January 1, 2009 - As we say goodbye to 2008, I think back to the highlights of my year...

April - The opportunity to work with the USCCB on the papal visit in Washington DC. Although I didn't get to meet Pope Benedict, I did get to see him from about 10 feet away as he entered the Pope John II Cultural Center. I was stationed near the entrance with the media, and I distinctly remember how I felt, I wanted to just watch him, no flurry to grab a camera, I was afraid I might miss
his interaction with Cardinal Maida and some of the other VIP's.  The entire week was fantastic, I accompanied national media onto the baseball field at Nationals Stadium...as their cameras flashed fast and furiously, I, being a true baseball fan took a few seconds to think, "So this is what it feels like to stand in centerfield in front of 50,000 people"...it was truly a great week to meet media from all over the world, and to spend some great time with my colleagues fromacross the country.

July - Going to see Van Morrison in concert in Detroit with my best friend Sheree...he did not disappoint and played "Tupelo Honey"...

September - Working as a volunteer with the public relations team for the Extreme Makeover Home Edition here in Toledo as they provided a new homefor the Frisch family. Kathy Rotte knows how to put together a great team of hardworkers, and it was a joy to be a part of this.

October - A quick trip to Los Angeles to strategize with my colleagues of the Catholic Academy...strategic brainstorming always does the soul good...I also celebratedmy five year anniversary at the diocese this month. It truly is the most challenging and most rewarding job I've ever had...another highlight this month was pulling off an enjoyable fundraiser with my assistant Colleen to raise money for the Assistance Dogs of America--the charity of choice this year for Chicks for Charity, a group of women who do fantastic things for charities. Our fundraiser "Totally Fetching!" raised almost $500, and both dogs and Chicks had a great time...I was also introducedto kayaking in late October, loved it so much I bought a kayak of my own...looking forward to getting out on the water as soon as it warms up!

November - I attended my first silent retreat at Manresa, a Jesuit retreat center in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. What a powerful and life changing experience.

December - The month flew by, but I felt it to be one of my best Christmases, a scaled down version, a change in some traditions, and quality time spentwith family and friends. How blessed am I! I also welcomed Chuck the cat into my home, a drifter who need a nice warm home, he's adjusting well.

Blessings to all for 2009!