Dear Friends,
Do any of us really want to go through another year like 2008? There have been a lot of downs nationally/internationally as well as a few in our own lives. But we have survived and, indeed, in certain instances have thrived as well. We hope this is also true for you.
In late January Karen had her second knee replaced. Although the results of the 2007 version had no complications, the newer one did not follow the same route. She had some painful manipulations done as a follow up. She was able to do extended rehabilitation exercises here at Eagle’s Trace where we live and the results were excellent. We continue to be grateful that we chose to move to this retirement community when we did. It really does have all the medical, recreational and daily dining facilities that we throughly enjoy. Karen is involved in the residential choir, poetry and spirituality events of the community. Pat facilitates a bible study group and is active in the book club. Many enjoyed our Thanksgiving Service which Karen organized and where Pat gave a “homily.”
The usual non-Eagle’s Trace activities continue to keep both of us busy. Karen still leads prayer events at the Cenacle Retreat center, although on a reduced schedule. Pat, a “retired” Permanent Deacon, continues to preach at weekend Masses at our old parish of Christ the Good Shepherd but witnesses fewer weddings. He also teaches classes at the local parish, St. John Vianney.
The high-light of the year was the celebration of our Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary. We renewed our vows at a Liturgy held at the Cenacle and enjoyed the company of many local and Californian friends who were present for the Liturgy and for a party. Tracey was not able to attend, since she was busy with Joseph Xavier Camerino, born six days earlier. He joins his four brothers and three sisters and two cousins to round out our now ten grandchildren. To allow you to be part of our 50th, we are including with our annual Christmas letter, copies of photos taken during the past year. For many of you this may be the first time you’ve seen the younger generations in a long while.
Karen’s new knees and Pat’s health allowed us to take our annual foreign vacation in September (when the markets fell everywhere.) Having pre-paid the trip we were able to enjoy the sunshine of the Italian regions around Lake Como and Tuscany for nineteen days.
As for other “events” … We survived “Ike” at Eagle’s Trace without electricity for only 36 hours. Chris’ and Ken’s families were without power and water for almost two weeks. We no longer can say: ”We like Ike.” We trust that you are as happy as we are that the election campaign is finally over. Although we look forward to the next four years, we know there are many of our friends who do so with some trepidation. Nevertheless, let’s pray that 2009 brings all of us a sense of tranquility and a true appreciation of the Peace on Earth promised to those of Good Will some two thousand years ago!
