Christmas is a wonderful time of year. We are reminded of all the things in life that are so dear. Family, friends, and of course the birth of the Savior. We were fortunate enough to have most of the family with us for Christmas morning. What a joy to watch the faces of the little ones. They were so excited to get to bed so that Santa would arrive. We had seventeen around the Christmas tree as Grandpa passed out the presents. Amy Jo and her children came a couple of days later. We are enjoying their company now.

At noon we got a phone call from Michael. He talked for three hours. He hated to get off. We thought of all the things we could to talk to him about. He told us stories, both good and bad. It was a fun time. It was so good to hear him and find out that he was doing well. He is really enjoying his mission and doing a good job. They have him serving as the financial clerk in his branch. In addition to this, he is an interpreter for Elder McClellan (a senior missionary with his wife) serving with the branch presidency. It is a wonderful experience for him.

Ray worked so hard on the basement to get it ready for the Christmas holiday visit of everyone. He got all in place in the downstairs bathroom except the sink. He ran to the store several times to buy the supplies needed. It is still in progress. We had a toilet and a shower and that was great.

We have a busy week ahead of us with two weddings and Mark and Linda moving. We will make it through and probably be happy to return to work on the 5th for a needed rest.