2019 - Notes #33, 34, and 35

Life is busy for everyone and this time of year has been exceptionally busy for us. It may have taken me three weeks to write these notes, but my feelings of gratefulness have not subsided.

Note #33 is written to my mom's next door neighbor's grandchildren, Cassie and Connor. These two young people are exceptionally thoughtful and kind.

Dear Cassie and Connor,

Thank you so much for all you do to boost my mom's spirits. Whenever I visit, I look at the prom photograph and the butterfly picture that are displayed in her room. She loves to point them out to everyone who visits :-) I also notice the blooming flowers in the pot near her front door at home. Thanks also for growing the tomato plant and sharing the tomato with her. Most of all, thanks for visiting her and being her "hometown grandchildren." She thinks the world of both of you.

Grateful for your kindness and thoughtfulness,
Jill

The next note is written to Karen, a long-time friend of my mom.

Dear Karen,

The dahlias you shared with Mom, both at the hospital and at the nursing home, really brightened her days! She took great joy in showing them to me and telling me they came from you. You've been a good friend to her for many, many years -- and kept her looking her best :-) I'm so appreciative of your thoughtfulness and continued prayers.

Thank you.
Jill

My final note is written to a co-worker. Heidi is an amazing woman!

Dear Heidi,

Just a quick note to say how much I appreciate you. Your work ethic is top-notch, your drive to achieve and grow professionally is commendable, and your willingness to share ideas and knowledge is valued. Thanks also for reaching out to me and asking about my mom. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and kindness.

Thanks.
Jill

2019 - Notes #31 and 32

As you've probably noticed from reading earlier posts, I'm privileged to work in the field of education. August is an unbelievably busy month and I'm behind on writing notes. Let's get started!

George and Susie's family experienced unimaginable tragedy and grief -- and yet, their faith in God remains strong and steady. Note #31 is written to them.

Dear Susie,

Each morning I read "The Peace of Heaven" daily Bible verse and prayer on your Facebook page. I can't even describe how much comfort and peace are offered in these words. Your family inspires me, and countless others, with your courage, hope, and faith in our loving God. I believe in hard times we learn we're stronger than we imagined, God is closer than we realized, and we're loved more than we ever knew. Thank you for sharing your faith. You and your family are loved by many.

FROG --
Jill

Note #32 is written to Linda, one of my coworkers.

Dear Linda,

Just a quick note to thank you for everything you do to help me at work. I appreciate the quick turn-around when I ask for information or assistance. Your efforts to organize the new Media Center, arrange the resources, and weed items that are no longer requested have not gone unnoticed. Thanks so much! I enjoy seeing you smile, hearing your laughter, and am grateful we can work together.

Looking forward to a positive school year!
Jill

2019 - Notes #29 and #30

Making the decision that a parent needs 24-hour care is not easy. Following hospitalization, my mom moved to a nursing home. Her first contact? A former student.

This week's first note is written to her.

Dear Jill,

It was so comforting for you to be Mom's first contact when she moved into the nursing home. Simply knowing you are one of her nurses -- and one of her former second grader students -- is a blessing. Your smile and caring attitude helped put her at ease during this difficult transition. I will always be grateful for your kindness.

Thank you.
Jill #2 :-)

My second note is written to the employees at our local grocery store. I love shopping there because of the positive vibe!

Dear Thriftway Market employees,

Just a quick note to tell you how much I enjoy coming into the grocery store. Employees are friendly, courteous, and always willing to help if I have a question or can't locate a product. From department managers and grocery stockers to checkout cashiers and carry out staff, the service makes hometown shopping for a positive experience.

Thank you for always putting a smile on my face.

Jill

2019 - Notes #26, 27, and 28

Once again, my note-writing has taken a backseat to other obligations and responsibilities. However, my gratitude remains in the forefront.

Notes #26 and #27 are written to more of my mom's neighbors. Over the years, they have become a tight-knit group, offering friendship and support. My mom is currently experiencing health issues that impact her daily life. Her neighbors are always there for her.

Dear Dan and Nancy,

Words are not sufficient to convey how much I appreciate everything you do for my mom. From mowing her lawn and shoveling snow, to picking up her mail and newspapers, plus sharing fun cheering for the Huskers, you are an important part of her life. Simply knowing you've been next door fills my heart with gratefulness.

Thanks also for visiting her when she was hospitalized. Your visits brighten her days.

