Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from The Parsons! We hope that you are having a wonderful 2010! It’s hard to believe that 2011 is right around the corner. So much has changed for us since this time last year, but God continues to faithfully bless and guide our family.

After settling into our new house last year, we decided that moving is so much fun…we would do it again; just across the county this time instead of across the street. Andy and I have always talked about how we would be open to a transfer through Shell. It’s something that’s fun to talk about, and then a little scary when opportunity actually comes knocking.

Opportunity knocked in July, and we accepted a transfer to San Diego. We went house hunting in August, said goodbye to Andy in September, and finally joined him in October in our new house in Carlsbad, CA. We absolutely love the beautiful weather, gorgeous scenery and our house, but greatly miss our friends and family back home in Houston, as well as the cost of living! =)

Graham just celebrated his first birthday! He is not quite walking, but getting close. He loves playing with his sister, whether they are “cooking” in the kitchen, reading books, watching shows, or even playing dress up. He maintains his “manhood” by enjoying his trucks and loves any ball he can get his hands on as well! His favorite thing is probably playing in the sand at the beach. He is such a happy guy, always laughing and smiling.

Addison is full of personality! She is 2 ½ going on 12. She is quite the girly girl, loving her accessories, and often insists on wearing sunglasses, headbands, and her sparkly shoes to breakfast, while still in her pajamas. She enjoys making her brother laugh, playing dress up, doing puzzles and loves that we’re five minutes from the beach. Her daddy delights in the fact she would love nothing more than to watch a “football show” with him. Addison also demands the spotlight. While feeding both Graham and Addison a snack, I asked Addison if she would like a graham cracker. Her response: “I don’t want a Graham cracker, I want an Addison cracker!!”

Andy is settling into his new role of Finance Manager with Shell Trading on the West Coast. He is enjoying a shorter commute, and we love the extra time with him! He is looking forward to introducing our visitors to the many beautiful golf courses around here.

I am enjoying exploring all of our new surroundings and meeting new people. I have joined a mom’s group in our area, which provides play dates for both the kids and me! I am so thankful for the new friendships I’m building with these girls. I still love taking pictures and share it through our family blog, parsons411.blogspot.com.

If you are looking for some sunshine, please come visit us! We welcome visitors as long as they stash away Chuy’s Creamy Jalapeno to bring with them. We wish you and your family a wonderful year ahead filled with love and God’s blessings. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

With love,

Andy, Melissa, Addison & Graham