Confession: I am very discerning when it comes to children. I like a select few and tolerate the rest. You take 10+ flights a year to Orlando, a.k.a. Disney World and then tell me what a blessing they are, deal? My friends are slowly entering the baby years, one by one. And I’m making light of it, with the help of Old Tom Foolery.
Last Friday, Adam and I headed west to Pennsylvania for a bbq in honor of Adam’s little sister and her husband. They just built a beautiful home overlooking a golf course (which may have contributed to Adam’s willingness to cut out of work early). If you couldn’t guess, I’m our official house secretary–Adam is exceptional at signing his name. I penned a quick note and came armed with a scented room candle and a dozen Levain Bakery cookies!
I got a very tall request all the way from Singapore. Bethany wanted not one, but three letters sent to some very special people in her life. And “ASAP please!” I of course obliged and reminded Bethany they don’t call it snail mail for nothing. Here’s hoping the post is swift across oceans.
Claire is one of the smartest people I know. She has lived all over the world, from Cambodia to Syria, and had the most amazing adventures as a journalist. For the last two years she’s been living in Boston, getting her masters at Tufts. She recently passed the foreign service office exam and interview process–it is extremely competitive! Soon she’ll be on her next adventure. I sure hope its close by.
I discovered Annie’s blog, The Elements of Style in early January. I quickly noted, ‘we have so many things in common’ and have been itching to send her a note ever since. When she announced her pregnancy a couple of weeks ago, I finally got up the courage to put pen to paper.
Ashley is the little sister of my high school boyfriend. Over the last fourteen years, I’ve watched her home videos, attended dance recitals and chaperoned her scavenger hunt birthday party at the mall. I’ve adored her from the start and was delighted when she moved to New York in January 2010. Since then Ashley has made great strides in her career as a journalist, most recently accepting a job at USA today. It has been such fun watching her grow–I am just bursting with pride! A farewell letter and some New York essentials (read: black and white cookie) were a must.
My oldest friend Kristin got married in October and I had the honor of being a bridesmaid. I wanted to write her a letter, call it a toast on paper, to commemorate the occasion. I know she will have lots of wedding gifts, photos and memories to mark the day. But for me, nothing beats a letter– fitting too, considering the crazy amount of note passing we did back in the day. Forgive me, my time management was suffering that week so I penned from my airline tray table (and photographed with my iPhone).
Is there a greater feeling than receiving recognition for a job well done? Adam had his annual review at work and knocked it out of the park. I am so proud of him! And its always nice to have a reason to pause and celebrate.
Today my cousin celebrates his marriage to Nicole. Sadly I won’t be able to partake in the jams + cupcakes, but I am there in spirit, wishing them all the joys this life has to offer! Congratulations!
…
June 25, 2011
Griffin and Nicole,
Congratulations on your wedding! I’m sorry I can’t be there to toast your union, but I am cheering from New York.
A little Irish blessing for a happily ever after:
May your hands be forever clasped in friendship
And may your hearts be forever joined in love!
Wishing you both all the best!
Love,
Lauren xxo
