2010 was a wonderful year for my family

What a wonderful year 2010 has been -- from writing to booking gigs and enjoying the boys as they grow into fine young men.

Of course, there would be no good without the bad.

In January, Kade lost his grandpa, Norm Puckett -- who could always be counted on to attend his grandson's shows. The crowd will never be the same without Norm, but his presence is still felt each time Kade plays some Chet.

In 2010, Ramsey turned 15 and Jazz hit the 11-year-old mark. I am truly in awe of their strong spirits and continue to be amazed by their growth from little boys into "larger-than-life" young men.

Personally, I have continued to work toward evolving into a stronger spirit. And that means having the courage to stand up for what is right as well as honoring silence when words are useless and can only get in the way.

Looking forward, I pray that the year 2011 allows my actions to speak louder than any written or spoken words could ever leave a mark on. For many can speak and write, but melding one's conscious intentions into everyday life is an aspiration we all should seek. And if I fail I can only keep trying.

I also hope to:

* Honor humbleness by keeping myself grounded.

* Have the strength to forgive and the courage to say I'm sorry.

* Hold compassion within my heart and pray that it is enough to overlook the absence of loving kindness in others or when necessary the strength to set them straight.

* Continue seeking clarity because the truth really does set one free.

* Seek awareness of self. For is reality but not a reflection of one's own thoughts and beliefs?

* Give of myself. To my children: Patience, love, time and knowledge. To my readers: Insight, light and joy. To my husband: Understanding, love, a listening ear and guidance. To the rest of my family and friends: Time, joy and love.

Here's wishing you and yours the best in all 365 days to come. May the New Year give you all that you need plus plenty to share.

Timberly is a staff writer at the Greene County Daily World. She can be reached by e-mail at tferree@gcdailyworld.com or by phone at 1-800-947-4487 or (812) 847-4487.