Christmas Eve Party 2008

The Sunday after Thanksgiving I got a call from a sister in the Jackson, MS area. She explained to me that her family does a Christmas Eve party every year for the missionaries serving in her area. She would need my help because Trent would be included in the party this year because he was close by.

As she went on to explain what would take place and how I could help, I was overwhelmed by the goodness of this family. When we talked to Trent on Christmas, he told us what a great party it was. It was a great start to his first Christmas away from home. Then today in the mail came a cute note and a disk of pictures from the party. Thank you to the Greg and Christy Kassel family from Madison, MS for your selfless service to these missionaries.

Let me share in words and pictures what took place. Christy asked that I send

1. a baby picture of Trent,

2. a story or video clip of a most embarrassing moment,

3. a copy of the recipe of Trent's favorite dessert and

4. that we keep it a secret.

On Christmas Eve the missionaries (22 of them this year) were told they needed to meet at the church in Madison for a meeting. When they arrived they waited in the first room.

When they all arrived they were lead into the second room. There was a game awaiting them.

At this point they started wondering what was going on. But they played along and tried to "guess the future missionary".

At last the final door was opened to reveal a decorated room, complete with a Christmas tree with presents beneath, tables that were set for dinner, personalized stockings hanging on the wall and tables with presents.

They had dinner.

They shared a fun time guessing everyone's most embarrassing moment. Then, under the tree was a present for each missionary. They played the trading game to see what gift each one got. Most of the gifts were college gear.

Lastly, each missionaries favorite dessert was made for them. Each was packaged like a present and they had the whole dessert to themselves. They didn't even have to share.

President and Sister Fuhriman were even there to share in the fun.

What a great party! I'm grateful for good people who spend a lot of time and energy to look out for my son and many others too.

Thanks again Kassel family!

As a side note, The Kassels have a son currently serving in the Guam Micronesia Mission. President and Sister Dowdle say he is a great Elder!