The Gathering of the Clan

Each year we have a gathering of the "Phillips Clan" (that's my side of the family), and this year we were at our place on Jan. 3rd. As our family grows, it becomes very hard to find a date before Christmas when we can all get together.

This gathering brought news of the engagement Sara & Laramie. Sara was the first great-grandchild of our folks, and it brings a real sense of continuity as we watch yet another generation come of age.

We also got to meet Hannah for the first time. She's the delightful young lady who has caught the interest of our nephew, Ray.

It was great to all be together once again. After 'grazing' round a table full of delicious goodies, which always includes a plate of homemade candy - made from Mom's recipes - we enjoyed our annual "Dirty Santa" exchange of Christmas ornaments/decorations. This year the January date was great, as it allowed everyone to take advantage of those super after-Christmas sales! Even 2-year-old Hayden got in the act. When it was his 'turn', he 'stole' a musical nativity scene and was happy the rest of the evening, pushing the button to listen to the story & music. DeAnna shared that he even took it to bed with him that night. One thing we do each year is take time to pose for our annual family pictures.

Roger & Twylah

Russ, DeAnna, Hunter & Hayden

Randy, Shelly, Wes & Nick

With Nick's birthday falling on Jan 6th, we gathered again at our house with the Hughes clan on a Sunday afternoon to celebrate the occasion. The 'news' this time was from Roger's neice, Kelly, that she was in the 'family way' again, with #3 expected in late summer.

So 2009 looks to be a year of 'happenings' for the family. We can't wait!