Have you ever gotten a thank you note that was so wonderful you wanted to cherish it forever? Or, have you ever felt regret at not sending a thank you note to someone that is no longer in your life? Then this layout idea will be perfect for you. And, it is perfect for the Thanksgiving holiday as well.
Often times, we don’t realize how thankful we are for someone until they are gone. I’ve been feeling that way about a relative of mine lately that passed away way too early. She is a person that is an example to me of how to live a life full of integrity and selfless love for those around her. Sometimes I wonder what my life would be like if she were still here and I could talk to her often and get her advice on things. But, she is no longer here. However, that doesn’t mean that I can’t pay tribute to her by telling her thank you, even now.
Think about someone that is from your heritage that you would like to thank. Start by making a list of all the things that you are thankful for about them. Then, turn that list into a note as if you were writing it to that person. For a personal touch, write it on some beautiful stationary in your own handwriting. Make it meaningful, and be honest. Write the note as if that person were actually going to read it. Even though they never will, it will make a beautiful, and special page for your heritage scrapbook.
Next, simply compile some photos of that person to include with your note. Possibly include some photos of you and the person together. Now, all you have left is to create a layout with your note and photos. I like this example of one way to do it. If your note is longer, then think about doing a two page layout with your letter on one side, and photos on the other. If you feel it is too personal for the average person looking at your heritage album to see, then think about hiding the note on the layout in a hidden pocket, or envelope.
It is never too late to be thankful. If you would like to give this as a gift, think of giving it to someone that is related to the person that you are thanking. For example, if you do a thank you note layout for your grandmother, think about giving it to your Mom as a gift, along with a note with why you are thankful for her too. This will be a treasured memory for generations.
Meredith Ethington is the author of this blog. To learn more about Meredith, and her history with Scrapbooking and Genealogy, go here. < Return To Scrapbooking