Christmas Letters

How I enjoy the Christmas letters that come every year -- news from family and from new and long-time friends! This year I have waited for their arrival and answered those which have come, so that there's a link, and not just a one-sided conversation. In our Christmas letter I share the huge events in our life -- such as our 50th Anniversary Celebration this summer, my publication of "Journey With Jeff," and that our daughter Jennifer and her family have moved back to Rochester from Atlanta to be closer to family. Jennifer writes a funny, wise commentary on life around her in her January letter -- which doesn't get lost in the Christmas rush. So, keep those cards and letters coming!

Perfect Birthday present!

On my birthday 120 copies of "Journey With Jeff" arrived in three 24 X 12 X 12 boxes carried by two husky UPS guys! They're here! Finally! If you'd like an autographed copy send me an e-mail at rsreisch@frontiernet.net, or you can order a copy at Amazon.com. (My cost is $15.00 plus $4.45 S&H.) It's going to be a joy and a challenge to get the copies to all the people requesting them -- hope it'll happen this week, before we celebrate Christmas. Just want these books to get where they need to go so people know they're not alone in their caregiving.

Now on Amazon.com!

Although the first shipment of "Journey With Jeff" has not yet arrived on my own doorstep, it is already advertised on www.Amazon.com, www.WaldenBooks.com, www.Borders.com, Abebooks.com, and Alibris.com! Take a look! The ad includes a photo of the book! And, I invite any of you who have already heard Jeff's story (on the 5-CD package which came out last year) to write a short review for it. Sunday afternoon, December 9th, from 2 - 4 I'll be at the Local Author's Extravaganza at the Liftbridge Book Store again in Brockport. And, I hope I'll have more than the one complimentary copy of the book in my hand!! Upward and Onward!

22 Days until Christmas!

"Journey With Jeff" is in my hands!!

"Become all that God has made you to be" is a paraphrase of the motto of the Oneonta State Teacher's College I graduated from about 50 years ago. When I held Jeff's book "proof" in my hands, it seemed to be a colossal accomplishment of this goal. "Yes, go ahead, BookSurge, and print it, so it can get to all the places it should go!" I have become Jeff's advocate, and an advocate for each of "Our Kids." So, the relentless pursuit of "who God made me to be" continues on. It continues with being there for my husband, and our daughter and her family. It continues with asking for wisdom and insight to know how to be a mentor, leader, and encourager to others in God's world. I may be a septuagenarian, but I'm looking forward with high-spirited joy to all the excitement yet to come!

Another testimonial

"Journey With Jeff" is an absolute spiritual piece of hard and struggling work! It is an inspiration to all who listen. I can feel your hurts, struggles and at times, discouragement. I could also feel Jeff's emotions and these brought back many memories. I could feel Bob's struggles too, and his faith. Yes, Jeff's sister Jennifer, too -- her patience at times and her love for her family and Jeff. I believe this work of devotions is great for anybody who is struggling with their problems -- the same "God, hear my cry"
"God, help me to listen and trust"
"God, I love you; help my unbelief!"
"Our secretary has shed tears, also, with your beautiful devotions -- the work of Discipleship! Jeff's faith just shines through like the light in a dark room! He sure is a precious gift to all he encountered." (Jeff's Confirmation teacher.)

Tributes for "Journey With Jeff"

Here are some testimonials (written notes) from those who knew Jeff, and responded to the reading of our stories on the set of 5CDs:
"My husband and I have listened to your CDs. First astounded that we didn't know what you went thru the early months, then inspired by your 'writer's instinct' to keep a journal about it all. I've always been inspired by your faith. You are a true prayer warrior and I give thanks to God for you!" ( A long-time Lutheran friend)
"Thanks for allowing Jeffrey to be a part of our lives. We will always cherish the time we had with him. God bless." (Jeff's Residence Supervisor)
"Miss you like crazy...but the CDs help!!! Listening to you helped ease my feelings of homesickness and loss. Mac's school evaluation is Friday. I have been waiting since October for this." (A mother of a child living with Celiac disease)
"What an inspirational story and wonderful testimony to your one-of-a-kind son, and all of your efforts to deal with his and your rollercoaster ride!! You did an exceptional job, and I loved your use of scripture and prayers for each entry. Something for everyone! Thanks for using what I had written about Jeff. Don't know how you included so much - WOW!" (A cousin now working with people with special needs.)