We had a fabulous Christmas. I am always awed at how amazing my children are. They are so good and I am blessed for knowing them. I know many of you feel the same about your own children. That's what makes families so great isn't it? I was asked to teach Relief Society tomorrow and I actually have had a few quiet moments to ponder. I decided to look up some funny story to share but they were all so irreverent and the people telling them seemed poke fun of everyone. I was surprised. I come from a fun-loving family and we laugh all the time, we laugh at each other all the time, but I felt so sad and sorry for these people. I think it was a good thing for me, helped me to remember all of Heavenly Fathers children are loved and important. I have family that needs to be understood , they could seem silly or awkward and sometimes say odd things but I hope that they are loved in their ward families, especially since I am so far away from them. I guess I'm feeling a little thoughtful and reflective today. I guess thats what a little peace and quiet will do for you.

Brooke wrote this Christmas poem, age 9

Christmas Time

It's that time of year
We hear
Lots of Christmas cheer

Reindeer pull the sleigh
Full of presents on it's way

When I see
The tree
My face lit up with glee
There was a present for me

At midnight
We hear Santa recite
Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night

Make a Smilebox greeting

We want to wish everyone Very Merry Christmas season and hope that all is well with you and yours. Bruce started his own carpet cleaning company "Reliance Floor Care" just a few months ago. It seems a crazy time to do this with the economy and all but we feel it was best for our family. He named it after his Grandma Baker. Her name was Reliance (she went by Lila) and she lived to be 101! We hope that our business will have some longevity as well. Bruce has always been a hard worker and prides himself in doing a good job. Being honest and trustworthy has been good qualities to have as well. You can check out his website @ reliancefloorcare.com. Check out Kudzu as well and read his reviews. His # is 480-330-5800. My own business Fru Fru Chalet has been a little slow but Kim (my Business partner, my kids say to always preface partner with business) and I are hoping we will pick up again in January. It looks promising and have a few clients lined up. We have fun designing draperies and other fun stuff. We still have diaper bags and other totes and purses for sale. We hope our own website will be running soon. Our children are doing well and everyone seems healthy. (My vertigo is gone for now, YEAH!!!!) Even in these harsh economic times we feel very grateful and blessed. We know that someone is always watching over the FABULOUS Bakers. I'll leave you with a FABULOUS quote, "Blessed is the Season which engages the whole world in a Conspiracy of Love." (Mary Engelbreit)