The flu has hit 47 states, including Georgia.

Today is my first day in the office for 2013. I intentionally took time off over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays to step back from work, enjoy my family and clear my head. Now I’m back and ready to hit the ground running! How about you?

In the past I’ve never been much of a believer in writing down my goals or making them for that matter. It all seemed a little woo-woo and out there. However in 2012 I worked with a wonderful organizer and business coach Paris Love (www.parisloveinstitute.com) who convinced me of the importance of setting goals.

Fort Valley, Georgia -Several local fans of the Macon-based charity Jay’s HOPE, which offers support to mid-state families battling childhood cancer, will come together next weekend to create a snowy, Christmas wonderland for about 100 lucky children.

The group plans to raise about $4000, and all proceeds will go directly to Jay’s HOPE.

A flyer about the event circulated on facebook over two weeks ago, and all available slots were quickly filled along with a waiting list that is still growing. Those lucky enough to secure a time slot will spend about an hour at Pineola Farms in Fort Valley. The activities will include real snow and a snowball fight, photographs with Santa in his toyshop, hot chocolate, a candy bar, fun props in a family photo booth, face painting, ornament painting, cookie decorating, letters to Santa, and a hayride.

Jay’s Hope families will have their turn with Santa first beginning at 9:00 a.m.