Annual Holiday LetterI usually send out an annual letter with our Christmas cards. I typed one up this year, but somehow I just didn't have the heart to send it. So, I decided to post it here, where our adventures have already been revealed. No point in wasting effort (?). December 2008 Beloved Family and Friends, It’s already time for another annual letter. This has been a difficult year for many, including us. However, with great joy, we can say that the year improved with age. As the year began, we were dealing with Nancy’s job situation and James’ school performance. During the early part of the year, John caught the flu, Joseph had his appendix removed, and Nancy was on disability for 3 months. It seemed like a never-ending string of events. It became apparent that the private school wasn’t meeting James’ needs, and we transferred him back to public school. Sadly, that dramatic change precipitated a crisis. It became apparent that the private school wasn’t meeting James’ needs, and we transferred him back to public school. Sadly, that dramatic change precipitated a crisis. During Easter break, we were thrilled to have John’s sister Cindy and her husband, “Science Bob”, come for a visit. It was great to have family here. We spent a lot of time exploring the coastal region, as well as Balboa Park. It was sad to see them go, but we look forward to seeing them again. John went to Louisiana to celebrate Mom’s 80th birthday, but both boys were in school and it wasn’t possible for the whole family to go. John had a wonderful time being with family. By May, Nancy was back to work, everyone was healthy, and professionals were handling James’ crisis. Both boys passed their classes and in June, we attended a promotion ceremony for Joseph and James. Then in early July, Nancy and James went to Missouri to Ian and Alissa Garbi’s wedding reception. The reception was beautiful, and celebrated the joining of two precious people. It was a very healing trip for James, and he especially enjoyed spending alone time with Ian. It was also a great opportunity for Grandpa Riggins and James to bond. We bought fireworks and set them off on the 4th at Sally and Louis’ house. We also got to see Uncle Wilford and Aunt Helen on two occasions. Janeane, Wade and Rosalyn treated us to a delicious dinner, and Richard and Andrea hosted us overnight before we left. Sally and Louis did a wonderful job raising their children, as they are all exceptional people. It was also nice to spend a brief time with Grant, Cindy, Laura, Emily and Julie at the reception and then at Sally and Louis’ home. Curt and Rhamonda treated us to dinner. Their daughter Della and James enjoyed the visit as well. While we were in Missouri, Nancy got word that she’d been hired for a new job at Camp Pendleton. The change has been an adjustment for the family; since it’s a minimum 90-minute commute each way. The job is utilizing Nancy’s skills as a therapist. It has been a positive change for Nancy. She started the new job the last week of July. In contrast, John received an award for 25 years of government service. James is now in 9th grade, and Joseph is in 6th. They have both had adjustments to the expectations of their new schools. It’s been a challenge, but we know they’ll succeed. In October, we spent a wonderful week in Kauai. It is a beautiful island. We spent a lot of time snorkeling and sightseeing. The roosters and chickens were unexpected, but added laughter to our trip. We never did figure out why they crossed the road. Thanksgiving was enjoyable as we hosted dinner for several of our friends. And here it is, almost Christmas again. We hope your family has a blessed holiday season, and a joyous New Year! ____________________________________________________________________________________ Oh, to end on a positive note, the dog didn't get sick -- even though he should have! And this is one of Joseph's presents -- but he didn't get one this big: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImLD8_Wskas
He used shrimp as bait and said the fish was about the same size. No photographic evidence is available though. We believe him, because otherwise it would have been "You should have seen the one that got away!" | 
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Sadly, the annoying critter had sampled the peppermint fudge James & I had made this afternoon. I have no idea why that batch was the most tempting. He ignored the Heath toffee fudge and the rocky road fudge. We're just hoping he doesn't get sick from it. Chocolate is really bad for dogs, and the beast has required emergency vet treatment in the past when he ate some.
