Do you ever wonder what your kids think of your parenting? When was the last time your children told you, “thank you” or “I love you because?” When was the last time you told them?

I wondered about this one day, while my husband was away on military duty. It had already been 3 months. YES, 3 MONTHS since he had been away. And of course, we missed him greatly.  You never really know how much you appreciate someone until they are gone.

One day, my frustrations were high and everything the kids did annoyed the heck out of me (even after a long meditation practice). I lost my patience and temper with the kids. And I just wanted to give up! Then, I saw a mailed letter from my husband on the refrigerator door. It was a simple letter on a sheet of notebook paper.

He wrote things like: “I miss you” and “I can’t wait to see you.” He also drew some pictures, (some super cool Daddy Art) – which the kids loved!  And at the end, he said, “I love you!” This made me smile. It’s amazing how a small gesture of kind words can change your day.

Then The Book Was Born

At that moment, I took a deep breath and hugged my children. I remembered that one day, they would be gone too. And even though I get frustrated, I love my job as their Mom. I wanted to savor the moments with my children and show them how thankful I was to have them in my life.

And this inspired the creation of these gratitude books. I thought it would be nice to tell my kids why I am so grateful for them. IT WOULD ALSO BE NICE to read why they are grateful for my husband and me.

So, I started with the Dad and Me gratitude book. This beautiful journal is for expressing gratitude. The left side of the book is for Dad. The right side of the book is for his daughter or son.

I also decided to make gratitude books for Mom and Me, Grandma and Me, and Grandpa and Me in ENGLISH AND SPANISH.

My hope is that other families like us can benefit from these books. I wish you all lots of love and gratitude!

What is Your Gratitude Story? 

Write your thoughts in the comments section below. Share your experience. I’d love to hear what you have to say!

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Click here to order your copies of “I Love You Because: Gratitude Book”