"The handwritten thank-you note speaks volumes . . . " Emily Post

Since most communication in today's world is done through email and text messages, have handwritten thank-you notes gone by the wayside?  

I hope not.  I know there are fewer notes written than in days past, but "old school" teachers like me continue to hope that some people still teach and practice good manners.

My hope was fulfilled,  because I received a thank-you note and drawing in the mail on Wednesday.  

Last week, I sent a gift of a Grady book, coloring book, posters, stickers, and bookmark to two young brothers. (I know one of their parents, but I have never met the children.)  The note was written by a parent - simple, short, and sincere - and I know the children were included in the process because I also received a "thank-you" drawing. These parents are modeling and teaching the appropriate manners and behavior to their very young children.  (Applause from me! Manners matter in life!)

I have always enjoyed both the writing and the receiving of thank-you notes. I like to think of the recipient's reaction upon opening the mailbox, secretly hoping that there reaction is similar to mine.  I hope they feel joy when they see a handwritten envelope in the "real" mail.  To me, receiving a thank-you note means someone has taken a few minutes out of their day to choose a card or stationery, compose a few lines, and then sign, seal, stamp, and mail the card to me. This is a herculean effort, especially when comparing the tasks to typing an email and pressing the "send" button.

You know, I actually enjoy re-reading thank you notes, although I rarely re-read an email.  

I believe that my penchant for writing thank-you notes has helped me to be successful in all aspects of my life.  Thank-you notes show the other person that you are considerate and respectful. Thank-you notes say that your family taught you good manners, and that you learned the lessons.  Thank-you notes let the recipient know that you are thoughtful.

I like and employ technology, but there is just something special and personal about a handwritten thank-you note.  The next time something good happens to you and you want to say thanks, try sending a snail mail thank-you note.  I guarantee a positive reaction! 

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. 

Rittman Publishing, LLC ®

Please invite Grady Gets Glasses (and me) into your school.  if you are not in the Pittsburgh area, we do virtual field trips with a group called Field Trip Zoom. www.Fieldtripzoom.com  GRADY GETS GLASSES was the winner of Best New Children's Book 2016 from The Authors' Zone. For more information about The Authors' Zone, please visit http://www.theauthorszone.com/submissions/  

Visit Dede's webpage for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER. Many colleges have made the book required reading. Signed copies are available  www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics. 

I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books.  Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self.  However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37 years. I remain inspired! 

Elementary teachers in Western Pennsylvania and beyond - I am willing to come into your classroom in person or as a virtual field trip through a group called Field Trip Zoom.  Check them out!  http://www.fieldtripzoom.com/ 

Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book.  I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading.  Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com  The website www.gradygetsglasses.com now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!

Please like Dede's new page Grady Gets Glasses for updates about her children's book. https://www.facebook.com/gradygetsglasses?ref=hl 

Connect with Dede!

Twitter       @dederittman
Periscope   @dederittman
Facebook   Dede Faltot Rittman or Rittman Rules
LinkedIn   Dede Rittman
Google +   Dede Rittman
Tumblr      The Bunny Teacher
Instagram   dede_rittman 
Pinterest   Rittman Publishing, LLC ®