Happy Holidays! In addition to closing out 2009, at our house it marks the journey to the end of football season, time for report cards to be sent home, and last but not least another deer hunting season under our belts. This year my 7-year-old son Carter joined a group of middle-aged men on their quest for a big buck. The group was not as successful as years past, but certainly enjoyed bonding and being outside for several days together as a team. Carter did not get a deer, but has now begun a tradition that his dad, grandfather, and great-grandfather treasure. As a mom I could’ve chosen to be extremely nervous about his new adventure or chose to encourage him and share in his excitement. I decided to be the cheerleader for him (after a long talk with dad about safety, man-language, etc) and have found a sense of pride in carrying on a strong family tradition. I know hunting requires patience and that’s one skill my son could improve on. I’m proud to say he was very patient during his hunting days, sometimes sitting for hours quietly without moving in anticipation of a glimpse at a deer. He didn’t complain during the long and tiresome drives or falter in the deep snow. After it was all over, he thanked the men he hunted with for letting him be part of the group, even giving them a strong handshake. All in all, a good start to a sport he can participate in for many years to come.

As I reflect back on his journey, my head is held high – as a parent sometimes we question if we’re doing okay. I don’t get a report card at the end of the year, there’s no championship trophy for moms, but there is that moment when you realize you must be doing something right. When I saw him thank the guys for including him and when he shook their outstretched hands and looked them straight in the eye, my eyes welled up. I think I’m doing okay.

With the new year around the corner it’s a reminder to continue teaching my kids about how to treat others. Here at BASE, we take pride in treating others with care and respect. When you call us, our benefit specialists answer the phone with a sincere greeting and when they end the call they ask if there is anything else they can help you with. And they mean it. Today as I listen to others around me, I hear holiday greetings being shared and well wishes for a happy new year. Our mission here is to treat our customers the best possible way – and we are doing just that. We wish you a healthy and safe holiday season and hope to hear from you soon.