I read somewhere that consistently grateful people are happier and more satisfied with their lives. It also helps create a generous spirit in us. Therefore, gratitude is a virtue I would definitely want to develop in my children. Summer, who just turned two, cannot even pronounce “Thank you” properly yet. She says “tenchu” or something like that, but it makes me happy every time she says it without me having to remind her. Being consistently grateful is a quality even I have not perfected but I’m working on it and learning along side my girls.
The week after Summer’s birthday party, I started making cards to express gratitude to everybody who came to celebrate with her and gave her presents. It’s becoming this little family tradition because it’s also something we did after Summer’s first birthday. I wanted it to be special and personal so instead of emailing our thank yous or sending out Facebook messages, I handcrafted each card and envelope, designing them with the same safari theme. I made the “Thank You!” on the front of the card using the very first rubber stamp I made. Obviously, I had this project in mind when I carved it. I also had one of Summer’s best photos taken at the party printed in wallet size and inserted them in each card.
I was happy to make them for our loved ones we’re thankful for. Summer was also happy to play with the extra cards and enjoyed looking at her picture. She doesn’t quite understand what it is yet, she can’t even read what’s written inside, but I’m hoping she acquires the habit of thankfulness and grow up knowing we expressed our gratitude all the time.
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