By now, most of you know and some have even watched and witnessed Laura’s substantial progress. As recent history would suggest, Laura will practice and develop these newfound abilities. If you don’t know what we are talking about, you must watch the progress video dated December 16, 2005 on Laura’s website. In it, she holds her head up completely on her own for the first time, since July. In addition, we captured a few foot movements on tape. Unfortunately, her best foot movements to command came before the camera was rolling. She must be camera shy (not exactly, for those that know her well!) Our job is to continue our faith, continue our fervent prayers, continue to trust, and continue to be amazed. God will do the work and Laura will show those gratifying results through the culmination of our persistence.

What a beautiful time of year to witness Laura’s progress and eminent recovery. The Christmas holiday represents a time of the year held very dear to our hearts. We celebrate the many reasons for the season. It is a time to celebrate with our loved ones, a time to count our many blessings. This year has been a special one for the Laughlin family. As you know, 2005 was not without its share of tribulation, fear, and uncertainties. Throughout Laura’s journey back, it is often difficult to rid those pesky thoughts of negativity and anxiety that want to creep in. We tend to forget our multitude of blessings. Blessings which include: a roof over our heads, loving families, lasting friendships, unselfish generosity, freedom of choice, countless opportunity including a more developed character through overcoming an unwanted, but real test of adversity, witnessing a powerful and courageous spirit living in Laura that fights on, and finally knowing pure truth of a living Savior and his plans for Laura and us all through recorded doctrine. What a list!

We hope to share Christmas Day with many family and friends. For all of you, know that we will be saying a prayer and raising a glass toasting a safe and joyous Christmas celebration. Our appreciation for you is immeasurable and difficult to communicate and express. Wait until Laura is healed and finds out how many people will be on our Christmas shopping list in 2006 (better her shopping than me, trust me!) Be thankful for the non-material gifts this year. Those gifts, special moments, and deep relationships don’t rust, go out of style, or become uninteresting. True relationships endure; your relationship with Him is eternal. As we saw with Laura, your time could come at any second. Do not wait to be saved! It is possible to continue on in a state of busyness, completely missing the boat.

Laura sends you a big thank you hug (and blows a kiss!).

IN ALL THINGS WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS THROUGH HIM WHO LOVED US. (Romans 8:37)

We love you,
Jeff and Laura Laughlin.