Dolores is one of those whip smart ladies who seemingly knows something about everything. She has impeccable taste and an elegantly decorated home that still manages to feel comfortable and lived in. Most of all, Dolores is courageous. Five years ago her life was turned upside down without warning. I admire her ability to rebuild and ultimately find happiness again. I’m not sure I would have fared too well under the circumstances. And I just thought she should know…

Have you ever told someone you admire how much they mean to you? Make me proud and write them a letter!

…

April 6, 2011

Dolores,

I can hardly believe it has been five years. I vividly remember hearing the news for the first time; my Dad told me in the car, on the way home from the train station. I was stunned, insisting this had to be some kind of cruel April Fool’s joke. This was the kind of betrayal that belonged in a harlequin romance novel. It couldn’t happen to someone I cared for and admired. I just hated seeing you ambushed and heartbroken in the weeks and months that followed.

But what I don’t think I’ve ever told you is how impressed and inspired I was by your courageous tussle to rebuild your life. You took the fistful of lemons dealt your way and survived, flourished even. One piece at a time, you put things back together for yourself and your family. And in due time you learned to trust again and even found love. Sunny days are here again, and I couldn’t be happier for you.

I’ve always loved the Martin Luther King quote, “the ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.” You are a shining example of a well-measured lady (with good looks and wit to boot). If possible, I admire you even more today than in those moments of adversity. And I just thought you should know.

All the best,

Lauren xxo

Connor Stationery for J. Crew

David is an extremely accomplished litigator. He works at a prominent firm in New York City and recently expanded his resume to include teaching. I applaud his efforts on behalf of these law students—people like David, teachers, make the world a better place.

…

April 4, 2011

David,

My Dad told me about your latest venture, teaching. Specifically he said, “David is teaching complex business litigation—the most valuable class these third years will ever take.”

I’m sure your students have no idea how hard you’ve been working, planning lessons tirelessly since October and commuting to North Carolina weekly. And you maintain your position as a full time lawyer and leader in your firm. I thought I had a full schedule!

I am so impressed and inspired by your commitment to your Alma mater. In addition to a sizable monetary donation, you give your time as the Chairman of the Board of Visitors and as a dedicated professor. I hope those student know how very lucky they are.

Best of luck completing the semester. You’re in the home stretch now. And I bet your wife is looking forward to your summer vacation.

All the best,

Lauren

waste not paper

I walked into Kathryn Austin’s dance studio, a gangly 6^th grader with bushy bangs and a sudden desire to learn ballet. (Side note: I was only interested in gymnastics up until this point—gymnastics was cool—but tall girls are not cut out for back handsprings and when I turned eleven my coach pulled my Mom aside and told her, jig’s up.) I was placed in an age appropriate class, which meant plie-ing along side complete pros. Ms. Kathryn encouraged me, fixed my horrific turn out, and managed to work me into that year’s recital without drawing total attention to my flat feet. Friends, this woman is a master. I spent the better part of the next six years in a studio with this lovely lady, learning the anatomy of the body and so much more.

…

April 1, 2011

Ms. Kathryn,

I don’t know if I should erupt in applause, give you a big bear hug, or present you with a gallon of Fresh Market olives. I think you deserve all three. And then some.

When I decided to write a letter a day, I made a short list of people I knew, without doubt, I wanted to write to. You were on that list! And then your daughter—who is forever nine-years-old in my mind, but apparently is in college now, what?!—wrote me a lovely letter request. And if it even possible, my respect and admiration for you tripled.

You are one of the most determined and resilient people I know. I think it is just brilliant that you are getting your PhD. I don’t know how you juggle the three-hour drives or fit in all the research necessary, but I applaud you for doing something for you, and for setting such a wonderful example for your children and all who admire you. Those students of yours—in the studio, at UCF, old and new—are lucky ducks!

You are a wonderfully patient teacher (I speak from experience here) with a wealth of knowledge to share. As a dancer, you are bar none. I will always remember your solo performances during our recitals—they were breathtaking. And if your kids are any indication, you’re a damn good Mom too. But best of all, you are a wonderful role model. You lead by example and inspire so many people to do more, to be more. I would have never stuck with dance if not for your encouragement and support—and it has enriched my life beyond measure. And so many of the lessons you taught me during my formative years I carry with me today. You have such a positive outlook on life and truly live everyday to the fullest—this is the bread and butter of the journey, and it’s so often forgotten.

Thank you for being part of my story. And thank you for casting a little bit of sunshine in so many people’s lives. Best wishes and all the happiness you deserve!

Fondly,

Lauren

Orange Line (sorry, no link. I picked it up at Urbanic)