Note from Jennifer Davis, Jane’s daughter:
“…we lost my mom on Saturday August 9th. We were all in the room, telling stories of love and teaching. We will miss her more than words can express… Thank you for all of the wonderful postings, flowers and prayers.
Jennifer on behalf of Rob, Katy and Robbie”
The rest of Jennifer’s message and Jane’s obituary can be found with Jane’s comments below.
For the past 5+ years I have been on the Market Research Association (MRA) National board. During that time, I have had the opportunity to work with and be led by some great presidents.
Each year the association gets a new president, one with their own style, grace and goals. I can still remember the first board meeting with a very special president in 2005 and my desire to send a follow-up email right after it ended:
Jane,
I am sitting here at 30,000 feet and thinking about the MRA and can’t help but send you an email. I am truly impressed with your leadership qualities, communication skills and ability to work with any type of person.
Thank you for being the next President of the Association and leading us during another exciting time! I know everyone on the board is looking forward to working with you and exceeding all of our goals in the years to come.
Enjoy the weekend.
Merrill
This president that I am referring to is Jane Cook. She is much more than just a past president of the MRA. She is a daughter, wife, mother, business executive and friend. Jane is that one person you COULD always count on to be there for you. Jane listened to you when you were down and gave needed advice that usually was right on. She is one special lady who always had time for everyone. She is beautiful on the inside and out and has a smile that would always force you to say yes no matter what she asked. She is always even-keeled and has so many other special qualities it would take me hours to list each and every one of them.
Way back in the early 80′s my dad developed cancer. During that time he insisted on not only having the treatment before work so it didn’t get in his way, he also insisted that no one know. To me, that speaks to the heart of my dad, who he is and the passion and work ethic he has and still possesses. I never knew until two days ago that Jane did the exact same thing during her year as President of the MRA. Was she hurting? Yes. Was she tired? Yes. Did she ever complain? No. Did she ever tell anyone? No. Did she ever show it? No. That’s not Jane. She always knew what needed to be done and NEVER allowed anything to get in her way–not even her treatment for cancer.
In the past decade, Jane has battled cancer a number of times. Each time she has won. Unfortunately our beloved leader, mother, wife and friend has another round of this battle as she goes up against this disease once again. This time the doctors have told her it is terminal with not a lot of time left.
To her husband Rob, daughters Jennifer and Katy, and son Rob, please know that you aren’t the only people who love Jane. That love is shared by hundreds if not thousands who are in the research and business community and have been fortunate to know her.
At the present time Jane is not in a position to take calls. However, all comments that are posted here will be read to Jane as well as cards that are sent to her.
You may send cards to:
Jane Cook
222 Crescent St SE.
Cedar Rapids, IA 52403
Jane, our thoughts, prayers and love are with you and your family as you fight this battle again with the same positive attitude, energy and grace that you have each and every day.
Carla Lindemann says:
Jane – you have always been an inspiration to me in so many ways – your attitude, professionalism, warmth, keen thinking and so many more things never ceased to amaze me.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and constant.
Much love always
Carla Lindemann
janet says:
This is such terribly sad news. Jane Cook is such a beautiful woman both inside and out. I have to say I was always very jealous of her hair and told her so on many occasions. Always perfectly coiffed and the most perfect color, and dressed in colors that perfectly complimented her. But that was just the outside. As a person she always made everyone feel special, always remembering names and details. She was one of us no matter how high she rose in the ranks. I was really sad to see her leave the industry and just last June in NYC at the conference I asked Colleen about her. So, I was shocked to get the news today. My prayers are with Jane and her family.
Conal Murray says:
Jane,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and yours! You are an inspiration to us all.
C.
Roseanne Luth says:
Jane: We met years ago in Portugal. We hit it off shopping and talking as we walked through town. I only wish the very best for you. You are in my prayers and thoughts.
Roseanne
Fee Sepahi says:
Dear Jane,
I do recognize your warm smile and your glowing presence at events and I’m sorry that you’re being subjected to this, yet again. Please defy the doctors and their short sited views and stand strong.
I do wish you and your family the most courageous battle with your illness and I know you can defeat it, once again.
Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Warmest wishes,
Fee
Terri Turley Hansee says:
Dear Jane,
I am so very sorry to hear about your illness. You are such a special lady with a beauty that is adbundant – inside and out. I always admired your professionalism, your “can-do” attitude, your kind spirit and your big heart. I remember with great fondness all of the MRA conferences and board meetings that we both attended. Those were special times.
Please know that you are loved and admired by so many. You and your family are in my thoughts and my prayers.
God bless you, Jane.
Love, Terri
Jane Rosen says:
Dear Jane,
When I think of being on the MRA Board of Directors, some of my fondest memories are of our early morning walks talking about our children, families, friends and of course, Marketing Research. You have always made me proud of being a ‘Jane’ and sometimes I am still amazed that someone as smart, competent, gracious and respected by our peers as you are, liked me and made me feel like a valued friend. But, like others have mentioned, you have a unique way of making those around you feel special.
You are so much of what is best about the research community. There are so many of us who admire your ability to contribute and lead others while still remembering the human side of of those you are leading.
My thoughts are prayers are with you and your family.
Fondly,
Jane
Marisa Pope says:
Jane – I am so sorry you have to dig down deep again for the same reason – what a crapper of a deal for you and your family. I do have to say, if anyone can beat it twice it’s you. I remember working with you and laughing with you and learning from you – so much. You are so strong in mind, will and spirit, I can’t imagine many illnesses had much of an advantage over you.
I recall one time you and I were sitting in a session together and you would shake your head, nod your head, shake your head (as the speaker talked about the future of our industry) and I started making plus and minus signs on my notes that corresponded with your head movements. Didn’t know that, did you? Well, it’s true!
You were a visionary to me, and a teacher of sorts -someone who would willingly listen and thoughtfully answer questions…who had passion for the profession and made it a bit better any way you could. You always exhibited grace and class in every situation.
You are the best, lady – take out those gloves and swing. You have love and support from all over this great world flying to you and your family. And I’ve no doubt it’s surrounding you there as well. Stay strong in love and in faith. We’re here for you.
Marisa
Ali Moiz says:
Hang in there Jane. Our prayers are with you. You are greatly loved and missed by the research community and we hope you will be back with us soon.
- Ali
Peanut Labs
Jill says:
I am so sad to hear this news.
Jane is truly one of those inspirational people that if you are fortunate enough to have in your life that you should hold onto with both hands.
I always told Jane that I wanted to be her when I grew up. Who wouldn’t want to be warm, loving and supportive to all those around you?
My thoughts and prayers are with Jane and her family.
Paul Kirch says:
Jane – you always have a way of making people around you feel welcome and important. You are and were an inspiration to many of us in the industry. You left a lasting impression on me from times meeting at industry events. You’ll be in the thoughts and prayers of many, including mine.
Paul
Rudy Bublitz says:
Jane,
Through our many years of meeting one another on the blustery plains of Iowa and at sunny conference locations over the years, I have always held the utmost respect for you.
My prayers are with you and your family in these times and in the future.
We will meet again one day.
Rudy
Steve Gentile says:
Jane – Although I have never personally met you, I have met you through the many people who’s lives you have touched, helped, nurtured, taught, and otherwise mothered (in the best sense of the word) in this industry. In my almost 20 years, you have become a regular name in conversation throughout the years. My only regret is never having met the inspiration to so many stellar people. My great loss.
You and Rob, along with Katy and Jennifer, shall be in my prayers – it is my hope that my prayers are felt across the miles through this difficult time. If it is time for you to pass, may that be with all the beauty and all the grace you have demonstrated throughout your long, brilliant life! When there, ask for Angela, my mom – she has been there for some time and knows her way around quite well. She’ll talk your ears off, but her heart is sweet as summer peaches and just as juicy! She also claims to know some of the big-wigs in charge. Peace.
Karen Flannery says:
Dear Jane,
I have missed seeing your beautiful smiling face and great outfits at MRA meetings. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Take care,
Karen
Jon Last says:
Jane—
As others have stated so eloquently, the footprint that you have left on our profession and the MRA is a large and important one. Now, as I prepare for my first board meeting as MRA President, and simultaneously learn of this disturbing news, the examples that you set during your MRA presidency are even more poignant in my mind. You’ll be happy to know that your visionary “Big Sticks” segment, where we set strategic priorities is something that I’m reviving as part of the meetings. But, at the risk of repeating what others have said, your legacy for me personally, goes well beyond the way in which you comported yourself during our board meetings and the innovative leadership that has helped mold my perspective as I try to walk in your formidable shoes.
