Holiday Greetings

The tree is up, presents are finding their way under the tree. Christmas carols play softly in the background. The advent calendar has hidden candies behind a door, counting down the days till Christmas. Finding the candies is a daily activity for Noah. It is magical seeing the season through the eyes of a two year old. He loves to play with the stocking holders that spell out HOPE and JOY. He has a child nativity set he can play with, moving baby Jesus to be closer to mother Mary. The joy, the wonder and the pure faith of a child are reflected in his eyes. This is our greatest gift this season, experiencing the pureness of Christmas through a child's eye. As we prepare for the holidays, we look forward to having friends and family come by our home.

The newest member of the family

As I reflect on the past year, I realize it has been a signature year in our lives. Perhaps it is because it is the end of a decade? Russell returned from his mission in Germany. He loved the people in Germany. Serving the Lord during those two years there was a monumental experience for him. Rachel changed positions at work; she has moved from Social Work to Criminal Justice- Lyndy's field to Danny's!  We had some professional time together this fall.  Rachel was able to join me for a conference in St. Louis, Mo. She was able to meet with university representatives and helped me as a exhibitor at a booth.  We had a great time.

Lyndy and Nik settled in as a "married" couple. They moved from Pleasanton to Livermore. They have enjoyed making new friends and getting acquainted there. Nicola and Danny moved to Visalia with Noah at the end of January. Nicola was expecting their second child at the move. Gavin Lee was born in April, 2011. Noah loved becoming a "big" brother. This fall Lyndy and Nik announced they are expecting their first child (a boy) in the new year. And what month is the baby due? April- the same month Noah and Gavin were born. I don't think our grand-children know there is any other month in the year to be born.

The next year promises to be another banner year. We are looking forward to what it will bring. What new adventure awaits us? What new experience? What new challenge? What answers to prayers will we receive?

May the hope, beauty and wonder of the season be yours. As we sing about the new born babe in the manger, may the spirit of the season sink into our hearts, reminding us of the true reason for the season.