With sincere gratitude,
Jill

Dear Bob and Barb,

Thank you for being such wonderful friends and neighbors to my mom. Barb, I know she always enjoys your morning visits and she's looking forward to seeing you at the nursing home, too. Bob, thank you for sharing your electrical expertise with her recently. She was always relieved to know she could call on the two of you to help.

Thanks for visiting her at the hospital. You'll never know how much I appreciate the two of you.

Gratefully,
Jill

My mom was recently hospitalized for a week at the local hospital. The following note is written to the staff at Phelps Memorial Health Center.

Dear PMHC Staff,

Thank you for the excellent care my mom, Ann Fuerst, received while a patient at PMHC. Professionalism and a sincere desire to serve were qualities demonstrated by everyone on staff. We especially appreciated the caring actions of the nurses, CNAs, and dietary employees. They tried every idea possible to keep her warm, comfortable, hydrated, and fed.

I will always be grateful for this wonderful care.

Thank you.
Jill

2019 - Notes #23, 24, and 25

It's time for another three-note post. I will make no apologies for the delay in sending one note per week. The month of June has been filled with unanticipated news, travel, and events.

I've been a P.E.O. since 1983. Over the past 36 years, strong relationships have developed and been maintained as a result of my participation in this organization that focuses on philanthropy and education for women. Note #23 is written to a long-time P.E.O. sister. Connie just observed 60 years of P.E.O. Sisterhood.

Dear Connie,

Congratulations on being a 60-year member of P.E.O. I remember attending many meetings in your home. Fresh flowers always graced the rooms and delicious desserts were served on delicate, beautiful china. It's fun to look back on simpler times and recall special memories of P.E.O. I am proud to be your P.E.O. sister.

Jill

I've mentioned my mom's neighbors and close friends in previous posts. As she currently faces some medical challenges, they have stepped up to support her even more. The next note is written to her next-door neighbor, Dee.

Dear Dee,

Just a quick note to say thanks for everything you do for my mom. She was absolutely thrilled to receive the "special" Blizzard! She also loves your frequent visits and shares your interest in Husker sports. Thanks for watering her flowers and I hope you nurture some tomatoes, too.

I'm truly grateful for all the support and friendship you shower on my mom. Thank you.

Jill

I recently celebrated my birthday on a day we hosted a threat assessment training for teachers, administrators, mental health practitioners, and law enforcement. Note #25 is written to Jolene, who surprised me by bringing a large birthday cake to the event.

Dear Jolene,

You definitely made my birthday a day to remember! The cake was a fantastic surprise and everyone at the training enjoyed this delicious treat.

Thanks also for your passionate dedication to Nebraska schools. Because of your leadership and support, our schools are safer and more secure. I look forward to working with you again during the coming school year.

Jill

2019 - Notes #20, 21, and 22

Once again, I've fallen behind on my note writing. Since I was at a training yesterday during which I described my commitment to write 52 thank you notes this year, I better get back on track.

Note #20 is written to Val, a nurse who cared for my mom during a recent hospitalization. Val's professionalism, sincere friendliness, and loving care was a bright spot in a rather dismal situation. This was the first time I'd met Val, even though she is married to one of my high school classmates -- and I'll see her soon at our class reunion.

Dear Val,

'Just a quick note to say thank you for the tender care you gave my mom when she was hospitalized. Your professionalism and patient, informative work with the student nurses was impressive. I'm truly grateful for not only your nursing skills, but also your prayers.

FROG,
Jill

As mentioned previously, I work with some wonderful people, including Tami and Bev. Both of these women are two of the first people who greet me every morning when I arrive at the office. Plus, we have something "little" in common. I became a first-time grandma two months ago, Bev greeted a new grandson two days ago, and Tami will hold a new grandchild later this month. Notes #21 and 22 are written to them.

Dear Tami,

Thank you for greeting me with a smile each morning when I pass your office door. I especially enjoy hearing humorous stories about your family and sharing laughs. Thanks also for organizing and coordinating all the administrative meals, snacks, donuts, and coffee -- AND for discovering Cubby's delicious cookies! I'm truly grateful for your help and friendship.

Jill

P.S. I'm eager to hear stories about your new grandson in the future, too!

Dear Bev,

'Just a note to convey how much I appreciate your helpfulness. Thank you for greeting people when they arrive at the office and for coordinating all the meals, snacks, and beverages for our professional development events. I'm also grateful that you make our lodging reservations, especially since you've developed positive working relationships with the hotel staff so we get the best prices! :-)

Thanks again and congratulations Grandma!
Jill

2019 - Notes #17, 18 and 19

I have neglected to write notes for the past several weeks. Life has been busy, with many unexpected turns and bumps in the road. However, my daily gratefulness for life's blessings is always a part of the journey.

