Merry Christmas

Christmas is a magical time when you have grandchildren.  This year we were fortunate.  Amy's marriage to John brought us two more grandchildren.  They are grown but as we love John Hunter, we love his children as well.  It was fun to try to think of something special to send to these new additions to our extended family.

The twins are two this year and a fun age to watch as they learn about Christmas.  Callum told our friends that Santa is on the roof.  He was referring to the lit up decoration near their house on a business building.  We went over on Christmas Eve and helped the elves put together toys.  It was a test of how well various people could work together.  After fits and starts, we did get everything assembled.  Then a tired set of grandparents all went to bed, leaving the parents to finish up.  It was pure pleasure to get up and watch them wake up to see the gifts from Santa.  They had fun playing with each toy as it was unwrapped.  Fun, fun, fun.

One delight for me was a gift from Amy.  After mentioning that I wanted to read all the Man Booker Prize winners, she purchased them all and had Margaret wrap them up for me.  I don't think anything could have thrilled me more.  Any reader can understand what a thrill it is to have 48 books all at once that you want to read.  She didn't buy the ones I already have such as Midnight's Children (which I've read 3 times).I also have a couple of other ones.This will be my project to read these during the next year or so.

Other special moments during the day - talking to Jake on the phone, texting with Carson, skyping with Amy & Carson and talking to John D, Sandy and Sam.  Life seems to be going well for Jake and I'm glad about that.  He's working two jobs now and is putting his life together.  I'm proud of you Jake.  Carson texted us several times.  Always close to my heart is Carson and I miss her as well as the rest of my Indiana family.  John and Sandy and Sam called this evening and we enjoyed a long  conversation. Sam ended up with all A's and a B for the semester.  College life agrees with her.   It was pure heaven talking to them all.  They sent us a cookbook that has recipes from restaurants in Indiana.  A touch of home and some delicious options to try.  I look forward to seeing all of them this spring.

Christmas Eve we enjoyed hosting a neighborhood get-together.  We are fortunate to live amongst a group of friendly, nice people.  It was fun and we are fortunate.

To all our friends and family both near and far.  Have a special holiday season.  We are grateful to each and every one of you that you have been a part of our lives.