The Roper Review of the Year

Well, it is that time of year again. Once again, we are saving paper and posting an update online and wishing you a very merry Christmas at the same time. So, for those that are interested, here are some of the highlights of our year and I will try not to make it one of those smug 'my family are perfect and I am writing this to make you feel like the parents from Outnumbered' ones...

A big hello to Sophia Amy

The most exciting part of our year was definitely meeting our lovely daughter Sophia. She made us wait, though, as she was 8 days overdue. And I tested out the theory of relativity, as I swear they were the longest 8 days of my life! She was well worth the wait though, as she is an absolute delight. Sophia has a lively and determined nature. She is crawling and very keen to walk, launching herelf off furniture and people whenever she has the opportunity. Sophia and Amy mean wisdom and beloved, so we are praying that she will grow to be a much loved and wise woman. We trust that she will know the love and wisdom of God: 'Don't be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and depart from evil. It wil be health to your flesh and strength to your bones.' Proverbs 3:7,8

Here is an early picture of brother and sister sharing a tender moment, and below is a photo from a couple of months back. Okay, I said I wouldn't boast, but she is very cute...


Our Drummer Daniel

Daniel has had quite a year. He is 3, going on 13, what with his love of drums and loud music - I didn't think we would be having the music volume argument for a few years yet. He started play group and swimming lessons in September, as well as being a page boy for his Auntie and Uncle's wedding. Although he remains laid back and chilled, he also has a determined streak and knows his own mind. I love our games of make believe and pretend, and am looking forward to Christmas as he is so excited! Here he is in the nativity at play group.



Me and Neil

Aside from having children, Neil found the time to finish a Degree in Children's and Youth Ministry and come top of the class. Alright, that is out and out boasting,but I am his wife and entitled to, right? Seriously, I am very proud of him. Somewhat ironically, just as he found out he had passed the degree, he also found out that Enfield Baptist Church were not extending his contract as Children and Families Worker. In God's perfect timing, Neil was offered work for a few hours a week looking after a little boy, which works really well around my job. It means that I can continue to work part-time at Enfield Baptist as Youth Worker, which I love. I came back to work after 7 months maternity leave, and still see it as a privilege to work alongside young people. Although Daniel thinks my work consists of eating biscuits and drinking coffee. As if. I also turned 30 this year and had a great time at my party.

There have also been lovely holidays, weddings and celebrations, which have been great. However, there are lots of normal, 'average' days, and these are often just as special with 2 young children that are changing all of the time. In all of it, as a family we try to walk humbly, act justly and love mercy, knowing that God loves us! Hope that all wasn't too smug.

Merry Christmas and a happy new year xx