Christmas is fast approaching and the Mierins family is quite excited. We are looking forward to spending time together as a family. The boys finished school on Friday and have the next two weeks off. Andy will be taking a week off of work as well and so we are glad we will have some much needed time together.

Gail enjoyed a bit of time on her own Saturday as she went with some friends to see the Nutcracker. She said it was wonderful. The show was done here in Elko and was a collaboration with Reno Ballet. Gail got to live her dream of being a ballet dancer.

The boys continue to do well. Matthew enjoyed spending time with his Dad on Friday. Andy had a meeting in Reno, so he took Matthew with him. They left Thursday evening and all reports are had a great time together. They played midway games at Circus Circus and Matthew came home with quite a haul of prizes. The drive home was a bit tricky as it started snowing Friday morning, but everyone got back safe and sound.

It appears we will have a white Christmas in northern Nevada. The snow started Friday and while it shifts from rain to sleet to snow and back, we have snow on the ground.

We want to wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Please take time this time of year to seek out those who may be struggling or are lonely and offer what you can to lift their spirits. Despite what the world may say or do, this is the time we remember the birth of Jesus Christ, the exemplar of service to others. May you be blessed as you seek out those who are in need. Merry Christmas.

We enjoyed a wonderful week. Gail finished up the "Forgotten Carols" and she did a wonderful job. Gail's parents came down for the Saturday afternoon show and we had a nice visit. Those that attended the show were in for a real treat and many raved about how wonderful it was. Gail also sang in the "Messiah" last Sunday and was by far the best soprano voice. We are so proud of her and the performances she has given. She will be gearing up for her next show in the spring. Nikolas was also in the show and he did a great job as well.



The boys continue to be excited about Christmas. It is hard to believe it is only two weeks away. Matthew and Nikolas continue to do well in school. Nikolas did a great job at his piano recital and is excited about continuing to study the piano.

Andy had a busy week. He was in Reno at a Drug Court training Thursday and Friday and so was gone. He has several trials coming up in January and February so he is getting ready.

Overall life is good and we hope the same is true for you.

What a great week this has been. We had a bit more snow, but then towards the end of the week it warmed up and Saturday we were back to rain.

Blizzard, our new kitten, seems to be adapting well to her new home. She was sluggish the beginning of the week, but by the end she was chasing her tail and playing which is always a good sign. Salem still does not know what to make of this invasion of his home, but is adapting. He no longer hisses, just sort of lunges, then when Blizzard has no reaction, turns and walks the other way. We are taking her to the vet this week and will keep you posted.

The boys are excited for Christmas and so are we. This was the week of the annual Christmas Creche Exhibit. Nikolas participated in a piano recital and sang in a choir on Saturday. Gail will sing a solo this evening as part of the Messiah sing along. Nikolas did a great job and Mom and Dad were very proud of his effort. He was quite scared, but it did not come out during his performance.

We bought our Christmas tree Saturday. It is a Douglass Fir and has made the house smell wonderful. Gail and Andy got the tree up Saturday afternoon and were still speaking once it was done. They have come a long way. We are excited to decorate. The tree was pretty wet due to the rain so it has taken a day to dry before lights and decorations can go on. We will try and post a picture.

Gail and Andy are busy as always. This coming up week is the "Forgotten Carols" so Gail is in overdrive making sure everything gets done and the show is ready.

We hope you are all well.