Good Day

Last day of work before my two week vacation. It was a fun day filled with letter writing to service men and women followed by managing a basketball tournament and then a talent show(and 20 kids took home free Christmas trees. Awesome!). It will be nice to have a break from those nuckle heads.

This afternoon was filled with cuddles from the wee nephews and chatting with my adorable niece. These kids fill my soul with joy. Their laughter and play reminds me to focus on good and enjoy life.

I will miss my little ing-family when they head east. I think Skype will become as new staple.

Well, all packed and ready to fly in the a.m. Good times to follow!

Cheers.

Peace, where is it?

Lately, I have been thinking a lot about the season of Christmas, and how it is supposed to be filled with peace and joy. Have you noticed how lately, there has been a lot that has been going on to take away from "Peace on Earth, Good Will to Men?"

Well, I have a few suggestions on how to deal with this.

1. Serve others. I know my heart is always full when I reach out to others.
2. Drown you ears in Christmas music. I always smile when I hear the classics.
3. Focus on the positive. Maybe even turn the news off.
4. Think about your blessings and how good life truly is.
5. Eat treats. I know it always makes me feel better.
6. Remember the reason for the season. Christ is the hope we need in this cold, lonely world. Embrace him during this time of year, you won't be sorry, I promise.
7. Tell people you love them, or that you appreciate what they do for you.

There are lots of things that can warm the heart and bring peace into our lives. These are just a few things.

Finished blue bathrooms can help too!

Christmas with the Ficklins.

Good times. White Elephant and all. Warmed by new presents and family bonds. What a wonderful way to start the holiday festivities.

Saturday is a special day...

It's the day we painted bathrooms!

Doing Good Makes One Feel Good.

My Student Leadership Class sponsored a family for Sub for Santa this year. We had a lot of fun shopping for the two kids we were assigned.

We also got to deliver the goods to the mom today. She was so dang cute, humble and grateful. She is a single mom, who speaks limited English, and has only been able to find part-time work after recently moving to this area! She thanked us many times and then started to cry. I gave her a big hug and used my limited Spanish skills to tell her it was our pleasure and no problem! What a sweet lady. It made me feel so good to help her out and I know this impacted my 10 Student Leaders in a big way.

Moments like this is why I get up and go I my job everyday! I have an amazing job and I love working side by side with the future. Cool stuff. Any cool things you all have done to liven the Christmas Spirit? Add a comment to share! I'd love to hear some good stories because this time of year helps our hearts grow many sizes, just like The Grinch!