ups and downs

They say that for every person that comes to earth, a person must leave. We have had 3 new babies in our family this year, and only gave up one person. A week after Eli was born, my (Becky's) mother passed away. As Elder Ballard said in his talk this last conference, it was one of those times when we were torn in half wondering where duty lay. Eli was struggling with jaundice and keeping everyone up 24/7, and I had to leave. It was crazy! But Heavenly Father provides. Sarah and Alex and Danny's mom stepped in and helped out with Eli. I drove thru a blizzard, flew to Dulles Airport in VA, met Jon and drove to PA. Then we found the burial was the next day, which was fortunate because I could help the RS sisters dress her - a very sacred experience. It is over, and we have moved on to Christmas.
Christmas was drawn out this year and rather low key. Only lights made it on our tree, Christmas cards will be New Year's cards, and presents were wrapped in paper sandwich bags. Our kids opened presents with us a few nights before, so we spent Christmas Eve catching up on our calling by delivering bags to the YSA's on our list. That was fun! Most of Christmas was spent at the AGRhodes home. We were also adopted by the Luce family and partied at the Thevenins. The best part of Christmas was getting to take a much needed nap!!!
We look forward to 2007 and starting on our lists of goals. Maybe we will even clean out the basement!!!