Christmas brings with it traditions from years past coupled with new possibilities. This year we have decided to spend the holidays in Europe with my sister, brother-in-law, brother-in-law's brother, my two sons (Derek & Blake), and Derek's fiance, Lesley. Tomorrow, we leave for the first leg of the trip in Venice. After a six night stay(and wading through the flood waters), we fly on to Vienna.
Vienna is filled with Christmas markets, gingerbread, hot mulled wine, and Mozart concerts in many of the churches as well as concert halls. We have declared that no one can bring recipes or gifts from the US. We are going to create an Austrian Christmas complete with a decorated tree and Christmas dinner. The eight of us will work together to determine what menu is typical, then shop and cook to create a fine meal. The adventure and romance of this Xmas will create a lasting memory in years to come.
On December 29th, we travel on to Prague for New Years. The Czech Republic promises to have a great New Year's celebration. Sharing this trip with loved ones makes it even more special. Hope that your holidays are filled with loving family, fun traditions, and new adventures. Wishing you peace and good health in 2009!
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
It's the best of times ... it's the worst of times
Stephen and I were talking about the extreme swings in the stock market coupled with the terrorist attack in India. Our news today is filled with grim and frightening facts. The media goes so far as to predict a horrible day in the markets before the opening bell. You have to wonder, how much of this is self-fulfilling prophecy? You might also question, how much fear can the media drive? Our days shouldn't be clouded with negative thoughts and fear.
Stephen is reading Follett's World Without End (sequel to Pillars of the Earth). I just finished The Autobiography of King Henry VIII. If you have read these books, or information about these times, you must realize that we've always lived in turbulent times. Yes, it sometimes is greater, and occasionally better. Still, we have survived these challenging periods generation after generation. We are survivors!
We need faith in our resourcefulness and resiliency. As Obama faces the challenges of a poor economy, two wars, and huge educational and health care issues, I feel certain that he will find strength knowing that his predecessors were successful in resurrecting the health of our great nation through their superb leadership. Just think about Lincoln's challenges or those of Truman. Great leaders, and great people, will overcome. Let's work positively together for a better tomorrow!
Joan
Stephen is reading Follett's World Without End (sequel to Pillars of the Earth). I just finished The Autobiography of King Henry VIII. If you have read these books, or information about these times, you must realize that we've always lived in turbulent times. Yes, it sometimes is greater, and occasionally better. Still, we have survived these challenging periods generation after generation. We are survivors!
We need faith in our resourcefulness and resiliency. As Obama faces the challenges of a poor economy, two wars, and huge educational and health care issues, I feel certain that he will find strength knowing that his predecessors were successful in resurrecting the health of our great nation through their superb leadership. Just think about Lincoln's challenges or those of Truman. Great leaders, and great people, will overcome. Let's work positively together for a better tomorrow!
Joan
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