The Art of Gratitude

(Card made with September 2015 CTMH Stamp of the Month,courtesy of Close To My Heart)

Of all the cards we make, the Thank-You card is, or should be, the most heartfelt. How many times a day do we say, "thanks!" or "thank you!" or "I appreciate that!" for small kindnesses - but we reserve a thank-you card for birthdays and holidays, using them only to acknowledge a physical or monetary gift.

Lately I've started following the very wise policy of my friend Linda, who is a world-champion thanker. Her mother had a strict policy - you can't use the gift until the thank-you card is sent - and she follows it to this day. Linda promptly thanks friends and family for even the smallest of gifts, favors or kindnesses, and without fail the recipient of the card always feels appreciated and special.

So, here's a challenge: this month, make some extra thank you cards. USE them. Thank the people in your life who make you happy, who go the extra mile, who simply make your life better by being in it. Ask yourself: "What ordinary things am I grateful for?" and then, write a little thank you note to the people who make those things possible.

Did your child have a good first day at school? Thank the teacher.
Did your husband wash the car? Take the trash out? Walk the dog? Thank him.
Did a friend listen when you complained about the snoring of the aforementioned spouse? Thank her!
Do you regularly shop at a favorite farm stand, bakery, or boutique? Thank the owner for the products they produce that enrich your life.
Does your neighbor have a beautiful garden? Slip a thank you into her mailbox.
Is there one cashier at your supermarket who works a little faster, smiles a little more, does a better job? Thank her.
Did your doctor take a little extra time with you? Thank him.
Thank your restaurant server, your mailman, your sister, your brother, your mother, your father, your spouse, your children.

You'll make them even happier than they made you, I guarantee.