HO HO HO!!!

Here we are, decorating for Christmas. I have my "orders" to write the annual Christmas letter and we are wondering how in the world we are going to keep Eli away from all the decorations this year. Of course, having temps in the 60s, sunshine and green grass doesn't exactly get ya in the mood. But then, it's not the first time we've been in that situation.

Today was my sister's 60th birthday. Can't believe she is getting that old. I suppose it won't be long and I'll need to order her a walker and a case of Geritol! Nevertheless, I did call her for her birthday - twice as a matter of fact. That ought to hold her for a while!

We are trying to decide what to do about Christmas gifts this year. Not that we want to be "scroogy" but there are so many people who have so many needs - and we have been so blessed that it seems silly to buy "more". So we'll seek ways to help others instead of getting caught up in self. Alice's company is doing the same. Instead of giving gifts within the office, they are taking the money they would have spent on gifts and giving it to "Homes for the Troops". It's a pretty cool organization that helps Vets find homes, get existing homes remodeled, or help them build new homes.

Audrey and Keith are moving to TN this weekend so they will be within a three to four hour drive, so we may get a chance to see them more often. It will be exciting to see how plans progress for their coffee shop ministry.

We don't hear much from Paul and Autumn, but Ben, Heather, and the boys are all doing well. Ben was in the San Diego a few weeks ago for a conference. Sue, Heather's mom was over to spend time with her and the boys so that was nice. Ben got delayed in his return trip, but made it home in good shape. We hope to get over there in '08. I suppose it is going to have to happen whether we sell the Lubbock house or not!

Speaking of that house, we have a great Realtor. She has basically been "managing" the property for us. So we are hoping that things move quickly and we can reward her for her efforts.

We did make it to PA for Thanksgiving and that was fun. Plenty of folks around the Thanksgiving table. So that is always a challenge. Alice and I went up early so we had some "quiet time" with the folks and a few others before everyone started arriving.

Well, the digital camera is pooped out, so hope to get some pics posted when we get it replaced or I get some non-fuzzy ones on my phone!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season. Don't forget...say MERRY CHRISTMAS!

ain't life grand!