I'm expecting some newcomers today, so before we set today's Yellow Envelope Project in motion, let me provide a short explanation.

The Yellow Envelope Project exists to recognize the hundreds of thousands of people who make their corner of the world a better and brighter place, by shining.  Shining comes in many forms.  Shining can be providing great service; going out of your way for a neighbor; saying "I can" more than "I can't"; doing a random act of kindness; or performing your job with enthusiasm, regardless of how much you are paid or the title you have been assigned.

Most of the people we recognize are not up for a Grammy or an Oscar.  They are never going to win a gold medal, be interviewed on the Today Show, or be featured on the front page of your paper.  Our Yellow Envelope recipients are every day people who go the extra mile, because shining is in their DNA.

Our task is simple.  Write a short note telling the recipient you've heard about the difference she makes in her community.  Thank him/her, assuring them each time someone shines the world becomes a better place.  

Place your short note in a yellow envelope or in a white envelope decorated with yellow markers.  Place the words "Yellow Envelope Project" in the return address and commit to mailing your note before next Saturday.  In fact, commit to mailing it Monday morning.  You know like I know what can happen if you unnecessarily put it off.

No more build up.  Here is this week's recipient.  Shannon was nominated by a friend, for precisely that reason... because she is a good and loyal friend to many.  I have, and always will, maintain that a good friend is better than the most extravagant gift.  Here's what her nominator had to say.