New Year's Eve... not a dud!

Beginning 10am this morning, permission to set off firework is granted and, thus, begins the earnest boom-boom-boom by the giddy youth of Eindhoven. No doubt, this earnestness comes from the prohibition of fireworks during the other 364 days of the year. The building up of such anticipation is not unlike the coming of Christmas morning to a 5 year-old or a teenager nearing 16 years of age in America. The spark must be lit, the boom must sound, and, unfortunately, the howling of the every household dog must be heard.

So, the barking collar is on and Hazel is finally calmed. Many other dogs in the neighborhood began hiding in their houses weeks ago as eagerness could not be held in check. Nico's Casper is not affected in the least - perhaps he would light his own if he'd opposable thumbs and a match.

Let it snow
And the snowfall has begun yet again though gentler this time. It's so beautiful to watch from up high, with only the tall, naked treetops as a backdrop. Now, only a thin coat lies on the grass and rooftops but it is sure to grow, as a steady fall is predicted for the next 24 hours at least.

It is fine, while we wine and dine over the celebration of the coming new year but, as time approaches for traveling the bumpy ride to work, may the roads be clear once more. Unfortunately, I have no chains for my three-wheeled cycle but my scootmobiel has thus far seemed capable to do the job. Fingers crossed.

On the job
Work is still play and that is how it shall remain. It is amazing what the time away from old patterns of thinking has done to build allowance for following where my heart leads. The heart is a beautiful gift that all receive but few open or find the courage to use. So has it been with me. But now that I've felt the difference, I am committed to staying the path and bringing along those that also hear the call.

My new year's wish
If you have heard the voice of your heart calling, my biggest wish this year is for you. Do not wait until a stroke, heart attack, disease, or that of a loved one must to stop you in your tracks so that you may have the space and time to really listen. Stop now so that you may use the gift you have been given to share with those in your path.

I pray for myself the courage to keep hold of the view I have been given: to continue caring for this body that takes care of me; to continue being open to what I reject for within lies a lesson to be learned; to continue my pursuit of evolving into a more loving, positive person; and to forgive everyone, including myself, for there are no wrongs that cannot be righted.

A blessed 2010 to you all. May you be enriched by bountiful gratitude and succeed every day in pursuing your dreams.