1.  "Give thanks. Appreciate what you DO have…the more we give thanks, the more we receive to be thankful for. Gratitude is the gift that always gives back." --Matthew McConaughey

2.  Why we celebrate.  Compare/contrast your life to that of the Pilgrims.

3.  It can decrease stress and has other important emotional health benefits. emotional health  A person who is grateful tends to spend less time comparing him or herself with others and feeling envious.envious  Helps people step into someone else’s shoes and realize that another person did something nice for them even though he or she didn’t have to.

4.  Criteria Criteria  Make a rough draft first and show me for approval  Start with “Dear Service Member”.  Ensure that all cards are signed.  Thank them for what they do.  Only include positive messages.  Be creative! Draw pictures, talk about you, and let them know their work does not go unnoticed.

5.  Thank you for all you have done for this country, I hope you have a safe return home and Happy Holidays  Thank you for defending, and fighting for our country and keeping us safe.  Someone is thinking of you, come home soon. Thank you and Happy Holidays  Because of you, we have the freedom to celebrate holidays, we thank you and Happy Holidays.