Merry Christmas, One and All, From Our Family to Yours

We’re half way through December already! And that means 2022 is almost in the rear-view mirror! Here are a few highlights from our past year:

It was one marked by milestones for a few of us—Katie turned 40 on Nov. 30th and decided she wanted a family gathering so we rented a BnB in October and had a grand time. We also celebrated Spencer Mark’s 1st birthday and Thanksgiving all in one go. So of course we had to have cake! And Turkey, cooked by Meg’s friend Evan!

Marci celebrated her 71st birthday with a bang—or I should say, a wing and a prayer! Spence presented her with the opportunity to fly in a glider! It was on her ‘bucket list’ so she was thrilled and maybe just a little bit nervous, since she’s not a fan of heights! But the flight was awesome thanks to her instructor, Casey. Yes, she got to fly it!

 Laura and Ty also treated her to a wonderful dinner with the grandkids. 😊

Summer was in full bloom before we knew it and it was a delight to spend lots of time with Laura and Ty and the grandkids. They especially loved the High River Waterpark and the little ‘beach’ under the Highwood River bridge.

Another highlight of the year was a trip to Ontario to visit Marci’s sister and family, including  her 92 year old aunt and some cousins she hadn’t seen in many years. It was so good to see them all, after a long time away due to Covid.

Early June saw us on the road to Manitoba to help move Marci’s brother, Ron, out of his house and into a senior’s apartment. We couldn’t have done it without the help of Kate and Ron’s care-giver, Malvina. There are angels on the earth, my friends! But only a few months later Ron was the victim of a con-artist so we drove out again, this time to see him settled in a personal care home. The trauma he suffered, being dehydrated and malnourished, caused the dementia to escalate. But he is now in a good and safe environment.

We left Ron in good spirits when he moved into the senior’s apartment. Sadly, his condition deterioated quickly after the incident described above. He’s now in the Swan Valley Personal Care home. He’s been in and out of hospital and had a bout with Covid but seems to be doing okay now. We thank God for the way He undertook through it all.

We continue to be involved at High River Baptist Church, attending Bible studies and helping on the Missions Committee. It’s been fun to build friendships as the Lord leads. Spence is still finding his way in retirement, but keeps himself busy as I continue with my writing and teaching.

It has been a joy to publish a children’s book with Siretona Publishing this year —

I ran an Indiegogo campaign to raise the $ needed for the illustrations, done by a talented young woman named Kyla Wiebe. I was nervous about trying that, but it worked out well, coming in at over 100% funded. The book is selling well and has been getting great reviews. If that continues, a second book may be in the works. 🙂

Now for the BIG news—

A very recent and very exciting announcement took our breath away when Meagan called to tell us she was engaged to her friend Evan Pyra!

We couldn’t be happier and are already involved in helping to plan the wedding. The date is set for September 16th, 2023, in Saskatoon. It will be a small gathering but we know it will be grand!

Well, my friends, as we watch 2022 fade into the distance I know many will be glad it’s gone. There have been many stressors far and wide, and some all too close. BUT our Saviour still reigns and there is still hope and joy in our hearts because we know we can put our hands in His and He will get us through whatever comes.  So … May you be blessed, and be a blessing in 2023!

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a son is given; and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor, The mighty God,  The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.    Isaiah 9:6