Today’s post is all about giving back and making someone’s day with this easy DIY gift idea and free printable. And with Thanksgiving just around the corner, now is the perfect excuse to say “thank you” and pay it forward.

I’ve always believed the motto “Give Extra, Get Extra” and it’s true when it comes to karma! This also goes beyond close friends & family. I’m also talking about those people who affect your daily life, but you don’t even know their name {think police officers, firemen etc} There is always a good excuse to pass on the love and make someone’s day.

You all know by now, that my husband is military – so my heart always goes out to the men & women proudly serving our country.

Recently I made these “Extra” Gum gift packages to hand out to the gate guards working the base gates. It’s just a little something to say “Hey, I’m Extra Thankful For What You Do.” Although I gave my finished pieces to military members, you can do the same gesture for friends, family, teachers, etc – by following this SIMPLE tutorial and grabbing some Extra gum at your local retailer. I promise you this little “give extra” gift is not too complicated or expensive and honestly can be made & gifted all year long!

Give Extra Gift Craft Supplies:

* Cardboard Pumpkin Cutouts
* Free Printable {Download HERE}
* White Cardstock
* Color Printer
* Single Hole Punch
* Craft Scissors
* Foam Mounting Tape
* Baker’s Twine
* Extra Gum – Individual Packs

Directions:

* First download and print the FREE “Extra Thankful For You” Printable. Trim out each section with scissors.
* Using some foam mounting tape, attach the cutouts to your cardboard pumpkins.
* Now grab your hole punch and punch four holes on the pumpkin cutout. {see pictures for examples of placement}
* Grab your gum and attach it to the opposite side of the pumpkin, with foam mounting tape.
* Now grab some twine and thread it through the holes and tie it off in a bow. This is so the gum won’t accidentally come unattached from the card. {plus it gives the look of a present}
* Repeat for each pumpkin. Then hand out and see people’s faces light up!

So what do you think? Super simple, right? So are you going to be taking the “extra” step to pay it forward this holiday season? I sure hope so! And of course, with the theme of Thanksgiving I grabbed the dessert flavors of Extra gum to include in my gifts. I thought that was a nice, fitting touch! Now hurry – grab the free printable & get to work!