A Note of Gratitude

Dear Sonoma Neighbors, Sponsors and Friends:
 
Each month as I sit down to write this note, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the work I get to engage in each and every day. Yes, like all of you there are tasks that are not my favorite, but overall it’s just pure joy. I’m so grateful for my amazing team. The efforts of Traci, Oliva and Rachel make our work not only hum along but sing with efficiency and excitement. They truly care about each of you, many of whom they’ve never met in person. They truly care about making each issue better than the last and if I could guess, you feel their genuine concern through your phone calls, emails and texts as we breeze through each publication deadline. How lucky are we?
 
As we finish up this deadline, I keep thinking about every chance I’ve had to connect with our storytellers. Even though I’m just an amateur photographer, it’s been a great excuse for me to spend time with our neighbors and sponsors and really capture the essence of who they are through our photos. I’m so grateful for that opportunity. Thank you! Also, I am constantly learning from my mentor, local photographer Deborah Shelton. Deborah tirelessly accompanies me on our photoshoots and stands by to right my wrongs, hold my ladder and impart her knowledge. I've learned so much. Again, better tomorrow than we were today. Thank you Deborah!

In closing, we put our heart and soul into each monthly issue, and we hope you enjoy the stories we share. Remember, we always welcome story nominations. If there’s an unsung hero around you who deserves a shout-out, just let us know. We’re here and ready to bring their story to life.

I love people who harness themselves, an ox to a heavy cart,
who pull like water buffalo, with massive patience,
who strain in the mud and the muck to move things forward,
who do what has to be done, again and again.
                       Excerpt from To Be Of Use by Marge Percy

In Service,

Tamera Ahner
575-654-5622 | tamera.ahner@n2co.com