Editors letter

Hello and Welcome
to the January issue of EM.

Firstly, can I take the opportunity to wish all our readers a very happy New Year and an exciting 2007 where your wishes become a reality.

With a return to work particularly, we notice that extra few minutes of brightness in the evenings and look towards Spring, which is only weeks away. It's always hopeful and encouraging when you notice the snowdrops and crocuses that start to appear in the garden or under trees in the park. Sometimes I think that it is the one time of the year when our senses are more open to the things happening around us. We notice the little changes that are taking place in nature more than we do at any other time of the year. We notice the fresh scents of plants after rain. I often think it has a lot to do with new beginnings and our hopes starting into a new year. Maybe it's to do with the fact that most of us always like having something to look forward to or some new opportunities ahead.

I always find that I respond to people who have always some plan or project on the go; their enthusiasm is infectious and it's great to see people grasping life with both hands and enjoying their lives to the full. Not making decisions and staying in a 'safe box' all the time is not, I'm afraid, something I can identify with. We all look back and wonder where the years have gone and it's wonderful when you hear about people who have grasped the nettle and achieved so much. EM has introduced us to so many such people and in the course of my work and I have been privileged and lucky to meet some amazing colleagues who have done tremendous things both during their time in ESB and after retirement.

This month we thought we'd help you save time in the kitchen with some easy and delicious meals that can be prepared quickly, so Emma has come up with some recipes to help you on your way. It's also a great time to plan your exercise routine for the coming year and to start getting out again into the fresh air. Though I do know many of you seasoned keep fit and healthy people will have been swimming in the sea on Christmas Day and trekking the hills around Ireland, so I'm probably addressing many of the converted!