Note #42

It's already Thursday! WOW! Due to a stretch of exceptionally busy days and nights, I've been unable to post my latest note. However, the recipient has been on my mind for many hours.

Last week, our agency hosted a four-day accreditation review. As one of the lead organizers, for the past few months, my work focused on this external review. Documentation and artifacts related to each of the five standards were linked to a Google Site. These items, along with presentations and interviews, helped to "tell our story" in a truthful, straightforward fashion.

Stating the truth. Sticking to the facts. Being honest. These personal attributes are discussed daily as they relate to our current political scene. Many years ago, a former administrator shared some simple advice that has remained with me over the years. This week's note is written to Don.

Dear Don,

Years ago, you shared some advice. This simple statement has stuck with me ever since. Your words? "Always tell the truth because then you don't have to remember what you said." I've attempted to follow this advice and instill the same values in my children. Also, thank you for encouraging me to continue my education, for without your trust in my abilities, I would never be where I am today.

Gratefully,
Jill

Note #41

I didn't have anyone special in mind for today's post. However, as I was preparing dinner just a few minutes ago, I knew who needed to receive this week's note of thanks.

The chicken and rice casserole entrée that I prepared is my "go to recipe." I think it's about time I thank Debra for sharing this recipe with me.

Dear Debra,

This afternoon as I was preparing my favorite chicken and rice casserole dish, I realized I've never taken the time to thank you for sharing the recipe with me over 25 years ago. It is truly my "go to dish" for family dinners, potlucks, and special events. I've shared the recipe with many others, and it's even printed in our family cookbook. Tonight, I'll think of you with every delicious bite!

Thank you, keep on cooking, and I hope our paths cross again soon.
Jill

Note #40

I just purchased a ukelele. Why? I truly have no idea except I want to learn something "new" that brings back memories of my childhood.

As a fifth grader, beginning ukelele instruction was part of our music curriculum - and I loved it! So much, in fact, that I used my birthday money to buy a ukelele. I remember lying in a hammock, singing songs while playing simple chords on my uke. I wonder what the neighbors thought?!

This week's note is written to my friend and P.E.O. sister, Pat.

Dear Pat,

Guess what? I bought a tenor ukelele last week! Your P.E.O. program lit a fire within me and I knew I simply had to get one. The four basic chords I learned 50 years ago stayed with me, but I've discovered that my fingers aren't nearly as nimble as they were when I was 10! However, I'm determined to challenge my brain as I attempt to strum harmonious sounds from this instrument. Thanks for being the impetus for this musical adventure!

Gratefully,
Jill

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