Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6th-10th and if you want to show your school spirit and gratitude for our educators and school professionals, a thoughtful gift is a great way to do so. See our Teacher Appreciation Week gift inspiration below.

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

If you want to make a whole week of it, doing a color a day for your teacher with each color having some kind of “theme” is a fun idea. Kristy did this for her daughter’s teacher! For red, the first day, it’s all about the teacher….the things she likes and things to spoil her with for the days she’s not teaching. Items include a Bogg bag, apple candle, Sol de Janeiro kit, and a self-care book.

Tag: “ Roses are RED & Apples are too! You’re the best teacher ever, we’re so thankful for you.”

Orange, day two, is focused on recognizing the growth she’s given the students. She also loves to garden, so this is perfect! Orange items include drinking glasses, a succulent, a personalized planter, a mister, and a seed kit.

Tags: “ ORANGE you just such a SUN-sational teacher!“ and “Thank you for helping us grow!“

Day three is yellow, a bright and shining color, so these items show her that she’s the star to the kids. Yellow gifts include a tote, lip balm, hand sanitizer, paper weights, a t-shirt, an essential oil pen, a pillow for the reading corner, and a coffee mug, of course!

Tags: “Thank you for being the STAR that taught them to SHINE“ and “The influence of a good teacher can never be erased.”

Green, day four, is a day for the classroom! These gifts are things she can use in and around like classroom, like a utility cart, Sharpies, a label maker, a pencil sharpener, a journal, essential oils, and modular seats for the kids.

Tags: “Thank you for your Commit•Mint Involve•mint Encourage•mint Invest•mint” and “Green with envy are those who wish they had you for a teacher!“ 

Blue, the final day, is for all things lunch!! Items include a lunch carrier, a mini to-go Crockpot, a Bentgo container, a snacks bag, a sand art light that’s great for lunchtime relaxation or meditation, and a Stanley tumbler.

Tags: “Just something out of the blue to say we appreciate you!“ and “We appreciate you a whole bunch, so please enjoy some lunch!“ 

And if you’d rather do one gift on Teacher Appreciation Day (May 7th), a gift bag stuffed with self-care goodies is always a hit! Grab a tote and fill it with Sharpies, this cute acrylic desk sign, a canvas pouch with keychains, body scrub, body wash, lip balm, a lip mask, face masks, and a facial scrub!

blue green orange and red rainbow design decoration

Teacher Appreciation Week is May 6th-10th and if you want to show your school spirit and gratitude for our educators and school professionals, a thoughtful gift is a great way to do so. See our Teacher Appreciation Week gift inspiration below.

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

If you want to make a whole week of it, doing a color a day for your teacher with each color having some kind of “theme” is a fun idea. Kristy did this for her daughter’s teacher! For red, the first day, it’s all about the teacher….the things she likes and things to spoil her with for the days she’s not teaching. Items include a Bogg bag, apple candle, Sol de Janeiro kit, and a self-care book.

Tag: “ Roses are RED & Apples are too! You’re the best teacher ever, we’re so thankful for you.”

Orange, day two, is focused on recognizing the growth she’s given the students. She also loves to garden, so this is perfect! Orange items include drinking glasses, a succulent, a personalized planter, a mister, and a seed kit.

Tags: “ ORANGE you just such a SUN-sational teacher!“ and “Thank you for helping us grow!“

Day three is yellow, a bright and shining color, so these items show her that she’s the star to the kids. Yellow gifts include a tote, lip balm, hand sanitizer, paper weights, a t-shirt, an essential oil pen, a pillow for the reading corner, and a coffee mug, of course!

Tags: “Thank you for being the STAR that taught them to SHINE“ and “The influence of a good teacher can never be erased.”

Green, day four, is a day for the classroom! These gifts are things she can use in and around like classroom, like a utility cart, Sharpies, a label maker, a pencil sharpener, a journal, essential oils, and modular seats for the kids.

