Picture taken at Holly Farm, Duncan B.C.
Hi Friends
I trust that this greeting finds you enjoying winter and the festive season. Snow has come early this year in Ottawa! 2010 has passed quickly but before it comes to a close, let me share a few highlights.
My Network for Educational Leaders (NEL) consulting work continues with the Ontario College of Teachers, Ontario Ministry of Education and Avon-Maitland, Halton, Near North, and Wellington Catholic School Districts. In the arts field I’m still involved with the UNISONG Music Festival, the Ottawa Regional Youth Choir, & community development work in the Vanier community with the Coro Piccolo Children’s Choir. Am now doing double-duty with my Condo Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer. As you can imagine, certain times of the year are very busy. Most of my work is now done electronically from my home-based office (we’re in the 21st century!) but I still get to do some travel to meet with clients.
Personal travel was not so great in 2010. In February I returned to delightful Waikiki Beach in Hawai’i. This annual winter holiday won’t occur again in 2011 as I was diagnosed with Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) and was hospitalized for one week in the Straub Hospital and Clinic in Honolulu. Had excellent care in the cardiac unit of a first-class American medical facility! Thank goodness for travel insurance is all I can say. Don't ever leave home without it...just like your credit card and passport. Have had additional treatments back in Ottawa and am currently stable thanks to medication and a change in lifestyle.
In closing, may I wish you and your family and friends good health, happiness, and all the best for 2011.
Warmly Marianna
