Reflecting on 07 and Thinking about 08

Hello friends - I hope this message finds you well after a happy Christmas and happy and healthy beginning of a wonderful new year!

With some time to decompress from a very busy last few months, I want to take the time to share with you my thoughts, wishes and hopes.

• A great many THANK YOUs to all of you who have supported us here under the olive tree. Not only do I immensely enjoy your company, but I know your support will help me keep writing regardless of how much piles up in life. Efxaristo for the inspiration. This year, I hope you'll share your thoughts and feedback even more!

• 2008 promises to be an important year for many reasons. For those of us sitting under this tree in the States, we are in the midst of an election that will hopefully decide the leader that will bring a smart way to approach the international and domestic scene. My hope is that you'll take time to identify the issues important to you, identify the candidates' stance and vote in the based on fact not fluff. For topics affecting Greek matters, I invite you to discuss your important topics under the olive tree and to engage each other - that's what it's all about.

• My resolution for Under the Olive Tree this year is to work harder to make sure that I bring you topics of interest that spark conversations - both online, in offices, living rooms and cafes. With your support, I am sure we'll have plenty talk about!

Happy new year to all - let's make it memorable!