Sunday, October 21, 2001

Dear Family,

Being that our country is in a state of turmoil, the opportunity to gather together and give thanks to one another seems more fitting than ever before!  Our Annual Christmas Gathering is upon us and   being that we're blessed with a bigger group every year, we need to get rolling with the preparation so we can make quality memories to last us a lifetime.  With the help of everyone, hopefully we will find the time to relax and enjoy each other.  Whether in song, in prayer or a simple "Hi - How are you?" we will make this one count!  So let's hop on the sleigh and let the ride begin!

Kiddie Korner and the Kraft Korner will be opened all day for the enjoyment of the children.  Thank you to our coordinators:  the Hendersons and Sam & Mary
All families with children are welcomed to bring things to share.  If anyone has a favorite childhood book they love, please bring it and read it to the little ones.  They'll love you for it! Child care is not provided, however,  maybe some of the teenagers would like to give a short break to Mom's and Dad's.  Thank you in advance to the coordinators if anything is to be purchased!

About the Raffle:  The periodical drawings will be coordinated by Teresa, Alice, Phil and Mark.  Families or individuals are asked to bring either a home-made or boughten gift to be raffled off during the course of the day.  You can bring more than one if you like.  It has been decided that with your contribution to the mentioned charity (any amount), each family member will receive one ticket.

Background music will be coordinated  by Matthew.  We're asking for all to bring a favorite holiday CD or tape with your NAME ON IT!  A piano will be provided if anyone (young or older) wishes to bestow us with your talent through-out the day.  If you play another instrument, bring it!  Music is joy to our ears!

About the Talent Show:  Don't be shy!  Bring a short act!  Sing a song, do a jig, read a poem!   Amuse us all!  Laughter is good!  Let our famed emcee, Mike Neumeier fit you in a slot!  Just let him know in advance!  (MikeNeum@aol.com)  This is going to be good!

About chow time:  All families are asked to bring a meat dish (enough to feed your family) and one other dish to share.  Bring what you usually bring and maybe a snack or appetizer since we've got a longer day planned.  Mom and Dad are providing the paper plates, napkins and cups.  The church will provide the utensils.  Please bring your own soft drinks but NO ALCOHOL PLEASE!!

We are asking that all The Neumeier Siblings copy the letter and notify their immediate families or children about the festivities and what to bring!  We're looking forward to seeing everyone!  Let's make it a perfect attendance!

Thank-you to the following:  Jim & Elena for opening your home to us and feeding an army of     people.    Mom and Dad for paying for the Community Life Center, supplying the table settings and for compensating Santa, Jan for finding him, Tom and Bec for supplying the coffee and fixings,     Bonnie and Michael Flood for donating the table decorations,  Joe & Kathy for the raffle tickets,  Bec for answering a thousand questions, ALL OF YOU for donating your time and expertise in making this a Christmas to remember. 

Together we can move mountains and have the best sleigh ride of our lives!   God Bless You All and God Bless America!

Much Love to You and Yours!

The Butlers ,