December 2008
As
another year of joy and happiness comes to a close we find many blessings in
our lives. Our health is the best it has been in years. We hope to be around
for a very long time to enjoy our family and friends.
Doug
and Sharon had fun together visiting all our children and spending special time
with our 13 grandkids. We also went to Atlanta and to North Carolina to see the
Biltmore House. We spent many hours together driving to Utah, Idaho, and
southern Nevada visiting with dear family and friends. We had beautiful weather
while visiting family in Colorado. Sharon enjoyed going to San Antonio, Texas
while Doug was a keynote speaker at a conference in Ohio. We loved spending
Halloween in Sweden and we will be in Reno for Christmas.
Sherry
and Jim Olson love having a young son to watch grow and develop. Jake has
brought much joy into their home and wants to be involved with everything that
Lexi and Hunter do. Lexi and Hunter are doing well in their school. They
enjoyed a family cruise to Mexico and Sherry and Jim enjoyed several romantic
getaways.
Katarina
and Jeff Rytting moved to Sweden this past year. They have a lovely apartment
in downtown Vänersborg and near a fantastic park and lake. Katarina is working
as a nurse’s assistant. Jeff is getting his Master’s in Business at a nearby
university. Benjamin and Olivia love their preschool and have made many
friends.
Karissa
and Michael Rytting continue to enjoy living in Monument (near Colorado
Springs). Their four sons are busy and active. They like building things with
K’nex and Legos, and swimming at the YMCA. Karissa, Scott, and Zachary are doing
great in Taekwondo. Nicholas and Nathan enjoy Karissa’s Preschool in their
home.
Julie
and John Moore moved into their dream home this past summer and have had lots
of fun overseeing the completion of their house and yard. Carter is a perfect
prince and Kaylee, Hadley, and Mollie are his princesses. They enjoyed
Disneyland and other family trips together, and love swimming at their
community pool.
We
hope this holiday season will be wonderful for each of you. May the spirit of
Christ be with you in the coming year.
December 2007
As
another year quickly comes to a close we are grateful for our many
blessings.
Doug
began the year with a successful gall bladder operation, his Diabetes is
totally under control, and he is feeling great. In Hawaii Doug received the
IEEE Joseph F. Keithley career award for key contributions to Microwave
Instrumentation. It was fun to be with so many of his co-workers. Doug and
Sharon are enjoying their new Home Theater with an outstanding sound system.
Sharon’s
heart is doing amazingly well. Last year her heart had an ejection factor of 8%
(which is near death) and now the rate is 35%. She is thrilled to be doing so
well and has a new appreciation for life and the blessings that she has
received. We had lots of fun totally remodeling our kitchen (with cherry wood
cabinets, granite, etc.), redecorating the master bedroom, building a deck, and
refinishing the patio.
The
biggest news for Jim and Sherry is the arrival of Jacob (Jake) Douglas born on
June 12th. He is adored
by all of the family and loves to be held. Hunter knows all of the Pokemon’s
names. He keeps us all laughing and enjoys science projects. Lexi loves math, reading books, and
art. She is in her sixth year of
ballet. Sherry and Jim look forward to their vacations and getting away from
the stress of every day life. Jim’s Mom passed away this fall and she will be
missed.
Jeff
and Katarina’s exciting year began with the safe arrival of Olivia Maria on
January 19th. She loves
to play peek-a-boo, clap her hands, and bounce to music. Benjamin is into anything with Pirates
including ships, swords, etc. and likes to play becoming a police officer or a
fireman. He is a very busy and
active boy who is enjoys being in pre-school. Jeff and Katarina loved having
her Mom, sister, and niece Lova visit from Sweden this fall.
Michael
was accepted into the Colorado Mormon Chorale. Karissa teaches preschool from
home and just earned her purple belt in Taekwondo. Scott is a super star in school and loves piano, taekwondo,
and science. Zachary is collecting
lots of girlfriends in kindergarten and enjoys reading, taekwondo, and
transformers. Nicholas enjoys
preschool with mom, dressing up, and all sports. Nathan is learning to talk and enjoys cars, books, and
climbing on counter tops.
John
and Julie have kept busy with the arrival of baby #4 Mollie Lynn who was born
on April 9th.
Mollie is a very happy baby and a wonderful addition to the family. Hadley just turned two and is a
total ham who adores being the center of attention. Kaylee is still a sweet ballerina who enjoys doing anything
artistic. Carter is excelling in
school, has started a boys tap class, and looks forward to his baptism. John’s fishing trip to Alaska was great
and Julie loved the family fun at Disneyland.
We
feel fortunate to have good health, a wonderful family and many dear
friends.
Christmas provides us with the opportunity to keep in touch with
all
of you, but mostly it is a time to celebrate the life of our Savior,
Jesus
Christ. May the joy and peace of this Christmas season be
with
you in the coming year.
This
year has been a very pleasant and exciting time. We had a special opportunity
to visit Australia, New Zealand and Fiji and had a wonderful vacation together.
Sharon’s Grandfather went on a mission to Australia and it was fun to walk in
his footsteps and feel a little of the experiences that he had. Doug also has
been consulting in China and finally has eaten enough Chinese food. Doug is the
Stake Clerk and Sharon is the Stake Relief Society President and we enjoy
working and serving with the wonderful people in Santa Rosa.
Jim
and Sherry moved into their new home with beautiful views of Reno. Their new
hobby has become decorating their home. They are still busy buying and selling
houses in their real estate adventures. Lexi (6) is now in the first grade and
has a love for learning that is exciting to watch. She really likes her fourth
year of ballet. Hunter (4) is starting pre school classes and is enjoying
school, dinosaurs and cars.
