Merry Christmas from the Seeley’s
It’s A Wonderful Life
Christmas 2018
Dear Family & Friends,
I’m getting older, but still learning. Jesus is a good teacher as long as we are listening. The title of my most recent lesson is, It’s a Wonderful Life. No I have not been suicidal as the main character of the popular movie, but in the journey of life one can lose sight of the wonder.
In October of 2016 I lost my vision. Surgery restored it. In February 2017 I lost my vision a 2nd time and surgery restored it. On Good Friday, I lost it a 3rd time. It’s difficult to describe the feeling of suddenly not being able to see your family, read, put on makeup, see TV, cook, drive, etc. At this point I had 2 options. The best surgeon in the world for this surgery is in Memphis. He could do the surgery or I could wait for a year and see if my eye might heal. The Greatest Physician prompted me to give it a year. I could write a whole series on the humor and lessons I learned during this time. So as not to bore you I will suffice it to say life really is wonderful. So are people. In the beginning Todd attempted to help me with make up and hair. Don’t tell him but I think I looked better without his help. God healed my vision a year later.
My husband retired from serving as a pastor and now works as a recruiter. In the event of a hurricane or other disaster his company hires help for FEMA. He continues to help out the local Christian radio station a few mornings a week. In addition he does framing at our art gallery. Todd leads a small group Bible study for men on Wednesday night. Todd is the hardest working person I have ever seen. His office is at the gallery and we spend more time together than any couple I have ever known. To be able to be with someone almost 24/7 and still love each other is God.
Last August my precious mother died. Todd and I moved her to Fairhope almost 4 years ago to give her a better quality of life. She was a huge part of our lives and we loved her deeply. I miss my visits with her every 2-3 days. She was the most Christ-like person I have ever seen. Never have I known a person so full of love, forgiveness & gratefulness. At her funeral the Holy Spirit showed up and many people who have been estranged reconciled. God is good and it is a wonderful life. Please pray for the few remaining in my family who still suffer with anger and bitterness so that they might experience more of Christ.
Matthew graduates from USM in May. We look forward to seeing what God has ahead for him. My first-born son is loyal, sensitive & kind. He still loves sports. I love that he adopted an elderly couple after meeting them at a restaurant a year ago. He helps them when he can. Matthew went to see them on Thanksgiving because they don’t have any family nearby. We hope they can share Christmas dinner with us.
Aaron is in his 2nd year at Auburn and his goal is to graduate after his 3rd year there. He recently finished a summer internship in DC and is involved in local & national politics. He was actually interviewed on CNN a year ago. Aaron is driven, goal oriented & a servant. He loves hiking and keeps me on my knees with his dangerous adventures.
I love working as an art curator at the gallery Todd purchased for me in downtown Fairhope. Everyday I get to listen to Andrea Bocelli surrounded by beautiful art. Fairhope is a quaint artistic town on Mobile Bay with a population of 20 thousand. It attracts many tourists year round and the most in March with 250,000 visitors. It’s delightful to meet locals and tourists. In 2010 I came kicking and screaming to South Alabama when God wanted to bless me with his best.
Todd & I celebrate 25 years of marriage in March. Before marriage I honestly thought if we had conflict that we would settle it by praying together on our knees while holding hands. Laughter. I would describe the 1st part of our marriage as a roller coaster. Today it feels more like the log ride. Remember that ride? A lot of beauty but on occasion a hill and drop with splash. We enjoy life together & encouraging other married folk. Marriage can get better with time if Christ is the center and you don’t quit. A good marriage is a wonderful life and is worth fighting for. This is our message to young adults.
May the Lord richly bless you and yours this holiday season as you experience the wonderful life God has given.
Love,
The Seeley’s