Christmas 2022

Wow what a very busy fall!

I have been very busy at Forest City Toastmasters giving speeches to complete my Visionary Path with Toastmasters International. I have one speech left to go.

As you know I love to volunteer Reiki at Wellspring to members with cancer.

I was lucky enough on November 12th to give a speech to the Curling Club at Highlands Community Club about Wellspring.

This is the first time I have ever given a speech to a large crowd. My friend Pauline was there to evaluate my speech. My coach/mentor Jimmy from Forest City Toastmasters helped me to develop this speech. I am blessed to have both of these people in my life.

I was able to pick out a few people in the crowd so that it wasn’t just a mass of faces. As I got into my speech I began to really enjoy it. I never thought that this would have been possible for me. The reactions and questions afterward helped me to know how closely everyone had paid attention.

Have you ever had that moment where you realize this might be one of your callings?

I was elated that I not only did it, but it was so well received. That feeling of being on a high lasted the rest of the day.

This was one of those moments when though scared, you do it anyway!

I will never forget this day or the kindness of the Curling Club which for years has financially supported Wellspring. These people like so many other Londoners help to support Wellspring so that programs can be offered for free.

In October Jim & I went up to Barrie for Thanksgiving. It is always worth the trip to see the Grands AND to partake in an amazing dinner.

Family is so important.

Bella came with us this time and kept the Grandchildren entertained. She had so many walks with them. At times they would fight over who would walk her next.

I hope to get the Christmas tree up soon. I love seeing all the ornaments, many of which I made. It is a thrill to see them again. I made many of them with my daughter so many years ago.

I think this year I will again cut back on Christmas cards. I know…if you want to receive them, you must send them out!

This time of year we often get too busy. Please remember that the spirit of Christmas is mainly being together and showing each other that you care. Gifts are wonderful, but without the love of family, they would all be meaningless.

Remember to rest up at times as the busyness increases. Take a breath, take a nap and just be. Don’t put super expectations on yourself or others.

Most of all from my family to yours . . .