As the year comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting on 2024—a year filled with milestones, celebrations, and cherished memories with family and friends.
We started the year with a bang in March, celebrating my brother Darryl’s 60th birthday, followed by Aunt Shirley’s 90th and my dad Larry’s 86th (combined birthday party). It was a joyous family gathering with immediate and extended family, making it a truly special occasion. This year also marked some incredible milestones for our “Twin Dragons,” MoMo and MiMi, who turned 12 and are preparing to step into their teenage years. We were also thrilled to celebrate our dear friend Larry Graham’s 80th birthday.
The biggest celebration of the year, however, was Jasmine’s surprise 50th birthday! Pulling it off was no small feat—big thanks to Olga for her excellent distraction skills while our guests arrived. We almost gave it away with a home camera notification, but luckily, Jasmine never saw it. The evening was filled with love, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.
This year also brought some bittersweet moments. Jasmine said goodbye to her first student, Madison, after 14 years of lessons. Madison started with Jasmine at just 4 years old and left the studio this summer, just shy of her 18th birthday. She’s now attending Rice University and continuing her piano studies—we couldn’t be prouder!
Jasmine’s students continue to amaze us. This year, one of her youngest students, Natalie, won the Yamaha Competition and performed with the National Repertory Orchestra in Breckenridge at just 7 years old—the youngest performer they’ve ever had!
Our twins, Cameron and Morgan, have continued to shine as well. Now in 7th grade, they remain on the Honor Roll (six consecutive quarters!) and are members of the National Junior Honor Society. Both were accepted into the Cherry Creek Honor Band and Orchestra again this year. Cameron’s violin achievements include being second chair in the Honor Orchestra last year, even while competing against older students. Meanwhile, Morgan’s exceptional writing earned her a spot in Honor Language Arts.
Both girls also transitioned to new music teachers this year. Cameron is now studying violin with Dr. Linda Wang at the University of Denver, and Morgan is taking flute lessons with Cathy Peterson of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra. They even made an appearance on TEDx this summer—an incredible experience for them!
On a personal note, I had cataract surgery on my left eye, and the results have been life-changing. With 20/15 vision, it feels like seeing the world in high definition. Photography has become even more enjoyable, and I’ve ventured into videography and sound engineering. This fall, I shot my first music video featuring the girls—it was a fun new challenge! Additionally, I was honored to have my second magazine cover on Asian Avenue.
This year, my sister Rachelle introduced us to the fastest-growing sport in America: pickleball! We’ve enjoyed learning the game and look forward to playing more in the warmer months.
While we’ve stayed close to home with small in-state vacations, this decision allowed us to focus on Jasmine’s mom, Juying. Her battle with cancer has had its ups and downs, and the past couple of months have been particularly difficult. She’s been in and out of the hospital, which has been stressful for all of us. We’re grateful for the time we’ve had together and are hopeful for brighter days ahead.
As we look forward to 2025, we’re excited to spend more time with family and friends, cherishing every moment. May this holiday season bring you peace, joy, and countless blessings.
With love, The Steadman Family
