Christmas, 2008
Blessings for the holidays from Grammie and Grandfather Peura - That’s right, the newest Peura, Zachary Alexander, was born on November 24th in Charleston SC and weighed in at 8 lbs 2oz. This year everyone will be together in Charleston for Zach’s 1st Christmas - Mommy Jen, Daddy Brian, Auntie Jessica, Uncle Jeff, and Grandparents Cook and Peura. This is our greatest Christmas gift and one we have all eagerly anticipated.
Brian and Jen moved from St. Louis to Charleston in August. Jen accepted a faculty position at MUSC specializing in heart failure. She feels right at home having done her residency there and is already making an impact in her special way. Brian commuted for several months from St Louis to Charleston. In November when he gave notice that he was leaving his company, they made him an offer he couldn’t refuse - he could work from home and be with his family.
Jessica continues to be a free spirit and works hard as a waitress which sadly pays more than teaching. She is living in the country nearby on “the farm,” a recently acquired property. It's not far from us, and she drops by when she drives to the big city of Charlottesville. Much of her time is spent taking care of her dogs and house sitting for friends and pets.
Kristin remains the go-to person for computer issues. Her techie skills are indispensible at home, work, and among our circle of friends. Not only does she love what she does, the "Goddess of Geek" does it well. More responsibilities at work, though, mean longer hours, but the reward is that she gets to travel with David. In March we went to Moscow and in the summer to Mexico City - such marvelous trips with our wonderfully hospitable international friends!
It is official, David retired July 1st. What does that mean? Although hours and travel have not changed, he is able to accomplish more of what he wants to do. Two days a week are spent at UVa primarily with the fellows and several days are spent lecturing or consulting. This has not left much time for golf, but David is learning to cook! Kristin is a great and usually patient teacher – check out www.peura.com to see some of his creations as well as catch up on the Peura family via pictures.
These are difficult times with the economy, unemployment and international chaos. Each of us will be impacted by these and other issues during the New Year. Please pray for strength and reason among politicians, hope for those facing economic hardships, and peace and religious harmony around the world. God bless us every one!
Kristin and David