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Christmas Celebrations

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We had such a wonderful Christmas. Alyssa and Briggs spent a few days here and we had an early Christmas with them. Then they made their way to Canada to spend the holiday with Briggs' family. That Sunday we participated in our annual tradition of singing as a family in church. I don't know how many more years we'll be able to do this, but for now I just relish the memory created each time we do so. I was responsible for the Sunday meeting again this year; the choir sang in top form and all others who participated brought a wonderful Spirit to the meeting. I was so grateful to have all our children and spouses present. Christmas Eve was celebrated with our traditional clam chowder, caroling, Christmas readings and fun and games. The next day was even better as we lounged around, opened presents, ate good food, and played more games. This year I informed the kids that Santa had "wrapped" all their presents. I was concerned there would be disappointment; however, their response was, "Good, does that mean we can sleep in until 9?" The holiday continued through the weekend as we enjoyed time off from work with each other. I have much to be grateful for. Most importantly I am grateful for special memories of Christmases past and present and all that it represents to us as a family and to me personally.

I've lived 40 some years and never cease to be amazed by the beauty and surprises this world has for us. I came to visit Alyssa and Briggs at their new home in Tucson for a few days. Besides being totally ecstatic at seeing them both (it's been 2 1/2 months), I've had a wonderful time visiting their home, watching Alyssa with her music students (she's a natural), touring Briggs' campus, shopping, potting plants, and visiting this oasis amidst the desert. There's great joy in having children. I've experienced awe and wonder watching them grow up. However, there's something different about seeing those little ones grow up into beautiful, accomplished, happy and productive adults. I'm so proud of these two, their hard work, their committment to the gospel, and their goodness. I look forward to many more trips to Arizona!