2009 @ The Marstons
As we were poised to embark on another Spring Break adventure, I determined that my nagging headache needed a quick look see - after all, our flight didn’t leave until 5. The result was 30 day’s of fun at The Swedish Hospital Resort and Spa. I had Meningoencephalitis, (from Greek: meninges- membranes; enkephalos brain; and -itis inflammation) or a fancy name for you are on the way to meet your maker, kicking the bucket, ceasing to exist - literally. This of course got everyone’s attention, except mine – incognizance masks even important issues. Through divine intervention orchestrated by my loving wife and supported heavily by many of you, I eventually realized who and where I was – and made it. Whoa. Lucky are those who are gifted the rare second chance. Mortality, in most cases presents itself prior to righting all wrongs, endearing the people so important to you or even saying goodbye to your dog. So, I truly love all of you, am universally sorry for my sudden/perpetual/occasional loss of control/sensitivity/temperament…and Astro, I am officially saying goodbye. Finally! I can have solace in meandering through life’s uncertainties.
One of those uncertainties presented itself this summer as we excitedly awaited our turn to ascend one of America’s most acclaimed marvels – the St. Louis Gateway Arch. Everyone has an Achilles heal – claustrophobia happens to be mine. Naively, I waited for the ride up and when the sarcophagus arrived and the steel door entombed us my heart rate hastened, breathing deepened, beads of cold sweet dotted my surfaces as I just about began to scratch my children’s eyes out. Happy to of survived, they pose for a photo a safe distance away from me and the arch.
Micki is having a blast and loves to help mom in the kitchen while looking after her growing 
animal kingdom. We added two rodents to the mix making the pet population officially double the humans in our household. She is a fashion diva shown here with a little floral number she slipped into – only her third outfit of the morning. Micki continues to advance with both the flute and gymnastics - her only trouble is landing the back hand spring while performing
animal kingdom. We added two rodents to the mix making the pet population officially double the humans in our household. She is a fashion diva shown here with a little floral number she slipped into – only her third outfit of the morning. Micki continues to advance with both the flute and gymnastics - her only trouble is landing the back hand spring while performing 
At ten, Nate is breaking out of his need or desire for direct supervision. He would prefer to invent, develop and construct on his own. Highlights for Nate this year were trading his glasses for contacts, playing on the CA championship lacrosse team, picking up the trumpet, and is becoming quite a pianist. Morning, noon or night, it’s always a good time to practice trumpet.Nate continues to provide the most accurate recall and intellectual support for the family activities. Lily is a freshman at Mullen High School. Shown here preparing to cheer on her state champion
Mustangs. I finally understand the “they grow up so fast” cliché. Although she misses her CA buds, Lily is very happy at Mullen and has had a great first tri. Lily's piano play is preeminent, her recent performance of Moonlight Sonata brought tears to not only her Mother, but several beholders. She is excited to hit the slopes and I look forward to riding with her this season too although we will definitely have different itunes. Her Christmas list includes mittens with side zippers for texting on the lifts.
Mustangs. I finally understand the “they grow up so fast” cliché. Although she misses her CA buds, Lily is very happy at Mullen and has had a great first tri. Lily's piano play is preeminent, her recent performance of Moonlight Sonata brought tears to not only her Mother, but several beholders. She is excited to hit the slopes and I look forward to riding with her this season too although we will definitely have different itunes. Her Christmas list includes mittens with side zippers for texting on the lifts. In addition to being busy saving spouse’s lives, Sylvia has had other projects. Seemingly centuries in the making, and definitely months in the construction – we had some vendor issues - she finally got her kitchen. It is a beautiful addition to our home – Great Job Honey! She continues to enjoy knitting (she could knit you an airplane hanger) yoga, and her daily walks “to the summit” with her neighborhood friends. She has been busy at the salt mine too as we continue to expand www.usfamilyguide.com. Fully recovered, I now truly realize how important Sylvia is to me and the family.
For me, I am thankful to have the opportunity to write another letter as I anxiously await the invoices to arrive for my part in the stimulus plan. For fun, I posted this and past Christmas letters at http://familychristmasletters.blogspot.com/. Please cherish those near with Christmas Joy this Holiday Season! Merry Christmas - Michael
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