Manatee Note

Quite some time ago -- before she left for college, in fact -- Offspring the First one day left a tiny missive for Herself next to the computer.  Written on Offspring the First's favorite manatee sticky notes, it exclaimed, "Good job today!"  It has always been one of Herself's favorite little things: an unexpected and thoughtful acknowledgement by one of the Offspring that Herself is doing something right, is of tremendous value.

The tiny dog has just chewed upon the note.  She was sitting in Herself's lap (a favorite location) while Herself worked at the computer, and tried to take a few bites out of the manatee paper. Grrr.  Herself is not particularly angry, though - small dogs do what small dogs do. It couldn't be helped; it was so temptingly resting right there in front of her nose.

Herself thinks that people should in general get much more positive reinforcement than they do. Sometimes, recognition that one's efforts are noticed and appreciated can make a world of difference.