Good Christmas morning from Iowa,

I am at my niece’s house in West Branch, Iowa. I had originally intended to be here on Sunday, but weather changed those plans. So I drove on Monday and the weather was fine. When I got to Interstate 380 around Cedar Rapids, I was amazed by the number of vehicles in the ditch; there was everything from a tractor trailer on its side in the median to multiple vehicles that looked like they flipped over each other. I am glad I waited a day. Plus, I think Lydia would have had a heart attack if I was on the road that day.

Last night we went to John’s (Jennifer’s husband) parents’ house. The entire family was there, at least I think that was all of them. I think there was 15 grandchildren and then all the parents and such. It was such fun to watching all of them. It reminded me of when I was little and at my grandmother’s house. Those are such amazing memories. My grandma pulled out all the stops at Christmas. It was all about giving. I had such fun shopping for the kids. I bought coloring books and a huge box of new crayons. Then I bought clothes for them too. It was fun.

I actually woke up at 5:30 this morning. I think I was excited to see Rachael and Brandon opentheir things. I think Santa was pretty kind. They got MP3 players, clothes, games, and enough candy to probably keep a dental school in business. I had a good time buying clothes and other things. Jessica and Kimberly also got clothes. I think my niece was a little surprised that I even had a pretty good of sense of fashion saavy for an old guy.

It was fun to watch everyone last night and again this morning. It reminded me of being at my grandmother’s when I was young. . . .  it is actually now the end of the day, another Christmas. Both Brandon and Rachael had a good day at their grandfather’s. I also got to see my other niece and nephew, Vanessa and Jon. It was so much fun to hang out and watch. I am tired. I enjoyed being witht the little ones. Sometimes I am reminded of what I have missed out on and it is a little sad.

I think it is such an amazing thing to be part of a family. I am so proud of what Jennifer, my niece, does and who she is. She is a wonderful woman and an excellent wife and mother. She is understanding, wise, and intelligent. She does so much that others do not recognize. I am so fortunate to be her God-parent too. Well, more in the next day or so. I hope you had a good holiday and you are all in my thoughts.

Michael