Gratitude Bowl
A gratitude bowl can add meaning (and conversation!) to any gathering, but is especially meaningful at Thanksgiving.
Have small strips of recycled paper available, at least one for each guest.
Invite guests to write what they are grateful for on the papers.
Place all the papers in a bowl.
Before, during or after the meal, read the gratitudes. Choose a child to read or have everyone reach in and read one. For added fun, have everyone try to guess who wrote each.
Memory plates
If you don't have enough plates to serve all your guests, or even if you do, start a tradition of having each guest bring one plate or an entire place setting. Ask them also to bring a story associated with the plate. Maybe it came from a great aunt who brought it with her from Alaska. Maybe its owner picked it up as a bargain from a thrift store.
Before, during or after the meal, invite everyone to tell the story of their plate.
The stories themselves are much less important than the opportunity for sharing.
This picture also shows how we use natural elements for decor. The pear namecard is a great example.
Light candles for a loved one
Remember those you love on Thanksgiving by lighting candles.
Again, your guests can bring a candle if they'd like or you can supply them.
A wonderful activity is to roll beeswax candles as a Thanksgiving group activity.
Then light a candle for anyone who has passed away. Offer a memory of that person and allow the candle to burn as you share your feast.
Additional links:
Big Dipper Wax Works
Corey's top and accessories in this segment were by Lizzie Parker and her jeans by Certified Jeans.
