2008 has been an interesting year for most of us.

For some, it has been a year of great joy; for some, a year of great sadness. For many it has been a year of uncertainty - Whether personally, emotionally or financially. In our country and in our world, we have seen great change - with more change to come in the first few weeks of the New Year.

My family has not been untouched or unaffected by these changes. We are all in this together.

Yet when I look back on 2008, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude and contentment - most of these emotions relating to the completion and publication of What Though the Odds. I did it. I finally published my book. It was not easy and it was certainly a journey in itself. Like all things in life - it was a learning experience, and I am a better person, mother, wife and friend because of it. For that, I am thankful.

I have also met some wonderful people along the journey. From well-known names to kind-hearted strangers, the latter whom have touched me in a way they could never know. Many of these people are no longer strangers. I have connected with women, mothers, daughters andsons - inspiring minds who inspire me. And if I have helped them too, then I am all the more grateful.

I am filled with gratitude as 2008 closes, and filled with hope as 2009 begins. There is much room for improvement in the coming year, and there is always room for hope and inspiration.

THANK YOU.