Yet another year has quickly passes and we find ourselves deep into the holiday season, where we reflect, count blessings and plan for the coming year. As most, if not all of you are aware, our engagement in July and upcoming marriages were the highlight of 2007 and have become the prevailing priority in our lives. After the parents met last year and many professions of my devotion and love, it was difficult to suprise Manali with a proposal, but it was memorable nonetheless. In regards to the wedding, we are having a ceremony in India on February 11th, 2008 and a second ceremony in Atlanta on March 22, 2008.
After a wonderful Christmas last year in Michigan, my parents decided to take a job in Germany and moved to the city of Weurzburg, near Frankfurt in April 2007. We hope to visit them after all the wedding events!
We are fortunate in the Spring to join several friends for our second annual beach camping trip to St. Augustine, Florida. Bailey swam his little heart out, I nearly tore my finger off trying to do boogie board tricks and Manali brought a new meaning to culinary excellence in a campfire setting! In May, we attended the 133rd running of the Kentucky Derby in Lousville, a little river town an 8 hour road trip away. We participated in the “in-field” festivities, a massive space inside the horse track, abudant with flowing alcohol and mudpit games, lawn chairs and a great party! Could rival Bourbon Street Mardi Gras any day!!
The Bettendorf family reunion was in Colorado mid August and thanks to our gracious hosts, Uncle Bob and Aunt Sophie, we had a magnificent time riding horses, eating, relaxing, spending time with the family and a great ping pong tournament! The remainder of the summer was filled with our newly found (but short lived) passion for running! We are hardly the “running” type, but managed to participate in the July 4th 10K Peachtree Road Race, Muddy Buddy and a handful of 5Ks in the park.
Our next trip was in November, where we attended the wedding of some college friends in Daytona Beach. The weather was spectacular, Bailey put in some additional swimming time and we were witness to some amazing dance moves at a great reception! For Thanksgiving, Kunal (Manali’s bro) flew in from Houston to spend a few days with us which was wonderful. The three of us drove down to Gainesville, Florida to watch a Gator Football game (GO GATORS!) which has become an annual pilgrimage. Our final trip was to Miami for another wedding which was also a blast with awesome weather and company.
I’ve been instructed to keep this year’s letter short, so I’ll wrap up with a few miscellaneous items. Manali and I both received promotions this year. Manali is working as a Finance and Accounting Manager at Home Depot Home Services and I am a Pro Merchandising Manager at the Home Depot where we focus on products for the professional contractor. Renovations of our townhome are nearly complete with our newly added hardwood floors. I’m also close to finishing my MBA but am taking a semester off for the wedding festivities. Manali and I plan to remain at home this year for the holidays to spend some quality time and relax. And lastly, our Bailey boy turned 5 this summer and passes his best wishes to everyone.
Our warmest wishes go out to you and your family for this holiday season. Although we may not be together to enjoy friendly company, you are in our thoughts and prayers always. May your holiday and forthcoming 2008 be filled with good news, blessed friends and loving family!
Lots of Love,
Manali & Terry
