The Dreaded Christmas Letter

Good morning,

The busier we get, the more I find myself admiring the time as well as the thought that goes into the Christmas letter. Yes, I know that for some of you, it may be a love-hate relationship.

Who wants to hear that everything is coming up roses, everyone is making lots of money, little Susie or Johnny are the brightest kids around (even if they are), and that everything is wonderful? Given all the things our country is experiencing, I think we know better.

I would rather hear about your trials and tribulations so I can help hold you up, your worries so that I can wipe your tears, your need so that I can help provide, and yes, your joys, so I can share them wholeheartedly with you.

So here goes the Kipp holiday letter. This past year has been filled with joy, laughter, surprises, and some anxiety. The joys of watching loved ones marry and move into the next chapter of their lives. The joy of watching plans develop in the form of new things to landscape, new ideas for making our house a home, the laughter of friends, the surprise of a family of kittens under our porch, and new fallen snow.

Sorrow and worry have overtaken us at times as well. We worry about jobs, retirement funds, paying bills, and doing more than just getting by. I believe that this year above all others, we have come to realize that bounty is being able to live comfortably and still have a little to save and give to others who aren't as fortunate. In that, we have been truly blessed.

Our jobs are going well despite the economy. David is very highly thought of and depended upon by his co-workers. Paulissa is doing well; enjoying researching points of interest and working to position herself into a law firm which would take care of the internship she needs to finish her degree.

Paulissa is still on track to graduate in January 2010; hope to see many of you at graduation!! The coursework is challenging and sometimes exhausting when working a full time job but she's managed to maintain A's and B's.

David continues to participate in Masonic activities and now plays on 2 pool leagues, which keep him hopping.

Paulissa is the prayer shawl ministry leader at Trinity Lutheran Church, a member of the Nebraska Knit and Crochet Guild, is currently tossing her hat in the ring for Church Council, and will be joining the NE Association of Legal Assistants soon. Crocheting keeps Paulissa sane and this past year has seen many shawls, a couple of lapghans, and several scarves made. Hoping to be more prolific next year!!!

And then there's Zinger!!! She is currently waving hello. Zinger is doing well and keeping us amused. She has managed not to break any ornaments this year despite playing with them. The tree skirt has intrigued her this year; she discovered that it's fun to slide across the fireplace hearth on!!

We hope to travel in 2009 and see some of you that we haven't seen in awhile. Connecting with all of you is important.

May today be all you need it to be. May the Peace of God and the freshness of spirit rest in your thoughts, rule in your dreams tonight, and conquer all your fears. May God manifest himself today in ways you have never experienced. May your joys be fulfilled, your dreams be closer, and your prayers be answered. I pray that faith enters a new height for you; I pray that your territory is enlarged. I pray for peace, healing, health, happiness, prosperity, joy, truth and undying love for God.