Come and See

Last evening our family had our Christmas together. As always the grandkids couldn't wait to come and see what presents were waiting for them. Thanks to the gals for organizing. Thanks to Jan for shopping, buying, wrapping, planning, preparing, cooking, and serving.

 Many areas of southern Iowa had between 3 and 4 inches of rain early in the week.

 I can't remember roads closed due to flooding a week before Christmas.

 Jan still watches the grandkids who aren't in school yet on Mondays. It's fun to watch cousins interact, play, and grow up together. 

 Thanks to Daryl and Colton for coming this week and finishing up the kitchen area in our basement.

 This is the time of year on the farm when things either do or don't add up. A lot of time is spent in the office wrapping up the current year and making a plan for the next one.

 It's hard to see but if you look close you will see a dandelion blooming. Another interesting observation in mid December.

 Thanks to Brad for organizing the grain deliveries this week.

 Jan's birthday is one week before Christmas. Back in the day she would always ask for a Christmas letter we could mail out to family and friends. How things have changed in the way we stay in touch. Because of such instant communication these days I think we visit face to face less with friends. Remember when we used to actually get in our vehicles and come and see folks.

 Jan always does an amazing job of cooking. Last evening we had ham balls, chicken, doctored up mashed potatoes, asparagus, a corn and macaroni and cheese dish, a couple of very good salads, homemade buns, raspberry cheesecake, a lemon dessert, and brownies and ice cream.

 Last night the kids gave me 5 books. They compiled the pictures, visits, and posts we have every week on this blog in a book by the year. Below are Mike, Suzanne, and Cody. Mike has a dozing business and Suzanne works at Pella Corp as well as keeping things organized at home.

 Mark, Stacy, Ethan, Amelia, Elijah, Anton, and Allison are opening gifts. Mark farms and has an excavating business. Stacy is on the Farm Bureau Board and a Mom.

 BJ, Cassia, Gideon, Rachael, John, Atali, and Natali are a busy family and will have our first high schooler next year. BJ farms and has a farm drainage business. Cassia stays busy with all kinds of church and school activities as well as a Mom.

 Becky, Brian, Ezra, Elliot, Zach, and Harris live south of Sully. Becky not only stays busy as a Mom but has talents in photography, writing, and occasional speaking. Brian is a full time Pastor and helps farms when time allows.

 Kurt, Emily, and Jackson had a eventful year. Kurt farms, raises buffalo, and has a semi. Emily works as an accountant part time and keeps things organized at home.

 Karl, Kristin, and Malaki live close and farm. Karl raises hogs for Cargill and helps with the seed business. Kristin has recently become a stay at home Mom and enjoys working with Karl.

 Ever since we've had grandkids Jan has bought them all pajamas for Christmas. However as some of them get older that may change. As I watch our children raise their children I am thankful there has been a faith in God and care for each other passed along. God is totally and mightily in charge and is truly answering prayers.

 As we celebrate Christmas this coming week come and see and experience our Heavenly Father's love and grace. Hold your light high and go light your world as we acknowledge and pass along that great gift to each other and others.