2010 has brought many challenges, but even more delights to our household. We are truly blessed to have such amazing children that bring laughter, joy, and many surprises to our lives.
Cassidy finished up the second grade and headed into third grade with many successes. She made the Principal’s Honor Roll, won her class’s Spelling Bee, and received Respect Student of the Month. In September she turned nine and is so excited that next year brings double digits. Cassidy is a smart cookie and is a phenomenal big sister and example for her younger siblings.
Chloe ended 2009 by turning six years old. She finished out kindergarten and started in the first grade. She loves to read and is doing so well above her grade level. Chloe is a little helper in class and one Respect Student of the Month for her willingness to contribute to others’ successes. Chloe has been and always will be our little flower child that brings such sunshine to our world.
Catherine turned five this year and started kindergarten. She could not wait to start school and is doing really well so far. Catherine received Trustworthy Student of the Month her first semester. Catherine has thrown us a curve-ball as she does everything in her own time and her own way, but she can sure brighten your day with her beautiful smile, big blue eyes, and her goofy laugh.
Cadence turned two in February and continues to test all the boundaries. She is risk taker and was the first of our kids to need stitches (six in her chin). We call her our little monkey and she lives up to that. She loves singing her ABC’s and counting. Cadence has the most precious laugh and loves to be tickled. She has found a best friend in her little brother, but still says she loves Cassidy the most.
Alexander turned one in July, but took his sweet time learning how to walk. He has such personality and loves to snuggle. He fell into the role of baby of the family quite well and seems to use it to his full advantage. He has his dad, mom, and big sisters wrapped around his fingers. Alex is all boy and loves to throw around the football and most of all play golf.
Cassidy, Chloe, and Catherine all took on soccer this spring and the two oldest have continued it on this winter. Cassidy is a great forward and loves to kick the ball in the goal. Chloe seems to be versatile and does great on offense and defense. Catherine did well, but wants to pursue more “girly” activities (her words). The three older girls also auditioned and have taken part in their dance studio’s performance group which focuses on getting the girls skilled in all techniques of dance. They have had great opportunities so far, with performances at the Arizona Diamondbacks game, for US Airways, some local carnivals, and next year they will be looking forward to Disneyland.
As for Matt and Amanda, they have been busier than ever having to work and keep up with the kiddos. Matt is still playing for the Symphony of the Southwest and working part-time at Home Depot. He has enjoyed getting involved more in woodworking and even built Chloe a new loft bed. Amanda is still working for the Department of Defense and even received another promotion this past summer. She started teaching pre-school/kindergarten combo classes at the dance studio and loves it. This has allowed her to get back into dancing and work on getting into shape.
Overall, 2010 has made the Maricopa Zimmerman’s lives even more hectic, but they wouldn’t change a thing. The kids are healthy and happy, and mom and dad are enjoying seeing their children experience life and develop into fabulous people.
We hope all of you have a wonderful holiday season and may 2011 bring you many blessings. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Love, The Zimmerman’s
~ Matt, Amanda, Cassidy, Chloe, Catherine, Cadence, and Alexander ~
