Here's to 2009!

[Tasha C. Ring]

Hello ladies and Happy 2009! As I ponder the New Year we are beginning and reflect on the year that just passed, I notice that many people seem to focus on what they DIDN’T accomplish during the previous year and what they plan to do differently in the upcoming year. I think we should focus more on our greatest achievements in 2008 and what we hope to accomplish in 2009. My personal philosophy? No unrealistic resolutions!
One of my goals is to become more involved with local community organizations, especially those that benefit the lives of women. Would anyone be interested in helping to organize or participating in a volunteer service event once every few months? It seems like some of you are already quite active with organizations that assist women and children in the community! Could you (or they) use a few helping hands on a project? Individually, we can make a difference but collectively we can do even more.
I’d also like additional feedback regarding the monthly Girls Night. It’s difficult to really connect online and I think it might be fun to make some time to get together…even though I know we all lead very busy lives! Someone suggested the second Tuesday of the month?

[Theresa Browning]

I would be interested in a Girls Night Out to connect with others (Mondays or Wednesdays are best) I've met online, but I'm not interested in a service project right now. I am an active volunteer with my church and another women's organization right now that I've committed to for the next year. My volunteer plate is crowded.

[Laura M. Rodebaugh]

Hi everyone!
Tasha - I love your positive outlook! This is the way to look at life. Be proud of what you've accomplished in 2008, while maintaining your desire to do more in 2009.
I would possibly be interested in both options that Tasha suggested. I'll be honest - my schedule is quite busy, as I'm enrolled in a very intense professional course of study in my field (I'm a big proponent of education), plus I'm planning my wedding for later this year. Needless to say, I have limited time, but I'm sure everyone else does too. I'm always open to new ideas and I love meeting new people. If I can fit anything else in, I'm always open to trying!

I also support several local non-profit organizations already, but it never hurts to know other ways that you can help your community. I support ICAN (Indiana Canine Assistant Network), which is a non-profit organization that trains service dogs to assist physically and/or developmentally disabled individuals, particularly children. In addition, I volunteer each summer for Camp Healing Tree, which is a grief camp for children who have lost a loved one.

Hope this helps. Great thoughts from Tasha!

Laura