Stang Family of Five: 2013...What a Year!

It is obvious that life is ever-changing. When I look back at the 2013 year in our Stang household, however, an apparent theme of major change and transition is evident in seemingly every member of our family.

Thanks to an incredible amount of support, I was fortunate enough to complete my Master’s degree without (completely) losing my mind; carrying out many late-night readings, postings, annotated bibliographies and academic writing. Looking back, I have no idea how it was accomplished with how busy life continues to be following the conclusion. I could not have done it without the backing of my wife, kids, colleagues, and other family members and friends. After years of officiating at younger levels, I have also decided to challenge myself and become certified to work higher levels of football and basketball.

Andray’s big transition involved starting Kindergarten! It is amazing to see how our shy little boy has opened up and is slowly becoming much more comfortable and confident. St. Mary’s Help of Christian Church has been a tremendous parish for our family, and now we are beginning to see an equally beneficial educational and spiritual setting at the school. Outside of school, Andray had a busy year which included T-ball, farming, camping, swimming, riding bike, playing basketball, reading books and other typical 5-year-old boy activities. Outside of his occasional skirmishes with Roslyn, he is an incredibly loving big brother to his two younger sisters and we know he takes pride in watching over them!

Besides becoming a big sister in March, Roslyn’s new transition was entering Pre-School this fall and staying home with mom, rather than attending daycare. Our spunky Roz continues to contain incredible amounts of spirit and enthusiasm! Without question, she absolutely adores Carrine and has no problem telling her Pre-School friends that they can only look at Carrine and that only she and “my Mom” can touch “her baby.” In addition to participating in the same activities as her older brother (listed above), Roz enjoys writing, coloring, putting puzzles together and dancing. She has developed quite a passion for DANCE! On top of never once having to fight with Rozzy to go to her dance practices, she was in her element dancing on the big stage at her recitals this past year. Rarely does a minute go by in our house without Roslyn twirling or making some sort of self-choreographed motion with her arms.

As stated above, Celestine’s big transition includes taking a one-year leave of absence from her position at St. Cloud State to be home with the girls and Andray when he gets off the school bus. This was a well-thought-out and difficult (yet easy) decision, and one that Celest has not regretted in the least. She stays busy chasing the kids to and from school and dance, weekly visits to the public library and working part-time during the evenings. This incredible opportunity to stay home has also allowed her to soak up as much time possible with our kids while they are young. As any parent knows, staying home is a challenging task which requires a tremendous amount of patience. She mentions to me daily that she learns something new about the kids, as well as herself, and that God sends her a reassuring Angel every day in a variety of forms.

A year ago as I was typing this letter, Celestine and I were extremely nervous and filled with anxiety awaiting our third child. On March 1^st, the heavens eased our worries by safely sending us a 5 lb. 13 oz. gift with a full head of dark hair and bright blue eyes! Carrine Faith Celestine has been such a joyful addition to our family. We are beyond thankful for her laid-back demeanor and booming smiles when her parents or older siblings enter the room. Although she is not yet mobile (and Mom and Dad are in no hurry for her to get there!) she is rolling around, sitting up, reaching for anything in sight to “observe,” eating more solid foods and already has two little chompers in the bottom. Of course her first word seems to be “DaDa,” and I will neither confirm nor deny if brainwashing has had any part in this!

The year of 2013 has completely changed our outlook on “life.” Our previous plans of upgrading our appliances, flooring, furniture and vehicles have been put on hold. Large vacation plans have been pushed off into the far distance as well. One thing is for certain though; we would not trade the true treasures in our life for any or all of them. Celest and I often look at each other and talk about how we could not imagine life without our kids. We are so grateful for good health and happiness. Our family is complete.

MAY THIS TIME OF CHRIST’S BIRTH GRANT YOU AND ALL YOU HOLD DEAR PEACE & HAPPINESS THIS CHRISTMAS SEASON.

LOVE – THE STANGS (AKA - Simpsons)

JACOB, CELESTINE, ANDRAY (5), ROSLYN (4), & CARRINE (9 months)