The Art of Giving Thanks

http://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/autumn-tablescape-free-printable-placemat/

     I saw an advertisement recently for a company that sells a lot of home decorations.  In it they called Thanksgiving "Friendgiving and Family Day".  Seriously?  Friendgiving? I think celebrating with friends and family is great. But is it really that difficult to admit to having a grateful attitude? 

     I know that for a number of years now "Thanksgiving" has been replaced by "Turkey Day" and football parties.   However, I encourage you to know the history of Thanksgiving and to develop gratitude in yourself and your family and friends.  

     One of my favorite, easy ways to do this is to go to the library and check out a couple of books about the first Thanksgiving from the children's section. They're short reads so they keep everyone's attention!
      This year I'm going to do something similar to the place mats shown above at our Thanksgiving table. After everyone has had a chance to jot down their thoughts,  we will go around and share what we are thankful for.  

     Our culture is increasingly becoming centered around our individual wants and getting instant gratification.  I think we would do well to stop for a moment and reflect on the blessings that have been given to us.              
   So what's on my list?   First, I am SO very thankful for the salvation granted to me by God the Father through His Son, Jesus Christ! :) Next of course, I'm so thankful for my family and friends! :) And then all of the other blessings I enjoy: health,  home, clothes, and my appliances!   (Just imagine life as the Pilgrims knew it... without washers and driers, dishwashers, refrigerators, electricity, and running water.... we are truly blessed!)

     So, while we will have turkey and most likely football (there are certain people in my family who might have a withdrawal without a regular dose of football :))  we're also going to take a few minutes just to be thankful! :)
      If you have a tradition that helps keep the gratitude going, I'd love to hear! Just leave me a comment below. :)
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!! 

Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas

Thanksgiving is only 17 days away!  I know lots of families get together to share a special meal and think about the many blessings God has so graciously given us.  Mine is no different!  This year I am so privileged to host Thanksgiving. However,  I also have many other things that are vying for my time.  So...17 days?? What to do?  So much decorating, so little time!  Answer: Pinterest.  What a great source for ideas!  Here are a few of my favorite SIMPLE ideas:  (Remember KISS...Keep It Simple Sweetie!) 
#1  - See picture above  - -  Popcorn, candle, raffia - done!
#2 -

How cute is this! 
These little guys are still
 available at your grocery store
if you don't already have some!
Shopping list:
gourds, mini pumpkins, tea lights
Done! :)




#3 -

This might have to be my favorite.
  Love, love, loving the white mini pumpkins
with the pine cones and twigs....
 I'll have to see if I can find a cool hurricane vase!

 Trip to Goodwill anyone? :)





#4 -

Apples smell yummy 
and are a good alternative to pumpkins. 
I think it would be fun with red apples too!






#5 -

White pumpkins again!  So gorgeous!
  I have a friend who has a wooden box....
Maybe I can sweet talk her into letting me borrow it? ;-)








Uh oh!  Now so many choices!!!! So little time!  :)
Hope your creative juices are flowing!  I'd love to hear your plans for decorating your table!