As the air gets crisper and the holiday season begins to glow on the horizon, November becomes a beautiful reminder to slow down and reflect. While the month is often filled with busy schedules, school events, and Thanksgiving prep, it's also the perfect time to begin a simple tradition that can make a lasting impact: starting a Gratitude Jar.

🍂 What Is a Gratitude Jar?

A Gratitude Jar is a simple, meaningful tradition where each day (or week), you and your family write down something you're thankful for on a small slip of paper and place it into a jar. It can be a moment, a person, something silly, or something profound. Over time, the jar fills with reminders of the good in your life—even on the hard days.

📝 How to Start Your Own

1. Find a Jar or Container

You don’t need anything fancy—a mason jar, an old vase, or even a shoebox will do. If you love to craft, this is a fun opportunity to decorate it with ribbons, leaves, or markers with your kids.

2. Cut Up Some Paper

Use colorful paper or simple note cards. Keep a small stack nearby with pens so you can easily write down your thoughts of gratitude when the moment strikes.

3. Choose a Time to Share

Some families read their notes every Thanksgiving, while others open the jar on New Year’s Eve. You can even pull out a few notes whenever someone needs a pick-me-up.

4. Make It a Daily Habit

Place the jar somewhere visible, like the kitchen table or entryway. Set a time—maybe after dinner or bedtime—to reflect and write something together.

🌟 Why It Matters

In the whirlwind of daily life, it’s easy to forget the small moments that bring us joy. The Gratitude Jar is a way to pause and acknowledge those little blessings. It also teaches kids the beauty of mindfulness and helps build a home filled with appreciation, reflection, and love.

As a family photographer, I know how precious these fleeting seasons are. We take pictures to remember faces and places—but words in a jar? They remind us how those moments felt.

Start This Season with Thanks

This November, let your Gratitude Jar become a new tradition—a small, simple act that brings your family closer and helps you savor the season's magic.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Kelsey—the heart behind Kelseycharmayne Photography, LLC. I help families preserve meaningful memories through natural, heartfelt photography. Based in Livonia, Michigan, I specialize in capturing the joy, connection, and real-life moments that make your story yours.

📍 Livonia, MI

📧 Kelsey@kelseycharmayne.com

📞 734-521-7535

🌐 www.kelseycharmayne.com