Jeff,
Katarina and Benjamin are doing well. Benjamin (1 1/2) gets his picture taken
all the time and allows Katarina to share them with family and friends. He is
one great explorer and has forced all the fancy items in the house up to new
heights. They are all looking forward to skiing together this winter. Jeff and
Katarina love the high mountain air and scenery of Tahoe City and it is so much
fun to visit them in their beautiful area.
Michael
and Karissa are expecting a new baby boy next March. They will have four sons
to help with the yard of their new home in Monument, Colorado. Scott (6) is now
in Kindergarten and has become the protector of his younger brothers. Zachary
(4) is attending preschool and makes sure there is always some action going on
at home. Nicholas (2) is now a full-fledged toddler and he is in love with
Blue’s Clues.
John
and Julie have a new baby girl named Hadley Jewel born on November 11th. Hadley
is very pleasant and is adored by her older brother Carter and sister Kaylee.
They have moved four miles west to a new home in Reno up in hills close to the
temple. Carter (6) is in Kindergarten and loves all types learning and
particularly his teacher. Kaylee (4) enjoys pre school, dance, art projects and
crafts.
We are appreciative and thankful for our family, friends, and many blessings this year. We are thankful for health and the love we feel in our family. We pray that you will have a loving and peaceful Christmas season.
2004 Family News
As we
begin our annual Christmas letter we reflect upon the blessings and miracles in
our lives for the past year. Several of our friends have had health problems
and we are grateful for their example, faith, and hope. Doug was nominated to
be an IEEE (world wide electrical engineering professional society)
distinguished lecturer and we have traveled to several chapters in California,
Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and Florida. We both enjoy our Stake callings and
the wonderful people we serve with. We had a fantastic time being with our
children and grandchildren at our family reunion in May at Disneyland. We will
always remember the happiness in our grandchildren’s eyes and how excited we
all were to be together and make special memories.
Jim
and Sherry keep busy buying, building, and selling homes in Reno. They found
time to relax on a cruise to Mexico and on several weekend getaways. Lexi (5)
started kindergarten and loves school, books, dolls, and talking on the
telephone (must have learned this skill from Mom and Grandma). Hunter is a busy
active nearly three year old that enjoys dump trucks, cartoons, talking, and
his blanket.
Jeff and Katarina’s miracle son Benjamin Kent was born on
June 28. He is a remarkable baby that likes having his picture taken many times
a day by his Mom. He loves his dog Oliver, his friends Jacob and Emerson, and
going on walks with his parents. It is amazing how Jeff and Katarina’s
enjoyment of mountain biking, kickboxing, and snow skiing have now become
focused on enjoying and loving Benjamin.
Michael
and Karissa welcomed their third son Nicholas Robert on February 11 and he
adores his Mommy. Grandpa went to help and had a great time. Michael and
Karissa enjoyed singing eight songs together from “Annie Get Your Gun” in their
ward production. Scott (nearly 5) is attending preschool and he is now reading
and writing. Zachary (nearly 3) loves Jay Jay the plane, drawing, and playing
with his brothers.
John
and Julie appreciate life after law school. John is now an attorney in Reno
with Littler Mendelson practicing labor and employment law. He was excited to
pass the California Bar. Julie enjoys decorating and organizing their home and
doing craft projects. Carter (nearly 5) loves preschool, animals, rescue
heroes, and singing all day. Kaylee (3) finds happiness reading books and
playing with friends, horses, and Carter.
We
are thankful for our family, friends, church, and many blessings that come into
our lives. May you have a peaceful and joyous holiday season.
We
were thrilled when we finally had our four children, delighted when they
married four wonderful people, and find pure joy in the fantastic grandchildren
we have. Doug retired after 37 years working at Hewlett Packard and Agilent on
January 15th. Sharon began working on January 16th until
April 15th when the tax season ended. We decided to buy a rental
home in Reno and we have had fun building it this year. We both enjoy our
involvement in our church as Stake Clerk and Stake Relief Society President.
Our time together after Doug’s retirement has been fulfilling and satisfying.
We especially like visiting with our wonderful families.
Jim,
Sherry, Lexi (4), and Hunter (2) enjoy finding and purchasing rental homes in
Reno. Sherry is the manager of these 13 properties and very involved with
various projects. Jim works diligently at his new orthopedic practice and has
invented creative techniques for spine surgery. Lexi had her first ballet dance
recital and enjoys Pre School and swimming. Hunter is a busy boy who loves
lawnmowers and “helping” Mom and Dad. We were excited to have Hunter stay with
us when his family spent a week in Hawaii.
Jeff
and Katarina are very happy in Tahoe City with their view of Lake Tahoe. Jeff
works five days a week as the computer manager at Dave’s five Ski Shops. He
goes to Reno on Tuesdays to work at Castelli Dairies where he maintains their
computer systems. Jeff became an avid mountain biker this year. Katarina is
assistant manager of Dave’s Tahoe City. She loves being outside and at the
Beach. She enjoys hanging out with friends and shopping for items for their
home. Oliver continues to be our favorite grand dog.
Michael
and Karissa enjoy living in Colorado Springs with Scott (4), Zachary (2), and
look forward to the birth of Nicholas in February. Michael is deeply
appreciated for his many contributions at Agilent. Michael is First Counselor
in Young Men and Karissa is Enrichment Counselor in Relief Society and sings
vocal solos in various productions. Scott began Pre School, loves Bob the
Builder, books, and his friends. Zachary also enjoys Bob the Builder, loves to
cuddle, drive trains, and chasing their two cats.
