We had a great time making our annual graham cracker houses with the Elders. Everyone was  creative and  we tested different types of frosting. Some of the houses had minor damage due to unforeseen forces, but when tasted they were still enjoyed!
We had corn chowder after and then many of us went caroling. It was a fun evening. It is the time spent laughing, singing, creating and relaxing that makes the holidays good. However it is the appreciation expressed by those whose hearts we touch that makes the season special.

the Elders came on their bikes and were ready to get to work! I think they had a good time trying to create their houses and having a little Christmas cheer. I don't know yet if they survived the trip home, but hopefully  they got a ride after their appointment.

I believe that everyone had fun. Even the adults.  

Nicole decided to only do the inside of her  house. She wanted to be different. Plus she said the inside was easier.

Mary house was cute with her "nerdy" roof. By the time I took the picture she had eaten  the elephant that had been in her yard. Shortly after she ate the other animal! None of these houses will last long, but it was a fun use of the old Halloween candy. 

Zuster HInchcliff's Departure

We had her at the airport at 9:15 and the flight left Fayetteville at 10am. the kids and I took her there to see her off. We wanted the last few minutes of family time. Now, Zuster Hinchcliff is gone and the house is a quiet mess. Remnants of her hasting packing and bedroom area are still present and we  have left over cookies and snacks for friends who stopped by to say good-by. It is funny how we can prepare and plan for things and still feel unprepared and rushed at the end. I feel that a lot when it comes to llife, (and my lesson's at church.) Rebecca didn't get a lot of things finished that she should have, but I guess that is what mom is for. She has most things and a strong testimony! She is ready for this "grand adventure" in her life. I have always had the job of picking up the loose ends and tying things up for everyone.

Yesterday before church started, Nicole asked if I was going to cry. I said probably so she decided to get me some tissue to have on hand. She, KJ and the Anderson kids sang, We'll Bring the World His Truth (Army of Heleman), It was beautiful! I was doing good until I saw Sister Catlett crying, I couldn't hold it any more and I began to cry. The song finished and Nicole sat down. She took one look at me and said, " Are you crying already? Becky hasn't even talked yet!" She shook her head and sighed.

Nicole feels sad that her sister will be gone, but she finds excitement in knowing that Mary will be home on friday. Kind of like trading one for another. KJ said, "yeah!" as we pointed out that she was gone. Of course he meant it in a happy for her mission for her, kind of way.

Dad called twice trying to make sure that he was able to say good-by and he wanted to know all about her setting apart and her farwell talk. For now though, as happy and proud as we are for Zuster Hinchcliff. I am going to take a nap! I am worn out!

Mary's adventure getting to college

We drove from NC ot GA and picked up Sherry. We got caught in a down pour in Savannah and stoppped in to see the spilman's. It was a fun stop and we were back on the road. We got to sherry's at 11:30. Left the next morning and made it as far as Little Rock, then on to Albuquerque, finally on to Vegas. We saw wild horses, beautiful landscaping through the desert, and the four corners monument. We were in four states at once. We saw old Albuquerque and learned there were dead bodies in the walls. In vegas we went to a water park party, saw Robbie practicing football and hugged Adam. Soon we will go to the Ethel M. Chocolate Factory and we will get to visit with more wonderful family members throughout the weekend and celebrate Sherry's birthday. 50 YEARS OLD!!!!!!!
Monday we will be off to Cedar to drop Mary off at college. Then on to get Becky until her mission. I have enjoyed the company, but do miss KJ and Kent. At home KJ has made linebacker on the school football team and got his Life in Boyscouts. I hate missing those things unfortunatly, there is only one me to try to cover all the bases.