Dear Sticky Shoes...

Thanks for creating a simple and catchy melody as I've walked today.  And thanks, too, for reminding me of that episode of Friends where Phoebe caught a cold and loved her sexy sick voice.

Dear To-Do Lists...

I find it highly intriguing that you can be either my best friend or my nemesis, simply depending upon how the day unfolds.

Dear Yesterday...

Despite your prospects, you turned out to be a really good day.  Thanks.  I really needed that.

Dear Recent Home Repair...

I really resent having had you.  I was quickly reminded, though, how blessed I am to have a home, whether it needs repair or not.  So... thanks.

Dear Reading to My Children...

You are one of my very favorite things.  While a fly on the wall might say, "That person is nuts," using creative voices, accents and animated tones to help the story come to life make the time that much more enjoyable for all involved.

Dear Massages...

I adore you.  I wish that I could afford you more often, and that your effects were longer lasting.

Dear Sunburns...

You really suck.  Remind me next time to use sunscreen.

Dear "How to Train Your Dragon..."

You are one of my favorite flicks.  From the powerful score, to the charming and endearing animation of Toothless, and even the quirky and unique voice of Hiccup, in my book, you are an A+.

Dear Gardening...

Thank you for being the one activity that, for me, is equal parts relaxation and productivity.

Dear Falling Asleep to a Thunderstorm...

You're like nature's lullaby, shutting out the other sounds of the world and rocking me into a deep, peaceful sleep.  I wish you'd come 'round bedtime more often.

Dear Forgiveness...

Why is it that you are so easy to receive, but so difficult to give?

Dear Tattooed Young Mom at the Park...

I really enjoyed meeting you.  Your daughter was such a delight.  And your laid back way of guiding and playing with her reminded me that I don't have to be uptight to be an effective parent. 

Dear BFF...

I never tire of your wittiness & charm, your open door & wise counsel, and your sense of humor & infectious laugh.  I consider myself richly blessed to call you my friend.

Dear Curtains in My Bedroom...

Thank you for almost completely blocking out the light provided by the morning sun.  Bless you for holding the day at bay, even if it is only for a few moments.

Dear Rafael Nadal...

These past five years I thought that everything John McEnroe and Mary Carillo said about you was just hype.  But after watching you in the final of the French Open, I'm now a believer.

Dear friend who volunteered to babysit my children today...

What a marvelous gift you've given me.  If nothing else, that time alone allowed my head to clear and life to come back into focus.  Bless you.

Dear Cable Television...

It has been six months since I cancelled you.  And I've only missed you once or twice.

Dear Bad Habit...

I genuinely want to be rid of you. If only I could muster the will-power to match that desire.

Dear Laundry...

It seems you could go on forever.  If only I had your endurance.

Dear Yellow...

Thank you for being so cheerful.  You brighten nearly every day in which I see you.

Dear Facebook...

I've been quick to criticize you in the past.  But you have single-handedly kept me in touch with loved ones while abroad, and for that, I'll do my best to hold you in higher esteem in the future.

Dear My Big Mouth...

Exercise a little discretion, will ya?

Dear Mowing My Lawn...

Thank you for reminding me about times I mowed my grandmother's lawn.  She had to have it all "just so."  But now that it is my lawn, I can create elite patterns in the grass or wreak havoc with the lawn mower.