Moving On

The election is over and we have a new President. The country can stop holding it's breath.

I can finally watch TV without having to endure all the horrid election commercials.

Last night was so historic in many ways. Our first African-American President. How cool is that? Granted, a woman in office would have been a historic first as well.

I remain hopeful that since we had almost 65% of the country vote (first time since 1908, evidently) - the voice of the people demanding change has been heard.

It is still going to be a tough couple of years. No country can recover from what we have been through these last few months overnight. Last couple of years, really. The ripples will be felt far and wide and for too long. All I can do is be thankful I have a job, Bob's business has work and that people seem to have a new resolve to help each other through the tough times ahead. We all are being expected to go above and beyond just to make ends meet.

Personally, I know several people out of work. My uncle is going to have to commute from Bend to San Diego where work is. Lots of retired people that had lived off of savings and investments are returning to the workforce part-time. Some people that work construction are becoming truck drivers or getting work hours away. My hairdresser's husband is out in the forest cutting down trees in the snow to earn money. We do what we have to.

This Christmas will be a lean one. But this is our opportunity to show our kids and ourselves that "stuff" is not what makes a joyous holiday. Family, friends, good food, funky movies, corny Christmas music and home made gifts can make for a more memorable and important holiday than one with lots of "stuff" that you bought.

So, here is looking to tomorrow with great hope.