Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Cathy & Brooke Bailey

Since almost everything we get in the mail is “junk mail”, this should be coming through the Postal Service. But, being cost conscious (cheap!), we’ve chosen to go the email route!

We are particularly grateful for the tremendous sacrifices of our troops and their families. And, we know this has been a tough year for many of our fellow citizens (particularly elected Democrats). But, Christmas is a time to wish everyone well.

Sadly, Cathy’s Mom passed away in August. She is missed greatly! We are in the difficult process of disposing of her estate now. Brooke’s family was finally able to sell his parent’s home in February after watching the prices plummet for almost 3 years. Our wonderful Shih Tzu puppy, Bubbles, departed just before his 18th birthday.

Now to the brighter side, our children and grandchildren are all doing great. Liz, Brent, and family are still in Charlotte after almost 4 years. Brent was promoted at Wells Fargo where he is in “distressed debt” (who isn’t!). Liz, besides being a mom, is working out with swimming, spinning (cycling), and running and is planning to compete in a triathlon here next summer. Brent competed in Charlotte last summer.

The grandkids, Catey (7), Paige (5), Sam & Will (3) are thriving, and we find many opportunities to visit them. We are fortunate to have the beach to attract them and spent many days this summer playing in the surf and on the boat. Both girls began waterskiing and the boys are happy to be on the towed tube. Liz and Brent convinced us to take all four kids while they escaped for their 10th—we are still recovering!!

We took all of them to Disneyworld last March and everyone had a ball!

Cathy continued with her pottery, so if you have room for some “beautiful” pieces, let us know (please). Her clothing sales are down a bit, but what isn’t. She started playing golf again last summer with new clubs, lessons, etc., but then took a minor fall on a wet floor and hasn’t been able to play since August—maybe she’ll start again in the Spring.

Brooke is still committed (or should be!) to golf. With multiple rounds a week, you’d think he’d be better! He’s been to Pinehurst, NC again with friends this year. And, he just returned from a week long ski trip to Aspen/Snowmass with another friend—the skiing was superb with great snow, warm temperatures, and, best of all, no injuries! He is still the master gardener for our homestead and manages to keep the weeds and pests at bay. And, he continues as head of our homeowners’ association (oh, what a joy!).

Best wishes to you and your families.

Cathy & Brooke