Note #17 is written to our daughter's first preschool teacher. Sarah has mild cerebral palsy and benefited greatly from early childhood education provided by our area intermediate educational agency. Sue was her teacher.

Dear Sue,

When I saw you on the playground recently, surrounded by all your preschool students, I was reminded how much Sarah loved being your student. You had such a positive impact on her development and helped her become the successful adult she is today. Your tireless service and advocacy on behalf of your students will always be remembered. Thank you.

Enjoy the summer!

Gratefully,
Jill

Patti is my nurse practitioner. We've been acquainted for many years and she continues to provide exemplary medical services. My recent annual visit was conducted a few weeks ago. I absolutely love to visit with Patti. She's caring, knowledgable, professional, and personable. Note #18 is written to her.

Dear Patti,

Just a quick note to say how grateful I am for you. Every time I visit the clinic, I feel healthy and positive after my appointment. Your professionalism and knowledge are exemplary, and your caring personality speaks volumes. Thanks for truly caring about all your patients. Our lives are better because of your medical expertise.

Thank you.
Jill

I'm privileged to work with excellent educational professionals including teachers, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, school nurses, staff developers, technology integrationists, administrators, paraprofessionals, and many more. Cathy is at the top of the list.

Dear Cathy,

As the school year draws to a close, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to work with you. Over and over again, I see the dedication you display, not only to your profession but also to the students, families, teachers, and schools you serve. Your professionalism is unsurpassed and your willingness to assume expanded responsibilities is exemplary. I am truly grateful to be your colleague.

Enjoy the summer with your family!
Jill

2019 - Notes #15 and #16

These next two notes were written to two special women.

The first is Rose. She and I worked together for many years and share a lot of memories. When Rose retired, she left a white sweater hanging in a closet beneath a staircase. Since this closet was located immediately next to my office, I often found myself grabbing it when the air conditioning was just a little too cool for comfort.

Over the past 18 months, our office relocated across the street while our facility was renovated. We recently moved back...and so did the sweater. In fact, now it hangs on a hook located on the back of my office door. Just last week, I found myself wrapped in the sweater once again. I have a feeling that the sweater will remain in the office even after I retire :-)

Dear Rose,

Although we have moved back into our renovated building and most items surrounding me are new, I often find myself wearing a "piece" of the old facility -- your sweater! Every time I put it on, I think of you :-)

Jill

The second note is written to Shirley. She and my mom shared a wall when they taught elementary school in the same building. Shirley taught first grade and my mom was right next door in the second grade classroom. Their friendship has survived the destruction of their school building, changes in school assignments, international travel experiences too numerous to count, family responsibilities, Husker sporting events, and neighborhood get-togethers.

My husband and I live a good three-hour drive from my hometown. As my mom gets older, it's a relief to know she is surrounded by a loving neighborhood that includes her best friend.

Dear Shirley,

Just a note to say how grateful I am that my mom has you for a close friend. You've had so many good times together, including extensive travel experiences, that you share a wealth of memories.

It's difficult living a distance from her. I'm especially thankful she has a strong support system at home. I'm sure I'll see you frequently in the weeks ahead. We'll have to go out for another Crispy Chicken Salad!

Jill

2019 - Notes #13 and #14

Once again, I failed to post my weekly notes. However, my excuse is a good one. My husband and I became grandparents! I can truly say there is nothing like holding a grandchild in your arms. My heart is filled with love :-)

My heart is also full of gratitude for our church secretary, Lorna. She has faithfully served our congregation in this capacity for many years. Right now, her heart is heavy as our pastor is leaving after serving our church for 24 years. I was fortunate to be able to hand deliver my note to Lorna at a time she needed a positive word. Although my words were few, the personalized stationery was perfect, and the hug was heartfelt.

Dear Lorna,

Just a quick note to say thanks for everything you do for Grace. We are fortunate to have you serve as our church secretary.

Jill

Over the past two weeks, I also had the opportunity to reconnect with an elementary school friend whom I hadn't seen for almost 55 years. Thank goodness for Facebook! If I could find a way to write a personal note to Mark Zuckerberg, I would. Thanks to social media, Pamela and I "found" each other a few years ago. When she and her husband decided to travel from Alaska to the Midwest, we made plans to meet for dinner. Our 2-1/2 hour Italian meal was filled with tales of travel, memories of the old neighborhood, and hopes to see each other again.

My next note was written to her.

