What a year 2010 has been for us! Life changing is pretty much the best way to describe the events that made up our year.
We started doing these ‘newsletters’ in 2008 as a way of getting out a list of the past year’s happenings out to all of our family and friends. This year’s newsletter is dedicated to two special Bernharts: First, my father, who passed away on May 12th. We all miss him very much. Second, Melanie… who has been a pillar of strength for our family since the day she was diagnosed with breast cancer. I would not be the person I am without having both of them in my life.
OK, now let’s get to some of the fun stuff from 2010!
Lauren turned 14 in April and started high school this year. She’s also decided to make good use of her height (recently broke he 6′ mark) and has taken up Volleyball and made the frosh team at her school. On top of that, she tried out and made the Goldenwest Volleyball Club team, which will help her get onto the varsity team at her high school faster. She is really excited about it and loves to play. We’re looking forward to watching her play in the coming year.
Brody is well into his ‘terrible-twos’ now, giving us a run for our money in the patience department. However, most of the time he’s a great boy and has definitely given us some fantastic moment of laughter. We took him to his first baseball game at the end of the Angel’s season. He even did the ‘wave’! He tried some soccer fun as well. Brody definitely takes to any sport that he sees, either in person or on the television… his re-enactments are very accurate.
In September, we all participated in the Susan G. Komen Race For The Cure, in Orange County. We had many good friends and family come out and join us, as well as dozens of others who helped us raise $1,185 for the foundation.
Melanie completed her final chemo treatment on December 9th! We are all very glad that part of this whole ordeal is over and we can no focus on the next phase. She is excited to grow her hair back, too!
Neil started Octobeardfest: Guys grow their beards out for the month of October to get attention and help raise awareness and support for cancer research. In it’s inaugural year, everyone who participated helped raise $495 for our Stand Up 2 Cancer team. As you can see in the photos, Neil has gotten attached to his beard and has yet to shave it off.
Yes, 2010 was rough for us… but we’re staying positive, doing well and more than ready for 2011. Here’s wishing everyone a wonderful year to come!
