Santa was very nice to Harker and Hyrum this year. Harker went to bed on Christmas Eve saying, "Mom, I hope this works!". He was more than delighted to find out that indeed it did work, Santa had not only found him at Grandma's house, he left him everything he had asked for (a sword and gun) and more!

Friends & Family,

Rachel mentioned to me recently that she is approaching a landmark: the longest period of time she has not been pregnant since we were married. So goes the transition to midlife for both of us. We have no clue what (or rather, where) the coming year holds for us, but one thing is certain—this will be our last Christmas in Washington. Eventually the Army will get around to telling us where we’ll be next year, and we’ll let you know as soon as we find out. We’re looking forward to the adventure.

Mom and Dad joined us for a stroll around the Plaza last night. It was nice but nothing compared to temple square. The weather was great and the kids held up well. Today it is on to Drexel where we shall visit with the grandparents.