It’s Christmas! Time to hear from the Gurnetts and the craziness that is our life! It has been a year of new beginnings, new places, short adventures, a mouse and of course, FISH! The new year started off with my decision to open a new chapter on my life – retirement! So, I am now a ‘lady of leisure’ but someone forgot to tell me that I’m just as busy during the day – only now I’m doing the things that make me smile more often and I also get to watch as many Hallmark movies as I want without anyone bothering me! I’ve managed to catch up on some embroidery projects, I’m learning how to quilt – and we won’t even talk about all the books I’ve finally managed to read! Pat has decided to hold off for at least another year before he retires – but I know he is jealous of my free time – and wishes he could fish whenever the urge hit him – so it won’t be long now. We were introduced to the small town of Swansboro, NC – and although it was for the sad reason of saying goodbye to our dear friend, John Furey – we were able to enjoy the time together – and with John’s family. We needed to add something a little crazy to this year – and we can thank our son, Tim for that! He came home after being deployed to Africa for a year. As you may recall from last year, Tim and Pat were going to ride motorcycles from Omaha to Tim’s home in Palmer, Alaska. Pat bought a Harley – and Tim bought one in Norfolk, Virginia. So, by the time Tim got to Omaha, he had already traveled quite a way on his bike. He took a few extra days and helped his dad rebuild the deck on Jenny’s house – and then it was time to go. Pat and Tim did a few rides around the area – and then Pat decided that ‘discretion is the better part of valor’ – and that his old rear-end could not handle a super-long trip Tim was planning. So, he rode with Tim a short distance out of town and then the two hugged and Tim went on his way while Pat came home. It was a short adventure – but I’m sure it will be repeated in the future. To end our year of adventures, we decided that we would celebrate my retirement, Pat’s birthday, and Thanksgiving with our favorite mouse – yes, we went to Disney World! Jenny, Liz, and Liam came along for the fun – more like we followed them everywhere they went. We had a great time – rode the new rides – Cosmic Rewind and TRON are AWESOME! We had dinner at the Brown Derby – which meant I didn’t have to cook or clean up. The weather was great – and everyone had a lot of fun. Of course, now Pat will have to work another two years to pay for everything – just kidding! And our year would not be complete without FISH. Unfortunately, with everything going on this summer, there wasn’t a lot of fishing – so the only thing Pat was able to do this year was try to spot FISH in the lakes at Disney – and of course, he saw Dory and Nemo. We also learned you can hire fishing guides at the Disney resorts – so we watched some other people catch some nice sized fish! I have promised Pat that next year will be better for fishing – especially if he RETIRES!
Jenny, Liz, and Liam have had a very busy year. Jenny has been busy with weddings all summer – as well as her usual customers. Liz is a junior at Mercy High School and has been singing the National Anthem at multiple sporting events including the UNO Women’s Volleyball and Soccer teams, the Storm Chasers baseball team and school events. She is still part of the school show choir and participated in the school musical. Liam is a freshman at Creighton Prep High School and decided that he wanted to try football – and he loves it. He is an offensive guard and a center and enjoys every moment on the field. He can hardly wait until next football season. He is still working on his taekwondo skills.
Bob and Maureen are enjoying their life in New York City. Bob is still working on computers, as well as his stand-up comedy. Maureen is an attorney with a local law firm and teaches law classes. They are super busy but still find time to enjoy the occasional New York Giants game as well as some travel to nearby areas.
Tim, Walter, and Winston are doing well in Alaska. Tim returned this summer from Africa and had his trek from Virginia to Palmer, Alaska on his motorcycle. He went all the way to the Artic Circle and Artic Sea – just to say he did. He is now home with the boys who are very glad to see their dad. Tim starts park ranger training the end of January and was just promoted to Chief Petty Officer in the Navy Reserve. Pat was so proud to pin Tim’s anchors on his uniform in the ceremony.
Becky, Peter, Wes, and Danny have had a lot going on this year – camping, football and other sports for Wes, and Danny starting school. Becky is still working at Methodist Hospital and Peter is still with Farmer’s Dog – plus he has his canoeing business – Paddlin’ Pete’s. Wes has enjoyed playing flag football and basketball – and we enjoy going to his games! Danny likes going fishing and canoeing with dad. Both boys make sure that Mom and Dad staying busy!
Although I decided to retire and assume a life of leisure – Pat is still working. He says it is to support my spending habits – but I think he is afraid I will have a list of chores for him to do here at the house! I don’t have any chores for him yet – I just keep reminding him of all the FISH he could be trying to catch if he didn’t work.
Cherish those around you – not just during this special season but all year long – even when they are driving you crazy! Take that trip you’ve been putting off, read that book that has been gathering dust – and make sure to go FISHING with the person who makes you laugh – even when no FISH are caught!
Pages from my Crazy Life 