Mom and Dad invited us to a Thanks- giving meal at their house. Eleven of us gathered for a traditional meal, and there was an abundance of food and desserts. A fire in the wood stove, nice conversations, a reading of Scripture, games of round robin ping pong, and just some sweet family time.

Last winter I went on a trail ride with my dad. It was a bitterly cold, sunny day. It was fun to drive fast, see the beautiful countryside, mosey through some woods, and eat lunch at a truck stop. Dad is passionate about ATV's and motorcycles. He loves driving them. I recently came across this picture of me as a youngster on a three wheeler toy. I had no idea it started that young! All the years since have provided lots of adventures and recreation on some version of an all-terrain-vehicle. Thanks, Dad, for giving us those experiences.

We only have one pet. She's been with us for 10 years and her name is Bug. When we first met her at a country home, she was a tiny kitten. The owner's son said she looked like an Ewok. Bug is nice to have around. She's not clingy, but she's not a recluse. She's mostly quiet, except for feeding time. I like her contented purr when she sits on my lap. I like that someone greets me when I walk into an empty house. The best thing about Bug is she provides happiness for my husband. She and John are close buddies.

The kids club at our church held its annual 'car race'. Each student had to handcraft their own car from a block of wood, then add weight and aerodynamics to achieve the highest speed. Besides the speed contest, there was also a design competition. I was asked to judge, along with a friend of mine. Boy, it was difficult! We wavered between MANY good designs, but in the end finally handed in our top 3 in both categories.

Jumping on the trampoline in their backyard. I even got on and jumped (about 15 times) before the neighbor kids rushed over, climbed up, and said, "Let's all jump together." I said, "I'll get off," and scrambled to the edge.

Welcome to my newest niece, Lucy! She was born early, on October 27, weighing 3 lbs 6 ounces. John and I had a chance to see her in the NICU in Des Moines. Lucy seems to be doing well, but we pray that she'll continue to grow and develop and stay healthy. Mom Jessie was on bedrest for over 3 weeks, while Dad Abe kept the household running, squeezed in his work, and cared for Lucy's four siblings. It is so fun to see my brother being a GREAT Dad, playing with his children, disciplining them, ministering at church, loving his wife. Enjoy these young & precious gifts, Abe and Jessie!