MERRY CHRISTMAS!

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We walked the 150 - 200 yards from our apartment to Takapuna Beach and I removed my shoes for a run in the sand and water. You can see our Mon Desur apartment building in the background and the Pohutukawa trees in the foreground. The Pohutukawa tree is nicknamed "Christmas Tree" because of their beautiful bright red flower that blossoms in early December and then turns a rust color before falling to the ground in late December. There are many people enjoying the beach by walking, running, swimming, kayaking, boating and wind surfing on this Christmas day.

We will spend our Christmas afternoon and evening with Elder and Sister Hans Sorensen and their family. We were with Elder and Sister Condie for dinner three nights ago and will be with Elder and Sister Baxter on New Years Eve. These three members of our Area Presidency are great friends and are doing their best to help everyone feel the Christmas spirit. All of them have joined us in our fasting and prayers for Sheryl and they are rejoicing with us as we express our gratitude for all of the miracles that Sheryl and Lon have received during the past three months.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Love David and MelRae