For Zachary James Pratt

Hey Zach, well we survived our annual backpacking trip. Went with Uncle Gregg, Auntie Kim, 2 other couples, Cody and his friends Cody R. and Robbie. The weather was a little sketchy but we all had a great time and felt wonderful having accomplished a 3rd year at 8500 feet up. You wouldn't believe how pure, clear and fresh the water is. You can drink it right out of the lake. It's so peaceful and quiet and magestic. No bugs, bears or other critters since we are near tree line. Never thought I would like camping but the grueling hike up is worth the setting once you get there. We stayed 3 nights and got hailed on the first morning, it was crazy! Cody did his usual cliff diving/jumping and hiked all over the place. Between them the boys caught 20 trout some of which we let go. We cooked about 10 of them over the course of 2 days and I even liked the taste once Jeff got all the skin and bones out of the way. We are all still gung ho to go next year too. Maybe we will have talked so...

Hi Zach, well you must be getting pretty excited for the move. I think you are all leaving on the road tomorrow. Been thinking about you a lot as always and hope this new adventure holds lots of promise and happiness for you. I would love to hear about your new house and how your new school is as well as what activities you are getting involved in once you are all settled in Houston. Cody had a fabulous time in Maui with everyone. Thanks for welcoming him and helping to make it a fun trip. Heard you had a great time as well and that you and Melayna got to know the lady in the hotel that does henna tatoos. Guess she gave you some of her supplies to work with. Sounds fun and interesting. Jeff took me on a mini road trip to Paso Robles while Cody was away and Paul and Maryellen took care of the kitties for me. We had a wonderful time and met a lot of the local people. It is a famous wine region but also a ranching town so the people there are super warm and friendly. We definitely want to...