Saturday, December 25, 2010

... and A Happy New Year!

Aloha Ohana and Mele Kalikimaka

I just want to say a simple prayer for all of you today. And that prayer is that you stop and appreciate all the wonders of our family. When I decided on the fantasy gift idea I had no idea what to expect. Noah surprised me with his idea early in the game and I realized I really that I really should not even have expectations, but just let the surprises show up – and they did! I was moved – and continue to be moved – by the gifts that were presented. Mine is proudly displayed on my bulletin board above my computer and I love sharing it with anyone who will listen. (Thanks Joey!)

And thanks to everyone who shared their fantasy gift. (And may I suggest that if you weren’t there to share yours that you share it with whoever you had. I think those people would still appreciate the gift even now.) I’m thinking about putting something together where everyone’s gifts are shared, but I’ll get back to you on that. (I think I still have a crossword puzzle to create )

What I really realized is that I have everything I need to become all that God intends for me. And so do you! There was so much talent and so many gifts present in that room that there is nothing we can’t do if we set our minds to it. And the truly amazing part of that is not just the gifts and talents but the love that permeates it all.

My gift to Katie was possibility – and, Katie I hope you don’t mind – I’d like to share that with everybody. What would be possible, if we shared and connected and reached out over the miles and days over the next year? No amount of sharing is too small. Every word of encouragement adds to the bounty and all of it will glorify Jesus our Lord and Savior whose birth we celebrate this day!

With God all things are possible and blessed as we are, my prayer is to continue to share with each other and call on each other for support and encouragement and to share it with each other when prompted to do so. How many times do you think about calling someone and decide to wait until you’re a little less busy? Or start an email but decide you really don’t have anything truly worthwhile or puposeful to share so you put it off? Well, cut it out!

I want to see connections like never before and I want to see a surge in sharing. Doesn’t that sound wonderful?

Be blessed and again - Mele Kalikimaka (and a Happy New Year).

‘Til I share again.
Diane

Wednesday, December 22, 2010

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

I hope you are all ready or almost ready for the big weekend. I took a walk and tried to plan the order for my Christmas brunch food prep. It is a beautiful day for a crisp walk in the sun and fresh air. Great day for counting my blessings.
I thanked God for each and every one of you and asked him to bring health and happiness to all in the new year. You are all Blessings to me and I wish you a Christmas season full of wonderment and memories.
Should you find time in your busy schedule feel free to write a special tradition you try to have each Christmas. My simple tradition is Bing Crosby "White Christmas" movie.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Sunday, December 19, 2010

GREAT PARTY!




Diane and family did a great job! To everyone who helped in yesterdays festivities thank you, it was wonderful. I want to say we have an amazing group of individuals when combined and stirred make a great diner, from cocktails through desert. We even have a few nuts to add to the flavorful event.
I especially want to thank Mom who sent Ed home with fruit cake. I enjoyed myself so much my knees and feet are not working at all today. When I feel like crap I used to sit in my chair do a little sudoku and pet my Riley. Today I don't have my Riley but I do have my Mom's fruitcake, and for today I will rest with that comfort and watch some meaningless football and all will be ready to walk tomorrow. Thanks Mom!
Everyone enjoy the week of preparation and excitement!
Fill your heart with the joy of the season and the love of your family!
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT!
Love, Julie/Kuli

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Merry Christmas!

Just to get everybody in the right spirit for Saturday... here's a little theme song for our family Christmas!


Love and safe travels to all!

Friday, December 10, 2010

GOD WORKS IN MYSTERIOUS WAYS

I called Mom today and she said "I was just going to call you". That happens often to us but today we were both very blessed to share a tear and a laugh. She told me Uncle Norb passed away this morning. He was in hospice and was medicated to comfort at the end, may he run with the wind and rest in peace. I asked her if Uncle Norb liked dogs, and she said oh yes. Well I guess Uncle Norb and Riley get to meet again today in heaven, as I had Riley put to rest this morning. I think they will make a great team.
Mom said arrangements for Norb will be forthcoming so stay tuned for details.
I find great comfort in how life works sometimes.
See you all on the 18th.
Kuli
UPDATE: Here are Uncle Norbs funeral arrangements. http://www.ellestadfuneralhome.com/ Go to Mount Horeb funeral home and you can find his obit there. Funeral is Wed 11:00am with the visitation Tuesday beginning at 3:00. Mom needs all the support we can send her way. She sounded quite down yesterday. So if you can't get to the visitation call her or send her a letter but I know she would love to get a little extra love right now.