Dear Friends,

I hope this holiday season finds you well and happy. It is hard for me to believe that 2008 is coming to an end. I for sure did not accomplish all the things that I would have hoped for. I guess I will have an extra long list of goals for 2009.

A few weeks ago I decided to stop nursing along an old wrist and shoulder injury and get it taken care of. For the last three years I have had some of my doctor friends give me an occasional cortisone shot in both wrist and shoulder. It would take away the pain for awhile, but over time the pain would return. I had a similar operation on my other shoulder about eight years ago and it seemed that the recovery time was short before I was back to normal. Now I don’t know if I have aged extremely fast over the last eight years, but I will tell you my recovery this time has been much more painful and slow than in years past.

Today I made my way to the drive thru at the bank to make a deposit. Now my truck sits a little high, and with my left shoulder and wrist still in a sling, I had to lean over with my right arm and reach for the tube to send my check to the cashier. It about killed me, but I stretched out far enough to grab the tube and bring it in the truck. I opened the end and reached back to the tube machine to send it to the teller. Once again, I made it to the slot for the tube; but, the problem was that I had to push the “send” button just 3-4” further away. That is when I probably should have put the truck in park.

After two attempts to hit the button, my shoulder was throbbing. I decided that the third time was going to be the charm. With a deep breath and a furrowed brow, I went for the button--nothing was going to stop me. In the heat of the moment, my right foot slipped off the brake immediately hit the gas pedal. I was still hanging half way out the window. I will not quote the words I said as I sped out of the drive thru like I was robbing the bank. By the time I was able gain control of my vehicle and find the brake, I was past the drive thru by 10 feet. I was in pain. I was embarrassed, and I was ready to speed off and try to make my deposit at another branch. Problem was--my checks were still in the tube at the window. Luckily there was no one behind me; but, the other two drive thru lanes had cars in them. As I glanced back, I saw the other customers laughing uncontrollably. I didn’t dare back up. So I opened the door, walked back to the tube machine, grabbed my checks, and headed back to my truck. No deposit today.

I am so glad I didn’t hit something or someone. I’m not sure why I would share such a stupid and embarrassing story, but I hope that it puts a smile on your face. I love so many things about my job. I have met many great people over the years that I am so proud to say I have so many good friends.

I hope this holiday season will find you healthy and well. Mark your calendars for our EVENING WITH SANTA on DECEMBER 10th . Bring yourself, the kids and grandkids and I promise you will love your gift. I am so appreciative for so many of you that make me a success in my industry. Any accolades and awards I receive are really not a tribute to me, but actually to you. I want you to know that I appreciate all the support. It is SO nice to have many great advocates and friends out there. Please let me know if there is anything I can ever do for you. All the best to you and your family this holiday season and for the upcoming year!

Kenny Parcell