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We're only 2 weeks into 2010 and I feel so much has happened already - a fantastic lead in to the New Year.

I've attended the National Franchise Tradeshow in Toronto, been asked to speak at 4 events in the coming weeks (including one next Tuesday at the Small Business Centre, London), added new programs (more details to come), and best of all - took time out to review my successes from 2009.

Now you may think that the review process is something you can put off...but I challenge you to make time today to do it. I went through my day planner, page by page, and wrote down all my major successes. I knew 2009 was a busy year for me but was astonished to see nearly 2 pages of accomplishments. Boy did I feel good! But in the process, I learned some valuable lessons...about the things I took way too long to complete and the ones I repeatedly put off. That was an eye opener and now I know what I must do this year so I don't repeat those mistakes.

But the real blessing I've received this year has come in a tiny package. I've spent the past two days at the hospital, waiting as our ten-month old grandson, Zachariah, endured seven hours of surgery for craniosyntosis (the sutures of his skull had fused too early and this had to be corrected). Seeing a young child in so much pain is difficult...but he is coming along beautifully. We are privileged to have such wonderful medical expertise close by.

Don't take anything for granted...and remember to celebrate your successes.