As mother of this very large and wonderful family, Christmas time has, more often than not, been a very stressful time for me. We now number 33 in size, which I recognize a bounteous blessing in my life. Each year, however, Dennis and I desire to make everyone's Christmas a memory to cherish. Shopping 'til I literally drop, decorating, baking, visiting, Christmas cards, parties, family traditions and on and on and on! But this year, I determined things were going to be different. With the economy in a state of disarray, we have been forced to focus less on the materialistic side of Christmas, which turns out to be a blessing because we have focused more on the true spirit of Christmas. The distractions of Christmas have often led my heart away from what really matters. This year, I find myself thinking more often of the actual events that occured surrounding the birth of Christ, what Mary and Joseph must of experienced as they welcomed their baby boy into this world to save us all and what the Savior would have of me. Pictured above is our Grandson, Owen Howard Peters. As I look upon that angelic face, I am overcome with emotion and thanksgiving for all the children and grandchildren that Dennis and I have been so priviliged to have in our lives. Each person is unique and brings their own light and gifts of the heart to our family. Den and I also recognize the many dear and cherished friends we have made throughout our journey together. If you are reading this, you would be one of them. You have touched our lives and in some way have improved them. We love you all and wish you the best Christmas ever. From the Ensign this month, President Monson had the following quote to say: "If we are to have the very best Christmas ever, we must listen for the sound of sandaled feet. We must reach out for the Carpenter's hand. With every step we take in His footsteps, we abandon a doubt and gain a truth."