Dear Pamela,

I am so grateful we had an opportunity to renew our friendship after so many years! It was amusing to reminisce about grade school and remember all the fun we had as kids. I especially enjoyed learning about your life after you moved away and hearing about your recent (and future) travels.

Thank you for the gifts from Alaska and China. We've already savored the sockeye salmon and begun several "Moose Do Lists." I anticipate wearing the silk scarf on Easter, and am eager to read "Mama, Do You Love Me?" to Carter that same weekend. I appreciate your thoughtfulness.

Please keep us updated on your travels. We're eager to see photographs from this summer.

I hope our paths will cross again soon.
Jill

2019 - Note #12

I absolutely love school nurses! These nursing professionals are often unsung heroes in their school districts, many times working in total isolation from other medical professionals.

Fortunately, we have a State School Nurse Consultant. She maintains a statewide listserv to keep us updated and informed, helps coordinate an annual school nurse conference, and is always ready and willing to share her knowledge and expertise.

This week's note is written to her.

Dear Carol,

This is just a quick note to say thanks for all the assistance you have given me. Whenever I have a question that pertains to school nursing, you always have a helpful answer. Not only have you assisted ESU 8 school nurses, but you truly care about school nursing practice all across the state. Our students, families, and school staff are definitely the top beneficiaries.

I am truly grateful. Thank you.

Jill

2019 - Notes #10 and #11

I apologize for the delay in posting these next two notes of thankfulness.

A coworker and I have been sharing an office space for the past 18 months. The main office where we are employed has been undergoing extensive renovations that required us to temporarily move into three separate facilities scattered throughout downtown. Steph, ten other employees, and I have been housed in a former beauty shop since summer 2017. Although we were cramped for space and needed to share small offices, the staff camaraderie and collaboration increased.

We moved into our renovated building less than two weeks ago. Note #10 is written to my former office mate, Steph.

Dear Steph,

You are positive energy! Thank you so much for bringing a smile to my face every morning at work. Your laughter is contagious, your generosity is unsurpassed, and your sunny disposition shines.

I have to admit I actually miss sharing an office with you :-) Your positive attitude makes coming to work fun!

Jill

Our daughter Sarah and her husband, Joe, live in Wisconsin. This year's extreme cold and record-setting snowfall complicated life for everyone in the state.

My next note is written to her in-laws, Tom and Mary.

Dear Tom and Mary,

It was so wonderful to see you recently! We always enjoy the time we can spend together.

This is simply a note to say thank you for always "being there." With Sarah living so far away, it's comforting to know that she can rely on your help and support. I especially appreciate everything you did to help Joe and her this winter. I truly don't know how they would manage without your assistance with snow removal, vehicle problems, and even simple round-the-house chores.

Please know that Bill and I are truly grateful.

Jill

2019 - Note #9

You may have realized from previous posts that my community is a special place filled with caring, helpful, and wonderful people.

This week's note is written to another unsung community member.

Dear Teresa,

'Just a quick note to say thank you for being the best mail carrier we've ever had! Our mail is delivered promptly, even in horrible weather. When a package is too large to fit in our mailbox, you get out of your car and deliver it in person. I can't tell you how much we appreciate these actions.

You definitely embody the unofficial U.S. Postal Service slogan, "Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night..."

We are truly grateful for your exemplary service. Thank you.

Jill

2019 - Note #8

This week's note is actually doubling as a birthday greeting to a special lady. Joan was an aide at our local junior/senior high school for many years, including the six years our daughter, Sarah, was a student.

When Sarah was a seventh grader, she had extensive surgery on her leg that confined her to a wheelchair for a couple months. In the weeks that followed, she regained her balance and learned how to walk again. Consistent physical therapy and stretching exercises were vital to her recovery. Upon returning to school and throughout the next five years, Joan was there, giving Sarah not only the physical support she required, but offering encouragement and bolstering her confidence.

Dear Joan,

Happy 80th Birthday! What a fantastic milestone for a wonderful lady!

Not a day goes by that I don't recall your kindness toward Sarah. When she needed help with the wheelchair, you were there. When her muscles needed to be stretched, you were there. When she felt overwhelmed, you were there. Today she is confident, successful, and independent because you were there.

I wish I had a special birthday gift for you. Instead, I'll share this note and offer my gratitude.

Thank you,
Jill

2019 - Note #7

As I mentioned in earlier posts from three years ago, I am a cancer survivor. My health is exceptionally important to me and I don't take it for granted any longer. I try to watch my diet, get enough sleep, take time to relax, and dedicate time for exercise each day.

