Note #31

I just returned from our annual Administrators Days conference. This time each year, school administrators from across the state gather for three days to network with colleagues, learn from educational professionals, and be inspired by keynote presenters prior to the beginning of school.

With the new school year just around the corner, this week's note is written to my current administrator, Bill.

Dear Bill,

As we approach the start of a new school year, it seems appropriate to write a short note thanking you for everything you do for ESU 8. Your fun, engaging personality and sincere interest in coworkers help make our working environment positive. We're accomplishing great things and eagerly anticipate the future due to your visionary thinking. Under your experienced leadership, you've helped us all grow as professionals. I look forward to continuing our work as we lead, serve, and support our schools.

Gratefully,
Jill

Note #30

We just returned from a summer vacation that included driving 3,500 miles through 15 states. After spending over 72 hours together in the car, you might wonder how we survived. Three words: iPhone map app. I doubt we would have successfully navigated unfamiliar roads without this marvelous little app.

On the other hand, my sister-in-law uses paper maps, friends, and strangers to assist whenever she travels -- and does she travel! Nanette has been in all 50 states, plus almost 80 countries. In fact, she'll "hit" #80 when she flies to Albania next month.

This week's note is written to her.

Dear Nanette,

You are definitely my "traveling role model." I admire the way you embrace new experiences and travel independently, sometimes in remote and unknown areas. Mostly, I love how you maintain lifelong friendships around the world. If an award for "The World's Best Friend" was given, you'd definitely win! Your giving spirit, generosity, acceptance of differences, and friendliness are unsurpassed. Plus, you love to have fun!

Thanks for sharing your love for travel and for exemplifying what true friendship is.

Love,
Jill

Note #29

Last week I wrote a note to one of the first people I met when we moved here. That fall, I started my first teaching position and was privileged to work not only with super students, but also with some very special coworkers. This week's note is written to one of those teachers, Laurel.

Dear Laurel,

I've never told you "thanks" for getting me involved with the Mrs. Jaycees/YWON. You were so friendly at school, and encouraged me to attend a meeting. Wow! From making gallons of homemade ice cream for the Old Mills Days social, preparing and serving Thanksgiving dinners, organizing kiddie parades, and enjoying progressive dinners, we were definitely involved! I'll never forget the time you asked me to help you make frosting roses to decorate cupcakes we were sharing with residents of the nursing home. After watching me struggle to create a presentable rose, you finally demoted me to making green leaves -- and boy, was I grateful!

I have wonderful memories of not only volunteering with that organization, but also being given the opportunity to meet other women and develop friendships. Thanks so much!

Jill

Note #28

It's unbelievable that I've called this small town "home" for over 36 years. When we first moved here, one of the first places I visited was the public library. This week's note is written to Ruth.

Dear Ruth,

I'll never forget my first visit to our local public library. You were working behind the desk, welcomed me to town, and told me I needed to meet your daughter. Every time I returned, you greeted me, often with reading recommendations, and always with a smile. Even though you're no longer behind the desk, I think of your dedication to the library and our community frequently. I also rarely purchase a book because I can check one out for free at the public library!

Happy Reading!
Jill

Note #27

Oh my goodness! Today is Monday -- and I forgot to write my weekly thank you note. It'll be posted later today (after the parade and other July 4th festivities). Sorry.

Later......

The parade is over, the float is stored, and the fireworks display will be held at sundown. Our small rural town celebrates the 4th with three full days of activities -- turtle races, scavenger hunt, fishing contest, hole-in-one competition, party in the park, and more. If you ever want to experience a small town Independence Day celebration, this is the place to come!

One of the parade entries was a local gentleman who rode in a horse and buggy. He participates annually and often can be seen giving rides to families at other times during the year. This week's note is written to him.

Dear Dave,

It was great to see you riding in the parade today! Thanks also for asking about Sarah's recent wedding anniversary. One of my favorite memories includes you and Sarah.

When she was in the third grade, her class went roller skating in Plainview. While the other students skated, she sat and watched. You noticed her sitting alone, encouraged her to put on a pair of skates, and helped her navigate around the skating rink for the very first time in her life. I still remember hearing her squeals of excitement and seeing the broad smile on her face. Neither Sarah nor I will ever forget your kindness.

Thanks for bringing smiles to so many people. You hold a special place in my heart.

Gratefully,
Jill

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On another note, my heart is heavy this evening. Earlier today I learned that a friend to whom I wrote an earlier "note of thankfulness" died after a long battle with breast cancer. Jolene was absolutely the kindest woman I've ever known. Please say a prayer for her family.