Note #52

Merry Christmas!

Christmas... A time to celebrate the birth of Jesus with family and friends. A time to renew friendships by sending and receiving Christmas cards. A time to socialize and have fun. A time to bake Christmas cookies. A time to purchase just the right gifts for the special people in our lives. A time to look back and remember. A time to look forward with anticipation. A time to love. A time to be grateful for all our blessings.

I can't believe it's also time to write Note #52. My final note is written to Carol, the wife of my friend who passed away unexpectedly a year ago. Steve's death was the impetus for my 52-week journey of thankfulness.

Dear Carol,

52 weeks ago, I began writing weekly notes of gratitude. As I posted on my blog the first week of January, "Oftentimes, we wait too long to let people know how they have touched our lives."

You and Steve both positively impacted my life, personally and professionally. I was blessed to work with both of you, watch your family grow, and witness the strong love you shared. One of my fondest memories is listening to Steve describe your vacation excursions. I'll always remember the hysterical laughter that surrounded the table as he related your unforgettable experiences on horseback and while snorkeling!

Thank you for adding so much joy to my life. You're a special friend.

Love,
Jill

Note #51

Congratulations to Stanford, NCAA volleyball champions. My Huskers didn't win, but I'll never stop cheering for my favorite team. I know my closest hometown friend won't give up on any Nebraska team either. Football. Volleyball. Baseball. Her Facebook posts often reference these teams as she hopes for victory.

She and I also share a long history, from the first day of kindergarten through university graduation. This week's note is written to Susie.

Dear Susie,

Bill and I hope to see you this coming Christmas weekend. We need to catch up on what's been happening in our lives, and also spend time reminiscing. We share a lot of memories! I'll always remember our high school band trip to the west coast, counting calories (and M&Ms) during our freshman year of college, cheering at Husker football games, sharing Godfather's pizza, laughing hysterically after seeing "Young Frankenstein," admiring "The Living" and avoiding "The Dead," and just plain having fun. My mom says my "true personality" comes out when we're together :-)

My hometown memories always include you. Thanks for being a special, lifelong friend.

Love,
Jill

P.S. GO BIG RED!

Note #50

WOW! The Huskers are in the Final Four! The volleyball game my husband and I saw last Friday was undoubtedly the best volleyball game we've ever seen. The talent displayed on the court by both Nebraska and Penn State players was unbelievable. The Huskers lost the first two sets, were down 22-24 in the third, and came back to win the match in the fifth. Our coach, John Cook, stated the crowd was the loudest he's ever heard in Devaney. GO BIG RED!

One of my fellow Husker volleyball fans is celebrating her birthday today. This week's note is written to JoAnne.

Dear JoAnne,

Happy Birthday! Not only are you one of my favorite fellow Husker fans, you're also one of my role models. I've looked up to you ever since we moved here. I admire your friendly personality, your sense of style, and your devotion to personal health. You introduced me to weightlifting, bridge club, women's golf league, and a stint as a piano teacher.

Now that you travel frequently, our paths seem to cross less often. Hopefully, I'll see you on the golf course or at a Husker tailgate again soon!

With gratitude for your friendship,
Jill

Note #49

Am I a huge Husker fan? Absolutely! Husker athletics and UNL academics rank at the top. Red Husker clothing items fill my closets, and every time I shop, I head right for the Husker merchandise.

The Husker volleyball team is defending their 2015 National Championship, and the road to the Final Four looks tough. This Friday's match against perennial Big Ten rival Penn State will be a biggie -- and thanks to my stepmom, Carol, we're going to be at the Devaney to cheer the team on to victory! This week's note is written to her.

Dear Carol,

You absolutely made my day when I got your text saying Bill and I will have tickets for Friday's Nebraska-Penn State volleyball match! We're so excited! Thank you!

In fact, thanks for also opening up your home to us this fall throughout the Husker football season. Your B&B is at the top of our list - immaculate surroundings, wonderful breakfasts and desserts, and animated, loyal Nebraska fans. I'm so grateful for everything you've done for us over the years. We always have so much fun together :-)

There are only three words left to say: GO BIG RED!

Love, Jill