I look back with particular fondness on how you always found common ground from which you could relate to people. Our conversations and your knowledge about the PGA of America and professional golf were important to me because it bridged both an industry in which I work and our mutual commitment to marketing research and MRA. It made me feel welcome as I became a part of the board. But among so many superlatives, I recall most your uncanny ability to synthesize complex issues, where people had vastly divergent points of view, and boil them down to the key strategic questions that needed to be answered.
Jane, you are an inspiration to us all and a great example of what can be accomplished with a vision and determination to succeed. Hopefully that alone can get you past this difficult turn. My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jon
Jeannie Miller says:
Dear Jane,
You have showed tremendous strength and courage over the last 10 years. All of the years I have worked with you, you would never guess that you were battling cancer. Your positive attitude and smiles through all of the difficult times in the last 10 years, you never showed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this difficult time.
Jeannie Miller
Ed Colby says:
Jane,
I would not have the job that I do now if it weren’t for your help. You reached out to me in a time of need without even being asked, and I will always appreciate that support. I enjoyed working with you over the years and have great respect for your positivity and winning ways.
Thanks for all you’ve done for me and so many others.
Peace to you and your family.
Ed
Amy Shields says:
Dear Jane,
You ARE so special to so many people…for very personal reasons, I’m sure, but certainly with some consistent themes. I feel confident stating that everyone who knows you can’t help but feel envious of your inner beauty, your style, your ability to be diplomatic, your capacity do get things accomplished, and your gift of making everyone feel special. Someday, when I grow up, I hope to possess just half of the dignity and class that you do. If so, I will consider myself very lucky.
I have very specific memories of times shared with you: I can’t remember what city we were in now, but somewhere in the US, sitting by a pool with others from the MRA and speaking about our children; you handing me the Shining Star Award that I received in 2005 (you in a beautiful pink suit); you with a gavel in your hand when I was a Chapter President ‘visiting’ the National Board Meeting. (I really love you with a gavel in your hand, by the way, and will never wear hot pink or bright red without thinking of you!!)
I believe that the most important lessons in life include not taking a single day for granted and that we’re all here for one purpose; to learn. With all of my heart, I know that you have done just that AND that you are not just a student of life, but also a teacher. Thank you for the lessons you taught us all and thank you for your continued presence in our lives and memories. At this time, know that every single person who you touched in ANY way, is now touching YOU with our positive thoughts, hopes and prayers.
Love,
Amy
Elyse Gammer says:
Jane,
Please know the lasting effect you have had on so many of us. Your charm, your warmth, your intelligence, your humor, your patience–the amazing combination that is uniquely Jane.
My thoughts are with you and with your family.
Jim Bernstein says:
Jane,
It was so great seeing you at Zin’s earlier this summer (pre-flood of course) and hearing about Robbie’s wedding plans.
You’re a great friend and colleague
Lynn and I will be praying for you. Hang tough!
Jim
Bette Anne Champion says:
Jane,
I wanted to write something unique and timeless, but as I read all the notes before me I realized that what is really unique and timeless is you… I remember one of our first meetings years ago. You were on the board (or maybe president) and you came up to me during a conference and called me by name and asked how I was enjoying the conference. I felt so “included” and so special. I remember discussing with you a problem a member had and you simply listened, thought it through and came up with an insight I never would have thought of. Like many others have said, you made me feel so very special and so valued. I am so sorry you are going through such a rough patch again. Please know that because of who you are and how much we care, you are being cradled in the palms of hundreds and hundreds of loving hands. My prayers, good thoughts and some pretty loud cheer leading are with you and your family. Thank You!
Angela Lorinchak says:
Jane,
I was so very sorry to hear of your news. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in this time of need. I want you to know you have always been a true inspiration to everyone in our profession. Your thoughtfulness, willingness to always help, and desire to make this profession what it is today will be never be forgotten. You have shown us all what great leadership is and have inspired us all throughout the years.
Know that we are all here for you.