John,
Julie, Carter (4), and Kaylee (2) have moved into their new home in Reno. John
graduated from law school, passed the Nevada bar, and began working for the
firm Laxalt and Nomura. He has been called as the Ward Athletic Director and
enjoys playing softball and basketball. Julie loves decorating their home,
teaching Young Women, and is involved with many social groups. Carter adores
his animals, jungle bedroom, and Pre School. Kaylee is charming and loves
reading, playing with dolls, and her mini kitchen.
May you all have a peaceful holiday season and a wonderful
new year. Reading in John we find “For God so loved the world, that He gave His
only begotten Son.” May we always remember the gift and sacrifice of Jesus
Christ in our everyday lives.
It
is always a wonderful time of year to share our love and best wishes with each
of you. This year has been a memorable one with trips to Belgium, Ireland,
Colorado, Utah, Seattle and Washington DC. There are many fun memories visiting
with several of you during these trips. We have children and grandchildren that
continue to be the new tonic for life. You know it is not bad getting older,
just better. This year saw the passing of our 19-year-old cat named Buffy. What
a survivor and an excellent pet.
This
year Doug decided it was time to retire from Agilent Technologies. He is planning
on doing some teaching, consulting, enjoying the grandchildren and it also has
been rumored that there is a new and improved honey-do-list that has been
created. Grandchildren stick to Grandpa like glue but Grandpa loves being stuck
this way. He is also serving as the Stake Clerk and enjoys working with the
Stake Presidency and others in our stake.
Sharon
is a wonderful grandmother and the one that holds our family crew together. We
should buy stock in the telephone company because we have single-handedly saved
them from bankruptcy. Sharon is serving as the Stake Relief Society President
and finds this an excellent way to get to know, serve, and love the sisters.
She also continues to work at Houghton and Freitas during the tax season and
enjoys working in our lovely yard.
Sherry
and Jim are in Reno where Jim is a spine surgeon. He is also doing consulting
with various surgical equipment companies and has been on the lecture circuit.
We welcomed a new grandson Hunter on Jan 23. What a happy and inquisitive boy
he is. Lexi is the substitute mother and loves him so much. Sherry and Jim have
had a lot of fun decorating their new home and getting into the real estate
investment business. Maybe they will have a place for us to stay during our
retirement.
Jeff and Katarina are
in Tahoe City and love that location. They both now work at Dave’s Ski Shop. If
you want your computer network humming just talk to Jeff since he is the expert
at work. Katarina’s sister Annika and her boy friend Magnus from Sweden are
spending six months visiting this winter and staying with Jeff and Katarina.
They are also working at Dave’s and having a wonderful time visiting and skiing
in the United States. Oliver (the dog) has been attending obedience school and
obeys the best of all the grand critters.
Michael
and Karissa moved from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs this past year. They
welcomed a son named Zachary born on Jan 18. He is delightful and loves to
cuddle. Moving to Colorado Springs means they have a new home, a Toyota minivan
and are making many new friends. Mike just loves his job at Agilent and Karissa
has quickly set up playgroups for the boys and their friends. Scott loves his
Dad or at least the new gas powered remote control car that Dad lets him drive.
John
and Julie continue to love living in Sacramento. John has one semester left
before graduating from law school. Julie is serving as enrichment leader in her
Ward Relief Society and finds time to be a BeautiControl consultant. Carter
loves his little toy animals and you can find them everywhere and anywhere.
Kaylee turns one on Dec 18 and is adventurous and loving. They have a new
Nissan Altima car that they are driving to Utah for Christmas.
Well, it has been a sweet and wonderful year
together as family. We know that we have been blessed and are thankful for the
interactions and relationships we continue to enjoy with you. May the Lord bless us all and may we
particularly remember the Savior during this time of year.
What an eventful year
we have had. Doug continues to enjoy his work at Agilent and because of
cutbacks in travel he has been in Santa Rosa most of the time this year.
Working closely with our Stake Presidency as Stake Clerk has been rewarding.
Sharon loves meeting with women in our stake as the Stake Relief Society
President and working three months a year with a CPA firm.
We went to Utah several
times this year. Sharon’s mom went with us to Colorado during the summer, and
all the girls and grand children gathered in Reno for Halloween.
We all met at the Reno
Airport to surprise Doug for his 60th birthday. He had no idea and
Sharon was very excited everyone kept it a secret. We all stayed in Sherry and
Jim’s new home and made many memories. Doug and Sharon loved their vacation to
Alaska in July. We met Doug’s family in Seward and enjoyed cruising on
Resurrection Bay, visiting Alaska’s national parks by train and viewing the
wildlife. We were truly amazed with the green vegetation, spectacular
mountains, glaciers and waterfalls.
Sherry and Jim love living
in Reno. Jim is very successful with his orthopedic surgery practice and Sherry
has been able to make many new friends. They have enjoyed doing their yard and
decorating their home. They are excited to have a new son James Hunter to be
born in January. Lexi is a sweet and charming 27 month old that loves Barney,
reading books, and taking care of her dolls.
Jeff continues working
at Dave’s Ski Shop and Katarina works at Dave’s and a local health club. Their
home is being furnished and is in a picturesque setting overlooking Lake Tahoe.
They have a great time skiing and playing with their one and a half year old
golden retriever Oliver. They enjoyed Annika and Magnus visiting from Sweden
this summer and plan to travel to Sweden next year.
Michael, and Karissa
are firmly settled in beautiful Fort Collins, Colorado. Michael is enjoying his
work at Agilent and serving as assistant scoutmaster. Karissa is a busy and
happy homemaker. They are expecting a son Zachery Michael in mid January. Scott
is a very active 22 month old full of curiosity. He loves Thomas the train,
jumping on the trampoline, and remote controls.
Julie and John are located
in Sacramento where John is half way through law school and enjoying his studies.
Julie is now a stay at home mom and serves as enrichment leader in their ward.
