It’s hard to believe that the last two months of 2010 are here!  Most of us live in such a scattered whirlwind, that we haven’t stopped to smell the roses lately.  Hopefully, we can make the most of November and December before we greet 2011.  Because our focus is on safety – at home, at work, and at play, we want to encourage you to enjoy these two months that are full of holiday plans and preparations, by keeping safety in mind.

First, in the United States, we have an important day coming up this Tuesday, November 2nd, Election Day.  This is your chance to make your wishes known.  Please vote on Tuesday.  Hopefully, those who are elected will represent their constituents to the best of their abilities, and not be influenced by outside interests.  We depend on our leaders to do what is best for the country.  If you agree, get out and vote! 

With your safety in mind, we wish to remind you that the upcoming holidays – from Thanksgiving until after New Year’s Day, bring about serious warnings from law enforcement that driving is more dangerous during this time.  Whether it is drunk drivers, distracted drivers, or those simply in too big a hurry, this is the time to decide that you are going to pay special attention to getting to your destination safely.  Plan ahead and leave a little early, in order to avoid rushing.  

Thanksgiving is a holiday that brings families together, and we can reflect on the many things that we have to be thankful for.  One is to have this time before the Christmas rush, although many businesses skip Thanksgiving,  hurrying to get ready for Christmas.  We will talk  more about Thanksgiving closer to time. 

November is time for the Great American Smoke-Out, an important project that  brings  awareness to the health problems associated with smoking.  Attention is also focused on  American Disabilities, Alzheimers’, Diabetes, and Epilepsy during November.  The eleventh month is also Child Safety and Protection Month.  We have previously shared information on many of these topics, and each one is very important to the health, safety, and well-being of those we love. 

As we go through November, we ask you to slow down and savor every day you are given.  Each day is a gift, to be unwrapped the moment you wake up, with all sorts of pleasant surprises,  if you just look for them.  At the end of that day, be thankful for what it has brought, and look forward to the next one.  Try to see your glass as half-full, rather than half-empty.

And please, do as one of our posters says, “Uncle Sam Wants You – To Be Safe.”   That’s our theme.