Angela
Bridgid Michaud says:
To the entire family-I only have a faint inkling of Jane’s on-going battle, so it feels presumptuous to go down that path. Touching upon personal experience of losing a mother and a brother, you may not even read these immediately. Randy Pausch is far more eloquent than I could ever strive for. This may sooth and inspire in the days to come. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ji5_MqicxSo
Paul Valdez says:
Dear Jane,
Simply, thank you.
Thank you for always being a true, solid foundation for me and many of us in this great profession. I truly cherish our encounters, our brief conversations, your encouragement and your positive spirit. You are always very warm, kind and inspirational to me… Please know that you and your family are in my prayers.
Love,
Paul
Kevin Lonnie says:
Hi Jane,
You were Board Chairman the year I sat on the Board as the IMRO Representative. The one word I always associate with you is “class”. Great diplomatic, listening and leadership skills, tinged with warmth and kindness.
I wish you all the best.
Kevin
Cristy Reid says:
This news is just too heartbreaking, not only for you and your family, but all of us who knew you personally and professionally. Jane, you have left me with lots of wonderful memories and times shared (especially the spring we took our 2 young sons to the Orlando conference, many years ago)….I will miss you so much. You have truly left your wondersul imprint on me!
Love, Cristy
bo says:
Jane, you know I don’t believe in the power of prayer or any of that business. But I’ve thought a lot about you over the past few weeks, and I have a slightly different take on it than others seem to have. You had a great career, a wonderful family, good relationships with friends and neighbors, and seemed to enjoy yourself. What more can we ask of someone in life? You did well with the time you had, and you should be looking back on your life with tremendous satisfaction, even as we all wish you had more time with us.
As you often did, today you remind me of how much I still have left to do. I’ve always thought the world of you, and I can only hope to live my life as well as you have lived yours.
Pam Bruns says:
Jane, I can’t tell you how sorry I am to hear of your ongoing struggles with your health. If only cancer could discriminate and leave those with your intelligence, style, grace, focus, leadership, warmth and gentle good humor alone! Alas, that’s not the way it works.
Like most people who have written, I too remember the first time I met you. It’s been many, many years. But you took time to really listen to me, to ask me questions as though the opinions of someone so inexperienced could possibly have been important. You made me feel special, as though we were the only two people in the room, like a colleague, not a kid. That is a gift few people have. You also were extremely supportive of me when I had my own business…I will never forget your kindness and encouragement.
Jane, know that you and your family are in the thoughts and prayers of so many. The footprint you left on this industry, this organization, and our hearts will not soon be forgotten.
Adam Weinstein says:
Jane, I’m not sure what I enjoy more: your smiling face at MRA events or your natural ability to openly discuss any subject. I’m quite sure your family is so proud of your accomplishments and all the people you’ve touched along the way. My prayers are with all of you.
Love,
Adam
Rene Bolsinger says:
Jane,
Remember me? I was your administrative assistant back in 2001. I am SO sorry to hear that you are having to battle this disease once again. Just want you to know you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers EVERY single day and I wish you the best of luck in your battle.
Hollis Grizzard, Jr. says:
Jane,
Your capacity to be so gracious with so many has amazed me. That you have always found the time to teach and share your knowledge amid all the other demands placed upon you is evidence of an energy I and most others could never emulate. I am lucky to have met and had the privilege of working with you. Thank you. Thank you.
Hollis
Judy Lubben says:
Jane-
You have been a great influence on me. Working with you, motivated me to do all I could do. You never looked down on me. You always treated me with so much respect that I felt more like the president around you.
You and your family are in my prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Judy
Todd Biederman says:
Jane,
You are a class act, an inspiration to many and an asset to the Market Research community as well as the MRA. The employees of Advanced Focus, Elise and I wish you all the best in a full and speedy recovery. If anybody can beat this terrible disease you can. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Sincerely,
Todd Biederman
Ruth Munger says:
Jane
You are my rock star! Jane you have been a great mentor. How I miss our deep conversations in your office at Magid. I learned everything from raising great kids to handling the “boys” at work from you! Love ya Sister!
We are praying for you and your family.