They are having a baby girl Kaylee Ann to be born at any moment. Carter is a
happy and bubbly 23 month old. His favorite pastime is watching Toy Story,
playing with Elmo and his animals.
This has been a year of
reflecting and counting our blessings. We appreciate the opportunity to
celebrate the birth of Christ. The flags flying each day and the increased
patriotism in the country have touched us. Our thoughts and prayer are with
those who have suffered so much this year. We hope this holiday season will be
a peaceful and spiritual time for you and your family.
This has been an eventful year for our family. We now have three
grand children and a grand puppy. Sharon’s friends were so delighted that
they gave her a Grandma Shower. She was released as Ward Relief Society
President and now enjoys being Stake Relief Society President. Her Dad
had leukemia this past year and we were grateful for the many visits and phone
calls we were able to share. He was a great example of giving and service
to others. We were all able attend his funeral in September.
Sharon’s Mom will be here with our family for Christmas. Doug is a happy
little clam and enjoys his calling as Stake Clerk. He manages new
technology development at Agilent and is busy at work and traveling to all
parts of the world.
Sherry and Jim continue to adore Lexi (born 9/29/99). Lexi loves
reading her books and shopping with her parents. Sherry received her
Master’s degree in May. Jim finished his residency in orthopedic surgery
and is doing a fellowship on the spine in Los Angeles. In February they
will be moving into the home they are building in Reno where Jim will begin his
practice.
Katarina and Jeff moved into a home in Tahoe City. They have a big yard
for their golden retriever Oliver (born 5/13/00). They purchased a Toyota
4-runner and enjoyed traveling with Katarina’s Dad and his wife throughout
California in October. They are both working for Dave’s Ski Shop and love
snow skiing, cross-country skiing, telemark skiing, and hiking in the woods.
Karissa, Michael, and Scott (born 2/16/00) have moved to Ft. Collins
where Michael is working for Agilent as an electrical engineer. Karissa
taught 5th grade last year until Scott was born. Michael received his
Masters from BYU and they were excited to move and watch the building of their
home. Karissa is busy scrap booking and Michael enjoys building furniture
for their home.
Julie, John, and Carter (born 1/16/00) enjoyed living with us this
summer after moving from Provo, Utah where John graduated from BYU in History.
In August they moved into a townhouse in Sacramento where John is attending the
University of Pacific (McGeorge) Law School. Julie is working for “Only Love
Children’s Center” as a preschool teacher. She loves having Carter with her at
school.
Family and friends become more precious in our lives every year.
We hope you have a wonderful holiday season and treasure the celebration of
Christ’s birth.
This has been a year of happy memories and many blessings. We are
grateful to our family and friends for their support and love. This season
brings us much closer together as we focus on the life and mission of our Savior
Jesus Christ.
Doug was released as our ward clerk and has been called as the Santa
Rosa stake clerk. He is now manager of the measurement center of technology for
Agilent Technologies (a spin off of Hewlett Packard). Sharon continues to enjoy
being our ward relief society president. She has been eagerly studying ways to
be a good grandmother.
Sherry and Jim were thrilled to welcome a new baby daughter Alexis Rose
into their home on September 29, 1999. She weighed 8 pounds and was 20 inches
long. We can hardly wait to see her at Christmas. Sherry has retired from
teaching and has completed her course work for her masters’ degree. Jim is in
his last year of residency in orthopedic surgery and plans to do a fellowship
on the spine.
On May 15, 1999 Jeff married Katarina Karlsson (from Sweden) in our
back yard. We had a wonderful celebration with many relatives and friends
attending. Their home is in a beautiful area next to Lake Tahoe in Tahoe City,
California. They love their new married life and starting a home together. Jeff
missed part of the ski season last year with knee surgery and Katarina’s
nursing education was put to good use.
Michael is finishing his masters’ degree in electrical engineering at
BYU this coming spring. He has been traveling to Virginia, Colorado, Oregon,
and Santa Rosa for job interviews. Karissa certainly did miss him during
the trips but Mike has some excellent job offers. Karissa graduated from BYU
and is teaching the fifth grade and they are both excited about the coming arrival
of their son Scott in February.
Julie graduated from BYU with her degree in family science. She is busy
designing floral arrangements in the morning and working as a preschool teacher
in the afternoon. John will graduate this coming April majoring in history and
is applying to law schools in Utah and California. They both have really
enjoyed the past year of marriage and are looking forward to becoming parents
in mid January to their son Carter.
We are so excited to have a new daughter and our first three
grandchildren. We look forward to another generation and the memories we will
all make together. We hope you have a wonderful holiday season.
Our favorite times are making memories with our children and sharing
the experiences of life. We enjoyed being together in Las Vegas for a family
reunion, Julie and John's wedding in Utah with a reception in California, and
Thanksgiving in Fielding. Sharon enjoys loving and serving others as Relief
Society President and Doug is Ward Clerk and Multi-Stake Public Affairs
Director. Doug also received the Career Award from the professional society
(ARFTG) for technical leadership in developing modern microwave network
analysis.
Sherry and Jim continue to reside in Torrance California. Jim has only
one and a half years left in his Orthopedic Residency at UCLA Harbor Hospital
(Yeah). Sherry is teaching fourth grade in Hawthorne and has completed over
half of her Masters degree at Chapman University. They have many neat friends
and enjoy the southern California life and weather. Their cat Buster basically
runs the place and has charmed Jim out of his chair.
Jeff is enjoying his work at Lake Tahoe and is now business manager of
five ski shops for Dave's World Inc. He loves the mountain climate and
atmosphere. Jeff has been able to combine his business and finance education
with his computer skills and love of skiing into a winning career. He is dating
Katarina Karlsson from Sweden and they are having a great time. Our ancestry is
also from Sweden so this has been fun for the whole family.
