April 26, 2007 Maria, I cannot express to you in a letter how much you have meant to all of us. You have been much more than the caretaker of our children since they have been a couple of months old. You have been an inspiration to all of us! I have seen you as a nurturer, a teacher, a homemaker, a second-language instructor and a friend. You have welcomed every child every day with a smile and a hug. My children look forward to coming to your house 3 days a week. They have learned days of the week, colors, numbers and most of all getting along with others. My daughter comes home with hair looking prettier than when she left in the morning. My son comes home and talks about the great "sopa" that you make. Your patience is a virtue. If I had to do it all over again, I would not change a thing. Your house is always so welcoming. My children have been very fortunate to have you and your family in their lives. Please know that you can have any parent call me and I will be happy to discuss what a wonderful daycare that you operate. I know that this is not goodbye but just one of the many growing up phases that we will be faced with. We will always have very fond memories of Maria's.