Yesterday was Grasshopper No.2's birthday. I'm not sure how old she was but the numbers "7" and "4" rattle around in my mind. She shares the date (Dec. 30) with Tiger Woods. Imagine that. Two tough minded, successful personalities dedicated to excellence.
2008 is ending. Finished! Over! There are always pluses and minuses in every year but 2008 seemed to have had more than it's share of bad news. Notice I did not use the word "sucked".
We lost two special family members. Mary Ann Andrews died of agressive cancer. She was a driving force in her family and I'm sure is sorely missed.
My sister Addie May succumbed to the same dreaded disease in late October. I keep waiting to see an e-mail pop-up on my computer with the name "Eisenhardt" spelled wrong. She was always in my Christmas. I miss that too.
Shelby Jr. had both parents experience very serious health issues. They both seem to be coping but it is a reminder of how very precious life can be.
It was the worst economic year since 1931, which was the height of the Depression. Anyone with a 401k plan can attest to lousy financial results. Job layoffs are occurring at an alarming rate and our government is spending money like a drunken sailor. My consolation is that your Mom and I can always go to live with our kids.
In the midst of the storm, there is always hope 2009 will be a transition year to something better.
It is a good time to refinance your home and lock in long term money. I understand that you can get a 30 year mortgage for 5.1%. That is an excellent rate. Good time to jettison ARM's.
Enjoy the low gas prices. I paid $1.69 per gallon at the pump this morning. It sure beats $4.00 per gallon early in 2008. Prices should remain low.
Sometime during 2009, stocks and bonds are going to "bottom" and investments in your retirement accounts will increase nicely (I resist using the word soar).
Starting in Janurary, my social security checks will increase 5.8%.
Finally, there is the election of the "One" to the Presidency. Obama takes office in January and is committed to leading us to a promising future. Now I can sleep at night.
I look forward with optimism to 2009. We will need to seize the moment! Grab the opportunity! Attack!
So here is wishing you a Very Happy New Year. May good health and prosperity follow you.
Stay Warm.
Love,
Dad