The End of a WONDERFUL Year ~ 2008

Reflecting back on work life for 2008 leaves me with an uplifting, satisfied feeling. Our "team" worked very hard to complete a HOSHIN which took us most of the year; the success has left us all with a great sense of accomplishment. It is truly amazing what can be done when we work TOGETHER toward a common goal. Never forget that individual efforts, pulled together as a team will get you where you need to be faster.

Do any of you have WORRIES, things on your mind that are stressing you out?

I recently came across the lyrics of a song in one of my favorite Christmas movies (White Christmas). The memories this movie brings me are fast and furious: sitting in my pj's with my sister, cozied up together on the floor in front of the t.v. (which may have been a black and white controlled by knobs you actually had to get up and turn manually). The family christmas tree may have been in the living room, the little lights up around the edges of 3 large front "windows" glowing brightly. Mostly I remember my sister and I singing and dancing around acting out the the "SISTERs" song; "Lord Help The Mister Who Comes Betweeen Me And My Sister"... Given the opportunity, I believe my sister and I would still willingly act this out today!

The thing is, today we have more "worries" and maybe "can't sleep". The song "Count Your Blessings" is perfect for today. Read these lyrics and see if they don't touch your heart... and then take the time to count some of your blessings and give thanks to God.


Lyrics from “Count Your Blessings (Instead of Sheep)”
Sung by Bing Crosby in the movie White Christmas (released Oct. 14, 1954)
When I'm worried and I can't sleep
I count my blessings instead of sheep
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

When my bankroll is getting small
I think of when I had none at all
And I fall asleep counting my blessings

I think about a nursery and I picture curly heads
And one by one I count them as they slumber in their beds
If you're worried and you can't sleep
Just count your blessings instead of sheep
And you'll fall asleep counting your blessings

High School Juniors are FUN...

Here I am with "Becca", she's a flirty sweet girl looking to establish a relationship with God. The Juniors are at a difficult stage of life, peer pressure to fit in along with other social pressures and studying for good grades is very challenging. The fact that they are stiving to get to know God and have him be a part of their life is very heartwarming. They are to be commended.

It's a MERRY time of year... RIGHT?

For many this isn't a merry time of year at all. Broken homes, relationships, death of spouse, family member, or pet may make this holiday season a hard one to embrace. Those of you who have a "hole" in your heart, who are missing something or someone to make this season a lighthearded one, remember to reach out to others. Family and friends are a GREAT source of comfort and support. While it may be hard to reach out, the benefit of doing so makes the risk worthwhile. Keep FAITH, and HOPE in your hearts and you will endure.