Lori Kruse says:
Jane – this news hit me hard too. I am glad someone is reading these wonderful responses to you and I hope you know how much you mean to us all. You welcomed me to the MRA board when I was a newbie and I really appreciated that.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your wonderful family.
Steve Schlesinger says:
Jane
I send you all my thoughts and prayers as you conttinue this battle. For all the years that we have worked together, through our companies and our MRA days, you have always brought a ray of sunshine to everything you do. Whether it was presiding over a board meeting or sharing a story around the dinner table, your wisdom and presence were felt. Your warmth and your smile made everyone feel welcomed. You always cared about each of us. I cherish all those memories and feel fortunate that I have gotten to know you through the years.
You have countless friends out there who love you and care deeply about you – we are all thinking about you and your family.
Love,
Steve
Jackie Lee says:
Jane,
I have very fond memories of you. I have learned much from you during my days in the field department and later crunching those numbers trying to get the best deal. It has been several years since we spoke but I still smile inside when I think of your leadership.
You have amazing courage and I admire that so much. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Jackie
Jennifer Davis says:
I am Jane’s daughter. I’m writing to let you know that we lost my mom on Saturday August 9th. We were all in the room, telling stories of love and teaching. We will miss her more than words can express. Below is her obituary.
Thank you for all of the wonderful postings, flowers and prayers.
Jennifer on behalf of Rob, Katy and Robbie
JANE MARIE BORG COOK
After a nine and a half-year struggle with breast cancer, Jane Marie Borg Cook passed away peacefully on August 9, 2008 surrounded by her loving family.
Jane is survived by her husband of nearly 38 years, Rob of Cedar Rapids, daughters Jennifer Davis (Mark) and grandson Drake of Denver, Colorado, Katy of Arlington, Virginia, and son Robbie and fiancée Jenni White of Edina, Minnesota. Also surviving are her parents, Arnold and Thelma Borg of Marion, sister Julie DuFaux (Al) of Tampa, Florida, mother-in-law Josephine Cook of Cedar Rapids, sisters-in-law Valissa Berg (Jeff) of Marion, Nancy Cook of Fairfield, Jacque Cook of Brooklyn, New York and Faun Robken of Iowa City, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, including special niece Jody VanHove of Marion.
Jane was born on June 17, 1950 in Newhall, Iowa. Her family moved to Cedar Rapids when she was in the sixth grade. She graduated from Washington High School. In 1972 she graduated from the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts in French and Spanish, after which she began her first career as a teacher at Wilson Junior High School. Following the birth of her first child, Jane retired from teaching and began her second career as a community volunteer. Later in 1993, she received her MBA from the University of Iowa.
Jane was a recognized leader, and she left a significant legacy in the community. In 1982 she was a founder of Leadership for Five Seasons, a program of the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce. Twenty-five years later, over 800 participants have graduated from the program, better informed about the community and its needs. She also served for six years as a charter trustee of Brucemore. As the first program chair, Jane was responsible for establishing the public program philosophy that Brucemore uses to this day. She served as a board member and then as president of the Junior League of Cedar Rapids from 1980-1989. In addition, from 1999-2004 she served as a board member and then as president of the Cedar Rapids Area Convention and Visitors Bureau. Jane was deeply committed to the Cedar Rapids Community Schools and served in numerous volunteer capacities. Most notable was her work as the chair of the 1998 Blue Ribbon Task Force.
When her children entered school Jane embarked on her third career – that of corporate executive. In the first few years she worked with Epley Marketing Services and then with Telecom *USA Database Marketing as a writer, editor and manager of research and database marketing. In 1990, Jane was hired by Frank N. Magid Associates as director, Field Operations and later vice-president, Business Strategies. In this executive position she managed contracts for Fortune 1000 clients and worked with others in the creation of new products. Jane’s professional abilities were recognized across the country. From 1994-2007 she served as president, treasurer and board member of the Marketing Research Association, a 3,000-member international association representing all segments of the market research profession.
Jane joined the Cedar Rapids Chamber of Commerce board of directors in 2007. Although her tenure was brief, her influence was great, as she led a community economic assessment effort that concluded this June. In 2006 until shortly before her death she was a consultant for IGD Industries. She was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Cedar Rapids and the first female vice-president and president-elect of the Cedar Rapids Country Club. In addition to her professional and volunteer commitments, Jane held dear her fellowship with Birthday Club, Book Club and FFF (Five Friends Forever).
