$ 20.00

Dear Leland… A Special Request

Synopsis

People have asked me why my name is part of the title of Annie’s book and I hope I can explain. I’m not a writer, but I’ll do my best.

This book started because one day I was in a great deal of pain - I have Fibromyalgia, a condition that involves inflammation of the muscles and body tissues – and was feeling very sorry for myself. I decided to ask Annie, one of the most vivacious and always happy people that I have ever known, even though I know that her personal pain is far greater than mine, how she could always seem to be so happy? She looked at me and said, “It’s so much easier than crying and complaining all the time.” We talked and laughed for about thirty minutes and low and behold, I realized my pain had diminished and my mental attitude was happier. When she was about to leave, I said to her that “she should write a book to let everyone know that no matter how bad your day might be, there is always sunshine somewhere.” I never thought that she would take me seriously.

Well, by God, she did it and I am proud to have it written to me in letter form as though I were there. And yes, it is written in such as way that no matter what mood you are in, there is something that will bring up your spirits and give you a laugh.

Thank you, Annie, from all of us “Sad Sacks” in this word. We are so lucky to have you as a special friend. Like our national flag, Annie, forever may you wave and may your smiling face always feel the warmth of the sun. God Bless!

Your grateful and loving friend,
Leland A. Millet

Author Biography

Annie Monsen

Annie Monsen of Fairplay has been named recipient of the Muscular Dystrophy Association's 2000 Personal Achievement Award for Colorado. Monsen, was selected for the honor because of her community involvement.

The honor is part of MDA's annual national award program recognizing the personal and professional accomplishments and community service of people with neuromuscular diseases in MDA's program.

Monsen is heavily involved in her community as a volunteer for several organizations and events. She's a key organizer of Burro Days, a two-day festival in her community, and is treasurer for the South Park Chamber of Commerce. Monsen is a member of the SERTOMA Club, a service organization that assists people with hearing impairments, and helps students in a reading program at a local elementary school.

After the effects of her neuromuscular disease forced her to retire from her sales career in 1997, Monsen renewed her interest in oil painting. Her landscapes painted on pieces of wood and rocks have been featured at a gallery in Leadville. Monsen is also training her own service dog, Lacey. Annie is the author of the children's books, Friendly Fly, Captain Blye and the Friendly Fly, and Rusty Raccoon Meets Ricky Rabbit.