The Gift of Gratitude: 10 Little Ways to Say “Thank You” This Season
Because the smallest gestures often speak the loudest.
As the Thanksgiving season approaches, I always find myself slowing down to notice the people who’ve added something beautiful to my days — the friend who texts at just the right time, the neighbor who brings in our mail, the teacher who shows endless patience.
Gratitude is one of the simplest forms of hospitality because it says, “I see you. You matter.”
In Simple Hospitality, I wrote:
“Every small kindness can make an impact.” (Introduction, p. 9)
That’s really the heart of it. Gratitude doesn’t need grandeur — just sincerity. Here are ten small ways to express it this season, each one a simple act of welcome in its own way.
1. Write a handwritten note ✉️
Nothing says “thank you” quite like ink on paper. A short, thoughtful note can become a keepsake long after the moment has passed.
2. Drop off a seasonal treat 🥧
Bake (or buy!) something simple — pumpkin bread, cookies, or a jar of local honey — and leave it on someone’s doorstep with a kind note.
I love to look for “buy one, get one free” at the grocery story! Fresh Market and Publix both have them a lot and it’s a wonderful way to treat a neighbor with an unexpected treat!
3. Send a text that says “I appreciate you” 💛
Quick and heartfelt. Emojis encouraged 😉
4. Give flowers or greenery 🌿
A small grocery-store bouquet, or even a few clippings from your garden, can brighten someone’s week.
I love the flowers at Trader Joe’s, so beautiful and affordable! I even found a book about how to arrange them, called Beautiful Bouquets with Trader Joe’s Flowers, I also like following her on Instagram!
5. Offer your help for an hour 🕰
Run an errand, watch a child, rake leaves. Gratitude in motion can be the most meaningful kind.
6. Share a compliment publicly 🌟
Write a kind comment online, tell a manager their employee was wonderful, or celebrate a friend’s (or better yet…your spouse!) win out loud.
7. Re-gift something sentimental 🎁
Pass along a book you loved or a candle you enjoyed — a way of saying, “This brought me joy, and I want it to bring you joy, too.”
8. Invite someone for tea or coffee ☕️
No fancy prep required. Just an hour and a listening ear.
9. Frame a photo or memory 📷
Print a photo of a meaningful moment together and mail it with a note. Gratitude becomes tangible when tied to a memory.
Our daughter-in-law has given us several beautiful Yankee Candle’s personalized with family pictures on them! She knows I love pictures AND candles!!
10. Simply say it out loud 🗣
Sometimes the most powerful thank-you is the most direct: “You’ve made a difference in my life.”
A Grateful Heart Is a Hospitable One
Thankfulness changes how we move through the world. It softens our tone, widens our welcome, and turns ordinary days into sacred ones.
This season, don’t underestimate how your small words and gestures might encourage someone else. Gratitude, after all, is a gift we can give again and again — and it never runs out.
Warmly,
Jennifer
