Funkyjimmer's Blog

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

THE SILENCE IS BROKEN -- I AM STILL ALIVE!

I know, it's been far too long since I've Posted. I've just been busy/lazy (choose your response)! I have no idea how I ever found time to work! Between volunteering at church, working for the funeral home and just "living", I've kept busy.

But here's an electronic version of my 2008 Christmas Letter -- without the pretty card! It will give highlights of my year.

Jim

posted by jim 9:07 AM 0 comments

Christmas, 2008

MERRY CHRISTMAS IN THE NAME OF JESUS, WHO MADE IT POSSIBLE!

As I review the year 2008 there have been sufficient significant events in my life to warrant another Christmas letter. I am about ready for what is often referred to as “the most wonderful time of the year”. Anita helped me get the Christmas tree and decorations from the attic and decorate the house inside. I long ago gave up decorating outside except for colored outdoor spot lights! Most of my shopping is done—the wrapping is yet to occur! Now it is time to get these cards and letters sent.

My biggest event of the year was retiring September 1st from the Principal Financial Group after 19 ½ years -- first with ClaimAid Consulting Company, then J. F. Molloy and Associates and finally the Principal Financial Group. The timing for my retirement was definitely a God-thing. I haven’t been sorry! As one preacher friend said of his retirement, “Retirement isn’t all it’s cracked up to be – it’s a whole lot better!” I agree and wonder how I ever had time to work!

I volunteer at my church, Traders Point Christian Church, staffing the Welcome Desk at least a half day a week and occasionally answering the telephones when the staff is at staff meetings. I also work part time for Flanner and Buchanan Funeral Home. I passed the test to get a Public Passengers’ Driver’s License so sometimes I drive a flower van, limousine or coach. Other times I work visitations and funerals at the Zionsville funeral center. I have also had opportunities to conduct memorial services for families who did not have a church home. I am thankful that by engaging in the above activities I am able to minister to others.

Often when people ask how I am, I reply, “I am grateful!” I am grateful . . . for God’s love and protection, good health, enjoyable retirement activities and my children and grandchildren. Jackson is such a loveable 4-year old and Addison a loveable nearly 2 year old. I could fill pages with their activities and cute sayings but I’ll spare you! My team at work gave me a Grandparents’ pass to the Zoo for a retirement gift. The kids, LeDena and I have enjoyed some zoo trips this fall.

Anita moved again—this time to her own apartment just down the road from my house. She continues her same type of work but her company was bought and is now called Lexus Nexus. Time will tell what that means for her employment status.

LeDena hasn’t changed apartments but she began a new job this month as a Health Care Specialist for “Small Blessings” Day Care. Rather than a classroom teacher she will do more administrative type of work and help some in the classrooms as needed.

Karla and family still live in Royal Run. Karla now works for Kipp Brothers, a large toy and novelty company. If you go in the store Karla is most likely the one to assist you! Bill has been doing some telemarketing. All three girls are a15 minute or less drive from my house. It is nice to have them all so close. I am grateful that all three are active at Traders Point Christian Church in various capacities.

Anita and I made a couple of trips to attend Alabama football games. We always enjoy those trips and do a lot of Christmas shopping whenever we are there. Some day we are going to do something other than shop and watch football when we are in Alabama!

You might say I am responsible for the trashing of the world’s economy! As I prepared to retire everything just lined up so well. The Christian young man who serves as my financial advisor reviewed my financial situation and assured me I would be able to live and pay my bills when I retired. Everything appeared to be so perfect. I remember praying, “Lord, I have always trusted you to provide and care for me and my family. The same biblical principles that guided me at 22 years of age still guide me at 72 years of age. Lord, I want my retirement to be a walk of faith also.” It wasn’t two weeks after I prayed that prayer that the U. S. economy really “went south”! As they say, “Be careful what you pray for! You just might get it!”

People ask me, “Aren’t you worried about the economy? Aren’t you worried about how you’ll make it? Aren’t you worried about our country’s political situation and leadership?”

No, I’m not worried. The Lord promised, “I will never leave you or forsake you. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:5, 8) It isn’t as important who is in the White House as who is on the Great White Throne! It is not as important who is controlling the economy as who is controlling the Universe. God is on His Throne and Christmas is an excellent time to remind everyone of God’s continual love and care. That’s why He sent His Son—and I’m so grateful that Jesus came.

I hope your Christmas celebration and your 2009 are God-blessed.

Love in Christ,

posted by jim 9:06 AM 2 comments

Here's a picture of my grandchildren in the Halloween Costumes. On the left is Jackson, who turned 4 years old in November. Beside him is is sister, Addison, who will turn 2 years old in February

posted by jim 9:04 AM 0 comments

posted by jim 9:03 AM 0 comments