For the first time in nearly 13 years, we’ve decided not to mail out traditional Christmas cards. Â Instead, we’ll save trees and money by posting a little end-of-the-year family update in the blogosphere.
Ryan has been with E&J Gallo Winery for more than 13 years.  Currently, he serves as Director of Wine & Grape Supply and (usually) enjoys the challenges this position offers.  He spends many weekends in the drum cage at church, and also leads a group of men every Monday night at Bible study.  He is the newest member of the school board as well.
Megan is still Director of Domestic Operations in the Barr home.  🙂  She enjoys singing with the worship band at church and leads a group of women at Bible study on Thursday mornings.  She tries to sew/craft/paint/re-purpose whenever inspiration strikes and time allows.
Together, we lead a small group in our home on Sunday evenings.  We’re embarking on a 10,000 kettlebell swing challenge in the month of January (eeeek!), and we’ll be celebrating our 13th anniversary just after Christmas.
Ryder is now six, and in first grade at Big Valley Christian School. Â He never stops moving, talking, or eating. Â (Now accepting donations to feed and shoe this kid!) Â He loves soccer, gymnastics, and video games. Â He’s kind of obsessed with working out, and recently learned to spike his own hair.
Evan goes to preschool two days a week at BVCS, and totally loves it.  He’s a great helper when it comes to sorting socks and undies, and would stay in his “jammas” 24/7 if allowed.  He loves gymnastics, Legos, and riding his bike.  We’ll celebrate his fourth birthday on the 22nd.
We said sad goodbyes to our loyal companions, Nikki and Toby, just seven months apart.
… And welcomed our giant horse-dog, Lobo, into the clan.
As we reflect back on 2014, we can clearly see God’s protection and provision. Â We have all learned so much about our Lord &Â Savior and each other. Â We’ve learned to simplify our time and material possessions, and to live intentionally. Â And we are blessed beyond measure. Â We pray that all who read this will know and feel the love God has for you, and that you experience good health and great joy in the coming year.
Merry Christmas!
With love and warmest blessings,
The Barr Family
Sounds like a very lovely family growing in the right direction.
love your idea with the Christmas letter and photos🎄
Merry Christmas to you and your beautiful family🎅
What a great yet simple update. What is the kettle bell challenge?
Our trainer at Full Force Personal Training was watching me do swings the other day and apparently it made him realize he hadn’t done any in far too long, and inspired him to create a challenge to do 10,000 of them in the month of January. So Ryan and I agreed to do it. (A swing is a simple full-body exercise using a kettlebell which is essentially a cannonball with a handle on it.)
Merry Christmas, Little!!! Lovely blog post; we truly do have SO much to be thankful for and so many blessings in our lives and you acknowledged that so eloquently here. Love and hugs.
Ah, so sweet. Enjoyed reading about 2014 at The Ryan and Megan Barrs’ home!
Merry Christmas and Bountiful Blessings in the New Year!