As I was working out this afternoon in our town's fitness center, I began to think how fortunate we are to have such a great place in our small community. This local business was begun a few years ago by a young couple who had a vision. When it first opened, there were just a few of us "older folks" who frequented the center after work to spend time lifting weights or using the exercise equipment. Today, the business is booming!

This week's note is written to Seth and Shelby.

Dear Seth and Shelby,

A little over three years ago, 719 Fitness Center opened for business. I was thrilled to finally have a decent place to work out! The facility and equipment are top-notch, and your enthusiasm is contagious. I've been so excited to watch the business grow from a small number of members and regular customers to a packed house of exercisers.

Thank you for your dedication to promoting fitness and healthy lifestyles in our community. I am grateful every day for the vision, time, and energy both of you have devoted to the fitness center, and I look forward to many healthy years ahead!

Jill

2019 - Note #6

As I was sitting in church today, I was struck by the realization that our church organist has played for practically every service ever since we joined the church almost 35 years ago. This week's note is written to her.

Dear Bonnie,

Just a quick note to says thanks for being our church organist. As I sat in the pew this morning, I realized that you have served in this position for at least 35 years. Our entire congregation appreciates your dedication. While many churches do not have organists or "live" music at their services, especially those in small towns, Grace is privileged to have you. Thank you for serving God through music.

Jill

2019 - Note #5

My husband and I celebrated the anticipated arrival of our first grandchild at a baby shower this weekend. We were able to visit with some of our son's long-time friends and spend time with our daughter-in-law's parents, Tim and Carole. This week's note is written to them.

Dear Tim and Carole,

It is always so much fun to spend time with the two of you and the rest of your family. It's obvious that family ties are strong and the love you feel for each other is displayed continually. I'm grateful that Jordan joined such a caring family. Thank you for also sharing time with us and making our family always feel so welcome. I look forward to experiencing many wonderful days ahead in the future with both of you.

Love,
Jill

2019 - Note #4

Another community member who does so much "behind the scenes" is Doris. She leads a group at church that focuses on assisting those in need, never drawing attention to her actions. This week's note is written to her.

Dear Doris,

Just a quick note to say thank you for leading our Christ Care Committee. Your tireless service is reflected in all the little things you do for others. Although it may seem to go unnoticed, I appreciate all your hard work. I pray that God will bless you as you have been a blessing to others.

With gratefulness for your acts of kindness.

Jill

2019 - Note #3

As I mentioned last week, my small town is filled with wonderful and friendly people. One of the friendliest individuals works at a local pharmacy. This week's note is written to Traci.

Dear Traci,

Just a quick note to say how much I appreciate your friendly smile. Whenever I see you behind the counter, I'm always greeted with a big smile and a quick chat. Your warm personality makes coming into the pharmacy a pleasure. Thanks for adding sunshine to my day :-)

Jill

2019 - Note #2

I live in a small, rural town where practically everybody recognizes your face, and most people know your name. Our community is fortunate to have many outstanding medical professionals. This past week, I experienced an event that sent me to our local optometrist. My note is written to him and his staff.

Dear Dr. Vetick and staff,

Thank you again for seeing me first thing in the morning this past Thursday. Everyone worked to reassure me and calm my fears. In fact, our family has had many positive experiences with your clinic. From seeing a muddy football player on a late Friday night who'd been cleated near his eye, assisting with selecting frames, sharing a personal phone number in case of an emergency, and taking evening phone calls at home, your caring service is top notch. In fact, our daughter thinks so much of your expertise that she makes the long trip home from Wisconsin for her annual eye exam!

I'm grateful for your professionalism and care. Thanks for always seeing that I leave with a smile :-)

Jill

2019 - 52 Notes of Thankfulness, Part 2

In January 2016, I began a yearlong journey of writing weekly notes of gratitude. It's now 2019 and I am ready to embark on a similar trail. The notes are once again spurred by the unexpected death of a friend. The first note is written to his wife, Darcy.

Dear Darcy,

Three years ago, I wrote 52 weekly notes of thanks to individuals who had touched my life in some way. This year, I am going to do the same.

Thank you for sharing Nate with all of us who loved him. His infectious smile, laughter, jokes, music, positivity, and belief in his students, coworkers, and community will live on in so many ways.

God is also truly shining through you. Every word you write or speak serves to inspire, not only to me, but everyone who knows you. Thank you for sharing your love for Christ with the world. Psalm 46:10 "Be still and know that I am God."

Our love and prayers surround you and your family.

Jill

P.S. #LiveLikeNate