A Thank You...

Yesterday, my neighbor presented me with a gift, an antique table loom for weaving. Her son has been in my care for a few weeks. I was hanging laundry when she came outside and asked if I had a moment. I always do for a friend and I came over to chat. She handed me a card which said I was an inspiration to her and she was grateful for all I had done for her and her son over the last four years since she moved in. Since she arrived we have had barbeques together, I have watched her son off and on when needed and most recently I encouraged her to homeschool even though she is a single mom. Since making that huge leap of faith a few months ago and changing her son's mode of education I have encouraged her like any friend would and given her ideas and things to ponder. Our friendship has really blossomed.




But she is moving in a week and she said she wanted to give me something to show how appreciative she was for all I have done. Under a blanket was the loom and when I lifted it off I cried! It is the most thoughtful gift I have ever received from anyone, aside from my husband. I usually have a very hard time making friends, and usually feel more at home with my husband and kids than other people. I had no idea she felt this way and even now I am having a hard time accepting such a costly gift.

I can think of a few people in my life who have inspired me to become the person I am today. I wonder if I have ever made it as clear to them how much their friendship, advice and camaraderie have meant to me. In our busy, disconnected lives, are we ever so bold to tell a person that they are appreciated and loved? Would these people know how we feel about them? I had no idea how my neighbour felt about me until yesterday. I was just being me, lending a helpful hand or a listening ear to someone who needed one.

This may be a bit campy, but here goes...

To my sister, Jennifer, I adore you. You have been a fixture in my life long before my husband, my kids or any other person I know. You are my constant friend. I love you.

To my dear friend, Crystal B., recently moved north, you have listened to my endless prattle over many, many cups of coffee. You inspire me to be a better, more patient mom, who truly delights in being with her kids. I miss you already.

To my friend, Tammy, it was you who inspired me to begin homeschooling. It was your unwaivering faith that led me to believe that I too can accomplish and succeed at such a worthy parental role. For your encouragement, I thank you.

To Mrs. Fox, my elementary teacher-librarian, you inspired me to write, write and keep writing. It was that early encouragement then sent me on a path to win awards, accolades and ultimately to journalism school. For this work, I humbly recognize you.

And last but not least, to my husband, who has always believed in me when I found it hard to believe in myself. Thanks for obeying orders and not dying on me seven years ago.

I know this is a poor substitute for saying these things to the people in person, but after today I will make more effort to let my loved ones know they are truly loved.