Wrapping up the year.

The calendar year is wrapping up and many from our campus community have either disbursed for the holidays, or will shortly. The flurry of cookie baking, holiday gatherings, shopping, and greeting cards, is in full swing. We are reminded of all of the wonderful things acquainted with this time of the year and we celebrate - each in our own way. It is a fast and flurry filled time of year.

But, as you join with family and friends this holiday season and give gifts wrapped in lovely papers, remember to give of yourself, for that is the most precious gift you can give. By all means, share your material goods for they will be a gift to both body and spirit. But also -- listen to someone who needs to be heard -- touch someone who needs to be touched -- feed someone who needs sustenance -- tell someone that they are important, and appreciated -- tell someone about love. For by giving of yourself, you will be most blessed.

Have an enjoyable break and I will be back at my 'post' in January.

Winter snows

Snow... it can be beautiful, awesome, powerful, and uplifting.

It can also be overwhelming, confining, threatening, and depressing.

It all depends on how you want to look at things, I guess. One thing is for certain, the snow last Friday was a novel way to wind up the semester! Suddenly, all of that careful, last minute preparation for exams was scrambled.

I like snow for the most part but it can change plans in a big way, can't it? Oh well. There is nothing we can do about the weather. It is nice to look at and really sets the tone for the holiday season that is fast approaching. Classes are over and the tests will be over soon too, so enjoy the winter wonderland. Go sledding. Make an angel. January and the beginning of second semester will be here before you know it and I guarantee there will be more snows.

The ferns? They are here to help you look forward to Spring - when everything gets green and lush and you can go back to shorts and Birkenstocks. Hang in there, and have a good week.