Rich Christmas 2013

Despite the MAJOR obstacle of celebrating our first Christmas without our beloved Jim, Dad, Poppy, we survived with only tear stained wounds!

After finishing my many home 'projects' in good form, the holiday tea and open house went off without a hitch. (except for way over-planning food - the r.s.v.p. REGRET thing just never works).  I truly enjoyed visiting with many friends.  Our family were the recipients of so much love and service in 2013, it was a joy to be able to somehow re-pay the kindess and care we were shown.  I truly felt that Jim loved that the 'show went on', even though he experienced it with a different perspective. (Party pictures posted above )!

A large part of my surviving everything was, I'm certain, due to Jim's presence.  I felt him SO VERY CLOSE as I planned the house fix ups, the parties, family 'gifting', leading the ward choir, driving (I carry his picture on the dash of the car and I know he's watching out for me - since he is aware of my somewhat sketching driving record) and even shoveling the snow on an icy driveway.  He has truly been my GUARDIAN ANGEL.

I've felt him in the quiet hours as well as during the 'chaos' of all the children and grandchildren being around.  I know he would want to be with us physically, but I know his spirit soars with new abilities and knowledge.  I know he must be very necessary to what is happening beyond the veil and is happy to be vital.  I also know he misses us all and is not far from us - ever!  Something else I also know is that my sweet little dog (ROSIE) can sense his spirit; perhaps even 'see' him.   I have had several experiences lately where I know Jim is in the room and Rosie will respond to that.  (I have some 'stories' to share if any readers here want to know).  I love to share these stories because it reminds me that Jim is still....Jim; even 'more' himself than before.  Of course, I'd give anything....ANYTHING, if he were still just the SAME 'ol Jim, but I know he still LIVES in another realm with his creator and loved ones that have also gone before.  I KNOW THIS!

 Just a quick re-cap of December for the record:

The family created our FOREVER JIM CHRISTMAS TREE
(lovingly adorned with bicycles, hard hats, saws, baseballs and mitts, tools, musical notes, a star made of a bicycle spoke and chair and lit from within and plenty of family pictures)

Songkeepers (my singing group) performed again for the first time since 2011!

(retirement centers, parties, love singing Christmas music)!

My first Ward Christmas Choir Program as director
Organized ward Christmas party program

Our traditional 'Graham Cracker' Christmas houses with the grand kids!

Breakfast with Santa at Aunt Margarets with all the Pattersons!

Dinner with my siblings at Log Haven - peace and plenty of winter scenery!

Plays and programs for the grand kids!

Christmas Tea Party and Open House!

Adult Christmas Dinner with my children and their spouses at 'Thyme and Seasons'!

Christmas 'Adam' with the whole gang (the night before Christmas 'Eve')!

Christmas afternoon with all the gang!

Rich Sibling party at Mary Ellen's!

New Years Eve with the whole gang!

Breakfast and bowling New Years Day!

Next  year - DISNEY CRUISE .... OR BUST!