Quietly bringing in New Year 2012

A very lovely New Year's Eve. First we attended a wonderful jazz concert at UALC which featured the works of Henry Mancini--always a nice walk down memory lane since he did so many movie and TV themes. Then a worship service with communion led by Pastors Dan Clark and Brodie Taphorn. We saw many friends from years ago that we miss now that there are three campuses.

Then we came home, put on some quiet music, had dinner, and I set out the little cardboard mailbox with all the Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year cards and letters and we took turns reading through them aloud--it took about 90 minutes. We had, of course, read them when they came through the mail slot or were handed to us, but this time we actually discussed them and noted things we'd missed. Usually I tape the return address to the card if the names are rather common or duplicative, but I missed one. Neither of us seem to know which "Jim and Becky" sent that card. . .

Wayne and Marie (housemate from the U. of I. in the 1950s) still get the prize for most travels and activities, but I think Marilyn Ford won for biggest family photo--almost 40 children and grandchildren in her photo. I got out the church directory from 1978 and she and Jack had 4 children in that photo. Gayle's Thanksgiving letter usually leads the pack, and we think there will be a few yet to come this week. My brother called instead of sending a card--they've gone to e-mail, which is difficult since my husband doesn't do computer stuff. We really treasure the hand made and artistic efforts--we seem to know a lot of artists. I didn't do a Christmas letter this year--maybe this will inspire me. . .

Monday Memories--Christmas 2011

It was a quiet Christmas. Dinner here on Christmas Eve, then church at 9 p.m. at UALC Lytham Rd. Christmas day services we served communion, and then went to Phil's home to have dinner and open gifts.
However, Phil had helped select my gift for my husband, a guitar, so that one was opened on Christmas Eve. He then got a beginner's book and DVD "how to" from Phil on Christmas Day. And the new setting for my e-mail won't allow it to accept the photos from my son's cell phone--back to the drawing board.

Christmas Eve Menu: Standing rib roast, twice baked potatoes; baked chicken thighs with mustard sauce, potato salad; tossed salad greens; mixed fruit; steamed carrots with a touch of honey; rolls and Asiago cheese bread; freshly cooked cranberries a top pound cake with real whipped cream; Merlot.