December 2008

What a month!
I babysat Landon for a week - what a joy and privilege. We had a great time. At the end of the week, on December 14, Landon was christened and we were all there.

I left Michigan for Austin to be with my mom and brothers and my father for his last hours. It was so special to be with him, memories I will cherish always. Ike died on December 15, leaving a legacy of five children and their spouses, ten grandchildren, and Landon, his great-grandchild. The memorial service was a wonderful celebration of his life with Leon Bates, Emerson Jones, Ernie Harper, and Paul Culp from Allied all speaking. I read letters from Chuck, Earl, and myself. We also had his Stephen minister and Hospice chaplain speak. All of us learned something about Dad we didn't know before. A reception was held at the family restaurant, La Morada, of course. Where else? It was wonderful to see friends from so many years ago and to share memories. Mom is doing as well as can be expected. We are all there for her and look forward to many years with her.
I returned home December 22 with Alex. We found a Christmas tree on Dec 23 and it is beautiful. Roni and Becky came up from Columbus on Dec 24 to celebrate Christmas with us. Christmas Eve service at Bay United Methodist Church was great - just what I needed. We had a great Christmas. Alex and I then drove to Michigan to have Christmas with Elliott, Kim, and Landon on Saturday. It was a busy, family-filled month full of a sad goodbye and joyful new beginnings.

Looking forward to a wonderful 2009!