Sent by a friend

Schulz Philosophy:

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the 'Peanuts' comic strip. You don't have to actually answer the questions. Just read straight through, and you'll get the point.

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade's worth of World Series winners.

How did you do?The point is none of us remember the headliners of yesterday.These are no second-rate achievers.They are the best in their fields.But the applause dies.Awards tarnish.Achievements are forgotten.Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here's another quiz See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special!!
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier?
The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials......not the most money...or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most.

Cheers to a New Year with lots of Promise and Hope

It is that time again to do your New Years Resolution(s). Since I am still recovering from a cold/flu that leveled me for three full days and still has me in slow motion, paying more attention to my health/body has to be at the top of my list. Here is my list of hopes and wishes for 2009!

1. Live a healthier life. I have been void of excersise for two years now and it shows. I've gained weight, get sick more often, and generally just don't feel as good. That will change this year. I will fit some excersise into my busy schedule, eat better and sleep better.
2. I have a lot more hope and optimism for our country now that we will have better leadership running it. No, it won't be perfect but it will be better. We will have better relations with other world leaders and countries. Leadership that helps those who need help the most. So, I will try to complain less about people, situations, etc. Be more Hopeful and optimistic about our future.
3. Work smarter not harder. I have a lot I try to accomplish every year but I need to be smart about how I go about doing it otherwise my #1 resolution won't happen.
4. Find time to relax and enjoy all that my wife and I have accomplished as individuals, partners, and family. We have a great family and I need to find more time to express my love and appreciation to those in it.
5. Continue to build on the creative journey that I have always been on but has been improved since getting my own studio last year. Having your own creative work space does wonders for you psyche and ability to move forward with your creative idea's.
6. Be a better husband. I feel that I have been a pretty good father most of these years but I haven't put the effort into my relationship with my best friend in the whole world, my wife. We both take each other for granted and I need to do my part to show my love and appreciation for all she does and for the almost 24 years of marriage that has gotten us this far.