Written by Kerry Feltenberg
03 November 2009
Kerry Feltenberg 2009/2010 Chapter President
EWI Reading Rally – we had so much fun at Andalucia Middle School on October 26. The 4th and 5th graders that attended the Reading Rally were enthusiastic readers already. They were so excited to be able to choose their own three books to keep (many do not have books at home) and then read to us. The t-shirt, activity book, crayons or colored pencils, snacks and small toys were a hit as well. Sue and Annette did a great job organizing the whole event and I think that those of us that attended had as much fun as the kids.

Ben, thank you for taking all of those wonderful pictures, as always. The Philanthropy committee is already looking forward to the next Reading Rally!

I am amazed at how fast this year is going by. It will be Thanksgiving before we know it! A personal goal I set for myself this year was to be more aware and grateful for the wonderful things in my life rather than focusing on the negative. This is so much easier said than done. The point of Thanksgiving is to remember the things we have to be grateful for. It's a special time to give thanks... not just for the obvious, but for the thousands of fortunate moments, the multitude of blessings that we receive each year. So today I started thinking of all the things I am grateful for... my 87 year old mother who is in such good health... my husband of 16 years and all of my four legged "children" that make me crazy but happy at the same time…to having a beautiful home and a great job...to having 19 great nieces and nephews... to having wonderful friends, especially in EWI.

Even the negative forces in your life can be hidden blessings, worthy of your gratitude Remember that hard times make good times that much better. Try to keep in mind that obstacles and challenges not only make you stronger, but they force you to explore outside of the comfortable routine that you've settled into. Without challenges, there can be no progress. Without obstacles, there can be no achievement. Remember to be thankful for the opportunities that they provide.

I believe with all my heart in the spirit of giving back. True gratitude involves action. Lend a hand. Pitch in. Make something by hand for someone. Give your time. Listen. Give back as often as you can.

EWI gives us many opportunities to give back. And I am so grateful for that in my life.

Kerry
2009/2010 EWI of Phoenix Chapter President
Kerry Feltenberg
About:
Kerry Feltenberg is the 2009/2010 Phoenix Chapter President and the Member Firm Representative for the Arizona Grand Resort.