Category Archives: Birthdays

Day 229: Ryan

An embossed card and custom made envelope for my brother.

An embossed card and custom-made envelope for my brother.

Today is my brother’s 44th birthday. He’s the best and I love him more than I could ever express in a birthday card, but I reckon he still deserves a card.

Day 229

Ryan

We do not choose our family. As luck would have it, you got the perfect little buddy as your brother. You’re welcome! What’s more remarkable is that after 41 years (make no mistake, I know you’re turning 44) you choose to be my friend. I wanted you to know that I also choose you as my friend, my best friend.

I love you and wish you all the happiness in the world today and every day after.

Love,
LB

Day 213: Kim

Happy birthday to my good friend Kim Perry!

I made her some stationery for her birthday – I bought almost everything I needed to make all of the note cards and envelopes at Paper Source. I love that store – and they better love me given how much stuff I’ve bought from them!

Day 213-2

Happy birthday Kim!

Some people have a special gif – they light up a room, make children smile, bring people together. They move through this world creating greatness by being the change they want to see. A handful of us are fortunate to know someone like this and have them call us a friend. You are that special person for me and I treasure that you call me a your friend.

Lots of love and happiness for you today and always,

Reed

Day 213

 

 

Day 210: Anthony

Today was my friend Anthony’s 58th birthday. We met up today and I gave him letter number 210! This is one of the few letters I have written and then watched the person open it – not at the same time obviously.

Day 210

 

Day 210-2

Anthony

Thank you for your friendship over the past 5 years. You are always so kind in saying that I’ve helped you in various ways, but I want you to know that you have helped me understand the true meaning of perseverance, altruism and friendship.

For your birthday, I want to take you to a Steelers game. Not sure how I’m going to make that happen, but it’s going to happen!

Happy Birthday Anthony!
Reed

Day 204: President Jimmy Carter

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter speaks at an Ethical Elections Pact signing ceremony in Panama City, Friday, March 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Arnulfo Franco)

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter speaks at an Ethical Elections Pact signing ceremony in Panama City, Friday, March 14, 2014. (AP Photo/Arnulfo Franco)

A letter or phone call from President Carter would be epic. Happy birthday Kim!

Day 204

Dear President Carter, 

Your dedication to public service and improving the lives of people from all around the world inspires me. You and Mrs. Carter are fantastic role models for those in public service as well as regular citizens like myself who strive to build stronger communities.

I’m writing to you today to ask a favor. A dear friend of mine, Kim Perry, is celebrating her 45th birthday on August 1st. She is quite possibly your biggest fan – excluding your family of course. She is the Executive Director of DC Vote, a nonprofit dedicated to securing democratic equality for the citizens of the District of Columbia. I know your public service has influenced her to follow the path she has chosen and a birthday greeting from you would mean the world to her. I hope that you will consider this request. Her contact details are:

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With respect and admiration,
Reed Sandridge

 

Day 173: Margaret

Several of my letters this year have been about my involvement with Street Sense, a nonprofit here in Washington, DC that gives men and women experiencing homelessness economic opportunities through their media center. It’s a beautiful organization, empowering people and giving them much-needed income through producing and selling a newspaper, photography, film, theater, audio storytelling, blogging, etc.

At the core of this organization is a very small dedicated staff of four. They’re supported by a group of amazing volunteers and board members. I serve as secretary of the board which is led by today’s recipient. Margaret works tirelessly to increase the impact that the organization has on the community.

Tonight she hosted a happy hour for her birthday to raise money and awareness for the organization. We met at Penn Social, surrounded by corn hole, giant connect four, ping pong and other games.

I learned that being president of the board of directors was not Margaret’s only leadership dream in life. When she was in high school she dreamed of being president of the United States. In fact, I’m told that there were even cards made up saying MARGARET 2016!

While it seems another woman is garnering all the attention for the upcoming presidential race, Margaret might just make a run at the 2020 election, or maybe go back and be governor of her home state of West Virginia. Either way, she’s got my vote and my 173rd letter.

Day 173

Happy Birthday Margaret!

I’m honored to be a part of your special day. Thank you for everything you do for Street Sense. I want you to know how much I appreciate your enthusiasm, optimism and leadership. 

You’re a Rock Star!
Reed