At the beginning of this month, I shared my {kind of} “Word of the Year“ which is THRIVE. Part of that was highlighting 5 specific areas that I wanted to focus on since it’s difficult to thrive in a kagillion areas of your life. They call this “First things First” in my kiddos elementary school. Back to basics, right? Two of the areas I highlighted were Family and Friendships.
Today’s post is nothing more than a small way to thrive in your relationships with your family and friends. I’m calling it:
In this world of all of our lovely online connectedness, I believe there is still something to be said of a nice handwritten note to a family member or good friend. And not the kind that’s frantic last minute like, “Oh my goodness, it’s their Birthday” or “Grab a card! We’re going to a wedding”. Uhhhhh….not that I’ve ever actually done that. {pause, while I cover my face in shame}. :-/
So, I’m talking about the kind of handwritten note that says, “Hey, I was thinking of you today. And not because you just happen to show up in my “feed” when I was on instagram, facebook, or wherever. I’m thankful for YOU and this is why. I’m taking the time to say you mean something to me.
For me, this will likely play out as a weekly ritual of sorts…taking possibly 15-30 minutes to write some notes to those special people in my life. That’s way less time than most of us waste on browsing Pinterest, right??? It’s ok…I’m guilty too.
Awhile ago, I picked up a few sets of cards and these cute branch pencils at TJMaxx. Goodness…I love that store! For under $20, I have some cute supplies to get me off to good start on The Gratitude Project.
Is this something you do regularly already? Do you think it would make a difference in your relationships? What would hold you back from doing this??? {If it’s getting an address…just e.mail/text/call them!}
~Anneke
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This is so sweet Anneke. I love those cards, the colors jump off the monitor! Thank you cards, YES, I love them, hardly get any but I do send them out mostly when someone buys a painting from me. I have my own cards with my paintings on the covers with my name and website on the back. Often times, I send free note cards along in a packet just to say “Thank You.” I always hope people are thrilled with a few little things like that but I never do hear back. Thoughtfulness seems to have gone by the wayside for many but not for you Anneke. You are a rarity. You are thoughtful, kind and very talented. I am thankful for you being here, your blog and all that you do…..and Thank YOU!
Aw, Colleen. YOU are too sweet! Seriously, thank you from the bottom of my heart. There are many thoughtful and lovely people out there…you just don’t hear about the “normal” these days. I love that you have your own cards with your paintings. That makes it extra special to those who receive them. I have these awesome cards I got on a trip to Kenya that have pictures made from banana leaves. I only have a few left and love sending them out for special occasions.