December 2016

CHRISTMAS SEASON 2016

This week I displayed the remains of our Christmas tree.

The taller versions were from 2009, 2010, 2013, & 2015.

Britni said it reminded her of the story "Mr. Willoughby's Christmas Tree"

whose tree was too tall so the top was chopped off and used by the maid,

who again trimmed the excess for the gardener, and so on to the bear family,

the foxes, the rabbits and finally the tippy tippy top went to the mouse family.                  

                      2009                                      2010                                    2013                         2014 & 2015
              Eagle Gate apt - SLC, UT                  Eagle Gate apt - SLC, UT                  San Moritz apt - Midvale, UT                     Miami, FL
                                                                                           (Philippines mission 2011-2012)  

Dozens of pretzel rods were dipped, decorated, packaged and shipped to our kids.

I felt a need to make visits to each of my kids, 

beginning with Callie - the week before Christmas.  

~ dance recital ~ graham cracker houses ~ g'girl dates ~ 

I had a blast!

The Gerbers are wonderful.  Oh how I love them so!

Timing was such that Callie assured we attend 

an extended Creek family shepherd's dinner.

I caught a standby flight home to celebrate Christmas with my honey.

Last evening as Lane & I prepared to have our modest shepherd’s dinner 

our dear neighbors came over to invite us to share their Cuban feast.  

They said we could join their Cuban family.  

Their personal stories are fascinating.   

It’s the season for remembering the birth of our savior. 

 My children have been in my thoughts today.  Each one has been 

cherished by loving parents.  I am so blessed to be part of their 

life, either as one of those early parents or as a later addition.  

Becoming a mother is a gift from God, to look after His children 

while they live on this earth.  I hope each had a very special 

day with their spouse and children.

I recognize this ring from 40 years ago, but tonight it is displayed on my hand.

  My dear mother gifted me her mother’s ring rather than 

wait until after she passes.  It fits great, reminds me 

of my mother AND my incredible siblings.

We enjoyed one hour of church today.

Lane and I have cut back to buying 1/2 gallon of milk.  

Who does that?!

Last week’s holiday road trip - 3 days, 2 nights.  

Gators.  Surf.  Shells.  La La Land.  Buffalo Wild Wings.

Because I get discouraged with myself easily…

“One of God’s greatest gifts to us is the joy of trying again, 

for no failure need be final.” (Pres TSM)  Even if I’ve repeatedly 

faced failure and disappointment, the moment I decide to try again, 

the Atonement of Christ can help me.  I know whose voice keeps 

telling me that I’m so far gone that I might as well give up.  

I’m going to keep trying.  

C'mon 2017!