The end of 2007 is nearly upon us! In the past few months, we've had several changes in our organization. Ellen Miller, my business partner and close friend for over 14 years, recently was offered and accepted a fabulous international sales compensation position with Motorola. We shared many great times, grew both professionally and personally in our years together, and although I'll miss her wisdom and clarity, I wish her only extraordinary success. This year also saw us expand our services, our staff and our partners. Many of you already know Heather Hinson, our Executive Assistant, who strives to keep me on track and focused, and provides outstanding service to our clients. Elena Morera, a talented Human Resources professional also has joined us with a depth of HR experience, creativity and humor. We're also planning several new offerings to help you, our clients, thrive in 2008-stay tuned!

For most of us, there are always more activities than time these days, and so often the urgent overtakes the important. The theme of our articles is on a focus on what's important----"Secrets of an Expert Witness"--to minimize potential legal risk, and "Until Yesterday at 4:35 pm"--to avoid a business disaster, both resulting from poor planning or neglecting what's important. As always, we encourage questions, comments and topics you'd like to see in future issues.

Our warmest wishes and deepest appreciation to you, our clients, colleagues and friends-may your holidays be bright and remind you of the good in each one of us.