I am writing this from frigid Florida - I mean it’s C-O-L-D! That hasn’t prevented daily walks on the beach and a New Years Day dip in the ocean with some friends.

Last night my wife and I spent the night at the beautiful Ponte Vedra Inn and Club in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.  I was the Director of Training here in 2001-2002 and was part of a team that helped the resort earn AAA’s pretigious Five Diamond Award. It’s obvious to see why they have earned their 6th Five Diamond Award in a row - they are good, really good at the basics. I developed a training program while at the resort called Back to the B.A.S.I.C.S. which I rarely train on any more, but the principles apply, I think, to most every aspect of life. Here they are:

- Better Teamwork

- Attitude

- Superior Service

- Innovation

- Consistency

- Stay in School

While I didn’t do any training while here, my wife and I spent the morning talking about our year and what we needed to do as a couple to make 2008 - GREAT! As I reflect back on our morning, much of what we discussed could fit into the categories above. We are working on our plan through January and are determined that we are going to enjoy the fruits for many months (and years) to come. We have discussed our finances, health, family relationships, vacations, our giving, future plans, how we communicate etc. All these topics are ones in which we’ll enjoy some rich rewards. I’ll be doing the same solo over the next few days and can share that too on this same Bat channel (for all you Batman and Robin fans)

As always, I’d love to hear about how you are starting your year and how you are going to keep on track. Here’s hoping you are off to a GREAT ‘08!