Merry Christmas from the Tanners 2017

Merry Christmas from the Tanners 2017

We have spent our fourth full year in the Dallas, Texas area and are continually grateful for the many blessings we have received throughout the year.

In early 2017, we decided we wanted to buy a house in the Dallas region. Unfortunately, Dallas is experiencing record demand for homes in the area with the economic boom occurring in the metroplex. For the majority of this year, our weekends consisted of looking at homes, open houses, offers, being bid out and disappointment. 

In January, James moved up in the world (quite literally) by learning how to walk. Our curious boy is a joy to be around and shows his love to others constantly. 

In May, we traveled to Europe for a 17 day trip. We visited 5 countries, 15 cities and travelled 12,600 miles. Our first half of the trip was with Mark (Stephen's dad). We traveled throughout Italy together. We travelled to Pompeii, Florence, the Tuscany countryside, the Amalfi coast and the Eternal City of Rome. 

Florence 

Cooking class in Firenze

Night tour of the Vatican Museums 

We then said "Ciao" to Dad and met up with Stephen's brother and sister-in-law Stewart and Jacqui in London. We spent a couple of days in London and a couple of days in the Cotswolds before traveling to Paris to finish our trip. 

London

Avebury Stones

Bath

Versailles

After returning from Europe, we enjoyed a weekend on Catalina Island in California at the Feeley Family Reunion (Stephen's mother's side of the family). 

Later in August, we joined Stephen's family for a week together at Glacier National Park. We enjoyed seeing some of the most spectacular vistas and scenery we have ever seen. 

Avalanche Lake

After the summer of traveling, we finally found and purchased a home we fell in love with! We spent the end of August and early September closing on our home. With the help of our parents, we were able to move into our first home. We couldn't be happier to be in our new place.

In late September,  Stephen presented the #LovePlano social media campaign, at the annual Social Media Dallas showcase. The best social media campaigns throughout the metroplex were presented. Stephen worked on this social media campaign since he started working with the City of Plano. The presentation was selected as the best social media showcase in DFW.

For Thanksgiving, Erica played host to her family. We had a great time with everyone.

Thanksgiving with most of Erica's family

It was a whirlwind of a year with lots of adventures. We wish you and your family Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!