Tags: “Thank you for your Commit•Mint Involve•mint Encourage•mint Invest•mint” and “Green with envy are those who wish they had you for a teacher!“ 

Blue, the final day, is for all things lunch!! Items include a lunch carrier, a mini to-go Crockpot, a Bentgo container, a snacks bag, a sand art light that’s great for lunchtime relaxation or meditation, and a Stanley tumbler.

Tags: “Just something out of the blue to say we appreciate you!“ and “We appreciate you a whole bunch, so please enjoy some lunch!“ 

And if you’d rather do one gift on Teacher Appreciation Day (May 7th), a gift bag stuffed with self-care goodies is always a hit! Grab a tote and fill it with Sharpies, this cute acrylic desk sign, a canvas pouch with keychains, body scrub, body wash, lip balm, a lip mask, face masks, and a facial scrub!

Summer will be here before we know it and we’re already dreaming of all the ways we can update our wardrobes with the best styles of the season. From social festivities to days at the desk, and vacations by the water to early morning runs, Walmart has everything you need to make this a summer of fashion-forward moments. See our Walmart summer fashion inspiration below.

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

Summer = party time! Grad parties, pool parties, backyard BBQs, and holiday soirées…summer is the season of celebrations. Make sure you’re party ready with one of these gorgeous getups.

Maybe you’re all work and no play. Which is okay, but don’t ignore the benefits of a healthy work-life balance! These dresses will have you looking chic in the office, and they can definitely be worn to date night after, too!

Pool days, beach trips, and lake vacations. Whatever your preferred form of water-centric recreation, get yourself a swimsuit to rock that will steal the show.

Don’t forget your coverup! These will come in handy when you’re trying to enjoy your liquid lunch at one of those “no shirt, no shoes, no service” places.

And if you’re team #summerbod, grab a few workout pieces that will make you excited to get your sweat on.

rear view of woman sitting on a rock

The list of reasons why you should grow your own veggies is endless, but some of our favorites are: saving money, getting in touch with nature, and fresh, delicious food at your fingertips! Starting a vegetable garden may seem intimidating, but if you start small and stay open-minded, you’ll be growing your own veggies like a pro in no time. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots are some of the most popular vegetables to plant for beginners (and can be used in tons of dishes)! Pick one, pick some, or pick them all. Once you get that first taste of homegrown vegetables, you’ll never want store-bought produce again.

The Garden

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

Vegetable Seed Packets | Plant Supports | Raised Garden Bed

You don’t need a lot of materials to start your veggie garden. Find a nice plot of land and install a raised garden bed (you can certainly dig up your yard, too, but a raised garden bed is easy to install and can be moved if need be). A huge area is unnecessary…an area that’s about 8×4 should be plenty of room to start with a few plants.

Make sure you choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight – veggies should get 8+ hours of sunlight a day to really thrive. Grab your packets of seeds and some plant supports for the veggies that grow on vines (like tomatoes) and you’re ready to get planting!

The Tools

Watering Can | Gardening Gloves | Garden Tool Set

Sticking with simplicity here – you don’t need any crazy tools for your garden! A couple of shovels plus a little rake and garden fork are all you need. This set is made with high-quality wood and stainless steel so they won’t rust. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, get yourself a pair of gardening gloves. Any will do, but these breathable bamboo gloves will make you feel like you’re still connecting to the earth without the grime.

Once your darling little seeds are in the ground, make sure they’re getting plenty of water! These thirsty little guys will want water right away. And keep a close eye on your baby plants…the first few weeks are when they’ll need the most love and attention. Your veggies should be deeply watered about twice a week. To find out if you should water your plants, do the soil test. If the soil is dry about an inch deep into the ground, it’s time to water! You can simply water your plants with a garden hose, but a cute watering can may be a helpful and fun reminder that it’s time to check on your veggies. Plus, it can double as an outdoor decoration!

The Recipe

When your plants have matured and your veggies are ripe, it’s time to enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor!! This cucumber and tomato salad recipe is one of my favorite dishes for summer and can be made primarily with produce from your garden. The cool, crisp, refreshing salad can be enjoyed as a side or as a main dish, and is super versatile and customizable. See the recipe here:

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber
  • 4 medium tomatoes
  • 8oz of mozzarella, cubed
  • Handful of fresh basil
  • Drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil
  • Dash of salt and pepper
  • For a heartier meal, add protein like grilled chicken or prosciutto
  • For extra flavor, add 1/2 medium red onion, chopped

Directions:

  • Chop all ingredients and place in a serving dish (except basil). Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, add salt and pepper, and stir. Let sit for 10-15 mins. Top with basil. If you’re using a protein, add right before serving.

