Merry Christmas from the Tanners 2023 

We have now lived in the Dallas metroplex for 10 years! We are grateful for you and your friendship you have shown our family. We would like to share some of the special moments from our lives this past year with you.

From January through May, Stephen could be found in the hallways of the Texas State Capitol, working with Legislators on important issues that impacted Texas cities. This year, Stephen hit his 10 year milestone of working for the City of Plano.

Texas State Capitol in Austin, TX

In February, our family visited the Bay Area to reunite with Stephen's parents, after they returned from serving a church mission in Germany for one-and-a-half-years. We also got to see our nephew's baptism. It was a great to catch up with family.

Younger cousins

All the Tanner siblings together with their mother

In April, James had a "YouTuber" themed birthday party with his friend. The kids loved the sling shot, games, science experiments and yummy treats. Putting together a party is never easy, but it's always great to see them so happy.

Slingshot at the ready

Birthday excitement

Each year, Erica and Stephen try to read more books, as a way to limit our time doom scrolling social media and the news. To date, Stephen has read 32 books and Erica has read 24 books. Stephen's favorite book this year was The Wager and Erica's favorite book was Legends & Lattes. We would love to know what your favorite books are! 

In May, Lily graduated from preschool and put on a performance of a lifetime. We loved watching her mature and grow at her preschool the past couple of years.

Graduation, May 2023

This June, James learned how to ride a two-wheeler bike. This was definitely a highlight for both James and Stephen, as he had worked with James for months on getting him to ride on two wheels.

This summer, we embarked on our first cruise (Disney, no less), and explored the Mediterranean. We enjoyed the culture, sights and food of Rome, Naples, Athens, Santorini, Crete and Mykonos. 

Parthenon on the Acropolis, Athens, Greece

The summer was also a hot one, and was full of trips to the pool, splash pads and sprinklers to keep cool. We even had Lily's birthday party at the pool. The kids continued to improve their swimming skills, and never turned down a water activity in the Texas heat. 

The kids playing in the backyard

Fun at the wave pool

We celebrated Levi's golden birthday this year as he turned 1. He has been a wonderful blessing in our lives. He is fearless, loves to explore, and adores his siblings.

Levi

August came roaring back with James starting 2nd Grade and Lily starting Kindergarten. Both have thrived in their respective classes. Lily is artistic, who likes everyone, and invites all her classmates to play with her. James is a book worm, who has the memory of an elephant. 

First day of school, 2023

This October, we stayed close to home for Fall Break, visiting Granbury, Texas and the Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose. 

Playing in Granbury, Texas

Checking out footprints at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX

In November, Erica hosted Thanksgiving dinner with her parents and sister. She was a wonderful host and made an excellent meal.

Thanksgiving dinner, 2023

During this time of year, we think of "The First Noel". Below is a beautiful rendition of this song, that reminds us of the humble beginnings the Prince of Peace came into the world. As we pray for peace this season, may the gift of love, the gift of peace, and the gift of happiness be yours.