Michael and Karissa still live in Provo. Mike is working on his Masters
degree in Electrical Engineering at BYU and has an excellent job at the BYU
Configurable Computing Lab. Karissa has completed her requirements in
Elementary Education and is teaching second grade at Sunset View Elementary
School. They have a nice new two-bedroom apartment at Wyview Park and the
fastest Internet connection available (Dad is very jealous).
Julie met John in February and in August became Mrs. John Moore. They
were married at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple and are now residing in their cozy
apartment in Provo. They both attend BYU where Julie is a senior majoring in
Family Science and John is a junior in History and plans to go to law school.
They both work at The Flower Basket where Julie arranges flowers and John
delivers them. They have two cute little kittens named Wylie and Sam.
We enjoy this wonderful time of the year as we ponder the life of Jesus
Christ and the true meaning of the holiday season. May you have peace, joy and
happiness in the coming year.
As another year quickly comes to a close we are reminded of the blessings
we enjoy so much. This has been a wonderful year of building closer family
ties. Our dear Mother Phoebe Rytting and nephew Robert Robinson passed away in
April and May. We were blessed to be with so many family members as we honored
these precious people. They both taught us so much about enduring to the end
and always having a cheerful attitude about life. We will miss them greatly and
appreciate their influence for good in our lives. And the Anderson family
Thanksgiving reunion in Fielding was outstanding.
Our days seem to go on without much change. Doug and Sharon are
grateful for 32 years of happily married bliss. Doug has added Ward Clerk to
his list of church callings and still helps four stakes with their public
affairs programs. Sharon has found serving as Relief Society president busy but
very rewarding. It is a pleasure to serve the Lord in any and as many ways as
possible.
Sherry and Jim are still located in Torrance California. It is a
wonderful climate and an interesting time in their lives. Sherry is busy with
her fourth grade students from the central LA area. Jim continues to improve
his skills as a doctor in orthopedic surgery. We have a new grand cat named
Buster. It is rumored that he looks just like his grandfather Rytting, but with
more hair.
Jeff is very busy (snowed) with his work as a manager at Dave's Ski
Shop in Tahoe City. He likes to ski downhill during the day and cross-country
skiing at night under beautiful moonlight (and sometimes with a beautiful
girl).
Michael and Karissa are seniors at BYU and are extremely busy with
school and work. Karissa is in elementary education and Mike is in electrical
engineering specializing in DSP (digital signal processing). They have the
cutest apartment all fixed up. They are the old married couple in their Ward,
having been wed for over 18 months.
Julie continues to enjoy life (that is for sure) at BYU. She is
majoring in home and family science. It is hard to believe that she is now a
junior at college. Julie is education counselor in the Relief Society and
especially enjoys helping others.
Of all the gifts of the season we are ever mindful of the Greatest
Gift, that of the sweet birth, the exemplar life, and the atoning death of the
Savior Jesus Christ. We know that He lives now, that His sacrifice was for each
of us, and that His love is for all individually. And for this, we are
grateful. May each of you feel that Love at this special time of the year.
The years come and go and again we find ourselves grateful for the opportunity
to write another Christmas letter to you. This is a wondrous and heartwarming
season of the year.
Doug has been with Hewlett Packard for over 30 years. In 1996 he wrote
and delivered eight technical papers. Doug and Sharon spent two fantastic weeks
traveling to Belgium, France and Spain. We enjoyed visiting with our friends in
Europe. Doug also appreciates working in public relations for the church.
Sharon is grateful for the young women she has been working with for
many years. She is now working with their mothers as Relief Society President.
Doug is her chief assistant and "do-what-ever" person. Recovering
from her gal bladder surgery took a major portion of this year.
Sherry and Jim continue to relish southern California. The ocean and
weather in Torrance have been delightful. Sherry is teaching fourth grade this
year and her students are thrilled to have her as a teacher. Jim spends many
hours at the hospital and finds orthopedic surgery fascinating and demanding.
This past summer Jeff worked at the River Ranch next to the Truckee
River. He is now the ticketing computer network systems manager (long title
isn't it) working full time at Squaw Valley ski resort. He loves the Tahoe area
for the snow in the winter and the temperate beauty of the summer.
Mike and Karissa where married April 25th in the Provo Temple. They had
a "magical" honeymoon in Orlando, Florida. Both are at BYU where
Karissa is studying to be an elementary school teacher. Mike is in the
electrical engineering program and working part time as a teacher’s assistant.
Julie continues to enjoy the social life (boys) at BYU. She has
wonderful roommates and is planning to be an elementary school teacher. She is
really learning about what life has to offer. She likes Elmo (her car),
studying in the library (strategic locations) and hitting the slopes (skiing)
when she can.
The annual Anderson family Thanksgiving reunion in Fielding, Utah was a
pleasant time to renew family ties. We are so grateful for our family and
friends and for the good associations we have with each of you. May the spirit
of Jesus Christ fill your holiday season and be with you throughout the New
Year.
Doug spent a busy year traveling to the Orient and then on to Europe
where he was able to spend two days with Mike while he was serving his mission
in Aix-en-Provence, France. Doug gained a new appreciation of missionary work
during his stay. He is now teaching the ward family relations class and is also
Public Affairs Director (interfaith relationships and media coverage) for four
stakes.
Sharon is adjusting to no longer being a mother of children at home.
She went with Doug to Florida in May and then we stopped off in St. Louis to
see Jim graduate from Medical School. In September we spent two and a half
weeks dropping the kids off at school, visiting with family, seeing Glacier,
Waterton, Lake Louise and the Canadian Rockies, and enjoying friends in
Spokane. We went to Utah for Thanksgiving and then traveled to Scottsdale,
Arizona. Needless to say there hasn't much time to get lonely and its great
being one-on-one with Doug.
