As a new blogger I think this will take some time to get used to. I love the idea of having a blog but I think the key is to write something interesting and maybe even thought provoking. When I ended the last post I had a idea to talk about the local news regarding the Lansing area casinos, but while I was formulating my plan a few things happened.

You may have heard that Michigan became a right to work state. While I will never use this forum to trumpet my political views, I must make a commentary on the response to the law being passed. We all are fortunate to live in the United States. One of the most celebrated rights that we have is the right to free speech. During the protest to the vote some of the protesters decided to tear down the tent of right to work supporters because of their stance. While people we under the tent, some protesters danced and carried on top of the tent. In addition a vendor who was paid to be there, had his cart destroyed as well. All this was going on as the cameras rolled.

Another incident happened at Sandy Hook Elementary. While this got the most coverage for obvious reasons, it pains me to hear about the backlash the shooters family has gotten. There may not have been any signs, regardless what the media reported. His family grieves as well and it should not be forgotten.

So with the upcoming new year I am  trying to decide what I want to say. In my personal life I find that what gives me comfort and happiness is hope. I am eternally hopeful that things work out and I know this drives my wife batty. Many times I have had some ideas and dreams but that is what keeps me going. When the Mega Powerball lottery was counting down, I had fun in thinking of what I would do with the money. I was so hopeful but it, sadly, wasn't me. For me though being hopeful gives me something to shoot for. Just for fun, here are some of things that I am hopeful for right now.

 I had hoped to go back to college and here I am almost done. I hope to get my pilot's license because of a time I flew with my dad in a little two seater airplane when I was younger. I hope that politically we can have more middle ground. Too many times I have seen heated debates regarding some political issue and it's mostly along party lines. I always hope to be making more money but many times in my life when one bill is paid another takes it's place. I hope for good luck for three of my friends who are going through divorces. They are each wonderful people and deserve to be happy. I hope we will make contact with aliens this year. I am a huge fan of movies with aliens but hopefully they are peaceful. The one thing that I am most hopeful for is the continued progress my family is making, continues. While there were many highlights, there were a few low-lights. I am hopeful that I will meet new friends and strengthen the friendships I have with my current friends. Lastly I am hopeful that you, the reader, has a positive year, whatever it may be.