Turn holiday photos and souvenirs into thank-you cards

Spanking-new toys that work, puzzles with all the pieces, big picture books with shiny covers that aren't yet tattered or stained with grape juice, dolls that have both shoes on their feet and cozy pj's that make the bedtime routine extra-special . . . what fun it is to enjoy brand-new holiday gifts from friends and loved ones!

Tell the thoughtful gift-givers how much the presents mean to you with thank-you cards that are fun to send because you make them yourselves.

This idea for thank-you cards is not only simple and fun but also the ultimate in recycling. Family friend and professional artist Elissa Cedarleaf Dahl created this kid- and adult-friendly idea last summer when it came time to send out thank-you notes to all the guests who attended her wedding. Three 1-inch-square pieces of paper were glued in a row across the center of postcard-size cards. These weren't just any cutouts, but eye-catching, familiar images from the wedding day. Our card included three square pieces cut from a photograph (the bride's bouquet), a wedding announcement (part of a poem) and the ceremony bulletin (lyrics to a song).

These bits and pieces effectively and humorously told the story of that memorable day. And yes, a hand-written note was on the back of the card, along with postage and our address.

Here's how you and your kids can make similar collages for holiday thank-yous to show your gratitude:

Gather store catalogs, Christmas cards, used gift wrap, gift tags, programs from concerts and plays, ticket stubs and extra holiday photographs (bloopers you were going to toss will add to the humor of your card. Look for that photo of Grandpa yawning after the big dinner). Cut them up into 1-inch squares and set them out in front of you.

Cut white or light-colored cardstock into postcard-size rectangles no smaller than 3 1/2 by 5 inches. Or, purchase ready-made plain postcards at the post office with postage already printed on the cards. Pick out arrangements of squares and attach to one side of the card using a glue stick. Let dry. Write a note on the back, address and send.

Write Donna with your questions and ideas at www.donnasday.com. Donna's latest book, "Donna Erickson's Fabulous Funstuff for Families," is available in bookstores nationwide. ? Donna Erickson. Distributed by King Features Syndicate

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