Monday Dec. 24th

Luckily I have the day off and I am at home with the family. We have finished all of our shopping and we were able to make it to the store in time yesterday to purchase the sofa and two chairs for our family room.

We haven't seen or heard anything about the attack yesterday. Our prayers are with the young man as he recovers and with the police as they search for the attackers.

Our plans for the day included going to church this evening for the Christmas Eve service. The Youth Choir sang, it was a great program. We were able to see many of our friends and ended up having dinner with the Panosians’ at a little Thai restaurant in Smyrna. Eleven of us strolled into the place around 8:30, I am sure they were probably ready to close up and head home; we were they only people in the place.

The staff was very gracious and we had a wonderful time visiting, laughing and taking pictures. Debbie's mom called from Australia as we were waiting to be served. We were able to place the call on Skype and so from Deb's phone, her mother and much of her family in Australia were able to join us. Technology is playing such a role in keeping us together.

What a great night. We have to hurry home and get the boys in bed before Santa arrives. Santa's helpers still have gifts to wrap. Oh joy.