February Edition of To Whom It May Concern

Well, on Valentine’s Day Eve, I thought I’d just take some time to write a few “love” notes and give you all the gift of laughter.

Dear Married Ones, Yes, I’m well aware that tomorrow is Valentine’s Day. I also don’t need you pointing out to me that I’m single, asking if it upsets me, or asking me if I’ve heard of Singles Awareness Day (commonly celebrated simultaneously with Valentine’s Day.) Really, I’m not all that upset about not having a boyfriend, but when you constantly point it out and make me your token single friend, thus the expert on all things to do with singles, I start to get a little paranoid. And sad. And wonder why I don’t have a boyfriend. Then I become that girl that God did not make me to be. So, yes, I’m single on Valentine’s Day. Big deal! I don’t need candy anyway!

Love, A Not-so-lonely Heart

Dear Mother Nature, I understand that shifting weather patterns are part of your personality. I even celebrate and enjoy your different seasons. But lately your wild mood swings have left me with a terrible sinus headache and wonderful bouts of sneezing. First it was unseasonably cold in Nashville. Now it’s moderately warm, but the temperature is supposed to drop and there’s a chance of snow flurries. I don’t know how to dress, what temperature to set my thermastat at, of if I should invest in some snow boots. So please, just decide to be one way or the other and stay that way for awhile. Please!

Yours always, Seasonal Sinus Sufferer

Dear Neighbor John, Thank you for finally meeting me in person (that short introduction when I was moving in doesn’t count). Thank you for letting me know what in the world your profession is. Your crazy hours and time spent playing the guitar in your living room was really beginning to wear on my nerves. The Nancy Drew in me just had to know what you did for a profession. Now that I know you’re a songwriter, how do you make a living at that? What process do you go through to write songs? Could you write one about me? You know, the crazy girl next door with the crazier dog? I’m aware that this is a slightly stalkery request, but I’ve always wanted someone to write a song about me. At least think about it. . . . maybe we can chat some more sometime soon?

Your music loving neighbor who still peers at you through the blinds, Mandy

Dear writers of “The Office,” I admit it. I love your show. I mean love, love, love it! (Did I sound a little like Kelly Kapoor?) Anyway, I’m a big fan. You make me cringe and laugh each week. I even make a special night out of watching your show, complete with popcorn and a drink, even if I’m watching by myself. And I understand dragging out the whole Pam-Jim relationship. . . I can even get on board with bringing Roy back into the picture and making him realize what he completely overlooked the first time around. But, please, don’t stretch this out too long. Don’t make the new improved Beesely fall right back into the not-so-self-assured patterns of her relationship with Roy and forget herself again. And, please, the Jam awkwardness is killing me. Bring back the banter, the flirting, the working together to confuse and heckle Dwight. I know “The Office” is a comedy, not a love story, but the romantic in me just wants a little Jam lovin’!

Love your loyal viewer, Mandy PS. If John Krasinski (Jim) is single and as nice as he seems. . . . .

On that happy note, I wish you all a happy Valentine’s Day! xxooXxooOoXXxxOxoXOooxXXOox