Dear Jenée
This is marks my eighth year of knowing Jenée. We met in the fashion closet as interns at Harper’s Bazaar in late 2001. She’s a very good friend and an accomplished foot and leg model. We lived in New York together for six years, then I moved to Philly, and just this past winter I lost her to her hometown of Chicago. Shortly after her move she found out she was pregnant—due over the summer. I’m so happy for her and bummed out that I won’t be able to pop over and see the baby whenever I want.
Along with a letter, I am sending Jenée a copy of the book Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott. It’s a book about Anne’s first year of motherhood. There are some drastic differences between Anne and Jenée. Anne is a single mother and a recovering alcoholic. Jenée is neither, but Anne’s writing is so honest and hilarious that it’s enjoyable for everyone, and I’m sure there are some universal truths that all mothers uncover regardless of their situation. I recommend another one of Anne’s book’s Bird by Bird—which is a book about how to write a book—to everyone I know whether they want to write a book or not. Her books, regardless of subject, are about life. The joys and sorrows. And I think (hope) Jenée will like what I send.
April is National Card and Letter Writing Month, and I’ve vowed to write one letter each day. Also, please check out the essay contest I’m hosting with Giftin24.com.