Riggins Christmas 2020

Next summer Linda wants us to build a fire pit in the back yard. Once we finish the project—and the governor and/or God sounds the virus all-clear—we'll invite everybody to a bonfire. Bring your masks. You won't be taking them home.

We all know people who've had COVID-19. Many of us know people it has killed. It's tragic. I pray daily for the safety of the most vulnerable, including my mom. Yet life has gone on. And by the grace of God, this has actually been a good year in our family.

Hours after Rory's birth

(Click on the pictures to enlarge them.)

In late October we welcomed our second grandchild, Rory Anne Muse, to the family. She, Laura and Sam and big brother Theo are well. Theo loves all vehicles, drawing with chalk on the driveway, books and imitating animals. (He does a great horse.) Rory's repertoire is still somewhat limited. Until delivering her Laura taught kindergarten online. Her leave extends well into 2021, when Grandmas Cindy and Linda will offer serious support. Sam continues to work hard—at the office and at home.

 

Dan got engaged to the estimable and wonderful Lauren. They plan an August wedding and as of this writing, it looks probable that the vaccines will make that happen. He has hit the home stretch in his residency at Riley Children's Hospital and hopes next to begin a fellowship in public health with an emphasis on data. She teaches and continues work on her PhD.  She also helps out with community organizations serving disadvantaged people.  

Post-proposal

 

 

Linda's parents and my mom have soldiered on, taking wise precautions that have kept them safe to date. The isolation has probably hit them the hardest. But they have lived through tough times before. Their generation remembers the Great Depression and global war. While this pandemic has frightened and inconvenienced them, their resolute attitudes never fail to impress. As the years pass Linda and I grow increasingly grateful for their example of faithful determination.

 

Thanksgiving--in many ways

 

Our lives have not changed markedly. We still visit with family. I still serve the church, though this whole thing has given me an appreciation I never expected to have for face-to-face meetings. Linda works a little here and there, enough to add some nice furniture to our cozy home. We walk our dogs. God has blessed us and we know it. Coming to Terre Haute and this church was an inspired decision. We are thankful.

Whatever your situation, we pray that you too might have peace and gratitude in your hearts. And don't forget: bring your masks.