Season Greetings Friends!
I haven't done a holiday letter in few years -- so I think one is due; and like every other, I feel the need to begin with "wow, I can't believe how fast this year has gone by". I know it is a cliché, but it truly does seem each year passes more rapidly than the prior. So with that out of the way... I've launched my local Christmas music station -- and shall begin.
I know these letters always say how blessed everyone is ... but I am sitting here writing this, early on December 13th -- the 17th anniversary of my wedding date; a beautiful, intelligent, honor-roll-earning daughter sleeping in the next room; "The Boy", who creatively impresses (and humors) me more and more every day; two dogs (one good, one evil) sleeping at my feet; and my best friend still upstairs in my bed -- and I honestly cannot image life any better or any differently.
This year has not been without its trials; most notably, we lost my father in April, after a lingering illness. Yesterday, I told Tracy; I think that is why I have put off writing this letter -- I am still not really over it -- and as I guy, it's just easier to avoid it. I think of him every day and miss him very much; preferring to remember him younger, healthier, and happier -- much like the Skinny Elvis.
This year also brought the lengthiest and scariest accident for The Boy. While taking a simple bike ride with his mom and sister, he made a stop along the path. Never to be last on the trail, he sped up and did not take one of the bumps in the road very well; soaring long and far over his handle bars and smiling all the way to the pavement; where several of his newly-grown, adult teeth decided to move out and try life on their own; that, along with a sprained wrist, eight stitches to the face, and full-body road-rash... Ouch! In fact, the Boy (being his father's son) was flirting with the hospital staff and smiling his bloody, toothless smile, before he left the ER. And... to help our parental status, he repeatedly said to everyone, "No, I WAS wearing my helmet just not my shirt".
I turned 40 this year -- and for me, the pinnacle of the year was Tracy's surprise birthday party in Las Vegas. Now it was not QUITE on par with The Hangover (on DVD, 12/15 -- check your local retailers), it was definitely the soiree of the year (dare I say "the DECADE"). If you missed the party or recap -- it is on my blog (http://daronpratt.blogspot.com -- which, oddly recaps most events -- but I digress). I decided to hit 40 healthy and planned 4 great marathons. One of the races was on Easter weekend in lovely Champaign-Urbana, for the Illinois marathon. Tracy, my cousin Kim, Iowa friends Dave and Missy all ran the half; and I had the pleasure of cheering Hollie, and sister-in-law Aimee on to finishing their first Marathon. Having the best cheering squad (thanks to the kids, Chris, Rachael, Dave, and Wes) made it more fun too. And... Chris was great in helping me rehydrate after the race too -- but that is story for another time. I have only missed one marathon due to a very bad ankle sprain but I am still dedicated to complete the GOOFY RACE at Disney even if it kills me (which it just might). On a funnier note, the entire family did a 5K in Lee's Summit ON my birthday. And... had I been born on the 11th, I would have been first in my age division. As luck would have it, other guys in their 40s want to stay healthy too so I came in 4th joining the toughest age group for male runners.
In late Spring, Tracy decided to take a "hiatus" from the workforce and it kind of stuck. She used the term "stay home mom" -- I corrected her, noting that the kids are 'tweeners, and don't stay home. She hit me; I don't talk any more. J Seriously though, she is loving it and having a blast with the kids and visiting everyone. She coordinated a great weekend bike trip along the Katy Trail. There was music and activities along the route, and we spent some time with the Gray clan before and after since we were in their neck of the woods. Then, for about six weeks there were visits to Iowa (Pete, Sue, and all the aunts, uncles, and cousins-galore); family from ALL sides in Chicago; and then up to the Northwoods (We love you Ray!!!). The summer ended with a nice trip to Daytona. While enjoying the beach, we visited with Carol and Jessica, as well as, Don, Kim, and Emma who made the trek down there too. A nice visit was enjoyed by all and a very forgettable tequila shot.
Zander had another triumphant football season. He showed his strength and agility on his team (RUSH) and stopped some critical plays as well as a few quarterback sacks. All in all, the team did good and played hard. He is also showing his artistic talent on the Stallion Singers, where he was selected for a solo on one of the Christmas songs, which he sang with gusto.
Zoe has been very active this year too. She is currently a brown belt in Taekwondo and recently competed in her first tournament taking second in sparring. We are very proud. Zoe also was on a member of the Summit Lakes Cross Country team; competing in several of tournaments around the metro area, and placing as high as fifth!!
With two weeks left in the year, we are not slowing down one bit -- next weekend finds us in Nashville for the "Gray Family" Christmas. From there, the Griswold Family truckster points north to Iowa for Christmas with the Motroni clan, before returning home for New Years -- and a refueling for a week before a final trip to Disney World. Whew!!! I'm a little winded just writing about it. All-in-all, another great year with friends and family.
We are thankful for, and love you all; The Pratt's -- Daron, Tracy, Zoe, and Zander ......oh, and Wonder-dog Gracie, and Evil-dog Roxie