Jim was accepted into orthopedic surgery at UCLA Harbor Hospital after
graduating magna cum laude from St. Louis University. It was sad for Sherry to
leave her 23 fourth graders and her many friends. Jeff helped them move to
Torrance, California in June. Jim is now working 80 to 120 hours a week and
Sherry is teaching 32 sixth graders in the Hawthorne School District. It is fun
to have them closer to us and the airline companies are now financially
solvent.
Jeff graduated from Chico State University last May. He has been
working at a real estate office in Chico since then and is moving to Tahoe City
this week. He will be selling tickets at Squaw Valley Ski Resort (skiing like
mad during his off times) and hopes to be hired on a year round basis in their
accounting department. We will be spending Christmas in a cabin in the Sierras
with him. Julie and Mike can't wait to ski with Jeff.
Mike returned from the Marseilles, France Mission the last of July. It
was a tough but rewarding experience and many people were blessed by his
efforts. It is a beautiful area and we are looking forward to returning there
on our vacation next summer. It was wonderful to have him home for a month
before he went back to BYU. He has settled back into school quickly and really
enjoys his roommates, computer, and girl friend.
Julie went to British Columbia, Canada in the spring with the Concert
Choir and the "Thursday Night Singers" vocal group. Julie has a great
voice and it was fun to attend her many concerts. She graduated from Montgomery
High School in May and sang, "That's what Friends are For" at
commencement. She is now at BYU and is having the best time ever with her
studies, computer, apartment life, and friends.
Doug was released as Bishop after six and a half years of service and
is now teaching the Family Relations class. Being Research and Technology
Manager at Hewlett Packard is creating many opportunities for travel. His
mother is now living in Idaho Falls, Idaho and enjoys being near her daughters
Alta and Donna.
Sharon and her family have really become close this past year. She
spent time this summer at the Anderson family reunion and our family is excited
to be together again in Fielding for the Christmas holidays. Sharon continues
to work with the Young Women in our new Bennett Valley Ward and loves working
with the girls.
Sherry was with us this summer for a month while Jim was studying
orthopedic surgery at UCLA. We had a fun vacation taking Sherry from Santa Rosa
back to Los Angeles to meet Jim before they returned to St. Louis. Sherry
enjoys her fourth grade class of twenty-two students and is also spending time
back at the university on her masters' program. Jim is finishing his last year
at medical school and now selecting where to do his internship.
Jeff is in his last year at Chico State and having a great time with
all his neighbors. He still enjoys snow skiing and the intramural soccer league.
Jeff had the unique opportunity to see the USA vs Brazil soccer match at
Stanford stadium this summer. This has been an exciting year for Jeff as he
finishes school and he has done very well with his studies. He is now deciding
whether to go to work or continue studies for an MBA this next year.
Mike has had a challenging year in the Marseille France Mission. It is
a difficult mission but the work is still rewarding and Mike's attitude is
excellent. He loves the people, and an exchange student from one of the
families he was teaching (Doris Gourbere) spent three eventful weeks with us
this summer. It is amazing how fast the time passes and Mike will be back home
this next July. He sends his love and appreciation to all of you for your
support.
Julie is having the time of her life as a senior at Montgomery High
School. She spent ten days this past summer in Utah visiting with family and
attending "A Time for Youth." She sings with a premiere vocal
ensemble called the "Thursday Night Singers" and they are constantly
in demand for performances. Julie served as Laurel President and is presently
serving as Stake Youth Committee Publicity Director. She can't wait to ski with
Jeff at Christmas time.
Doug's new job as Research and Technology Manager for the Santa Rosa
Systems Division at Hewlett Packard has really kept him busy traveling and
attending all kinds of meetings. He has been Bishop now for five and a half
years and still can't seem to solve everyone's problems. He really has enjoyed
working with our ward family.
Sharon continues to enjoy working for Houghton and Flowers CPA's during
the tax season. She traveled to St. Louis, South Carolina, Utah, Idaho, and
Spokane where many happy memories were made. She was released as Education
counselor in Relief Society and made a counselor in Young Women working with
the Bee Hives.
Julie is a junior at Montgomery High School. She is on the high honor
roll, dance team, concert choir, and is in her third year of French. She
continues to attend early morning seminary and enjoys studying church history.
Julie is excited to have her driver's license and is often seen driving with
her friends. Now that she is sixteen dating has become a high priority. One of
Julie's highlights over the summer was attending Especially for Youth at BYU.
Mike loved being at BYU and the many friends he made there. He was
diligent in his studies and able to keep his four year scholarship. He received
his mission call to the Marseilles France Mission. His Grandparents Anderson,
Sherry, Aunt Janet and Jayson came to his farewell on August 8. Doug and Jeff
took him on August 11 to the MTC in Provo. He is having the time of his life
and loves the people and his companions.
Jeff is really enjoying his studies at Chico State University. He is
studying business and finance. He taught tennis lessons in Chico and came home
for the summer to work in the landscape architecture business. His best friends
Glen and Eric are his roommate's in Chico and he is really enjoying them. He is
doing very well with his grades and we are proud of him. He loves to travel and
can't wait to go back to Europe.
Sherry is teaching the sixth grade in St. Louis, Missouri and all of the
students want to be in her class. She teaches English and spelling to her
homeroom and then has four classes of reading. She spends a lot of time
attending her students' activities and being with friends. Jim has finished his
first two years of class work at St. Louis University Medical School and is on
hospital rotations for the next two years. He really loves learning and is
doing extremely well in all his classes.
