Happy 2011

2011 started out filled with activity. Sarah, Wade and their crew came December 31; their days at Christmas are filled with in-law fun for both daughters. I get to see Rebecca, Jeff and their boys often, but my Dallas boys are so far away. It is a holiday when I see all four. They were so excited about their haul of gifts. Clayton is a true scientist; he got an official microscope, circuit board experiment that he saw at the Children’s Museum, and his telescope – a real one that he had been eager to get. After hours of research, Papa D searched and searched for the perfect one.


Clayton has found the solar system most intriguing. He and Drew even requested a planet theme for their shared bedroom after boy #3 arrives in May. Drew got so many new toys that will keep him busy. He really squealed in delight when he saw his “jump-it-lene” that he got from Gran and Papa D. He really enjoyed every moment he was awake. I even wonder if he jumped in his sleep.


Becca and Jeff gave Clayton a magical jar that counted money as the coins were put in the jar. He couldn't wait to fill it up! Papa D gave him the task of picking up pecans for a dollar per pound. He was eager to fill up that jar.



Angel seems to love to explore, so he was given a metal detector and walkie-talkies. I hope he will enjoy searching for treasures when he goes to the park, the beach or anywhere else. Johnny is an artist; he enjoys painting and anything creative, so he got an easel, magnetic letters, and legos. Each boy left happy. All four were ecstatic about the headlights they found in their stockings. These were Papa D's idea.




Gran and Papa D gave each other a LED LCD HDTV (Papa D’s factual description). He and Wade even connected it to my laptop. It is a treat to do my computer work in bed and to actually be able to see what I am doing. I plan to blog more often. I pray we all are not so caught up in gifts that we forget the reason for the season. He Is the best gift of all.

My sweet sister Ann and her sister-in-law Harriet came to visit me during the holiday. Thank you, Harriet, for making it possible for two sisters to really enjoy Christmas. It is always wonderful to see Ann. She is so far away. We are
sisters in more ways than just biologically. I also got to talk to both of my brothers who are birthday boys in January. Ann’s birthday is also in January on the 8th – just like Elvis. My mother’s birthday is December 31st. I always assumed that I was adopted because my birthday is in October! My rationale was not very rational.

Happy New Year to all of us. Let us all enjoy health, contentment and prosperity – not in just a monetary way . Family and friends are much more valuable than money.