A characteristic my parents drilled into me was work hard. Not just by their words but by their example. My dad was a heating contractor. I can remember him getting calls late into the night to put on his boots and coat and head out the door to get someones furnace going. I dont believe he really enjoyed the work but his knowledge for the trade provided for his family. I have had moments in my life I was a pretty good screw up but generally I have spent my life working hard. At one time I desired great success but now as I get older I simply want to be comfortable. I want to experience stability. I have been blessed with some of the results of hard work. I do own a home, I do own a business. But it isnt easy. To close out 2022 we need a refrigerator, water heater is getting worn out, the vehicles all have quirky issues, we have shop equipment to set-up and learn and of course being winter utilities and taxes (sales, income and property) are a priority as well as keeping my employees paid. And every winter I fear the hard work may have been in vain as business practically comes to a stand still. We have struggled with options of going south to more populated areas but we are so rooted in the community. But the south sure sounds wonderful this time of year. I heard it got down to 55 degrees in Florida recently. That would be a Godsend!

Today I took a personal day to reflect on what works and what doesn’t work. My mind is going a million different directions. We have so many resources at my disposal yet so many limitations. Running a business is no easy endeavor.

The good news is I have taken my struggles to God. I can tell you that as a result I am no longer considering moving. He is burdening my heart to stay put. My anxiety has subsided so that I can at least formulate thoughts and ideas onto paper which is the first step in creating a game plan. Another result of those prayers is my employee (Tami Friday) took it upon herself to take a special class today to further her knowledge of this trade. I am so grateful God provided such a loyal employee. I just know we will pull through yet another tough winter. I can tell you I feel for every small business in this neck of the woods. We lose businesses regularly around here…not for lack of hard work.

Lord thank you for providing me the resources to work hard through my own business. Thank you for providing the neccessities of life. I pray that you lift all of our local small businesses from struggle to sustainability. I pray that the economy improve and that sales pick up for all. As an off the wall request I would really love to see an early spring. Lord I just pray your will is done through my hard work and that you will influence my ambition and confidence. That I may please you. Amen.