Thanksgiving Writing Contest

Thanksgiving Writing Contest

Thanksgiving Day is less than two weeks away and despite all the turmoil in the world, a government divided, bad economic times, disease and sickness in homes, and family hardships, there are still so many things to be thankful for. We have someone to love, someone who loves us, friends to laugh with and at times cry with, a beautiful earth that gives us light and food for both body and spirit, we have freedom, and we have life! With life and all its inadequacies, we can still find its beauty and joy.

As the saying goes, “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” ` Epictetus

I was reading a magazine (can’t recall which) and I came across an article that stated when a person wrote a thank you letter, researchers found that their happiness soared an impressive 20%. Writing just one letter was said to have a very positive effect. So, in honor of Thanksgiving, I decided to create a writing contest with your happiness in mind. One lucky writer and reader of Colleen Houck’s Tiger’s Curse Blog will win a special Tiger’s Curse Package (includes: An official signed copy of Tiger’s Curse w/ Exclusive Content, personalized fan letter from Colleen Houck, Ren tiger blanket, Kelsey’s hair ribbons, Shakespeare note cards, jeweled book mark, bracelet, candy, and more!) and two runners-up will win a small personalized gift from Colleen PLUS an officially signed copy of Tiger’s Curse w/ Exclusive Content for a friend new to the Tiger’s Curse Series! This is all provided you meet the entrance requirements in our Thankful Contest. These prizes are a special gift from Colleen Houck to you!

Here’s how the contest will work,

Step 1:



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Take a moment to step back and reflect on what you are truly thankful for. For some this may take more time than others. Let’s be honest, some of us at times tend to focus on the thorns of a rose bush instead of being amazed to find beautiful roses among the thorns. Organize your thoughts and then write them down. Take two to three paragraphs (that’s right, minimize to just two or three) to share your story of what your thankful for this year and then type them with  your name and the date.

Step 2:



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In the spirit of the season, identify one person whom you are especially grateful for this year. Perhaps it’s your mom or dad or a brother or sister, or maybe your good friend. Also consider a teacher or some other person who may have influenced you for good or meant something special to you. Catalog your thoughts and write that person a thank you letter.



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Letter writing is a lost art and oftentimes, if a letter is personally handwritten, it is more meaningful to the person receiving it. If you need help on how to write a thank you letter, click here. Choose nice stationary and pen. Take your time and choose your words in a way that shows your gratitude in a more eloquent and heartfelt way.



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Step 3:

Make a copy of your letter (one to be given to the person you addressed it to, and the copy to be submitted for the contest). You may change the name or leave it blank if you wish it to be anonymous. Place your letter in an addressed envelope and mail it (or hand-deliver it if that is preferred).



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Step 4:

Perform one random act of kindness. This can be lots of fun and since I have no way of ensuring this step is done, please use the honor code. This can be as simple as doing the dishes or some chore for another or visiting someone who’s sick or bringing cookies to someone down or in need, or buying a stranger’s meal or the movie ticket for the person behind you in line. The sky’s the limit with this step so really go with it!



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Step 5:

Submit all 5 items to lindalouiselotti@colleenhouck.com. Remember, if you don't supply me with ALL the required information your entry will not count, so don't forget!!!

1) your 2-3 paragraph of things you are thankful for along with a

2) copy of your thank you letter to someone you care about.

3) Include your full name and

4) your mailing address.*Include mailing address for a friend who might like the Tiger's Series (this is vital if you are a runner up winner)

5) Also make mention of the random act of kindness you performed as that will be listed also.

 

This contest will run up through Thanksgiving Day, November 28th. The winner will be announced shortly after. Good luck!

And always remember, “Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting.” ~ Author unknown

~Till next time,

Linda Louise Lotti