It’s late November. Turkey and dressing…raking leaves…stacking firewood. For some, the snow has fallen and you won’t see the green grass until May. A few of you are blessed with sunny days and warm breezes. No matter where you are, no matter the weather, be thankful!
The colors of autumn surround us and remind us to be thankful for our friends and family. The falling leaves bring back memories of a time when you leapt into a pile of leaves just because you could. (I might try it today but I’m not sure what my neighbors would think!) The crisp winds of autumn are a messenger to prepare for the long winter days ahead. Get out your Snuggie, your warm socks, and your favorite scarf!
As we move into the season of fragrant pine, holiday celebrations, and a new year, we honor ASHA’s rich legacy and look forward to a new and invigorated organization that will continue good work. We could not have survived without the support of our members. You truly are unsung heroes, working every day to ensure that all children are healthy and ready to learn. Thank you for all you do, every day!
As we prepare to face the winter cold, we are so fortunate to have the services of Lee Lowery, our executive director, Abby Brdlik, our member services manager and Ashley Dowling, our continuing education manager. We are grateful that the Coulter team believes in ASHA and its mission. Thank you for all you do, every day!
The colorful leaves of autumn may fall but they will be replaced with new life come spring. We are thankful to the many ASHA members who chaired or served on committees, presented at the annual conference, provided a webinar, reviewed or authored an article for JOSH, or served ASHA as a volunteer. Your energy will help support new growth in 2015. Many thanks to Robert McDermott for his service as the JOSH editor. His hard work and dedication continues to enhance the quality and status of the JOSH. Thank you for all you do, every day!
As seasons change, so too does the ASHA Board of Directors. The 2014 ASHA Board raked the leaves and shoveled the snow, preparing the planting beds for the blooms of spring. We are thankful for their time, dedication, wisdom and service. Those who are leaving the ASHA Board include:
The snowy days of winter are still ahead but ASHA is better prepared to weather the storm. We have planted the seeds of growth, cultivated a new culture, and will work hard to reap the spring flowers and the summer harvest. Winter is not a time to become dormant—although time by the fire with a hot cup of cocoa is a nice way to spend a winter evening! Rather, winter is a time for reflection, planning, and preparing for the work ahead. We have much to do and we need your help. Please consider volunteering to serve on an ASHA committee.
I am thankful that the 2015 ASHA Board of Directors will take their seats January 1. On behalf of the Board, we are grateful for your support. At this solemn and joyous time of the year, let us give thanks for ASHA and for the work we do on behalf of children and youth.
Thank you for what you do, every day! Now, go rake those leaves or shovel that snow! We have lots of work to do…