Counting the Cost

Creatively Frugal
Appreciation

How do you express your gratitude simply and meaningfully to those people who serve you and your family so faithfully throughout the year?

"When our three children were younger, I gave a donation to the Salvation Army in honor of their Sunday School teachers, youth leaders, etc. Then we gave each teacher a card expressing our appreciation and telling them that in lieu of a gift, we were giving a donation in their name. The total cost was probably less than if we had purchased gifts and we had the satisfaction of helping someone in need." ~ Carla

"I am a retired teacher who has to be frugal because I retired early (21 years-lost 45% of my retirement) due to a moldy classroom and assorted kindergarten germs (9 prescriptions for antibiotics the last year) I miss it dearly.

As I look back, it wasn't the fancy gifts or flowers, etc. that meant the most. It was the heartfelt notes thanking me for the things I taught a child, helping them get through a family problem, or helping build self confidence in their child. I saved these notes (in my 'sunshine' file) to read when I had the inevitable bad day or difficult parent interaction.

While I have known teachers who wanted more 'stuff,' they were few and far between. Teachers are seldom in it for the money. They feel that they can make a difference in the world. Let them know if they are! " ~ Margaret in FL

"A friend loves crossword puzzles. Each Sunday I save the front cover from the TV Guide I get in the Sunday Newspaper. When I run across other crossword puzzles in magazines I read, I make her a copy of them and then give them in a binder for birthday and Christmas Gifts. She loves that I show may appreciation to her by giving her things she loves regularly that are expendable. The fact that it only costs me time makes her even happier
as neither of us has money to waste." ~ CSINBAD

"Look on the Flylady's Web site for 'Clutter Free Gift Ideas for the Holidays':
http://www.flylady.net/pages/ClutterFreeGiftsO.asp " ~ Pamela

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"I have used the apples from my trees to make
pies weekly for friends. They appreciate it and
my fame as 'The Pie Lady' has grown. Prior to
this, my sister was 'The Pie Lady' with her
famous cherry pie. She uses the prepared Betty Crocker crust, but I have perfected my own crust and can make it quickly. It is so pretty when baked. The apples cost nothing and the crust is very cheap. So, I have been blessed too by doing something for someone else. My skills in pie baking have been perfected." ~ Betty G.

"I can't speak for others, of course, but a personal note or card of appreciation in response to doing something for someone else has always been of far more value to me than any amount of money or a purchased gift.

My primary goal in life for the last forty years has been 'to be useful.' I've kept the notes and letters of appreciation in an old briefcase. When I get to be too old and decrepit to be useful to others anymore, I'll read those notes and be reminded of the times that I was." ~Rollie

"Idea #1: Write a letter. The art of letter writing is declining! Think about what you appreciate about that person and SAY IT! They can take it out and re-read it on a 'blue' day

Idea #2: Bead a badge lanyard. So many people (including teachers!) have to wear badges at work. A simple lanyard takes about 30" of light gage jewelry wire, and lanyard hook (for the badge) and whatever tasteful or fun discount beads you can find at your craft store. Beaded lanyards are much more attractive than the cloth ones you can buy commercially - and your child can do the beading!" ~ Dawn

Editor's Note: Thanks to everyone who took the time to share his or her ideas!