December 2011 - "A Season of Gratitude"

December 2011 - "A Season of Gratitude"

"I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year through."  - Charles Dickens

I was on the elliptical this morning at our local YMCA, and John Stossel from ABC was being interviewed about a recent story he had done.  "Hey, people, it's not that bad.  There is so much to be thankful for."  He pointed out how labor saving devices, like the washing machine, have revolutionized our lives and given us time to pursue other interests.  Many of us are no longer hauling water for daily sustenance.  He is so right on, I thought.  I for one am glad to be living in this time and era.

When I start to count my blessings, my irrascible husband is at the top of my list, along with my 3 really cool grown children and son-in-law, who's all grown up too!  I am thankful for health, and electricity and modern conveniences, and the sun by day and moon by night and the incredible natural beauty of the world.

Moreover, I am so thankful for our customers who keep our retail clothing business alive and vibrant and thriving.  Customers are always looking for something new to make their lives a bit more exciting, no matter what age or gender, in good times or bad.  We will do our utmost to provide superior product and service for them each time they step in the door at 539 Main Street or come to shop with us via the world wide web.

I had a phone call yesterday from a woman in Ohio.  I could hear the sparkle in her voice as she ordered a pair of DANKSO shoes and a pair of Kenneth Cole boots.  She said that was so happy to have discovered our store.  It was a win-win situation for both her and us.  We look forward to her return visits.

At FL Crooks & Co, we adhere to the Rotary Club 4-tiered mantra devised by Rotarian Paul Harris, known as the 4 way test:

Is it the Truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build good will and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Here's to you, our friends, with heartfelt gratitude and appreciation:  Wishing you all the merriest of Christmases and a happy, healthy and hopeful New Year to follow.  As I heard in a profound message recently that struck a cord with me - "Shine; don't whine!"  I will hold Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all year through.

With grateful expectancy,
Lydia Crooks