Christmas '08

We were blessed with a wonderful holiday! Kevin took nearly a week off, and we didn't travel anywhere. It was relaxing and fun. Everyone at our house (knock on wood) has been quite healthy, although my grandfather had surgery before Christmas and we've been praying for his recovery daily.

We went to Kevin's mom's on Christmas Eve and to my sister Wendy's house on Christmas Day (something we do every year and we all love). Since Jon had to work that day, Brady was the only grandson at the Jostes party! Thanks to David, it was a house filled with girls. Unfortunately, my sister Terry, Kevin's brother Kirk, and their families weren't with us this Christmas.

Mom and I took Maddy to Chicago to get her American Girl Doll (something Mom does for all of the granddaughter's). I loved running along Michigan Avenue before the sun came up and the streets were filled with people. We enjoyed eating and shopping a bit, too. Brrrr, was it cold! Mom treated us to lunch at the American Girl Doll store. What an experience that was! I loved it.

I know the holidays are not always joyous; some of my dear friends, in fact, dealt with serious loss and illness this year. While I thank God, more seriously with each passing day, I also have been praying for my friends and loved ones.