2024 started out with Kayla and Justin adjusting to life as parents. Kayla was grateful for precious time with Miss Stella with maternity leave. Kayla also took advantage of the maternity leave time to apply for a new job in the company that recently spun off from 3M, Solventum, in Brookings. Justin also applied at the same time. They were thrilled to receive job offers and it was the start of moving closer to family. It turns out that the road trips feel a lot longer with a little one on board and lots of time with family is non-negotiable, so being closer is great! They couldn't be happier with the new jobs and living in South Dakota again! They love their work and the environment that they work in and they know to appreciate it after their last employment experience. The move wasn't without several hiccups, but they are grateful for all of the family support!

This year had several weddings to celebrate as well. They traveled to Iowa for Justin's second cousin Curtis' wedding to Kaylee. Kayla's friend Samantha Jungers got married around the same time! Justin, Kayla, and Stella were all in wedding parties this year too. Kayla was a matron of honor in her sister Kara's wedding to Trevor Raymer and Stella got to be a flower girl as she cheered on auntie Kara! Justin was a groomsman in his friend (aka brother) Lee Bot's wedding to Catherine Cooper.

This was another year of fun exercise events for Justin and Kayla. Justin enjoyed a ski trip with Lee in Colorado and Justin competed in the Fairmont triathlon while Kayla ran the 5k. They have really been enjoying running together. Maybe it is because Miss Stella loves a stroller ride!

They also enjoyed some trips out to the Hills. On one of those trips, they celebrated the 65th anniversary of Justin’s grandparents, Connie and Jerry! They enjoyed celebrating birthdays too. Justin, Jeff, and Joe took Will on a birthday camping trip. It was the first time Justin went camping with his dad too! Just recently they took Abby to the butterfly house for her birthday!

Overall, Justin and Kayla are enjoying their new role as parents with Miss Stella and are excited for next year!