Dear Friends of '82
It's been one of those whirlwind years for us. I'm writing this from a hotel room in Phoenix after receiving Sherry's little 'tap' on the e-mail shoulder. Ha! Merry CHRISTmas to each of you!
The Skiles clan grew a bit larger this year. Our 2nd daughter Amanda married Koby Shivers last October and this October, we became part of the 'grand-parenting' club. Seems a bit soon, I know but Vic and I never looked back so I get to keep my youthful figure while the rest of you grow older. Ha! Seriously, we're loving it and little Thatcher has brought a new dimension to our family...a great one!
Ashley is 21 now and working as a supervisor for WellsFargo. Mandy is now a mother of one and is thinking maybe all those pets weren't such a great idea at this point. Ha! She turns 20 in January and her hubby, Koby (also part of the clan) rings in at an aged 23!
Our son Drew turned 18 in August and he's taking a year of Bible college down in Joplin, MO. Vic and I met there so we have to remind him the girls are ALL beautiful and he doesn't have to marry the first one he meets. Ha! Although, the kids remind me that I didn't waste any time.
Allie turned sweet 16 on November 28th and in the haste to get out the door for her first solo ride, left her stuff at home. I had to make an extra trip to church just to haul it to her...kids! Wouldn't have it any other way although the driving challenge tends to cause shortness of breath and a palpitating heart!!!!
We tried the soccer parenting thing this year with Austin adn Amber. Having both kids in the club at the same time on 'different' teams gave me heartburn. (I know, those of you who are soccer moms have been experiencing this for years) I've decided you all can have it and we'll just have to try ballet or something. Ha!
I was blessed to take my first trip to China this September...always wanted to go but somehow thsoe pieces never fell together. Lord willing, I'll have many more opportunities in the future. Had the privilege of catching up with Jimmy Cummings and Paul Dickinson...
Vicki and I celebrated 23 years this August ...being rather spontaneous, I decided it was time for a cruise. The 2 of us spent a week down in the Bahamas and enjoyed every fattening moment. Oh and did I tell you I am married to the most beautiful, gracious and lovely woman ono the planet! I know, it sounds mushy but in God's grace, he gave me a wonderful friend and soul-mate...I've been blessed.
Hope you all have a wonderful family holiday. Enjoy your time together. Vicki and I will look forward to catching up with you in Nashville.
Merry Christmas,
Mark & Vicki Skiles
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