Happy New Year!

Happy New Year! I'm really looking forward to 2009 and hope that it is a great year - personally, professionally and financially.

I just returned from a trip to Ohio, where I visited with my family for a few days. We had a large holiday gathering for family and friends on Saturday, Dec. 27. It was great to see everyone.

I also spent some time at my mom's house going through a few things from my childhood and my early career in sports. First, my mom is awesome! She not only kept things, but she organized them for me! Second, it was great to look back at items from the past. I had forgotten about so many things, such as old newspaper articles, sports memorabilia, etc., and it was great to see these items again. It was also great knowing they have been kept in a safe place all along.

I brought my childhood Snoopy with me back to Oregon. He is old and tattered, but I'm so glad to have him with me. I got him in third grade. Most girls played with dolls - I had a Snoopy! My mom even kept his many outfits, including his tuxedo, rain coat, MD scrubs and santa suit.

Happy 2009!