USHERING IN THE MONTH OF THANKSGIVING

Amy's December 1 birthday has always ushered in the Christmas season for me. When she was a child, I always waited until the day after her birthday to start decorating for Christmas. Chip's January 5 birthday was the always grand finale to all of the holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Years. What wonderful memories I have of my kids' birthdays when they were children.

And now we have GRANDchildren! November 2 was our youngest grandson's 4th birthday. Brian and Amy had a nice party for him on Saturday and then on Sunday, we all ate out together at Olive Garden to celebrate Jaden's life. Now, I can get on with the plans for Thanksgiving!!

Here are a few good pics from the birthday lunch on Sunday:

Christmas Party Blessings

Matthew 2:2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.


The tables are set and we await our guests as we come together to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.... (Click on any pic to enlarge for a better view)



Richard and I always enjoy hosting our annual "Couples Christmas Party" which this year included inviting 8 couples to our home. This year we were privileged to have our new pastor and co-pastor and their wives attend as our very special guests. We have grown to love Dr. Neal and Tracy and Dr. Lloyd and Karen. (I don't use last names on my blog.) In addition, the following couples came: John and Jeanette, Jeff and Sandra, Ed and Arda, James and Ann, Jerry and Peggy, and Larry and Margie. With Richard and me, there were 9 couples so we had 3 tables set to accommodate 3 couples at each. The ladies helped with the meal so we had delicious food and precious fellowship. Richard and I can only hope that our friends enjoyed it half as much as we did. Here are some pics from our party which was held on Sunday night, December 9.

Ed and Arda are the first to arrive. Here comes Arda with her tray of veggies and dip.


Jeanette and Karen visiting.


Fellowshipping during dinner...


We played a Christmas Carol game and then shared around the circle...




Our friends graciously posed for pics...



Merry Christmas from Richard and Susan!