Dear Friends,

It would appear that I do not know how to not be busy. This year has been one crazy adventure after another. In January I started work on my masters degree. It has been a real struggle at times to juggle work and school, but I have learned so much and grown in so many ways because of it. This is my fifth year teaching computers at an elementary school in Pleasant Grove, Utah. It has been interesting to study what I do and why in such depth. As much as I'm enjoying being back in school though, it will be nice to be finished with it some time next Summer.

After serving for two years as the Relief Society president in my ward I am really enjoying being the choir director now. I get to pick the songs I like for us to sing and everyone has to watch me, what better calling could there be? The three songs we have prepared and sung have all turned out very nicely and it has been fun to watch the choir slowly grow from nothing.

Traveling is one way to keep life itneresting. This year I mad a few different trips. My sister got married in March and so I flew out to Texas for that. They asked me to be one of the photographers and I really enjoyed doing that. I have a good brother-in-law too. He's a good guy. I think we'll keep him. I also made a few trips to Arizona to see some friends this year. It was nice to be back where it is warm.

I am still very much addicted to fabric and sewing. I finally found a job to support my habit and I work a few days a month at the Hancock Fabric store near my house. It's great getting the employee discount and not feeling guilty about spending so much money on fabric any more. I have had so much fun making blankets for everyone and every occasion, including two that received blue ribbons at the county fair, as well as about one new skirt a month. Just don't look too closely at any of my stitching.

Other exciting things this year include BYU's football team doing well, especially their win over Utah. And I was able to meet KSL's long time meteorologist Mark Eubank, one of the few weather people I trust. It will be fun to see what next year brings.

I hope this year has treated you well and brought many new and exciting things to your lives.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas
and a Happy New Year to come.

Com Amor,
Lisa Giles