Note #16

My dad is an exceptionally talented and gifted athlete. He played college basketball, participated in collegiate track and field, and was honored to be named to his college's Athletic Hall of Fame. After his college days ended, he played on men's AAU basketball teams, was a softball pitcher, participated in Master's track meets, and held the national decathlon record for his age group. I even remember giving him a shot put for Christmas one year!

As a child, I remember playing lots of wiffle ball games, practicing my high jump, being asked to run a timed mile, learning how to water ski, and throwing a Frisbee around the yard. We were always outside doing something!

Basketball was always in the forefront. Serious games of HORSE were often played in the driveway, and he never simply let his grandson win without a heated struggle. In fact, Dad could make an unbelievable number of consecutive free throws, and also shoot a beautiful jump shot when he was well into his 70s.

Daily pushups and exercises were part of his routine. Even now, at the age of 81, he continues to workout whenever he can.

This week's note is written to my personal MVP.

Dear Dad,

Every day, I attempt to follow your example by eating right, exercising, and getting enough sleep. Over the years, I've watched you eat a healthy diet including fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol, and never forgetting how a small portion of ice cream or dessert helps round out a meal :-) Your commitment to daily physical activity and weight control encourages me to exercise every day. And of course, what could be better for health than a nap?

Thank you for being such a positive role model for our entire family. We are all healthier because of you, our family MVP. You'll always be our "first" place winner!

Love,
Jill

Note #15

Two days ago, we celebrated the life of my mother-in-law.

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God, how great Thou art!

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee:
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

Arlene loved flowers, house plants, and garage sales. She collected vases and crystal. Traveling, cooking, and dancing were at the top of her list. She never met a stranger. She loved her family...and we loved her.

One special family member offered Arlene assistance, love, and support practically every day. It's almost impossible to express to my sister-in-law how much this meant to us, but I'm going to try.

Dear Rosie,

Words alone can never convey how grateful we are for all you did for Arlene. Over the past years, you unselfishly shared your time to care for her in so many different ways. Never once did we hear you complain about all the hours you spent checking on her at home, accompanying her to the doctor, cleaning her house, decorating her room, washing clothes, preparing meals, fixing her hair, and everything else you did. You were an ideal and loving daughter-in-law to Arlene, and a wonderful sister-in-law to us.

We love you!
Jill and Bill

Note #14

These last two weeks have been emotional, to say the least. There are so many notes of gratitude that I could -- and should -- write to family members. However, I'm emotionally drained and too exhausted to write a sentimental note this evening.

I need some smiles right now, so this week's note is being written to my friend, Anita.

Dear Anita,

Every day when I check my Facebook page, I look forward to reading your latest posts. You have embraced retirement and your creative spirit to the utmost! From ukeleles to knitting, from watercolor painting to spinning wheels, and from barn quilts to weaving, your enthusiasm is contagious. Thanks for sharing your adventures, interests, and love for life.

'Hoping to be a "creative woman" someday soon, too!!
Jill

Note #13

He is risen! He is risen, indeed! Alleluia!

Today is Easter, my favorite holiday of the entire year. On Easter morning, I love gathering at church to greet the risen Son, singing "Jesus Christ is Ris'n Today" (which just happens to be my all-time favorite hymn). Every year, singing that joyful melody brings a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes.

I absolutely love Easter -- and I also absolutely love jelly beans :-) Thus, this week's note of thankfulness:

Happy Easter, Pat!

Thanks so much for the jelly beans! You always remember that they're my favorite :-) You are also a favorite role model of mine. I'll never forget your thoughtfulness when I was going through chemo and radiation, ongoing kindness that has continued for over 15 years. You've taught me the importance of reaching out to others who need a little pick-me-up from a friend. Thanks for everything you do for others, never asking for anything in return. You are a definite ray of sunshine in my life.

Gratefully,
Jill

Note #12

Yesterday I called 911. Was I scared? Absolutely. Is everything okay now? Yes, much better than anticipated.

This recent experience made me realize how grateful I am for our local EMTs, doctors, nurses, and hospital personnel. Although I planned to write a different Note #12, the one I'm writing today is more important.

Dear AMH Staff and EMTs,

Thank you so much for the professionalism and expert care that _______ received this past weekend. From the arrival of the EMTs to the goodbye at dismissal, he was in such good hands. We appreciate every caring action and gesture. Your staff truly exemplifies your motto: Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit.

Our family is so thankful for Antelope Memorial Hospital. Over the years, many of our family's most memorable and important events were related to AMH. From our children's births, physical therapy, ambulance service at high school football games, ER visits, x-rays, lab work, cancer treatment support, and clinic appointments, you have all been an important part of our lives.

Thank you for providing exemplary health care for our family.

Gratefully,
Bill and Jill ____

Note #11

I love music! Music speaks to my soul in a way that words alone are unable to do. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of singing while seated in the back seat of the car. Whenever we traveled, we sang.

From an early age, I was intrigued by the piano, teaching myself to play simple songs from our neighbor's John Thompson books before finally beginning piano lessons at the age of seven. Mrs. Oleson lived just down the block. Every week, I'd walk to her home for my 30-minute piano lesson, come straight home and immediately learn next week's songs so I wouldn't have to practice. Fortunately, I did display a little talent, so after Mrs. Oleson quit teaching, I learned from Mrs. Perry, and finally from Dr. Bates at the college.

However, my best piano teacher sits in the church pew in front of me each Sunday. His name is Jerry.

Dear Jerry,

There is no way I can ever repay you for taking me out of my "piano comfort zone" and encouraging me to accompany the men's gospel quartet. To say I was overwhelmed and anxious when practices started would be an understatement. To admit that I grew to enjoy the experience would be the truth. Learning how to chord and improvise made me a much better musician. I can never thank you enough for all you've taught me.

Thank you for sharing your talents and love of music,
Jill

Note #10

Oh my goodness! It was bound to happen, and it finally did. I forgot to write a note yesterday. This is precisely the reason the messages are posted on a blog. I needed something to keep me accountable for my decision to write 52 notes of thankfulness. This blog is definitely doing the trick!

A couple weekends ago, my husband and I were fortunate to visit a dear friend. She resides in a retirement community and will celebrate her 91st birthday next month. Hope is a former coworker, and the most loyal and avid Husker fan I know!

Dear Husker Hope,

It was so wonderful to spend some time with you! The years we spent in neighboring offices remain special to me. You were always a wonderfully supportive professional advocate, encouraging me to serve on state committees and become involved with Drug-free School and Community events. Of course, we were also the only women in the office who loved sports! Many Monday mornings, you and I could be found either celebrating Nebraska athletic team victories or lamenting heartfelt losses. I will always think of you whenever I hear cheers of "Go Big Red!"

I'm grateful for our friendship.

Jill