Dear Friends,

We somewhat proudly present you with the first ever Stephenson Christmas letter. (Patty has resisted doing one, but honestly admits that she loves all the news in letters from friends, so….keep writing dear friends.) 1993 was a … well… interesting and varied year!

For the most part the family has been well. Marc, now 12 (can you believe it???), graduated from elementary school in June, and enjoyed a week of basketball camp at the beginning of the summer. He is now in Jr. High and earned outstanding grades in a program including advanced band and algebra. He is also beginning practice for his new basketball team – the Clippers.

Beth, now 9, is in the 4 th grade gifted program at her school. She is also learning to play the saxophone so that she will be a part of the school orchestra in the new year. In addition to earning top grades Beth has joined Girl Scouts this fall and enjoys all the things she does with her troop.

Computers remain Jenk’s favorite occupational hobby. We got a new MAC LCIII this year so he has been able to do more work at home. He continues to sponsor the Future Business Leaders of America at school and has accompanied students to several conferences. Due to his Dad’s poor health he has made several trips to Texas, but enjoys the time there with his family.

Despite two serious hospitalizations in January and December (the reason this is late) Patty completed another year at Saugus High School. He gave up her position as sponsor of the National Honor Society (hurray) and once again co-coached the Academic Decathlon team to their strongest finish in several years. It is a lot of work, but she enjoys the challenge, and the opportunity to team-teach with her best friend.

While Jenk was in Texas in July our temporary “daughter” arrived from France. Delphine is the daughter of a friend Patty has known since her studies in Aix-en-Provence 20 years ago. Upon “Dad’s” return we set off in the motorhome on a five-week trip through Oregon, Washington (where we saw Patty’s Aunt, Uncle and cousins), British Colombia, Alberta, Montana and home. Favorite spots were Jasper and Banff National Parks as well as Mt. Rainier. It was a wonderful trip! (At summer’s end we had to send our “daughter” back to France for school, but expect her back for a month in February.)

We hope that this letter finds you all in good health. We wish you a most blessed Christmas filled with love and joy, and a Healthy and happy 1994.