McDuff and Friends

Book I Dedication

To the Sonoma County ECE Community: You are the heart and soul of early childhood education. 

Each day, you pour your passion, patience, and profound care into nurturing the youngest members of our community. Through your tireless efforts, you lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning, growth, and wonder. 

Your work is both an art and a science - blending creativity, empathy, and the latest research to provide our children with the best possible start. With endless energy and an unshakable commitment, you cultivate safe, enriching environments where little minds can blossom. 

This book is dedicated to you - the teachers, directors, aides, and advocates who dedicate yourselves to the betterment of our children and our world. Your invaluable contributions leave an indelible mark, empowering the next generation to reach for the stars. 

May this work inspire and uplift you, just as you inspire and uplift all those whose lives you touch. You are the true heroes of early childhood education, and we are forever grateful.

Book II Dedication

To the families of Rise and Shine Child Care Centers 

(formerly Rich Family Day Care Home)

Your children are the heart and soul of our program and the motivation for all we do. You have entrusted us with your most precious gifts, and we are honored to be a part of their growth and development. 

To the families who have come before, thank you for laying the foundation that has allowed Rise and Shine to become the nurturing, enriching program it is today. Your support and partnership over years have been invaluable. 

To the families here now, thank you for choosing us to be your child's home away from home. We cherish the opportunity to learn and explore alongside your little ones each day. Your trust means the world to us, and we are excited to share this journey with you. 

And to the families yet to come, we eagerly await your arrival and can't wait for you to become a part of the Rise and Shine family. Rest assured that your children will be loved, nurtured, and given the tools to shine brightly and reach their unique milestone of development. 

To all the Rise and Shine families, past, present, and future - you are the reason we have thrived these past 35 years. This book is dedicated to you.

Book III Dedication

To Scruffy and Duncan, 

our faithful childhood 

companions.

You were there through it all - the laughter, the tears, the adventures. Whose unconditional love and loyal companionship brought endless joy and comfort to our young lives. 

Your wagging tails, wet kisses, and boundless affection brought us so much joy. Your playful antics, and steadfast presence remain indelible memories that continue to warm our hearts. 

This book is dedicated to you, our cherished canine friends. Though you are no longer by our side, your memory lives on in the warmth of our hearts. 

May it honor the special bond we shared.

Book IV Dedication

To The Rich Family - 

Our dearest children and 

grandchildren

This book is dedicated to you, the members of our beloved family, who have brought us immeasurable joy, love, and fulfillment throughout our lives. 

Your unwavering support, laughter, and cherished memories are the very threads that have woven the fabric of our existence. 

Each of you holds a special place in our hearts - your unique spirits, boundless curiosity, and steadfast loyalty have been a constant source of inspiration. 

As we reflect on the journey we have shared, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the privilege of watching you grow, learn, and thrive. May the pages of this book serve as a testament to the enduring bond we share. 

You are the greatest gift we have ever received. 

Thank you for filling our lives with love, laughter, and the promise of a future brighter than we could have ever imagined.