New beginnings

You know, it's been a trying year, this 2009. The sale of the house, the slow career changes. The economy. Although you never really want it all to get to you, it somehow does. All those little things start to wear you down, if just a little.

But then Christmas time comes along and things start to change. The weather turns colder, the lights start coming on and neighborhoods are transformed into colorful winter wonderlands.

In some places, snow covers the ground, adding to the special Christmas extravaganza that encompasses everything around you.

I've been in Texas for a while, but I remember my years in New York. I remember when the snow would come. You could smell it in the air before it arrived.

Then the snow would start and it was the most magical thing to watch. Just sit there for hours watching it fall from the night sky. All in anticipation of the 25th.

So this is Christmas . . .

They say it's the happiest time of the year. I can see that. It has a way of making it all seem worth it. The feeling of goodness it gives. It's the beginning of a new beginning. The snow washes the past away. The new year right around the corner. A year that will hold new opportunities, new challenges, and new rewards. So enjoy this wonderful time and make the memories great.

I wish everyone a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.