Monday, December 19, 2011

Home for the holidays!



Pics from our trip to the Dells on Dec. 10-11.




Season’s greetings from the Kanaks! With the holiday season upon us once again, we felt it was time to give our families and dear friends the yearly update. Here goes. We’ve been back in Illinois for nearly four months now. We often speak of how much we miss all that we left behind in Texas – wonderful friends, a beautiful home, and gorgeous weather; nevertheless, being back in the midst of family and friends has reaffirmed that this is home and we’re back where we belong. Mary is nearly halfway finished with kindergarten and, despite feeling like she already knows all of that stuff – her words – she is doing very well. She has met or exceeded expectations on all of the benchmark assessments she’s taken up to this point, and her teacher has reported a great deal of growth in her social development as well. But most importantly, she simply loves being able to see her grandparents and cousins whenever she pleases! Likewise, Geno is flourishing. He is the only native Texan in the Kanak Family, so we weren’t exactly sure how he’d adapt to life in Illinois. Well, he simply loves it! He plays in the wide-open spaces of our 20-acre backyard, he watches poppa complete all sorts of fascinating chores and projects, and he follows his big sister around day and night to make sure he doesn’t miss any of the super cool things she does. Last but not least, Angie and I are doing very well also. Angie has found a wonderful niche for herself at Kankakee High School, and I have found a home at Watseka High School. Both of us are getting used to our new surroundings, and we are optimistic that the future will bring a great deal of happiness and success. As the holiday season progresses, we hope that health, happiness, and countless blessings rain down upon you and your loved ones no matter where they may be. Until we meet again, know that you are always on our minds and in our hearts. Be well, The Kanaks


P.S. Be sure to watch our Christmas video below!

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Headed Back to Illinois




Well, after nearly 3 years as Texans, the Kanaks are headed back to Illinois. When we moved to Texas, it was for Gene's dream job--a chance to work with the brightest and the best in the bowling industry; however, since Gene was part of a large corporate downsize back in February 2010, staying in Texas lost its purpose. Though we have enjoyed our time here and will treasure the friends we have made, it's time to return our children to Illinois, where they can be raised around our large, supportive extended families. The moving truck is scheduled to arrive at my parents' house in Bonfield sometime around July 30. We will be staying at the Schafer Homestead until more permanent arrangements are made (or until they kick us out).

Mary could not be happier. It seems as though her heart never left Illinois, and she is anxious to return. On the other hand, Geno has permanently etched Texas in our hearts since he is the only true Texan Kanak. This will be a new adventure for him.

This was a hard decision for me as I truly loved my job, my fellow teachers, and the friends I have made along the way, but in the end, it came down to what was best for our children. Looking back on my childhood, the memories of family meals, huge holiday get-togethers, and sleep overs at grandma's are among the most potent, wonderful recollections. Taking the same opportunities away from my children because I like my house and job seemed petty in our situation.

So...Thank you for the memories, Texas.

Monday, January 3, 2011

album 01\03\11 (24 photos), by Angela Kanak


I'd like to share my Snapfish photos with you. Once you have checked out my photos you can order prints and upload your own photos to share.
Click here to view photos