It is snowing lightly as I write this post. This is the first opportunity I’ve had to reflect in a while. I am sure most will agree that this time of year is especially wonderful, unpredictable and extremely busy.
This year I have been officially working part time for Jeremy’s company (Adoni Networks) which I really enjoy. We picked up several new clients in Central Wisconsin this year which brought Jeremy and I together a bit more, to address their unique needs. Lots of stealthy virus activity has been popping up recently for me to handle. I built up my first VMware Small Business Server for a local financial firm this summer as well. My Blog Page www.kevinroe.net also is a recent undertaking, to share computer tips and life lessons with family and friends.
Fortunately I still have my full time day job as a process engineer to keep me busy 8 to 5 each day. Things were looking pretty slow in engineering midyear, and I narrowly missed being cut until much needed “end of budget year” activity opened up and flooded the few who remain with fast track projects to develop and manage. Now there is never a dull moment.
There are however certainly worse things than being overworked. It is very hard to face uncertainty and see both family and friends get laid off for long periods.
That last couple of weeks were complicated by a painful bout with a pinched Sciatic nerve that persisted for some time to keep me from enjoying normal movement. I could walk fine for the most part – getting in and out of low chairs and seats was nearly impossible. It is amazing how the loss of something basic (that we often take for granted) can change our perspective. The church prayed for my speedy recovery yesterday, and I awoke this morning with only minor awareness that continued to fade as the day went on. Yes – I was seen twice for treatment, but God saw to it that He would be glorified by showing His hand in the outcome.
The condition became quite noticeable just before I traveled west a week ago Friday to celebrate Christmas with Sandy and our kids, who had gathered in Rochester, MN. We had a great time with kids and grand kids. We exchanged a few gifts, shared great food and fun at Dacia and Sean’s house. The grandkids got to play in our hotel water park on Saturday, and had great fun while grownups lounged and chatted. Fortunately we all got home before a severe winter storm fell upon us. Tis the season.
This year’s economy brought family hardships and gifts were limited by shrinking budgets, but there is no lack of caring and sharing throughout. God has provided all our needs and given us the joy of sharing a bit of what we have collectively with other families in need. God’s love shines through clearly if we keep His Son the focus of our purpose.
As I write this now, I am feeling grateful to have celebrated family Christmas early. It gives Sandy and me chance to slow down and enjoy a bit more of the Christmas season without extended shopping pressure. I am especially thankful at this time for the love I receive from my dear wife, family and friends; and for unexpected hugs from local AWANA kids whom Sandy and I have begun to know as we share in their lives this year. AWANA is an international mid week program that teaches local school age kids about Christ thru fun activities and scripture memory.
So as of today, Christmas is only ten days away. I will cheerfully celebrate the Gift of God’s Son with anyone who cares to share in it, and wait patiently until the shopping crowd fades away to spend my Christmas gift cards on some things I will need (at discount prices).
If I don’t see you before then – Merry Christmas!
