Happy Birthday, Marshall

What do you say to a friend that is turning FORTY?

Happy Birthday?

Forty isn't so bad?

You're in great shape, for being forty?

Welcome to the club?

It's not as bad as THEY say it is?

Ahh, forty. Now that was a good year?


All of these statements seem fitting enough and I know she would like them all. But this friend of mine is pretty special. She has taught my kids, she has invested time into my family, she is on the emergency list, she has my back, she is a dear friend.

So, what do you say to her to make her know that she is loved, unconditionally?

Hmmmm...Hoping this list will help her understand why I consider her to be one of my dearest friends....



1. You are a wonderful teacher

2. You don't clock out at 3:45 and think the day is done. If a kid needs you, you are there...(what is your address? Holiday Bazaar!)

3. You want to see your kids succeed.

4. You EXPECT the BEST.

5. You make memories with your students. Pictures, letters, phone calls. Check out your wall in the gymnasium. Memories.

6. You INVEST in your kids. Boxing, soccer games, swim meets. It is not unusual to see you on a sideline on a Saturday, cheering kids on.

7. You laugh.

8. You smile.

9. You cry.

10. You carry yourself strong but you are also vulnerable.

11. You expect the BEST from YOU!

12. You are fair.

13. When you say you are a friend, you are.

14. You have your friend's back.

15. You take care of the people in your life, not taking their love for granted.

16. When you love...YOU LOVE.

17. Your heart is bigger than your body. And, you wear it on your sleeve.

18. You are determined.

19. A goal is set, a goal is completed...1000!!!!!

20. We Are...

21. Your sarcasm doesn't hurt or offend.

22. If you have it and someone else needs it, you give it...

23. You believe in the goodness of people.

24. You are not afraid to speak your mind.

25. You take on a challenge...head on.

26. You love your dogs!

27. You are gifted in so many areas, especially art!!

28. Ok, so you are a Yankees fan...I won't hold that against you because your taste in Jeter makes it all better!

29. You do not participate in the Presidential Physical Fitness award yet my husband loves you, still!

30. You are loyal to your family.

31. You are finding your confidence.

32. You come up with some great nicknames and you use them all of the time!!!

33. You push me.

34. You believe in me.

35. You came along side of me and You made me RUN!

36. You made a weekend at 'WE ARE...' one of the best ever!

37. You let me laugh, cry and just be me.

38. You are my friend.

39. Happy Birthday.

40. I love you!


My Friend. You have inspired me to be a better person, a healthier person. My time with you at school has been some of the best and I will miss you tremendously next year. We won't get lost in the busyness of life, okay? We won't let schools separate us, right? After all, We Are...