Family Traditions: Finding Fun Ways To Say I Love You

by Jill Greenlaw on August 1st, 2012 | No Comments »

When I was younger, one of my favorite things about summer was going to girls camp. I have gone with church groups and with the Girl Scout program; both were exciting and fun. When I think of camp, I immediately think of receiving a letter from my parents on the last day. That's right, my parents would write me a letter and send it up with my leaders, so I would not forget them. How did they magically know that after I had been away from them for a week that I would always feel a little homesick? Receiving a letter from home was a great reminder to me that I had a loving family waiting for my return.

These sweet little letters have become a family tradition for my own family. Every year when my daughter goes to camp, I make sure she has a letter from her parents. This year, I had my husband write a letter, as well. I also had Demi at Street Bauble make a special necklace for my daughter. I received a necklace like this from evo'12 and my daughter was eyeing it. I thought it would be a fun little surprise to add one just for her to the envelope.

7 Ways to tell your family "I Love You"

Here are a few ways you can tell you family that you love them. Why not make it a new tradition?

1. Write a Letter or Note

Write a letter and slip it into their car, briefcase, backpack, or overnight bag. Written letters have become a lost art form. Take a moment and write down why your family member is important to you. Tell them you love them and be specific with all the reasons why. This letter will be something they will cherish for years to come.

2. Pillow Treats

Put a little treat on their pillow so they will find it before bed. I loved receiving little special treats from my mom when I was little. She would put it on my pillow or in my sock drawer and I remember thinking what a cool mom I had when I found it.

3. Send a Text

Send a random text to your family telling them why you think they are so awesome. It is so easy these days to send a text. Why not do it out of the blue when your kids or spouse least expect it?

4. Tell Them You Love Them

Texting is a great way to communicate, but actually saying "I love you" or "I appreciate you" is a great way to connect with your family.

5. Buy Them a Small Gift

Just as I have mentioned above, giving a small gift can be a great way to say I love you. I am so excited for my daughter to receive her necklace to show her that I have been thinking of her this week. Gifts don't have to cost a lot, but can have special meaning for the giver and recipient.

6. Cook Their Favorite Meal

Food is a great way to connect, especially when you surprise your loved one with their favorite meal. Cooking takes time and it can let that special someone know you have been thinking of them and that they are important to you.

7. Give a Hug

Physical touch is a powerful way to say I love you. I don't know what I would do without all the hugs I receive on a daily basis. When your kids get older, sometimes the hugs are not as frequent as they used to be. Take a moment during the day to hug your kids or husband and tell them you love them. This small gesture goes a long way.

What are some special ways that you tell your family you love them?

Jill Greenlaw has a banking background. She gave that up 17 years ago when she got married and started having kids. She loved being a stay-at-home mom while raising her four beautiful children. A few years ago, Jill went back to work in sales. She is now working for the Mom It Forward team as their Community Manager. She loves her job. Her interests include camping, motorcycling, boating, photography, reading, cooking, and traveling. Put her in flip flops anywhere warm and she is happy.