Merry Christmas 2008

[Maxx]

I want to take this time to thank everyone for making the Elmwood such a wonderful place and to wish all of you a Merry Christmas.  We haven't been as active lately as we have been in the past but in the new year, I'd like to try to return the Elmwood to the wonderful and creative place I remember.

That being said, I hope you are all spending this time of year in the way you most want to, whether it is with family, friends or in blissful solitude.  Work has managed to occupy me for the past week to the point where I've seen Dale for a total of less than 8 waking hours.  I'm glad she understands because this would be terribly difficult if she didn't.  My family also understands and they're willing to delay my portion of Christmas until I'm able to fully enjoy it.

Maxx aka Brian aka Haz-mat Man

[Darkflame]

Christmas is a difficult time for many of us, Maxx, but the best we can hope for, no matter what our circumstances or beliefs, is that there is something happy to look on in this time as much as any other.  Happy Holidays to you all, whatever holiday that may be, and a peaceful winter to you all.

[Maxx]

Difficult times are best handled with a large dose of good fellowship and faith.  In just about every case, a little faith will carry things a long way because things will eventually get better.  They always do.  Sometimes it just takes a very long time and that is when a little kindness can go a long way too.  This year, instead of giving gifts to the adults in my family, we pooled our resources and bought warm clothing to be given out at a local shelter for street kids.  And do you know what?  That act felt more like the Christmases I used to enjoy than anything I've experienced in a lot of years.  We rediscovered the joy of giving and I don't think any of us was aware that we'd lost it in the first place.