Another Year Gone

Is it just me or does time seem to just pass us by these days? It seems like just yesterday we were getting ready to bring in the year 2013 and here we are about to embark on 2014.

So much has happened over the past year. Some things I'm grateful for, others, not so much. But overall, as I reflect on the days gone by, I find there are more positive things that happened during the year than negative.

I bought a new (to me) car. My son got a new job and girlfriend (whom I love dearly). Progress on my book series is moving along, somewhat (haha). I met some fabulous writers during the past year and look forward to reading more of their books in the future. I could go on and list many more things, but those are the highlights.

What about you? As you look back over the year that's coming to a close, do you catch yourself finding more good than bad? If not, then what needs to be done to make the New Year a brighter, happier one for you?

One quote I've run across several times this year sums it up... "Everything in your life is a reflection of a choice you have made. If you want a different result make a different choice." ~Unknown~ 

So in the upcoming year, make your choices wisely and have a fabulous New Year!

'Tis The Season

Are you counting the days until Christmas? I know that I am and even though I won't be spending it with my immediate family this year, I'll be with my "adopted" family, so I'm looking forward to the day of celebration.

Now let's talk donations.... 'Tis the Season is the slogan for this time of year. In my younger days that meant celebrating the birth of Christ and giving gifts to others. It seems to me that in this day and age, it's more about being asked for donations for every little thing you can think of. While I agree that it's the time for giving, has anyone ever thought about how hard it is for some to be able to buy the gifts for their own friends and family? Why not challenge these organizations to hold these donation requests in the middle of the year? Maybe a Christmas in July kind of thing when we're not already struggling with our budgets for the gifts we need to buy? I'm always willing to give, when I have the funds, but Christmas time is not that time.

However, I admit that when purchasing gifts I try to buy them from places that help others, like The Veterans Site. Some of the items I purchased not only helps feed a Veteran but also helps women's and children's charities. There are plenty of sites/shops out there that offer this type of deal, so check them out while doing your holiday shopping.