On December 27, 2012 we were delighted to meet our second granddaughter, Emma Marlene Rockwood. We were able to arrive about 10 minutes after she made her entrance into this world. She was a little bruised but beautiful. Daddy and Mama were so happy to add a little girl to their family. We were able to spend a day holding and cuddling with this sweetheart. The worst part is that she is 4 hours away. We miss seeing and holding her as much as we would like.
The Christmas season was filled with wonderful time spent with family and friends. We started with the Rockwood Christmas Party and celebration of Venna’s 80th birthday. Many of the family met at the Iona City Building and shared dinner, games, picture video and visiting. It is always great to see everyone especially because some live away and we don’t seem them as often as we would like. 
A few days later we celebrated with good friends Greg and Maxine Belnap, Art and Joyce Knowles, Jeff and Debbie Wheeler, and Jody and Donna Denning. The Belnaps had prepared a prime rib dinner and then we enjoyed stories and carols. We are so blessed with good friends. (sorry no pictures).
Christmas day was pretty low key. Reed, Rod, and Steph were here to open presents. It was Maya’s first Christmas and you can tell from the pictures that she was the main attraction. She especially liked the paper.
We all were spoiled. We gave each of the boys an umbrella with money inside. We laughed a few days later when Daren was looking at the pictures and saw the one of the open umbrella. He looked at Marlene and said “I think we need to open up the umbrella.”
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Doug and I got a new Canon camera to capture all the memories. The boys surprised me with a swing set they built for the farm. Now I can’t wait for summer. It will be fun to add to the playground. Doug and I went to Cals the next day and bought a tractor tire swing to add to it. Fun, fun, fun!
The Grandparents came for dinner and then we waited for Scott’s phone call. That is the best present of all. We loved hearing his voice and knowing of all the things he is doing in Port Royal, South Carolina. He sounds so good and I hated to hang up. Taylor also came at Scott’s request and they were able to talk for a minute. I’m sure that put a smile on both their faces.
Scott is doing really well in Florida. We love getting his emails every Monday and hearing of his adventures. Last week he sent some pictures as well. I sure do love and miss this boy.
First day in the Florida Jacksonville Mission with President and Sister Barry
First baptism with Elder Lundberg and Mary Hug - September 29, 2012
