It is time to reflect on the year that is just about to close and which we believe provided us with opportunities to experience the joys and challenges of life. The biggest outcome is that we are, once again, able to send these greetings. We have learnt to appreciate that old age isn't so bad when you consider the alternative.

The year was opened by the birth of our 7th grandchild, Tesana, who is now a bouncing 10-month old baby and crawling toward the celebration of her first Christmas, New Year, and first birthday in January.

We had a fairly quiet beginning of the year, followed by a visit to Sweden to celebrate Midsummer with Anna, Eric and Asali. Julia continued with her official trips to Kosovo and Tanzania, which provided her the opportunity to visit Botswana to see our son and his family, her mum and other relatives and friends. She also went on a mission to Ethiopia.

USA travel included a visit to Jamestown (with Hasse and Marysia) and the Grand, Antelope, Bryce and Zion Canyons. Per also visited the Outerbanks (with Petter and family), and the Amish County (with Britt, Lasse and Ingrid).

Per continued to enjoy photography excursions around Washington D.C. Outside our home he photographed a Robin that laid three eggs in a nest outside our dining room window, providing him with an opportunity to take pictures on a daily basis. On day 15, all birds left the nest!

We experienced the driest summer since moving to the US in 2001. One of our big oak trees died and had to be removed. We are following the debate about global warming with great interest.

We had wonderful visits from family and friends. Axel (94), Per's father, once again visited us. We, as usual, had a most joyful time together. Friends from all over the world (Sweden, Botswana, Australia, UK, India, Kosovo, Kenya, and USA) either stayed with us or joined us for meals at our house.

Let there be Peace and Happiness in 2008 and beyond!