Sytsema Christmas Letter: 2024
Many of you already know, thanks to the countless unapproved photos Heidi has posted on Facebook, that the Sytsema family recently spent nine days in the beautifully scorching country of Panama. The conversations over margaritas and whole fried fish were delightful, but somehow, they always circled back to the dreaded question: "Who will be writing the Christmas letter this year?" Marty, unwilling to commit to another 18 years, declined, and Anna declared she no longer writes for free. So, we found ourselves in a bit of a pickle. Fortunately, we realized that the Spanish phrases we'd picked up during the trip could serve as perfect indicators of what each of us has been up to this past year.
“Se Vende” – For Sale
Finally, we have some good Christmas Letter content from Marty: i’move is joining forces with Orthopedic Associates of Muskegon starting in the new year! OAM will have ownership, and Marty and Jeff will be running four additional clinics under the i’move name (twelve total) and doubling the staff they oversee. We’re excited about the new opportunities, and let's just say it’s a good thing Marty got his hernia fixed last month, because the coming year is sure to bring its share of challenges.
“Ven Niños!” – Come Children (or monkeys, if you were our tour guide)
Heidi is still loving her work at the Community Foundation. Between empty-nesting and a break from board/church service this year, she’s had time to try out golf and read 59 books (and there’s still a week left). She also treated herself to a new suitcase, renewed her passport, and said “si!” to lots of travel. While it’s a fun stage of life, it makes the times when the kids are around and the whole family is together even sweeter.
“Muy Fuerte” – Strong (like the drinks; Anna disagrees.)
James has been swimming, biking, and running his way through 2024. Having completed two triathlons this year, he’s earned this year’s Strongest Sytsema Award (but Heidi’s 10-minute Peloton arm workouts might give him a run for his money in 2025). James has now been a licensed funeral director for three years and continues to learn more everyday. He’s been using his vacation time to travel to Maine, Arizona, and Canada, and can’t give me enough of his attention right now to get any more information from him. Maybe next year.
“¿Hay gluten en esto?” – Is there gluten in this? (Answer: No. True answer: Most definitely.)
Anna is loving life in Grand Rapids and, even more, the gluten-free options. After resolving some health issues early this year, she’s regained the boundless energy to accomplish anything she sets her mind to. Her work at Touchpoint Marketing (contact her for all your marketing needs!), along with her cat Cleocatra, the YMCA gym, and her friends, are all she needs for a great 2025.
“Aquí se hacen amigos” – Friends are made here
Grace is rebranding for next year and has requested that we keep her information minimal as she works on that. Expect big things from her in 2025—maybe she’ll even write the Christmas letter! She’s thriving in Chicago in her third year at DePaul, loving her job as a line cook, spending time with her guinea pig daughter Mac (also rebranding for next year), and making great friends everywhere she goes.
“Perros Bravos” – Brave Dogs
Milo and Murphy completed their two-week overnight training (for the second time) and are now extra good boys. They’re getting used to the cat and guinea pig that show up for extended stays, but they’re always thankful when they leave and the home is theirs once again.
“Gracias por todo” – Thank you for everything
We are all incredibly thankful for the people in our lives who have made this year so special, and we can’t wait to see what the new year has in store. ¡Felices fiestas!” (Happy Holidays!)
