Tuesday, January 1, 2019

Christmas 2018 Letter

Every year I get those Christmas cards that have a brief, or sometimes not so brief, letter about what's going on with the family. And I get inspired to do the same, but I always decide that will be a good idea for next year. Of course, by the time next year rolls around, I have forgotten all about it...until those letters from friends start rolling in.

So, this is what you get. If you've gotten this far, welcome to our personal page. This is managed by David, and Becky has very little to do with the content. If you don't like something, oops on me. :-)

Becky and I had a wonderful, full year, with lots of progress on the farm, travels, and major life events. She continues to serve St. Mark's UMC as the music and mission minister, and spent some time this summer working with the MEFI organization in Mexico City. I went with a team of men to Jordan and Israel and had a wonderful, educational time. And, I began my 10th year at SCU teaching music, worship and business courses, as well as dealing with athletic eligibility. But enough about us.

Joshua, based in New York City, continues to expand his career as a concert cellist, and this year had his first US release of a recording with composer Aaron J Kernis, who composed the concerto "Dreamworks" for Joshua. Josh has also turned into a composer, and you can check out more about his accomplishments at https://www.joshuaroman.com/.

Kate and David survived their first year of study at General Theological Seminary in New York City, and Becky and I had a chance to visit them, along with their four adorable children Evie, Harry, Bea and Edison, during the last week of 2018. They continue to minister at Trinity Grace Church, Tribecca, and the Brilliance is experiencing continued growth and international exposure, and will be in a town near you this year. Find out more about the band, and by extension David and Kate, at www.thebrilliancemusic.com. 

Nate and Michelle continue to flourish in the St. Louis area with Benjamin and Matthis. Michelle is teaching French and developing more courses as her students advance. Nate continues working at a top secret job with a title that I can't pronounce, doing things that he can't talk about...one of those "I could tell you, but I'd have to kill you" situations, I'm sure (or maybe his way of avoiding talking about himself?). I'd share a website, but then...

Isaac? Well, Isaac has provided the most excitement this year. Early in January he got a call and began traveling and playing violin with the Christian contemporary band Rend Collective. And this December he got married to his long-time friend Rebecca Cressman, a beautiful young lady with a great spirit. We couldn't be happier for them. Here is a link to one of my favorite videos from the Rend Collective Good News tour...  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hR1AoXyqsZ0

Truth is, we couldn't be happier for any of our kids; we feel especially blessed that 2018 was a year of restoration and hope for the Romans.  SPQR!