Thankful Tree

Over the last few years November has been the month we put up a "thankful tree." If you are unfamiliar with the idea, it's pretty simple. Hang up an empty tree shape, cut out some leaves, and then daily have your kids tell you what they are thankful for. My kids love it. There are all sorts of variations, like a "thankful wreath" or a "thankful turkey" (that's where you add feathers to a turkey). Here's our tree from last year: I'm a bit behind schedule this year, I like to have everything ready to go for the first of November, but it might be more by the end of the first week of November. ;o) I'm hoping to do the following version of a tree this year for something new. (And also because cutting out maple-shaped leaves takes a whole lot longer than this simple shape) ;o)

Picture courtesy of Family Fun

Anyway, just an idea to pass along to make your November a little extra special. It's always fun to hear what the kids are thankful for day in and day out. And as a sidenote, if you do the actual tree branch tree, you can use this tree for December for a "Jesse Tree" which is a series of advent Bible readings through the month of December as you count down to Christmas. Go here for more info/ornaments to print out or just goo.gle it--there are lots of ideas out there.