Thank you to everyone who shared well wishes with Mrs. Lien, Riverside's recently-retired librarian, who is out of state now caring for her father. I mailed them to her via her parents' PO box and she received all of them. She sent this note to pass along: 

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Wow! 

Thank you very much for your kind words, poetry, travel suggestions (one day I hope, Clara in 3rd grade who I do remember) and lots of memories! I have a box of cherished letters that this one will go in. 

My mother told me that she was equal parts entertained and sentimental when she saw the envelope.  She thinks I should frame it. (Spoiler alert: I won’t).

Wishing you all the best,

Liz Lien

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p.s. from Julia: When Mrs. Lien explained to the second graders that she was leaving, she read them this book: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Remember-Balloons/Jessie-Oliveros/9781481489157. It is a very gentle introduction to dementia and it's available at Princeton Public Library. Sharing in case it might be a supportive resource to any of your kids or families in the future.