Because Our Words Matter

So yesterday I was treated to this sweetness, from our local Scoop Shop.

It's a Nacho Average Wednesday sundae that totally hit the spot!

No words needed, really, but let me try to describe it:

Deliciously decadent, this tray features two scoops of your favorite flavor,

topped by the syrups of your choice and dressed with discs of a

homemade waffle cone, then decorated with colorful candy bits.

I savored every spoonful; happy Teacher Appreciation to me.

Know what makes me even happier than that comfort food? 

The sweet sentiments in my Smile File.

Reflections from my Facebook post:

It sits quietly on an antique table in our Wisconsin room, a beautiful reminder of how blessed I was to grow alongside precious kids, their patient families, and some very passionate educators for so long.

If your child went to FHS, Westwood, Bales or FJH and wrote or drew me a note,

it’s in there, waiting to treat me to another smile.

If a teacher, parent or stakeholder gave me a card or sent an email,

it’s in there, ready to soothe my soul again.

If you attended a presentation and filled out a reflection exit slip,

it’s in there, and I’m grateful for the feedback.

All saved and guarded by my college-girl Barbie, to help me remember

where I’ve been and fuel my journey to the next stop.

So today, know that if you write a Thank-You note to your child’s teachers, it will be an elixir that makes them smile, and they will likely keep it for a long time.

Maybe forever.

And don't forget that specificity drives relevance, so instead of a broad-brush "thank you for all that you do," be as specific as possible. What is it that they do (naturally and/or with intention) that aligns so well with your family's wants and needs?

Because our words matter and can serve as nourishment

for their heart and soul, energy for their head and their health.

And though gratitude knows no calendar, there's one more day

left in this year's Teacher Appreciation Week celebration.

Whose Smile File will your words become a cherished part of?

Happy writing, dear reader.