Substitutions:

  • Don’t like tomatoes? No problem! Use three large red bell peppers instead.
  • Not a fan of cheese? Substitute two or three avocados for the mozzarella.

If you’re unable to grow your own veggie garden because you live in an urban area that lacks space, or you just can’t seem to find your green thumb no matter how hard you try, don’t fret! Imperfect Foods, a grocery delivery service whose mission is to reduce food waste and deliver affordable, quality food to your doorstep, offers plenty of organic and locally sourced produce. Get $20 off your first four orders (for a total of $80 of savings) here. Plus, they have great summer recipes to try!

If you’re looking to redo and refresh your entire garden, check out our post here.

The list of reasons why you should grow your own veggies is endless, but some of our favorites are: saving money, getting in touch with nature, and fresh, delicious food at your fingertips! Starting a vegetable garden may seem intimidating, but if you start small and stay open-minded, you’ll be growing your own veggies like a pro in no time. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots are some of the most popular vegetables to plant for beginners (and can be used in tons of dishes)! Pick one, pick some, or pick them all. Once you get that first taste of homegrown vegetables, you’ll never want store-bought produce again.

The Garden

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

Vegetable Seed Packets | Plant Supports | Raised Garden Bed

You don’t need a lot of materials to start your veggie garden. Find a nice plot of land and install a raised garden bed (you can certainly dig up your yard, too, but a raised garden bed is easy to install and can be moved if need be). A huge area is unnecessary…an area that’s about 8×4 should be plenty of room to start with a few plants.

Make sure you choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight – veggies should get 8+ hours of sunlight a day to really thrive. Grab your packets of seeds and some plant supports for the veggies that grow on vines (like tomatoes) and you’re ready to get planting!

The Tools

Watering Can | Gardening Gloves | Garden Tool Set

Sticking with simplicity here – you don’t need any crazy tools for your garden! A couple of shovels plus a little rake and garden fork are all you need. This set is made with high-quality wood and stainless steel so they won’t rust. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, get yourself a pair of gardening gloves. Any will do, but these breathable bamboo gloves will make you feel like you’re still connecting to the earth without the grime.

Once your darling little seeds are in the ground, make sure they’re getting plenty of water! These thirsty little guys will want water right away. And keep a close eye on your baby plants…the first few weeks are when they’ll need the most love and attention. Your veggies should be deeply watered about twice a week. To find out if you should water your plants, do the soil test. If the soil is dry about an inch deep into the ground, it’s time to water! You can simply water your plants with a garden hose, but a cute watering can may be a helpful and fun reminder that it’s time to check on your veggies. Plus, it can double as an outdoor decoration!

The Recipe

When your plants have matured and your veggies are ripe, it’s time to enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor!! This cucumber and tomato salad recipe is one of my favorite dishes for summer and can be made primarily with produce from your garden. The cool, crisp, refreshing salad can be enjoyed as a side or as a main dish, and is super versatile and customizable. See the recipe here:

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber
  • 4 medium tomatoes
  • 8oz of mozzarella, cubed
  • Handful of fresh basil
  • Drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil
  • Dash of salt and pepper
  • For a heartier meal, add protein like grilled chicken or prosciutto
  • For extra flavor, add 1/2 medium red onion, chopped

Directions:

  • Chop all ingredients and place in a serving dish (except basil). Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, add salt and pepper, and stir. Let sit for 10-15 mins. Top with basil. If you’re using a protein, add right before serving.

Substitutions:

  • Don’t like tomatoes? No problem! Use three large red bell peppers instead.
  • Not a fan of cheese? Substitute two or three avocados for the mozzarella.

