MAA President's Message
November Message
It's hard to believe November is here already! This year has certainly flown by. As we fall into the final months of 2018 and Thanksgiving is upon us, let's all reflect on the things that make our lives so special. For me, that is my daughters and my friends and family, my health, my home in God's country and my career. It is far too easy to miss out on the little things that bring us joy, especially when our days seem to run together.
As the year rushes to a close, I find myself being a bit more observant and thankful for everyday things. The leaves that were ablaze with color in my yard and now need to be raked, I'm thankful I am able to do that chore and spend some time outdoors, especially after the fiasco of a broken ankle early this year! My house that desperately needs to be painted, I am thankful that I will be able and will have time to do that next spring (at least I'm hoping). I am also grateful for the MAA and IAAO conferences I attended this year, I have learned so much about what it takes to be a leader and to always remember who it is that you are "serving" - a valuable lesson I will take with me through the rest of my career. So much has happened this year, and I am grateful for it all.
I am even thankful for the Assessing Reform bills. Of course, initially I was quite overwhelmed. Then, our members (YOU) graciously provided a lot of great input which helped us state our case. I am so thankful to have had Ruth Scott, MAA's Legislative Committee chair, and Donna VanderVries, now past President of MAED, working alongside me through the process. Now, we have been involved in two work sessions this fall and you have seen the impact of our outreach. I am hopeful that work brings a substitute bill that everyone involved can live with.
I also hope that you are as blessed as I feel this holiday season. I pray your Thanksgiving is full of the friends and family gatherings that make this time of year so special!
Amy L. DeHaan, President