Note #39

I've been a Make-A-Wish Wish volunteer for over 10 years. Over this time, I've been touched in numerous and varied ways by Wish Children and their families. Today was no exception as another volunteer and I met with a young boy and his family as the child unveiled his hope for a wish. It's wonderful to see the smiles on faces of Wish Children, and give families a chance to forget about illnesses and hospitalizations for a while.

Several children, and one little girl in particular, are responsible for my volunteerism. This week's note is sent to Molly.

Dear Molly,

Congratulations on beginning your freshman year of college! It seems like just yesterday that you entered kindergarten. Your journey and experiences during those early elementary years were an inspiration for many individuals, including me. As a result, I've volunteered with Make-A-Wish for over 10 years. Being a Wish Granter is absolutely the most rewarding volunteering I've ever done. Thank you for serving as the spark that led me to become a Wish Granter.

Wishing you continued health and a bright, successful future.
Jill

Note #38

I love to read! When I was small, my mom signed us up for a Book-Of-The-Month Club. My sister and I eagerly awaited the arrival of a new Dr. Seuss book each month! We also subscribed to Humpty Dumpty's Magazine for Little Children, Jack and Jill, and Highlights for Children. I devoured Trixie Belden, Donna Parker, and Nancy Drew books. Archie comic books, teen magazines, Life, Look, and newspapers filled our home and provided ongoing opportunities to read. Plus, we were regular visitors at the local public library.

I'm still a patron of our wonderful public library. For many years, I've participated as a member of a monthly book discussion group. This week's note is written to Jennifer, the librarian who initiated this group and encouraged me to belong.

Dear Jennifer,

Last Thursday as we completed our monthly book discussion, I realized I've never taken the opportunity to thank you for encouraging me to participate. We have banded over books - a diverse group of individuals who primarily see each other only once a month at the library. Although it's wonderful to spend time with women who share a love for reading, it's even better to broaden our horizons by becoming acquainted with new faces, reading books we may not have chosen for ourselves, and learning about varied perspectives. If it weren't for you, this book club - and many other library programs - would not exist. So, thank you.

Gratefully,
Jill

Note #37

Where were you on 9/11? Fifteen years ago on September 11th, I spent the entire day with a co-worker. We drove 150 miles that morning to attend a 1:00 meeting in another city...and then drove 150 miles to get back home later that afternoon. Radio broadcasts were our constant companions that day. As we listened, the tragedy unfolded. The city was hushed, fellow restaurant patrons silently watched TV newscasts, and we could barely eat our lunch. As we drove home, cars were lined up at gas stations, waiting to fill their tanks while gas prices quickly increased. We couldn't wait to get back to be with our families.

This week's note is written to Jean, a special co-worker, world-traveler, and friend.

Dear Jean,

My thoughts are returning to 9/11 and the day we spent together. I'll never forget that day as long as I live. Do you remember hearing a loud roaring sound that startled us because we knew all air traffic had been grounded? We looked up as Air Force One passed directly overhead. Your personal experiences and stories of living in Peshawar gave me a unique perspective as we traveled six hours to and from our meeting. My memories of 9/11 will always include you -- and I'm grateful you were by my side.

Praying for peace and understanding,
Jill

Note #36

My careers in education and nursing have given me many opportunities to work with outstanding individuals. One who stands out is Elleah. This week's note is written to her.

Dear Elleah,

I don't tell you often enough how much I enjoy working with you. I appreciate your work ethic, positive demeanor, ability to face a problem situation head-on, and willingness to articulately speak your mind. You take on challenges and welcome new initiatives when you believe they will benefit our employees and organization. You watch out not only for those of us on the job, but also for your friends, nurturing relationships by truly caring for others while sharing a smile and a laugh.

Thank you for all you do for me.
Jill