Making it Merry and Bright the whole year through
12-21-08

Listening to Bing's forever famous 'White Christmas' on a snowy December night got me thinking all things merry and bright. The next time we meet through the pages is either at or on the big day. Christmas. The one day that needs several days of preparation and planning is finally here. From my family to yours this Christmas and the New Year to come -- I hope it's your best holiday season ever and a prosperous 2009. Enjoy the best life has to offer and mostly the company of one another. The true meaning of the holidays lies in these special times. In the spirit of the holiday I've penned a rhyme that is my Christmas gift to all of you.

It's my first stab at a holiday greeting card so I hope you like it.

This Christmas Day I wish for you in every way
The chance to be with those you love. Folks you see once in a while
Those you see every day.

Take time to cherish the season
 remember no matter what you're dealing with
Celebration and love of your fellow man need no condition or reason.

Some say the world's unstable, the economy and the ongoing war. 
Is your job secure? Will you make it through these troubled times?   
Pray, help others these things will work out along with much more.

Take a look back at the year almost past
Was it a good one? Was it challenging? What did you learn?
Lose the things that held you back, keep the good, make them last.

You have the power to make things brighter
rise above your problems, achieve your goals   
Do your best your heart will feel much lighter.

Long, cold, difficult days may lie before you
My final thought and Christmas wish
Is a simple instruction
Life's not about what you get
It's in what we give that determines how well we do.

The next time we meet through the pages we'll have turned the chapter to 2009. It's a privilege to have a space in The Free Press to write and very humbling to hear some of you read and enjoy my remarks. Thank you. May God Bless you and your family. Have a joyous holiday and as always, see 'ya around town.