“A Smile is Universal”
Words and music by Hanna Honors
with Mrs. Seidler’s 4th Grade Class
©2026 Hanna Honors
We loved growing up on our Minnesota farm
We all worked hard, and did our part,
Then played late after dark
Four brothers, one sister,
My mom and dad and me
Fifty some cows, made milk and cheese
Caught gophers and waterskied
Chorus:
Life isn’t easy, but it’s a lot of fun
Caring and helping are my favorite things I’ve done
Even though I don’t know you and you don’t yet know me
A smile is universal – and that’s all I need!
My dream to be a stewardess
Traveling far around the world
Changed when I met, a man named Mark
We became each other’s world
Through many adventures, we ended up here
In Custer for fifty years!
But the greatest of all, my favorite of all,
Was raising our kids up tall!
Chorus
After all these years, I’m still having fun
Every season’s my, favorite time,
There’s so much I love about life
Six grandkids, endless stories,
I skydived at 71! It’s true!
The adventure was great, but trust me when I say,
Be kind and you’ll go far!
Chorus
Bonnie Thompson lives a life shaped by hard work, curiosity, and a genuine kindness toward others. She grew up on a small farm in Denison, Minnesota, where family and responsibility went hand in hand. With one sister and four brothers, Bonnie learned early that everyone had a role to play. Long days of farm work were simply part of life, and they taught her perseverance, humility, and the understanding that when challenges come, you face them and keep moving forward.
Being outdoors has always been more than a hobby for Bonnie; it is part of who she is. She finds joy in nature in all its forms, from wide open spaces to the smallest details most people might overlook. Every season brings something to appreciate, and she loves being outside, whether hiking, taking photographs, or simply noticing the quiet beauty around her.
Family remains the center of Bonnie’s world. She shares a long and loving marriage with her husband, Mark, built on faith, respect, and shared experiences. Together they raised three sons, Zachary, Carl, and Aaron, who are her greatest pride. Today, being a grandmother brings her immense joy, and she loves cheering on her grandchildren, celebrating their milestones, and spending time together whenever possible.
Bonnie’s caring nature reaches far beyond her family. Throughout her working years with the Forest Service, the post office, and the hospital, she has always found joy in connecting with people. She has a gift for listening and genuinely cares about people’s stories.
Volunteering, visiting the elderly, making sure no one feels alone, and helping wherever she can are natural parts of her life.
Adventure still plays an important role in who Bonnie is. She believes curiosity keeps life meaningful and does not let fear stop her from trying something new. She approaches challenges with calm courage, humor, and gratitude, choosing to see them as opportunities rather than obstacles.
Above all, Bonnie believes in kindness. She understands that life is not always easy, but it can be filled with joy when you choose to care for others. She lives with humility, appreciation for the little things, and a belief that small gestures, a helping hand, a warm conversation, or a simple smile, have the power to connect people everywhere.