Dear Mary K.

Mother emphasized the importance of writing thank you
notes to everyone who offered help, advice, or
just listened.  In the spirit of her gentle reminder
it's your turn to hear some words of gratitude.  

Thank you for loving your family. 
That simple example matters today, tomorrow,
 and certainly is at the forefront of good fortune.  You know
 that nurturing the  human spirit is a "must," it's essential.
  I'm sure that folks sharing your life and witnessing
 it unfold do recount moments of wonder, spunky
adventure, displays of courage, and many joys.  

What about your kitchen duty and breaking bread?
During daily meals or special gatherings
I imagine  an appreciation of food shared with
 others wove its way  into your menus prepared
for The Judge, children, grandkids, and friends. 

"Thankful for nourishment before us,
  family beside us, and love between us."

 Truly, times like this make for the finest dining!

Thank you for caring about the community and those 
who crossed your path.  The people who live in our
midst often reward us with their time,
their encouragement, or special gifts.  In doing
 so they impart an important message:
"you matter."  Affirmation like that is
empowering and necessary.  

I know both logic and passion lead us to
 folks who desire to understand and address
solutions for critical issues.  We can learn alongside
one another and in turn, recognize needs that
deserve attention.   A single person benefiting
from such a rendezvous can make a difference.

You know that so well; you set the example. 

 In the spirit of recognizing others who
live life with purpose, joy, and a willingness to learn,
I'm going to share some stories.  I call them "love letters."

Why not?  Perhaps shedding a light upon the best efforts
 of those in our midst will elicit some thankfulness.
After all we all "climb steep mountains," and
those that do it with a smile set grand examples.
Here's to some shout-outs for 2018!

I'm so grateful.