Happy holidays from the director Published Dec. 16, 2011 By Terry Edwards AFCEE Director LACKLAND AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Happy holidays and best wishes for a wonderful New Year! The end-of-year holiday season that starts with Thanksgiving and ends with New Year's Day is our most cherished family time and builds memories we treasure for a lifetime. Fred Rogers of Mr. Rogers Neighborhood, who devoted his life's work to educating and inspiring children, summed up the holidays by comparing them to the way a child listens to a favorite story. The pleasure is in the familiar way the story begins, the anticipation of familiar turns it takes, the familiar moments of suspense, and the familiar climax and ending, he said. That's a wonderful way to view the holidays. They are familiar to us all, yet we enjoy year in and year out the observance of traditions, gathering of family and friends, and celebration of our faith. It's the time of year that gives us pause to reflect on our blessings and to keep in perspective what is most important in our lives. It is our respite with family that makes the holiday season such a fulfilling experience. I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday party. We don't get the chance often enough to have a good time in that type of social setting. It was heartwarming to see the smiles, hear the laughter and witness the fun. It reconfirmed what a special group of people we have at AFCEE! This holiday season, I wish you peace and happiness. You have worked hard and deserve a break from the rigors of AFCEE mission execution. We should all take this opportunity to renew ourselves and enter the New Year with optimism that we can be better, do more and make a difference in our lives and the lives of others. As we end 2011 and enter 2012, I toast you for the amazing work you've done, I celebrate you for the wonderful people and professionals you are, and I cherish you for the extended family you have been and will continue to be. Bless you and yours. Stay safe and enjoy all the season has to offer!