Christmas 1993

well... I am happy to report that nothing catastrophic has occurred, either bad or

good in 1993, however this would be a sorry letter Another year is almost gone and all is if I couldn’t find something to say. As follows..

Nate(Nathan)... 6'3", 185#, size 13 shoe.. Well at least the rest of him is catching up to his shoe size. Nate is Nate and personality-wise he has not changed since he learned to talk. He is doing very well in school this year but that is due more to our (GAM & I) efforts than his. No, we aren't doing his homework but we are using the "carrot" method these days; known as wheels, transportation, a ride, etc. It works! His first grade card (2A's & 3B's) warranted a used scooter with the promise of bigger & better to come (we be talking HARLEY DAVISON here). If he ever makes "4.0" we are in big trouble! I am sure the neighbors are pleased with his noisy reward. The carrot idea came from brother-in-law Joe and I'm forever grateful. Now, if he could just come up with an inspiration for dress mode.

Gara Ann... Doing better than ever as the Realtor czar of Marco Island. Probably in the top 5% of the 400-or-so Realtors on this Island (and still gaining). She still amazes me as to her continuing achievements, not because I didn't think she was capable, but the fact that she can do this year-after-year and still be a mother and wife. Tremendous pressure... Not to mention her continuing involvement in Board of Realtors and church.

Jim... I am also having a super year(agin).. I can only parrot last years statement about God awarding me more than I deserve or expect. Big doings in my life... I'v arrived! I went out and bought myself a brand new Caddie.(well almost new). A great amount of respectability goes along with the ownership of such a vehicle... Now-a-days the silvertips (older women) walking the streets wave eagerly as I pass. In my truckin' days, not only didn't they wave but they wouldn't look up.. Their moms warned them about "Them Truckers". Besides, my real estate customers were complaining about riding on the tailgate to view property. Next on the agenda is a Harley. I think I'll grow a beard, start watching MTV, and who knows what else. This middle age is tough. GAM says she wants her own Hog(harley);