Heather and I danced together in high school. She was a brilliant performer, but what I loved most wasn’t those Fouette en tourants she performed so effortlessly (though I was easily transfixed) but her compassion. We taught an after-school program together at a local elementary school; Heather had the patience of a saint! She worked with each student until they mastered the jazz square or grasped a sequence of movements. She never gave up on those kids. And nearly ten years later, she’s winning the hearts and minds of a new group of  little ones at Dainta’s Children in Haiti. I thought it only appropriate that I write to her today.

Follow Heather’s journey and donate to her cause here.

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January 12, 2011

Heather,

Oh my, it’s been too long friend. I’m writing to thank you—both for being you and for your wonderful contribution to the children of Haiti. It has been such a pleasure following your journey on facebook—the photos, the anecdotes, the sorrow, the triumphs. You have touched so many lives and inspired people all over the globe (myself included).

I cannot believe it’s been a year since that fateful day and the natural disaster that would kill hundreds of thousands of people and leave lives changed forever. I remember making a donation to the Red Cross and saying prayers on behalf of the victims and their families. But, you—you did so much more than that. And as we all returned to our lives and our own problems you continued to help the people of Haiti in a real way.

Thank you Heather, for your selflessness and your spirit. For doing what we couldn’t or chose not to. I am so inspired by your altruism and so honored to know you. May the year ahead be filled with many successes and small-people smiles. I’ll be thinking of you my dear!

Love,

Lauren

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old school kate spade letter writing paper

Christine is one of those friends you acquire by accident. She’s the little sister of a dear friend (and somedays I like her better, wink.). She has gorgeous red hair and an infectious little giggle. And soon she’ll be Eddie’s wife.

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January 10, 2011

Christine,

Well look at you, Little Miss Engaged! Congratulations love! I am so excited for you and Eddie and all the celebrations to come. He is a wonderful man and he loves you so very much. I know you will have a very happily ever after. Enjoy your engagement my dear and if I can do anything for you two, just say the word.

All the best,

Lauren

Greg and I go way back. He takes pleasure in ‘nudging’ me. Luckily, I’m a good sport.

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January 9, 2011

Greg,

Wishing you a very happy birthday—your first as a Dad! May this year be full of joy and successes, good health and lots of firsts (for Taylor + Jack mostly).

All the best,

Lauren

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Papyrus

I made a new friend named Alicia. She is just darling and she has great paper-taste!

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January 8, 2011

Alicia,

Hello new friend! I know I’ve said it before, but I am so pleased our paths crossed and so pleased we could bond over paper, glorious, beautiful, patterned paper. This darling little set makes my heart swell. Thank you so much for your kindness! I look forward to more impromptu trips to kate’s of course, but I think we are up to a proper cocktail date now, no? See you soon friend…

Love,

Lauren

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Mudlark Stationery, Lola gift set

Elyse is my chic friend from college. Her favorite color is yellow, but she has no particular affinity for cows. :)

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January 7, 2011

Elyse,

Happy Birthday Darling! I hope you have a most splendid day and a ravishing time cutting up a rug tonight. I know you will dazzle in something fabulous. And best wishes for your twenty-eighth year. May it be full of good, good things!

xxo Lauren

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Greenwich Letterpress, cow card

My friend Abbie gave birth to the cutest baby boy one year ago today. He is such a charmer–and he isn’t even walking yet!

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January 6, 2011

Graham,

Today you turn one! Holy moly. I remember eagerly awaiting your arrival—it took forever. I thought you were going to be a girl. But you were way better than a girl, even if you puked on me every time I held you.

I hope you have a wonderful birthday (even if your mean Mommy doesn’t buy you any presents) little one. You bring such joy to everyone you meet. Even child-haters. It has been such fun watching you grow. I am so looking forward to your terrible twos, but knowing you, you’ll be perfect!

Lots of Love,

Lauren