Some of you did not hear from us last year, as our computer misbehaved and wouldn’t send the digital newsletters. So we hope we haven't lost any of you. Many apologies. But we are back and have good news to share!

This has been a year of life-changing events in the Brandel household. First of all, Taylor surprised the whole family by falling head over heels in love with sweet Ashley Miller, who will marry into the family next July. We all love her already and are thrilled with the perfect match.

Just as big a surprise came as Jonathan and Michelle announced they were going to bless us with a grandchild. Audrey Quinn Brandel was born September 15 on Connie’s birthday. She is the first girl to be born in our family in 36 years. What a special blessing!

Another new addition to our family this year came in the form of two lens implants for Dan, which has given his 20/20 vision in both eyes. Next time you see him, he won’t be wearing glasses.

Among many other events of the year was a wonderful reunion with Dan’s family in celebration of Mom’s 80th birthday. There was much laughing, eating, fishing, golfing, and worship together. While we were there, Dan was privileged to baptize Taylor, Ashley, and grandson Ian in the lake by Mom’s house, Connie then traveled to Oklahoma and had the best visit in many years. She always enjoys “windshield farming” with her dad and the long walks and talks with her sister. This fall we had yet another reunion with several families from the church Dan pastored in Seattle back in the late 1970’s. Who were all those old people anyway??

Anthony is now living in Boise, working at a upscale pizza restaurant, working all his spare time on writing music and playing his guitar. Casey is a senior in high school, busy with youth group and college preparation. He spends hours a day strumming away on his guitar. These guys are both getting quite good and love jamming together whenever they can.

Angela and Bill and family continue to amaze us with their strength and faithfulness as they seek to honor Christ in their lives. Bill started a golf club repair business this past summer to supplement their income. Angela works from home for an internet business at www.mom4life.com. She has also developed a couple of other websites, which you would probably find most interesting: www.thosewithyoung.com and wwww.anggrams.blogspot.com.

We continue to see God at work as we minister through ValleyHills Community Church. During these difficult days of a struggling economy, our God continues to prove Himself faithful as He works through His people to provide for each other’s needs. We are grateful for this ministry, for Connie’s job, and for our good health. As the world becomes more and more unpredictable and times are often frightening, we are reminded that Jesus is really all we need and that the Father knew 2000 years ago what He was doing when He sent His Son into the world so that we could have hope, peace, and eternal life. Our Christmas wish for each of you is that you will experience the true joy of Christmas through Jesus.

The Brandels: Dan, Connie, Casey

(and, of course, Ollie and Griffin)