Time seems to go faster and faster. Christmas just wasn't what it usually is without our Lillie. But we know she is where she is supposed to be and we will have the Christmases we will ever want to have together after her mission. She actually only has to spend one Christmas away from us. She is doing well. Cold, but well. She is adjusting to all the normal intricacies of missionary work...long days of trying to talk to people about the gospel, companionship issues, both triumphs and set backs, and some health issues. But overall she continues to do well. One thing we are so proud of her is that she continues to play her violin for special musical numbers. We are happy that she blesses the lives of people around her like that.
Elder Holland passed away this month. I am sad to have learned of that. It was ins 2010 that Kim and I met him and sat with him for hours as he called and set me apart as the stake president. Though I have done things that I am not proud of since that day, I am always reminded with his words of how he could not imagine life outside of the gospel and that we can never give up. I am trying to do that with Kim.
Kim and I spent the holidays at home...well, a staycation of sorts. Landsdowne resort in Virginia. About 2 hours away from home. But it was so quiet and relaxing. We ate at a lot of good restaurants, and enjoyed each other's company. We also spoke with Lillie on Christmas and watched her open all her presents from Santa. Something we have done since her very first Christmas with us, and it is always a joy to see her so happy with all the gifts from Santa!!
