Every Year Should Be This Good

Last night we celebrated Christmas at our house. It is the beginning of the end of what was a terrific year for the Anderson family.

We were reminded of the importance of family this year, as my father-in-law suffered some health problems earlier in the year. He has made it through, thankfully, but I believe we all learned right away how strong a family we can be.

It was a year of new beginnings, as my sister began a new job.

It was a year of birth, as baby Dimitrios joined our family.

Claudia and I continued our careers successfully. Over the year we made several new friends, all centered around our son.

We learned about ourselves this year, most importantly our priorities. We have evolved into two parents who coach, teach, play with, and are fans of our son. And Jonathan's life has become more enriched because of it.

This year, he:

• visited Tampa
• visited San Diego and Anaheim
• camped out for the first time
• climbed his first mountain
• made wine
• won first place/gold medals five times in Tae Kwon Do tournaments
• led his team in doubles, while batting well over .500
• began learning to swim
• ice skated for the first time
• caught his first fish

It is with the highest of hopes that I begin 2007.

Last night, we celebrated Christmas dinner at our home. I noted the fact that six countries were represented at our table (Armenia, Canada, Germany, Greece, Korea and the United States). We ate and drank and enjoyed this time of peace.

Perhaps if, in a little corner of Connecticut, a family can welcome so many from differend places around the globe to celebrate peace, then the rest of the world can follow.

Happy New Year.