We have enjoyed a year of rich blessings. Perhaps one of the richest is our beautiful grandchildren: Emma, 7; Ada, almost 6; Ezra, 3.75; Carys 3.5; and Everett, the happiest, smiliest baby ever, just 6 months old. We have enjoyed visits here in NM, and in AZ, another Cousin's Camp with the three girls, and lots of letters, hangouts video chats, and telephone calls and texting in-between.
Ben and Elsa are now in the Glendale area of Phoenix, where Ben continues to wow his students as a Latin teacher extraordinaire, and Elsa continues to nurture and teach their growing brood. Ada has learned to read, and both Ada and Carys are full of memorized poems and hymns, and are a delight to spend time with. And Everett charms everyone whom he encounters. They are terrific parents and terrific people.
Tim and Nikki continue in Tucson, where Tim carries on his electrical/computer engineering job as well as serving as a deacon at church, and nurses a fledgling love of hunting and hiking in the AZ wilderness. Nikki cares for them all with love and skill. Emma is starting piano lessons, and Ezra is as rambunctious as ever. And they have recently opened their home to foster care, and are nurturing a tiny soul whom they will love as their own for as long as God gives them. They are my heroes.
Marilyn, Dave's mom, continues to be stable and well, as do Chris' parents, Jack and Shirley. What a joy it is for us to watch our parents get to know and interact with their great-grandchildren.
And Dave and I continue to float along. I am teaching one delightful online class of 8th/9th grade boys in English composition this year. Dave is in his 34th year at LANL, and big changes are afoot as he looks to retire next spring. We have enjoyed leading a parenting class in Sunday school, and Dave continues to serve as an elder at our little church, where we are all like family. We have passed 37.5 of married life together, remain best friends, and are both looking forward to the new adventures ahead.
And we pray that you, too, Gentle Reader, family, and friends, brothers and sisters in Christ, may await the return of our Lord, longing for His peace and justice to reign. Merry Christmas!
Mayst thou live to know and fear Him,Trust and love Him all thy days;Then go dwell forever near Him,See His face, and sing His praise!
~Isaac Watts, Cradle Hymn
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