Lots to Catch Up

Wow...time flies. We so enjoyed Marshall and Elise's wedding in the Houston temple. It was a day to remember. Some of the family had some weather hold-ups getting down there, but we all made it and things flowed smoothly. Elise's family were gracious and took such good care of us. Marshall looked very handsome and Elise was beautiful. The temple was such a memorable experience. I was overwhelmed with joy as our family entered the sealing room and loved the feeling of being connected as eternal families. It seemed significant this day as Russ's father performed the sealing. We were blessed to have my mom and dad there, Russ's mom and dad, Ken and Shirla Snow, Hillary and Jim Lowe, Charlotte and Brad Hogg, and several of Elise's family and friends and Marshall's friend Adam. David and his family and Daniel and all of the grandkids were waiting to join us after the ceremony. The reception was very elegant and many people expressed their love for Elise's family. We all returned safely and got ready for Christmas. This year was a bit quieter with just Russ and Daniel and I. Daniel reminded us that he will only have one more Christmas with us before he leaves on a mission!!! I really had not thought of this. Later on Christmas day we had David and Charlotte's family over for our traditional eggs benedict breakfast. It was delicious and we had fun exchanging gifts. Next we caught up with Hillary's family the day after Christmas as they stayed in Houston until Christmas day. Then we scurried to ready ourselves for the Idaho wedding celebration/open house. Everyone arrived safely and we had a great time. Some fun surprises, Russ's brother and his wife Pam came with their son that is Marshall's age, Travis and his new wife Malea. They are expecitng thier first baby this summer. They had tried to come to Houston, but the Salt Lake City airport shut down just after we left with bad weather. We had a great visit with them and so appreciate all the love and support of all of our family members. The open house was wonderful, beautiful and exceeded my expectations. Marshall's mission president from Cambodia showed up to surprise him! President and Sister Towers drove up from Salt Lake City. That was a great surprise to meet them. Now we are waiting for some pictures and have moved into the new year and the adventures that await in 2009.