Holiday Letter 2016

For twelve years in a row, I mailed out my version of a Christmas letter. I called it a holiday letter on the theory I might not get it mailed in time for you to receive it by Christmas but it would surely be there by New Year's ...

Last year, feeling overwhelmed by the busy, I decided not to do one.

I don't know if anyone else missed it, but I sure did. So here, in cyberspace, I'm posting this year's letter. It's looking doubtful that it will actually arrive in anyone's mailbox but I'm thankful for the opportunity to share it with you all.

During this past year, we had a close call with flood waters invading the back of the yard and actually having the gall to touch the foundation of our house, but God was gracious to us and the waters receded.

We've had a wonderful year at our church. The mood and atmosphere has been very positive and we've seen some awesome answers to prayer. We've had some new friends join us which filled us with joy; and also, some move away. We miss those friends very much but know someday we will be together again.

It's been a busy, yet fulfilling year. Jim and I were able to travel to visit family in Tennessee and North Carolina. Grandma Winn, Lora and Terry, were able to come to Illinois for a visit. While they were here, we were able to celebrate Grandma Winn's 81st birthday! (We hardly ever get to be with her on her birthday.) 

The twins are now two and a half years old, and have grown by leaps and bounds and kept us in stitches with the funny things they say and do. The girls have also done well achieving some of their goals. We are all happy and healthy and realize we are so blessed.

In 2017, Daniel will be deployed to Europe. Please be in prayer for him and also for Janae and the twins during his absence.

Update: On Christmas Day, 2016, we learned that grandchild #3 is on its way and will be with us in July, 2017! PaPa is hoping that Baby Ledbetter will come on his birthday, July 8. It could happen ... Congratulations to Malia and Gavin! Your lives will never be the same!

As always, I like to end these letters with a scripture to stand on, and also as a blessing to pray for you:

"Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

May you do His will in 2017 by always being thankful!

We are thankful for you!