November Daily Thanks - Day 2 and 3

So I messed up on only the second day. I guess I forgot to factor in the time component for a project such as this, but I refuse to feel despair and I figure - just go with it and do what I can. So today you get 2 things I am thankful for.

First, I am thankful for my heated seats in my car. On chilly mornings such as the past couple, they have really made me warm and toasty and they heat up really fast. Since I don't like to wear a coat, especially when I am driving, they really help to make me comfortable first thing in the morning.

The second thing I am thankful for is Josh Freeman. Josh is a former boss who tragically passed away several years ago. Last night I had the opportunity to listen to Steve Bisciotti (owner of the Baltimore Ravens) speak and one of the things that stood out to me was not only his belief in leadership principles, but the ability to create an atmosphere where people could come to work and grow in their abilities, but have fun too. He was referring to his decision to hire John Harbaugh when he fired Brian Billick. He mentioned that he could have hired an established long time coach like Marty Schottenheimer who would have come into the organization and immediately know how to put all the puzzle pieces in place to win games or he could have gone with someone young who had to learn the puzzle making process, which would be way more fun. I think we all know what direction he went in.

Josh was the same kind of person. He created a work atmosphere that was challenging, but fun; demanding, but creative; that one of a kind special place that it was a pleasure to go to everyday. He put together a team of leaders that were inspirational and educational and my years spent there were some of the best years of my life.

I miss working for you Josh and I am thankful that I had the opportunity to experience the magic you created.

Joshua M. Freeman 1964-2006