As I was reading the newspaper a few minutes ago, I realized there is yet another thing that I’d like to do more of this coming year: express my gratitude and appreciation.

I’ve always been fairly good about expressing gratitude in the moment and in person to someone who has done something special. But I have totally neglected the quick message to strangers who have moved me with their kindness or excellence. I suspect it’s been from fear of being pegged as a ‘fan’, writing ‘fan letters’.

I took a first plunge a month or so ago, emailing Ellen McCarthy, a writer at the Washington Post, to compliment her consistently beautiful and moving vignettes of a recent wedding. Her work is always carefully researched and lovingly recounted. Though I’ve never particularly read wedding announcements, one day I tried a story of hers and was charmed, both with the couple showcased, and with her writing. I was hooked.

So when I happened upon yet another great portrait last month, I jotted off a quick email to tell her of my appreciation. It felt good to do that and I was happy to hear back that my message had made her day. Thanks again, Ellen!