With all of these successes in her professional life, Jane’s greatest accomplishment and joy was her family. She and her husband of 38 years raised three children and she considered them to be her greatest legacy. She loved nothing better than spending time with her children, husband, parents, and other extended family. Despite working full time and being a full-time student, Jane never missed a swim meet, basketball game or concert. As her family grew to include her children’s spouses and a grandson, Jane was thrilled at her expanding family. She was the center of her family and will be greatly missed.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites memorial contributions to the Jane Borg Cook Endowment, Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, 200 1st St. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404.
Jane will be remembered for her radiant beauty inside and out, her love for family, friends and community, and for her indomitable spirit that touched the lives of all who knew her.
Chris Samuels says:
Hi, Jane: As with any career, there are those whom you encounter and then pass by in the daily press of business and the pull of home and of life in general. You and I have met several times and, like Merrill, I have been an admirer, albeit secret. I remain an admirer, all the more so because my judgment of you “then” is obviously confirmed by the “now” of reading Merrill’s comments and those of others who have taken time to extend their comfort and concern.
Words hardly do justice, but perhaps knowing that you are in the thoughts of so many whom you have touched in the course of a generous and helpful career will enable you and your family to capture the true meaning of “well done.”
John Heakin says:
Jane was such classy and elegant lady that gave so much to the MRA and our profession both through her work and just from her bearing that she is among those rare people who are unique and irreplaceable. After 36 years as a member of MRA, I have had the honor of meeting many fine people. Few, if any, had her style and grace. She was truly a beautiful woman from the inside out. The industry will miss her many contributions, and I will miss a respected colleague.
Connie Ruben says:
Jane,
I don’t even know where to begin. Over the last week, I have started to write, then stop as I cannot seem to find the words that express my feelings. The most consistent word that I’m able to get out is DAMN, DAMN, DAMN!.
This is so unfair and I’m so sorry for you and for all who have been touched by you as well as those who may never have the opportunity to know you and to feel your strength and enjoy the warmth of your smile.
I know you are not taking this “laying down” – I know you are fighting and you are fighting hard. Please know if you need someone to help you fight – someone to just yell at and share those angry feeling- I’m here for you
You are a very special lady and you are dearly loved.
Connie
Ellen Gregory says:
While I know this is “late”, I know that the message will be received by you. The messages above are a testament to how very much you have touched those that you have encountered during your journey through life. We are all better for having known you and experienced your caring nature and passion for what you believe in.
Jane you will be greatly missed, and never forgotten. Thank you for all you have done to inspire us all.
Magda Cooling says:
Such a classy lady! Thank you for all your love and dedication you gave to the MRA. Thank you for being you. What an inspiration to so many. Thank you to your family for sharing you with us too!
Love,
Magda
Linda Brazel says:
Jane was just the best and we are all better today for her having touched our lives in her special way. Jane excelled in everything she did and truly was a beautiful woman from the inside out. She will be greatly missed by so many.
My thoughts and prayers are with Jane’s family, she treasured each of you so much.
Linda Brazel
Joe Ottaviani says:
Jane was a very special person and I am privileged to have known her and to have spent time with her as a member of MRA in general and the Board in particular. She was that rare individual who possessed a sense of compassion and joy (she always liked to have a good time and enjoy herself with others); but, when the “bell rang” she was all business. And what a keen mind for business she had.
The thing I will miss most about Jane, however, is her incredibly infectious laugh, which came right out of the Iowa heartland that she so loved. It was just one of the ways she could calm her surroundings. And there were times at Board Meetings when it came mighty handy.
Jane and her family are in my prayers.
Joe Ottaviani
Merrill Dubrow says:
Jane,
I just realized that today is your birthday. A few weeks ago I was at the MRA national conference and thought of you a number of times. I miss your smile, beauty, grace, charm and ability to always fight. I miss you and wanted you to know that.
Merrill
Merrill Dubrow says:
Jane,
What can I say. For starters I miss you a tremendous amount and thought of you often last week at the MRA conference. Happy birthday!
Whatever you are doing I am sure you have a smile on your face.
Your friend.
Merrill