It's been a while since I've had a chance to write this column, but since this is probably the busiest and most exciting times of the year, I think it's time I got back to work.

Veteran's Day was celebrated in the church service Sunday with special music and a litany honoring all the servicemen in the congregation. It was amazing to see how many people had been a part of the U.S. armed forces at some point in their life. We appreciate every single one of them.

The annual Charge Conference was held at the church on Sunday afternoon with the Rev. Mike Cline officiating. A good number of church members attended.

There was great news during the last two weeks. Bernard and Linda Massey are the proud grandparents of twin boys, Deacon and Drake. The Masseys are still in South Carolina having fun with their new larger family.

Also, Donna Sullivan had her baby recently, but developed toxemia after the birth, so our prayers are with her. And, along with that news, the Sullivan family has received word that Donna's brother, Sean, was killed in a car accident. It's devastating news for Terri and Mike, his parents. Our prayers will certainly be with the entire family. Sean was a real asset to the church and he will be greatly missed.

Joyce Martin will need prayers, too as she undergoes treatments for a recently diagnosed illness. She is very upbeat but still needs everyone's support.

Dorothy Botts is now out of the hospital after her hip replacement surgery. It will take a little while longer to get back to normal, but she's on the way.

The United Methodist Women were treated to a talk on Kenya by Shirley Murray from Chandler First UMC. Shirley, and a group from First Church, took a mission trip to Kenya this past summer.

Ken and Barb Cade are now home from Scotland. Ken visited his cousin, Cliff Wooten, there and Barb checked on some school work.

Now that Thanksgiving is almost here, the Frankos are thinking about making their yearly trip to Florida again.

Ken Cade's sister, Juanita Price, had a little scare recently. She had to make a trip to the ER and found that she has Bell's Palsy.

Thanksgiving is only two weeks away now, so that means the annual Thanksgiving dinner at church is coming up soon. This is also the day when the congregation prepares special meals and takes them to those who can't get out. The dinner will be held after church on Sunday, November 23rd. Look for more exciting plans for the holidays as there have been numerous committee meetings this week to make the upcoming season special.