25 DECEMBER 2013

MERRY CHRISTMAS:  As my wife and I arose this morning at 5 a.m. to find a glorious morning dawning, we want to wish a Merry Christmas to one and all.  As the dawn breaks over the horizon, the sun making an orange glow before bursting over the mountains to the East, we leave the house for a quick walk of 1 and 1/2 miles.  I say quick, because we walk it in about 20 minutes. Then back home to a cup of hot chocolate and breakfast, then later to open the presents we have received.  As we contemplate the reason for the celebration of this day, the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, we know that the gifts we give to others and that others give to us are a symbol of the gifts that were given to the Christ child.  But even more, the gift He gave to each of us by being a perfect human on this earth and giving His life as an atonment for the sins that we each will commit while we live here on this earth.  His only request is that we live the commandments and repent from those sins. 
We have seven children and 27 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren.  And soon to have seven great grand children. And all of them live other places.  The are scattered from Utah to Texas to Florida and down under to Australia.  Although none of them are here this day with us, we have heard from some of them at this time and will hear from others as the day goes on. Still, we can spend a quiet day in contemplation and enjoy the day with a simple holiday meal later in the day.
I hope each of you have a good day, and keep in mind those who are suffering from storms and no heat in their homes or no homes at all.  And those who are serving in battle zones or other military posts far away from family and friends on this day of celebration.
May each of you have a good day and a Merry Christmas.
And THAT'S THE WISH FROM THE DITCH BANK