The holiday season is here! This has always been one of my favorite times of year because of the joy and spirit of the season, as well as the excitement and anticipation of great things to come in the new year. In spite of the current economy, there is a feeling of hope and change in the air and the promise of better days ahead.
For the MFO team, this has been a time of review and reflection on our challenges and successes of 2008, as well as a time for planning and brainstorming for an exciting 2009. We are looking forward to another amazing year working with our partners at the Armed Services YMCA, National Military Family Association, and Outward Bound to provide quality outdoor experiences for military veterans, service members and their families.
We are continually striving to improve and expand our Military Families Outdoors program to connect those families making the greatest sacrifices for our country with the natural wonders that make this land great. 2009 will be our biggest year yet - camps, retreats, and courses are being planned all around the country offering unique outdoor escapes from the day-to-day stresses of military life.
As we gear up for another busy year, don't forget to take some time to get out and enjoy the winter air. The holidays are all about connecting with family, so be sure to share in some outdoor winter fun with yours! A crisp walk through a local park, an outdoor ice skating trip, an evening of star gazing with some hot apple cider, or even a few slides down that awesome sledding hill in the backyard are all great activities to rejuvenate and refresh - especially if holiday stress is bogging you down.
Have a joyous and wonderful holiday, and please be sure to send some special season's greetings to our brave men and women who are serving overseas this time of year.
Warm wishes,
Brittany
