We’ve turned a page on the calendar and even prior to December 1, we had our first snow fall  of the year. I know that skiers are disappointed at the lack of snow to date, but winter doesn’t arrive until December 21 st . We’re predicted to have lots of snowfall this season, so be patient …

I love this time of year for so many reasons. If you take time to listen, it’s really quiet outside. Snowfall has a way of doing just that and I think it’s a sign that we should also pay attention to when it comes to our personal lives. Enjoy the quiet and reflect on what’s really important in your life. Raise your priorities to a level of importance that often gets pushed to the side. We are in the season of Advent and as we prepare for the birth of Christ in a few short weeks, take time to thank our heavenly Father for everything we’ve been given. Whether it’s your health, relationships with family and friends, focusing on the less fortunate and donating your time, talent or treasure to bless someone who is in need — you will experience this season more fully if you give or make a sacrificial offering to someone else.

Our President and his cabinet leaders have a full plate! There’s conflict and yet progress toward peace in our world and I pray this will come to fruition soon. Our congress and senate are back in DC working after the government shut-down and I pray that they will accomplish passage of important bills before the year’s end. The left continues to criticize everything Trump is doing for good and we need not listen to their rhetoric. It takes time to turn things around and if the lawfare would cease and our elected Republicans would work WITH our President and not AGAINST him, things would improve faster!

I hope to see everyone at our upcoming December meeting! This is a celebration of the season and I know our Christmas Bingo, moderated by none other than Jonathan Bingle, will be lots of fun. We’ve got some nice prizes for the lucky winners too! A lovely holiday meal will be served along with live violin music and singing. This meeting will also be the occasion to vote for our incoming slate of officers for the 2026-2027 term. We want to have as many members present as possible and we hope you’ll join us!

Thank you, Ponderosa members, for all you have given to our organization in 2025! You are valued and appreciated more than words can say. May you have a blessed Christmas season and all the best in 2026!

Jan Grayhek

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government will be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace”.

Isaiah 9:4-6