Hoping this finds you all in survival mode and thinking about time left over to relax and reflect. It’s been a whirlwind kind of year and we all became less easily shocked at what just might happen next. It almost came to a point of mystery as the bar continued to rise on the impossible in America expectations. I would imagine nearly everyone is looking forward to a new year as much as I am.

Many have struggled with heartache and health issues, financial hardships and many dreams have moved to back burners for a while. But there’s also been joys and blessings, new dreams and new births. Always the Ying and the Yang. I truly hope this season brings all of you time with your families, some peace, love, rest and regroup time. We’ll be ready to meet 2010 with vigor and determination the new always brings.

For myself, I only ask for a recovery of energy to do so much of what I’ve left unattended the last eight months. I have a lot of unwritten words fluttering around in my yet disorganized mind. There really is so much to be grateful for even when we struggle. I’d like to share my Christmas poem with the Fabulously 40 Family and wish you all the nicest of holidays. It’s called “A Different Kind of Christmas” and I’m eager to make it happen! Everyone consider themselves hugged!  

The calendar is turning;
it's near the end of year.
A different kind of Christmas
is about to be, I fear.  

My list of gifts is growing,
and money's hard to find.
A different kind of Christmas
is forming in my mind.  

Oh, lights will still twinkle,
and snowflakes will still fall.
A different kind of Christmas
won't change that at all.  

Carols will still ring out,
and sleigh bells will still ring.
A different kind of Christmas
will be in the gifts I bring.  

My gifts won't cost money;
new traditions, I can start.
A different kind of Christmas
will come straight from my heart.  

I'll give love and understanding,
share a shoulder and a song.
A different kind of Christmas,
that will last the whole year long.  

I'll stand up for your honor,
and lend a helping hand.
And, hope a different kind of Christmas
will spread across the land.  

I'll offer my forgiveness,
toss old resentments all away.
I’ll wish for yours to be returned
For the times it was me who strayed.  

I'll take the time to thank you
as we gather by the tree,
for your part in our family
and all you've done for me.  

Isn't that what Christmas means?
Aren't all its treasures free?
I think my different kind of Christmas
Is what was truly meant to be.  

_{Susan Haley}

See you in the new year and we’ll get back to politics!