Notebooks...

My sister, Cindy, told me a long time ago about a tradition she loved. I thought it was a great idea the moment I heard it and implemented it. She said it was especially helpful in her communication with her older boys. I think she writes a lot more often than I do.

What has worked for me is to write to each family member once a week. Sunday is the easiest day for me to do it. I even started a notebook for Jeff this year. He loves it! I try to make mental notes throughout the week. On Sundays I write in each notebook. I like to include things I appreciate about that person, a good memory we made together during week, a behavior that improved or anything else that shows my love.

My family loves to read their notebooks. As soon as Tyler spots his notebook he grabs it and runs to find someone who can read it to him. My good friend Heather made me a plaque that reads, "never suppress a generous thought." These notebooks help me with that goal. Sometimes I even get a sweet message back!