Dear Harrison,

Usually, when I offer a note of thanks, I put pen to paper rather than finger to keyboard. But in this instance, there is so much to say that I think you would be overwhelmed with reams of paper, deteriorating handwriting and an abundance of corrections. So I am taking a difference approach for me...one that my etiquette minded mother would not have approved of. Despite her admonishments in my head, my words will be typed opposed to written. Regardless of the means, what I say is heartfelt.

When my daughter Sarah first proposed a zoom magic show in honor of my birthday, I was truly skeptical. I was quietly against it...but she was so excited about you and the experience she and the family had last Christmas (not to mention her co-workers), that I opted to go along with it. A magic show...really? Who on earth would sign up for something like that? The questions and concerns carried on. But then after the invitation went out, my husband and I were getting calls to say that it was such a novel and great idea, and folks were delighted to participate! Bit by bit, my hesitance was whittled down to the point where I was genuinely excited about "Susan's Magical Birthday Show" myself!

Harrison, you were all that Sarah promised...totally awesome! Husband Mark and I loved the way you bantered with and engaged “the audience,” and your performance was fabulous! I was blown away not only by your tricks and abilities, but also by how many came to the party! From B.C. Canada to Belgium, from New Jersey to Florida, from the state of Washington to Southern California...and all points between. My dulcimer buddy from Kentucky whom I met in Florida three years ago; many from St. Olaf College; and John...Mark's Viet Nam pal. An abundance of family. Nearby friends whom we haven’t seen much of lately, and far away friends whom we also haven’t seen in a great while. There was one gentleman which was so sweet since he is in the process of dying. The one notable person who ended up not attending is Ayla. Oh well, it was a good thought and I thank you for trying!

One unexpected outcome of this birthday extravaganza is the massive amounts of cards I have received, along with texts, emails, phone calls...and even some little gifts! Goodness, I have never had such a celebration! Of course I have thanked my daughter for her most gift, a generous one besides thoughtful and creative...and now I thank you. I feel that just to say “thanks” falls flat of my intention. Please understand the depth and breath of my gratitude.

A couple of days ago, dear friends from New Jersey called to say how much they loved the show. I have received many such calls, texts, emails and even notes. Afterwards Mark and I heard from special friends based in Minnesota. They loved the show which they saw with two of their grandsons. But then the sad note...their daughter-in-law had died the previous day after a two year battle with pancreatic cancer. I was so moved that they came to the show which they thoroughly enjoyed. It was a respite from their grief. Your efforts brought not only a sense of celebration and joy to my 70th birthday, but brought too a sense of joy to those carrying the burden of sorrow. How can one say “thank you” for that. 

I can affirm that my 70th birthday was undoubtedly the best...ever! Well worth the wait! Thank you again for treating me and many others to such a magical time.

With abundant thanks,

Susan Knowles