Warmest greetings to my dear family, friends, and gentle hearts around the world. It has become a tradition for me to write my Christmas letter on January 6th. The Christmas of the Gentiles. Today is Epiphany - the festival that commemorates the appearance of the Christ child as the promised Savior to the Gentiles, and to all the world. The lighted star shines today even brighter on that little home on the prairie, as I am reminded of the star that led the wisemen to Bethlehem. As we all travel the road of life, and reflect on the past year, may we have many warm thoughts as we reflect on what an unknown author wrote so many years ago. "Looking back, may we be filled with gratitude. Looking forward, may we be filled with hope. Looking upward, may we be aware of strength. Looking inward, may we find peace."

The year 1995 is a closed chapter in our lives, filled with memories. What a joy for me to have received so many Christmas letters and cards from around the world. Thanks for sharing your joys and challenges of the past year. You have all been the angels in my life, and I wish for you all many great blessings as you continue your journey throughout life.

Family celebrations and visits this past year have taken me to Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Colorado, Ohio, Washington DC, and Washington State. In August, the 60th Werner family reunion was held at Battle Creek Nebraska. In June, four families arrived and painted the barn red in that little home on the prairie also got a facelift. It is now Periwinkle blue with purple trim. Perhaps in 1996, you will come to visit. Christmas is every day of the year in this little home on the prairie. The welcome mat is out and the teapot will be on for our cup of Christmas tea. You will enjoy God's beautiful creation in God's country, South Dakota has its seasons of beauty. May we all live throughout 1996 in the warmth and glow of Christmas. And may, the stars of grace, hope, joy, love and peace shine in our hearts.

Quiet thoughts from the heart - for you a special New Year prayer. "God bless you all year through, and may his loving presence be always close to you. God grant you many blessings of the real and lasting kind. The best of health, true happiness, and peace of heart in mind." Author unknown. "The day spring from on high has visited us to give light to guide our feet into the way of peace." From the book of Luke. Have a bright new year, led by his light.

Warm Thoughts From the Little Home on the Prairie Over a Cup of Tea by Luetta G. Werner

January 6th, 1996

Published in the Marion Record

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Till next time,

Trina