My friend, Michelle Dolieslager, shared this beautiful family tradition with me today:
My sister, Kelly, loves to make cards with all the “Stamping Up” materials she has collected over the years. Growing up Navy Brats and having spouses, family members, and friends who have served in all branches of the Military, my family has always been very supportive of and grateful for the men and women serving our Country. Several years ago, we decided to combine my sister’s passion for card making – and my family’s support of the Troops – into a Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition.
Each year, we make over 100 Holiday cards with Kelly’s never ending supply of stamps, ink, ribbons, glitter, cardstock, and our “artistic” talents. You can definitely see they are homemade J. Then on Thanksgiving Day, the Dolieslager/Kiem family (including my awesome 12 nieces and nephews ranging in age from 5 – 23 years) get together at my brother, Bryan’s, house and write special notes of thanks and support in the cards.
Jackson and Erin making the cards
My Dad served 26 years in the Navy – so my Mom, brothers – Steve and Bryan – and sister Kelly remember how hard it was to be separated from him for months at a time when we were growing up. Kelly’s husband, Bob, was in the Air Force and served during Desert Storm. My sisters in law, Marieska and Lori have family members who have served. This year, we were blessed to have Lori’s uncle Chris and his family join us for Thanksgiving. Chris is currently in the Army and has served in Iraq. He and Bob gave us first-hand insight into what it is like to receive support from others when so far away from home and loved ones.
Some of the cards the family made
It makes us proud to know that our small gesture of thanks is appreciated by those who receive the cards. So, once again, the signed cards will be included with a box of goodies – cookies, candy, toiletries – and mailed to a friend currently serving in Iraq. He will share our cards and treats with those serving by his side. It’s a simple Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition, but one I will always cherish!
All the nieces and nephews who worked on the cards
It is not too late to do something like this as a family this holiday season. Not only will it deeply touch the people in our armed forces and be a fun family sharing time, but it will also remind everyone of the many ways that we can chooose to make a difference for someone else . Isn’t that the whole theme of the holidays?
To experience more ideas of caring things you can do for one another, go to www. barbaraglanz.com/ideas.
