"Twas the Night Before Christmas"...

Happy Birthday Jim...I miss you

                                                   Barry               Jim            Kelly          Mike

December 18, 1968 was one of the happiest days of my life....I had a little brother!  I was seven when Jim was born.  I felt more like his mother than a sister because of our age difference.  And since my mom  had three kids already, she was more than happy to share the mothering responsibilities. 

September 28, 1996, without a doubt, was the saddest day of my life.  I found out my 27 year old brother had passed away  in his sleep.  Here it is over 15 years ago and I still get teary-eyed just thinking about him. I miss him so much and wish I could have just five minutes with him again to tell him how much I love him and how much he meant to me.  I would also apologize to him for not taking his illness(es) for real.  It was only after he died  did I start learning about Gulf War Illness.  But I know he has forgiven me, because that is the kind of guy Jim was.

Happy Birthday little bro...I miss you!
Your Sis,
Kelly

Christmas is coming

"May today there be peace within. May you trust that you are exactly where
you are meant to be. May you not forget the infinite possibilities that
are born of faith in yourself and others. May you use the gifts that you
have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you. May you
be content with yourself just the way you are. Let this knowledge settle
into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and
love.   It is there for each and every one of us."
Author unknown

Everybody Smile...Take Two!

Everybody Smile!

The family got together at our youngest daughter's home to see her decorated home and eat supper together. Luke didn't want to wear his stocking hat (what's new???). We are so lucky to have our daughters and their families close by. We have a new family member (Kayla's husband Jeremy). Next year we'll have another new family member....Kate (due this March!). This will be Matt and Keri's second child. 14 days til Christmas!