Gratitude Month, Day 20

Thank you notes.

Really.

I’ve been about three thousand percent[1] better than any other time in my life in the writing of the thank-yous this month, but still not getting it done every day. But if I could keep up the 2-a-week thing, I think it would change my life. At least a little.

But I’m here to talk about the other kind. The kind that SOMEONE ELSE WRITES TO ME. Oh, that kind of thank-you notes is THE BEST KIND. I got a package of them in the mail this weekend. A whole package. No kidding. From dozens of the brilliant and lovely kids at Hillcrest Junior High. And not only were they kind and generous, they were clever.

Remember how I like my kids clever?

Oh, yes. I do.

I got origami thank yous. I got ones tied with ribbons. I got illustrated ones, and ones with practical pet suggestions, and ones with brave statements of Goals. I got one folded to look like a book cover, with blue tonenails. A Bright Blue Thank-You Card. Some in verse. Some on colored paper. Some so funny I had to read them out loud. Some just shamelessly telling me that I’m awesome. (Um, thank you. I needed that.)

Do you know what I think would be a good habit for me to get into? Writing You’re Welcome Notes.

So, here we go.

Dear Hillcrest Junior High Honors English Friends,

I loved your package. It made my day. Couldn’t have been more delightful if it contained a coupon for the capture of the next skunk. Or a package of caramels. Or a dozen helium balloons. It was a real pleasure to come and play with you guys and talk to you and listen to your awesome comments and meet your fantastic teachers. I’m so lucky to get to have days like that in my life, days full of eager readers and learners and new friends. You’re very welcome for the visit and the chat, and I hope our paths will cross again. (Please let me know if they do, will you? Because there ARE 200 of you and only one of me, as far as I know.)

Love,
Becca

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[1] I know. Math is not my strong suit.