Category Archives: Thank-yous

Day 224: Carl

Today I dropped a thank you note to the father-in-law of a colleague of mine who writes for the Dallas Morning News. He generously took time to talk to me about Street Sense, an organization where I serve as a board member.

Day 224

Carl,

I’ve always enjoyed reading the paper, but sitting down face to face with someone who’s been writing for a newspaper for 35 years is fascinating. I appreciate you taking time to talk with me – I enjoyed it immensely and appreciate the advice. By the way, this morning I picked you up a copy of the latest edition of Street Sense.

I look forward to reading more of your column,
Reed

P.S. I stayed up last night to watch the Nats lose 5-0 to the Dodgers. Let’s hope they can hang on!

Day 218: Jon Stewart

Photo: AP Photo/Brad Barket

Photo: AP Photo/Brad Barket

My second letter this year to a long standing (ok, sitting) host of late night television. Thanks for the memories Jon – see you at the party on January 5th!

Day 218

You’ve been coming into our living rooms, ahem…bedrooms perhaps, for more than 15 years. More importantly you’ve been informing us and entertaining us – you’re like a therapist only better. Sure, you listen, you process information and become an active voice in the conversation, only you cut through the charades and bullshit and deliver the medicine we need with a soothing spoonful of humor that makes the insanity of the reality – or is it the reality of the insanity? – somehow easier to swallow.

Day 218-3I’m writing you as part of a year-long commitment that I’ve made of writing handwritten letters every day. It’s a lost art – or as your pal Steve Carell said (I wrote him on Day 7), “Sending a handwritten letter is becoming such an anomaly. It’s disappearing. My mom is the only one who still writes me letters. And there’s something visceral about opening a letter – I see her on the page. I see her in her handwriting.” He’s so right.

While everyone is grilling you about what you will do next, my wish is that whatever you do, you find time to be with those you love – maybe even write them a letter. Speaking of you writing letters, a response from you would be the pinnacle of my Year of Letters. Right now that honor goes to either my father or an inspiring 100 year-old doctor from California who wrote me back. I also received a response from George W. Bush.

Anyway, good luck and thanks.

With respect and admiration and a bit of a man crush,
Reed Sandridge 

Day 218-2P.S. A wiser man than me once said, “Love what you do. Get good at it. Competence is a rare commodity in this day and age. And let the chips fall where they may.” Well played, sir.

P.P.S. Mark your calendar for January 5th, 2016 – I’m throwing a party for all 365 people who have received a letter this year. More details at YearOfLetters.com or email me at reed@yearofletters.com. Your drinks are on me!

Day 208: Andrew

A while back I went to a barbecue – you may recall my thank you note on Day 195 to Brian and Lisa for being such gracious hosts. I took them a bottle of Bluecoat Gin – I recalled that Brian doesn’t drink much beer any more but thought that he liked gin. Actually, at some point that evening I realized I think he drinks vodka martinis instead – so I kind of screwed up. But not really right? You can’t go wrong with a bottle of nice gin.

When I bought it I noticed that it came with a $3 rebate. Nobody sends those things in right? Well, I did. And look what I got in response.

My $3 rebate along with a handwritten note from the President and Founder of Philadelphia Distilling.

My $3 rebate along with a handwritten note from the President and Founder of Philadelphia Distilling.

Pretty cool. It’s like he knew I was a fan of nice stationery, handwritten notes and quality spirits. If he wants to send me some spirits to try, I’m game! I could host a little get-together here at my place and feature all of Philadelphia Distilling’s spirits. Now we’re thinking.

Anyway, I decided that their President deserved one of the Year of Letters.

Day 208

Andrew,

Mmmm, a Blackberry Bramble.

Mmmm, a Blackberry Bramble.

I received your handwritten note and $3 in the mail today in response to my purchase of your Bluecoat gin. Thank you! I gave your bottle as a gift – so I have not tried it yet but look forward to making a Bluecoat Blackberry Bramble or Last Word with it. Anyway, very classy to send me a note. Keep on sending them – you’ll win the hearts (and livers) of discerning fans of fine spirits everywhere.

Cheers!
Reed

Day 205: Kim and Luis

Anthony, Kim, Reed at Anthony's 2nd Annual Celebration. We missed getting a photo with Luis - he was too busy working!

Anthony, Kim and Reed at Anthony’s 2nd Annual Celebration. We missed getting a photo with Luis – he was too busy working!

We held the second annual Anthony celebration last Monday night at one of Anthony’s favorite places: Rumors. It’s right across the street from where he cheerfully greets his customers every morning. The staff there always treats us like gold and Monday night was no exception. I love these guys.

Day 205-2

 

Kim & Luis,

People go out to bars and restaurants for many reasons – the food, the atmosphere, the service. Walking in to Rumors is like walking in to Cheers. You remember your customers, treat people right and you care. You made Anthony’s two-year celebration a very special evening for him and I wanted you to know how much I appreciate it.

Thank you,
Reed

Day 202: Lynn and Bianca

Many of you know about my friend Anthony whose hard work and determination got him into housing after 20 years on the streets. Last night we celebrated two years of housing with about 40 friends at Rumors Bar and Restaurant in DC.

Two of the guests were from a doctor’s office across the street that has been so kind to Anthony. The doctor, who I’ve seen for years, agreed to treat Anthony for free. Him and the entire staff are wonderful. Lynn and Bianca came stopped by the party to support Anthony – they were awesome!

Day 202

Dear Lynn and Bianca,

Your joining us at Anthony’s 2 yr Anniversary celebration moved me. I’ve always been inspired by the power of community and the fact that you took the time out of your day to come and celebrate with Anthony meant a tremendous amount to him – and to me. We are all part of each other’s community – and by coming together we strengthen our social fabric.

I’m sorry we didn’t get to talk more – I hope you enjoyed yourselves,
Reed