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RENDEZVOUS

Christmas traditions around the Mission

Clark and Betty West, of Simms, Montana traditionally welcome daughter Suzie’s friend Terri into their holiday festivities. Terri enjoys "family" status at the West Nest where her cerebral palsy isn’t such a big deal.

Betty and Suzie also enjoy holiday shopping for several clients they "adopt" from the Easter Seal day program in Great Falls where Suzie attends. These folks live in group homes and have no one who takes any special interest in them. Activities at the day program give each one a purpose and meaning in life, but Christmastime can be especially lonely. The West girls’ especially chosen and wrapped gifts are received with great anticipation.

Incidentally, Clark West just retired from a lifetime of government work and is looking forward to fitting hunting and fishing around his duties on the RMBM executive board and his lengthening To Do list. Congratulations, Clark!

Dave and Millie Knight, Butte, Montana. Family is special, and a visit to Millie’s father is priority. Dave revels in more and more candles each year for the church Christmas Eve service. (Is the fire marshal invited?)

Don and Dale Oberg, Lolo, Montana gather whatever kids are around on Christmas Eve and serve lutefisk (cod soaked in lye for the uninitiated), Swedish sausage, and ligenberry juice. They take time to be thankful for God’s blessings.

Dave and Debby Donnerberg, Plummer, Idaho enjoy making a birthday cake for Jesus as part of their family’s honor to the King.