Welcome 2009

Hello and welcome to 2009
I hope you had some of that sit-down peace and appreciation in the past few days, and I hope New Year's Day has brought you a bright beginning to a year full of God's love in ways you never expected. I know it's traditional to make resolutions at this time of year, but I gave up doing New Year's resolutions. I'm old enough to know they are futile for me. But what might pass for a resolution is an old activity I'm re-starting. Journaling! Now that Stephen has left for the Service and the house has an empty spot. I thought to journal something every night about the day’s activities, a blessing, a funny thought or statement the kids made for that day or just a prayer. In years to come, I can sit back and read an insert and smile while I reflect on the memories.
The boys are growing so fast and changing before my eyes. Stephen left on January 4th for basic training. He was intended to go to South Carolina but plans changed and he is at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. This is a blessing as the location is much closer for us to be able to attend his graduation in April. We await his fist letter with details and his address so we can send encouraging notes and cards to uplift him during these next months. Please lift him up in prayer and keep him in your thoughts.
Kaleb and Collin are doing well but miss their brother very much. Winter has been so brutally cold they are confined to indoors tend to get bored and on each others nerves. Go figure, brothers arguing! The Christmas presents are being well used; as Kaleb listens to his IPOD and Collin focused playing Star Wars on his PSP, the house is quiet and peaceful. Thank goodness for technology!
As the cold winds blow and bring the chill to our door, May you and yours be huddled together keeping each other warm with love and good wishes for the New Year!