Holiday Message

Hello Everyone,

2009 is almost over and I believe we can all say we're glad to see it go.  Of course, I'm speaking of the financial (or lack there of) year we had.  I know that I have had some very memorable moments during 2009 that I wouldn't trade for the world.  One of which is when I had the privilege of becoming the President of this amazing organization.  For that alone, 2009 will hold a very special place in my heart forever.  Each one of you can search through the events of 2009 and find that golden nugget that makes living on this earth worth while.

Christmas is just two days away.  I love this time of year.  I have to admit, it has kind of sneaked up on me.  I guess I better go shopping!!!   My most favorite part of the season is that people will fire up that compassionate, giving spirit that is locked up for most of the rest of the year.  We'll go seeking that present for someone that we haven't spoken to much, we'll drop a dollar or two in the Salvation Army bucket, we'll go to the family gatherings even though we really don't want to... I'm sure you can add to this list.  The joy of giving.  There's no other time of the year we experience it like during Christmas.  In the Christian faith, we take this time to celebrate what we consider the greatest gift of all which was the little baby in the manger.  Many faiths celebrate a significant event during this holiday season which is what brings us all together.  Whatever your beliefs and faiths are, don't let the hussle and bussle of the search for the perfect gift overshadow taking time to focus on the deeper meaning of the holiday season.

Christmas came a little early for us here in North Carolina.  We had the biggest snow storm in nearly 30 years for the month of December.  Before it was done, we had a little over a foot of snow at my house.  Some areas were close to 20 inches.  Now for the people that live up north and are reading this, don't laugh.  I know a foot of snow to you is a small flurry.  But to us, it was increadible!!  We took the opportunity to play in the snow and build our first every family snowman.  It was fun getting out and playing with the family, however, there is a bad side to a storm such as this.  We were without power for over 24 hours and we were one of the lucky ones. There are people around us that still do not have power since last Friday. They may not have it by Christmas either, so let's please remember those families.

This holiday season will have even more significant meaning to our family.  On January 2nd, I'll be walking my oldest daughter down the aisle give her away.  It's hard enough to type it out, let alone do it in just over a week. He's a good kid, but let's face it, he's a BOY!!  Those fathers that have a daughter knows what I'm talking about.  It will be a joyful occasion and a wonderful way to start 2010. 

I wish each and everyone of you a Very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year.  The freshness of a new year gives us a renewed hope of a bright and prosperious New Year.  I hope to see each and everyone of you at an upcoming HFTP event and together we'll make 2010 memorable!!

I'd love to hear from you.

Terry