Doug, Sharon, Mike, and Julie spent a wonderful month in New York
participating in the Hill Cumorah Pageant. We spent five days in New York City
before going to Palmyra. Doug was cast as the wicked King Noah, Sharon was in
several crowd scenes, Mike was a Lamanite dancer, and Julie was a Trumpeter
Angel. We renewed many old friendships and made many new relationships. We went
to Niagara Falls, Kirtland, Ohio and on to Cedar Point where Mike and Julie
really enjoyed the roller coasters while Doug and Sharon relaxed.
Today is the eighteenth anniversary of moving into our home in Santa
Rosa where we have shared many fond memories together. In June, the family
traveled to Utah and helped celebrate Verl and Madge Anderson's 50th wedding
anniversary.
Doug's memories for the year include serving and working with the
members of our ward as Bishop. The 8510 network analyzer program at work was
finally completed after many years of effort. Doug designed and built a TV
cabinet for our new bedroom set and it turned out very nice (this is like
having a lumberjack build fine furniture).
Sharon began an enjoyable year working at the CPA firm for three
months. Travel plans were then made to visit Rome, the French Riviera, Paris,
and Brussels with Doug on a business trip in May. She spent many enjoyable
hours helping with wedding plans, gardening, and reading. Sharon has also been
serving as Education Counselor in Relief Society.
On June 22 Sherry and Jim were married and we are so happy to have a
new son. They went to Hawaii on their honeymoon and have moved into a lovely
apartment in St. Louis. Jim is busy attending medical school and is doing very
well. Sherry is teaching three to five year old deaf children and working at
the local library. They were excellent hosts when Sharon visited them in
October and they certainly had fun together.
Jeff's memories include attending Santa Rosa Jr. College and playing on
the college tennis team. He bas been working out at Park Point athletic club,
snow skiing, hot air ballooning, playing volleyball and is in excellent
physical condition. He designed and replanted our yard this spring and it looks
great. Working as an optical lab technician for Dr. Wong has been interesting
and rewarding. Jeff hopes to be attending college at Chico State next fall.
Mike enjoys being on the high school tennis team, snow skiing, and
playing basketball for the church. He bas become a real master at the computer;
he particularly enjoys the games. He is now a senior at Montgomery High School
and has earned a 4.0 GPA that has allowed him to apply for scholarships at Utah
State and BYU. Mike is the First Assistant in the Priest Quorum and is
finishing his fourth year of early morning Seminary.
Julie enjoys being in the Mia Maid Class presidency and loves her first
year of Seminary. She continues to study tap and jazz and never misses a Stake
Dance or a chance to shop. At school, Julie uses her natural ability to excel
in arts and crafts. She is receiving great grades placing her on the high honor
role and is having a rewarding Ninth Grade year. As always, Julie is looking forward
to a fun winter season of hitting the ski slopes.
Twenty-five wonderful years have passed since Doug and Sharon were
married in the Logan Temple. We enjoyed spending it together with our children
on November 24.
Doug's Father passed away in February and we all miss him very much.
Being Bishop continues to be a great challenge but very rewarding.
Sharon was released as Young Women's President and now enjoys teaching
the Spiritual Living Lesson and helping Doug with his many projects. Each year
gets busier at the CPA firm she works for. She has learned a lot from her
flower arranging class.
Sherry loved going to Belgium, France, and England with her Dad and Mom
in May. She graduated from BYU in August and has a long-term substitute job in
Orem teaching 51 kindergarten students. Jim will be here New Years Day and has
been accepted at medical school in St. Louis.
Jeff lived, worked and skied at Squaw Valley from January to April. He
has been working for a landscape architect since May and has really learned a
lot. He has put in a new lawn and several flowerbeds for us. He enjoys Santa
Rosa Junior College and can hardly wait until the snow begins to fall.
Mike continues to do outstanding in school. He is a junior at
Montgomery High. He still loves basketball, tennis, golf, and being able to
drive the car. He has really mastered our new computer. Bertrand our summer
student from Belgium and Mike enjoyed speaking French together.
Julie enjoyed spending August in Utah with Mom getting to know her Utah
family better. It's hard to believe she is almost 14 and an eighth grade honor
student. She has taken up jazz and tap dancing and enjoys basketball, shopping,
and baby-sitting.
It's hard to believe that another year has come and gone. We have been
living in Santa Rosa for 16 years now. Our favorite season of the year is here
and we can hardly wait to hear from each of you and know how you are doing.
Being a Bishop has been a very rewarding and eye opening experience
that has helped Doug gain a greater appreciation of our family. He has done a
great job and continues to amaze us with his ability to love, serve, and
forgive others.
Sharon enjoyed being Office Manager at the CPA Firm she works for
during the tax season. Being Young Women President and running the bookstore
continues to keep her out of trouble. She had a ball redecorating our living
room this past spring.
Sherry has been working very hard as a senior at BYU and her grades
really show her effort. She worked in Provo this summer so we are really
excited to see her at Christmas. She hopes to be able to teach school next
fall. We are proud of her accomplishments.
Jeff is busy attending Santa Rosa Junior College, working five days a
week at a pharmacy, playing tennis, and snow skiing every chance he gets. We
are really enjoy having him here at home with us and the support and love he
shares.
Mike was so excited to get straight A's at Montgomery High this fall.
He is Teachers Quorum President and Seminary Class President. He loves to play
basketball, golf, and tennis. He is a good helper around our home now that Dad
is gone so much.
Julie was in four plays and three variety shows for our church and
community this year. She loves Seventh grade, and Young Women (but it will be
much better when she is 14 and can go to dances). She was also on the
championship school basketball team.
Chiaki (one of our Japanese students) will be here for ten days for her
first American Christmas. We were able to visit Chiaki and her family in Japan
and know we will enjoy her in our home. She has been working in Australia for
the past two years.