If you’re unable to grow your own veggie garden because you live in an urban area that lacks space, or you just can’t seem to find your green thumb no matter how hard you try, don’t fret! Imperfect Foods, a grocery delivery service whose mission is to reduce food waste and deliver affordable, quality food to your doorstep, offers plenty of organic and locally sourced produce. Get $20 off your first four orders (for a total of $80 of savings) here. Plus, they have great summer recipes to try!

If you’re looking to redo and refresh your entire garden, check out our post here.

variety of vegetables

The list of reasons why you should grow your own veggies is endless, but some of our favorites are: saving money, getting in touch with nature, and fresh, delicious food at your fingertips! Starting a vegetable garden may seem intimidating, but if you start small and stay open-minded, you’ll be growing your own veggies like a pro in no time. Tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots are some of the most popular vegetables to plant for beginners (and can be used in tons of dishes)! Pick one, pick some, or pick them all. Once you get that first taste of homegrown vegetables, you’ll never want store-bought produce again.

The Garden

Frugal and Thriving may earn a small commission via affiliate links in this post. See full disclosure here.

Vegetable Seed Packets | Plant Supports | Raised Garden Bed

You don’t need a lot of materials to start your veggie garden. Find a nice plot of land and install a raised garden bed (you can certainly dig up your yard, too, but a raised garden bed is easy to install and can be moved if need be). A huge area is unnecessary…an area that’s about 8×4 should be plenty of room to start with a few plants.

Make sure you choose an area that gets plenty of sunlight – veggies should get 8+ hours of sunlight a day to really thrive. Grab your packets of seeds and some plant supports for the veggies that grow on vines (like tomatoes) and you’re ready to get planting!

The Tools

Watering Can | Gardening Gloves | Garden Tool Set

Sticking with simplicity here – you don’t need any crazy tools for your garden! A couple of shovels plus a little rake and garden fork are all you need. This set is made with high-quality wood and stainless steel so they won’t rust. If you don’t want to get your hands dirty, get yourself a pair of gardening gloves. Any will do, but these breathable bamboo gloves will make you feel like you’re still connecting to the earth without the grime.

Once your darling little seeds are in the ground, make sure they’re getting plenty of water! These thirsty little guys will want water right away. And keep a close eye on your baby plants…the first few weeks are when they’ll need the most love and attention. Your veggies should be deeply watered about twice a week. To find out if you should water your plants, do the soil test. If the soil is dry about an inch deep into the ground, it’s time to water! You can simply water your plants with a garden hose, but a cute watering can may be a helpful and fun reminder that it’s time to check on your veggies. Plus, it can double as an outdoor decoration!

The Recipe

When your plants have matured and your veggies are ripe, it’s time to enjoy the fruits (and veggies) of your labor!! This cucumber and tomato salad recipe is one of my favorite dishes for summer and can be made primarily with produce from your garden. The cool, crisp, refreshing salad can be enjoyed as a side or as a main dish, and is super versatile and customizable. See the recipe here:

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber
  • 4 medium tomatoes
  • 8oz of mozzarella, cubed
  • Handful of fresh basil
  • Drizzle of balsamic vinegar and olive oil
  • Dash of salt and pepper
  • For a heartier meal, add protein like grilled chicken or prosciutto
  • For extra flavor, add 1/2 medium red onion, chopped

Directions:

  • Chop all ingredients and place in a serving dish (except basil). Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, add salt and pepper, and stir. Let sit for 10-15 mins. Top with basil. If you’re using a protein, add right before serving.

Substitutions:

  • Don’t like tomatoes? No problem! Use three large red bell peppers instead.
  • Not a fan of cheese? Substitute two or three avocados for the mozzarella.

If you’re unable to grow your own veggie garden because you live in an urban area that lacks space, or you just can’t seem to find your green thumb no matter how hard you try, don’t fret! Imperfect Foods, a grocery delivery service whose mission is to reduce food waste and deliver affordable, quality food to your doorstep, offers plenty of organic and locally sourced produce. Get $20 off your first four orders (for a total of $80 of savings) here. Plus, they have great summer recipes to try!

If you’re looking to redo and refresh your entire garden, check out our post here.