I trust that this greeting finds you enjoying winter and the festive season. So far, we have no significant snow in Ottawa. 2011 has passed very quickly but before it comes to a close, let me share a few highlights. Many of you are receiving this message electronically. If you have e-mail, please e-mail me, so we can communicate electronically in future.
The first half of 2011 was the busiest year ever for my Network for Educational Leaders (NEL) consulting work as I had contracts with the Ontario Ministry of Education and Avon-Maitland, Halton, and the Near North School Districts. Am still involved with the Ottawa Regional Youth and the Coro Piccolo Children’s Choirs and continue to do double-duty with my Condo Board of Directors as Secretary-Treasurer. The plan for 2012 is to cut back on much of this work and ‘smell the roses’ a bit more. Life is just too short.
Most of my work is now done electronically from my home-based office in Ottawa. I had lots of travel to the GTA and the Near North to attend meetings, meet with clients, and conduct site visits. Just love those expense accounts!
Since my health condition (AFib) has improved thanks to medication and a change in lifestyle, personal travel was also great in 2011. However, the annual February holiday in Hawai’i won’t occur in the foreseeable future since I now have a pre-existing medical condition. Health insurance companies don’t like this!!
I spent a few days in July visiting friends in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Just love the Amish country & food, Maryland blue crabs, and outlet malls. Spent some time in Niagara Falls and Toronto entertaining a Scottish friend in August. Also managed to return to beautiful Vancouver Island in September to savour the wonderful weather, food, and visit with friends. Every time I go to B. C., I have renewed visions of retiring there. So, all in all, life was pretty good in 2011. Check below for pics - 2011 in Review.
Elaine, a good friend of mine, acquired two Ragdoll kittens in August. If you know anything about Ragdolls, you know that they are wonderful pets and that they will become huge cats! Shadow and Shimeka are pure-bred registered show cats. Have been to one Cat Show and we’ll see if they get shown in 2012. They have a blog (shadowandshimeka.blogspot.com) where you can see them and read more about them.
In closing, may I wish you and your family and friends good health, happiness, Merry Christmas, and all the best for 2012.
