Season’s Greetings from the Lubbers in Lake Crystal —
Yes, it’s been awhile since I’ve had the time or inclination to write and send out the “Annual Christmas Letter” but… it’s time again. As I get started, it occurs to me that an annual letter was, in years long past, a much-anticipated and delightful creative outlet for a somewhat-frustrated accountant. But now—oh, my, this involves many of the same movements as my weekly sermon-writing, monthly newsletter writing, and so forth. Not that those aren’t great fun—once I get going. But, still.
And so I begin… with coffee mug at hand… and Christmas music in the air… and gratitude in my heart…
Luke (12) is enjoying sixth grade, his “senior year” at the elementary school which is just three blocks from our home. Luke is healthy and happy—save the normal boyhood bumps and bruises and bouts with cold/flu, and periodic (but much, much less evident lately) feelings of lingering grief, which is only natural. Luke has a rich and nuanced sense of humor: picture a mix of Carolyn’s goofy humor and childlike innocence with a dose of my quirkiness (a.k.a. insanity). One of our favorite things is family spaghetti dinner with Tucker (Luke’s best buddy) because there’s usually at least one belly laugh for all. Luke’s bedtime reading lately has been A Prairie Home Companion’s Pretty Good Joke Book. In school Luke is excelling in math, music, and current events; he plays football, basketball, and baseball (but took a year off from football this fall); he likes watching the Minnesota Wild with Dad, playing video games, fishing, and just goofing off with friends. Like the whole family, Luke loves the Minnesota Twins!
Elyse (15) is a sophomore at LCWM High—she’s involved in—well, it seems like—everything! She loves spending time with friends including regular “movie nights” which move from house to house and having a friend or two sleep-over. She plays volleyball and softball and, just last fall, joined the wrestling cheer squad. Is OK for me to brag a bit? Elyse is on student council, honor roll, was president of the local National Junior Honor Society chapter, was the cheer squad “MVP” last year (captain this year); she had great performances in many groups at vocal contests including a superior rating for her solo and best-in-site small group and was honored as her school’s outstanding freshman vocalist last spring. Oops—now I hear her voice, “Enough already, Dad. Quit embarrassing me!” To embarrass, I am certain, is far and away the most grievous offense possible for the parent of a teen. Elyse is mature, cheerful, compassionate, and responsible. I’m proud and lucky to be her dad. She’s teaching Sunday school this year along with two other girls.
John (30) married Stephanie in June 2010. Dad was overjoyed and privileged to officiate the wedding—Elyse and Luke were both in the wedding party. In July 2011 John took a new job flying cargo jets out of Portland, Oregon. John and Stephanie live in Vancouver, Washington. They’ll get more space in next year’s letter—especially since they have a baby due in June 2012.
And maybe next year I’ll get a paragraph, too. Glean what you will from the “Year in Review” or look me up on Facebook. Or, better yet, stop in and visit me at one of the best churches a pastor could ever ask for—First Presbyterian Church in Lake Crystal. The folks here are humble, open, compassionate, and welcoming. I think they love their pastor even when they may not “like” him, if you know what I mean. And that makes this a very good place to be. Wishing you a blessed Christmastide and a prosperous and healthy New Year…
In Christ,
Randy
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