We think of you so often and we are so grateful for you and the many
memories that we share. We would love to have you come to visit us any time you
can.
Doug's parents continue to enjoy life as much as possible. Doug's Dad
celebrated his 90th birthday this year and was so grateful to return home after
a few months stay in a rest home. We appreciate the opportunity we have of
hearing how you and your families are doing.
Doug is grateful for his new calling as Bishop of Santa Rosa Fifth
Ward. He was sustained after a three-week business trip to Europe where he
spent his evenings getting organized for his new calling. His Mom, Sharon's
Mom, and Sherry came home for Mothers Day weekend to see him set apart. He
enjoys helping others and has an even greater appreciation for his family and
all those he works with.
Sharon is grateful that she has been allowed to continue being our Ward
Young Women President. She continues to enjoy our bookstore and the CPA Firm
she works for. She has been developing her ability to sing by joining Etude
Chorus and taking private vocal lessons. Her days with Doug in Washington D.C.
and Boston were delightful.
Sherry is grateful for Jim Olson and the many hours they spend together
in the library. She has been doing very well with her grades as a junior at
B.Y.U. She has just completed her student teaching with 27 darling first
graders. She enjoys her roommates and social life at college.
Jeff is grateful for Frank Wilson his roommate at B.Y.U. They were
immediate friends and have made many more friends in Helaman Halls. They enjoy
soccer, weight lifting, bowling, and report that the ski slopes in Utah are
tremendous. Jeff worked for eight months last year at a service station and
developed his skills working with cars.
Mike is grateful to be the oldest sibling in our home at this time. He
is an honor roll student, goes to seminary, was Deacon's Quorum President,
plays golf, tennis, video games, solarquest, and basketball. He sustained his
first broken bone (in the hand), can't wait to get back to the piano, and had
the musical lead in the play "The Princess and the Beggar."
Julie is grateful that she can attend Young Women after February l. She
can hardly wait to go to all of the activities and firesides. She is in the
sixth grade and really does well in school. She has been guest soloist many
times during the past year and has a beautiful voice. She is totally organized
and a joy to all of us.
Doug has really been hooked on snow skiing and spent many days skiing
with the family in the Sierra Mountains and with Sherry in Utah. He continues
to recruit at USU and enjoys seeing Sherry and our family twice a year. In July
he traveled to China and realizes his blessings even more. In November he was
released from our Ward Bishopric and sustained to the High Council.
After having the Seventies Bookstore in our home for 6.5 years Sharon's
dream of becoming a bookstore owner became a reality last January. She worked
part time for a CPA firm during the tax season. Then enjoyed a delightful
vacation with her Mom, Janet, and Lori in Hawaii in July. After a busy year as
Ward Young Women’s President and being in the musical Sound of Music, Sharon is
looking forward to a few days of relaxation in Florida next week with Doug.
Sherry returned to BYU and became accustomed to her first winter in the
snow. She is majoring in elementary education and really enjoys her classes and
working with children. She worked as a full time secretary during the four
months she was home this summer. She and Mom had a great time in August setting
up her new apartment in Provo. Sherry has made many new friends and her
favorite continues to be Jim.
Jeff's favorite pastime is hearing the snow skiing conditions. His
thirty-five points per game really helped his church basketball team win the
stake tournament. They also placed third in regional competition. After a
winning varsity tennis season he picked up the golf clubs and never seems to be
able to put them down. He worked as a camp counselor for his second summer, is
an assistant to the Bishop in Priests Quorum, and teaches Blazer Scouting.
Mike is now an eighth grader. He played Boys Club basketball, soccer on
the Annadel Soccer League, and continues to be a musical genius. He has all the
energy possible and never stops. He enjoys his red eighteen-speed mountain
bike, golf, tennis, snow skiing, bowling, model car racing, and computers. He
is doing a great job as Deacons Quorum president.
Julie is as organized at home and school as ever. She has developed an
asthma problem but by following the doctor's instructions is really improving.
She is in charge of our six cats and one rabbit. Her singing ability and piano
performance continues to progress as she delights many audiences. Julie has
several friends and is our family social butterfly.
The highlight of our year came when our family met in Japan for a
two-week vacation. We were able so see or stay with five of our Japanese summer
exchange students and Sherry's roommate from BYU. The warm hospitality of the
Japanese people is fantastic.
Doug continues to be busy with his work at H.P. and being in our
Bishopric. Sharon loves being Young Women's President and her daily activities.
We had many togetherness hours remodeling our home, and find we are still best
friends.
Sherry remembers well her happy years as she graduated from Seminary
and Montgomery High. Her song leading squad traveled for several competitions.
She worked at an Elementary school play ground this summer before enrolling in
B.Y.U. She finds Deseret Towers, her many friends, teaching Mother Education,
and studying both challenging and rewarding.
For hours each day Jeff loves to play tennis. He played on Montgomery
High School tennis team and basketball team. Finding his name on the High Honor
Roll, driving the car, snow skiing, teasing his Mother, and working as a parks
and recreation camp counselor has kept him busy.
Mike is in three junior high bands where he plays the clarinet,
baritone saxophone and oboe. He has truly mastered the piano and gets a lot of
enjoyment from music. He played catcher on his Angels Little League team and
was chosen as an all star player. He gets up at 5:30 each morning to deliver
his newspaper route and he is building a RC 10 remote control car.
Julie has blossomed into an artist, ballerina, pianist, and vocalist.
She plays schoolteacher by the hour because of her love for school. Bike
riding, building playhouses, and swimming occupies her free time. She is very
organized and tidy.
Our family has become snow skiing fanatics and we have enjoyed using
our van to carry us to the slopes in Utah, Nevada, and California. We think of
you often and realize the blessings you have brought into our lives.