Kat’s Money Corner: In the spirit of Thanksgiving
One of my favorite things about this column is discussing all the great ways to save money around this time of year. However, this week I’m taking a break to say thanks. You, my loyal readers, give wonderful support and feedback to all these columns and I am grateful for your insight. In honor of all of you and in the spirit of thankfulness, I will share some of my favorite (and inexpensive) ways to say ‘thanks!’
Acts of Kindness
It’s good manners to thank our family members for their help around the house or to send a card when a friend gives you a birthday gift, but it’s also nice to remember – and thank – the people in our lives who make it a little easier, such as our neighbors, teachers and co-workers.
An ideal gift for the early risers in your life is a DIY coffee mug. Using a plain white mug (you can easily find these at the dollar store or online) draw your own design or include a clever message (Thanks a latte!) with glass-paint markers. Bake your mug in the oven at 300 for 30 minutes and let them cool. This is a fun project for big and little kids alike and you can fill the mugs with candy or add a coffee shop gift card. http://www.lemonademakinmama.com/2012/01/express-yourself-in-porcelain.html
Another idea, and one that’s great for teachers or daycare providers, is a small potted plant like succulents or even herbs. These small plants can be potted in just about anything – vintage teacups or even baby food jars are an option. A low maintenance gift like this can be appreciated all year round.
http://www.homelife.com.au/gardening/features/how+to+create+potted+plant+gifts,4932
Lovin’ From The Oven
Express your thanks to friends or family members with home baked goods, which are almost universally appreciated and easy to make – no matter what level of skill you have in the kitchen! Make a few dozen cookies and have your ‘elves’ deliver them across the neighborhood. If you feel more comfortable with store-bought goods, use candy to make a sweet, thankful gesture. http://mypaperpony.blogspot.com/2010/06/giant-candy-thank-you-card.html
No matter what or how you choose to give thanks for the people in your life, it’s always wise to include a handwritten note. When you write a thank-you card, remember to thank the person by name, specify why you’re thankful with a line or two about how the person helped you with their gift, time or effort. It’s these kind of small actions that keep the spirit of thanks with us all year round. From my house to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!
Kat's Money Corner is posted on Dollars & Sense every Tuesday. Kat Hnatyshyn, when not blogging or caring for her little one, is a manager with CommunityAmerica Credit Union. For more financial chatter, click http://twitter.com/savinmavens.
This story was originally published November 25, 2014 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Kat’s Money Corner: In the spirit of Thanksgiving."