PathLight for the first part of the year, spent the summer studying in Santa Barbara, and he spent the fall in Thailand. He continues to film wedding videos and polishing his skills as a videographer. It seems like he always has a camera in his hands! And he remains the most favorite person in the world to our beloved Golden Retriever, Sadie.
The year was filled with highs and lows. It was difficult to lose people we loved. But it was joyous to see new life for others. As the year winds down we find ourselves reflecting on the peace that comes with the true meaning of the season, and we wish you that same peace.
Merry Christmas and สวัสดีปีไหม่ (Happy New Year, in Thai),
Roy and D’Aun