As I've grown older, I've learned the value of appreciation for who we have in our lives, for what I've accomplished, for where we've been privileged to visit, for small blessings and huge ones too. So...November is the perfect month to share gratitude and blessings.
Pick your jar:- Personalize it. Love country? Mod podge some artificial leaves to the outside, tie a country-themed ribbon or some raffia around it. Like more traditional? Why not spray paint your jar a favorite color? Add some sprinkles or fancy lettering to the outside. If you want a bow, pick some classy ribbon. Or leave it plain...
- Fill those mantles and shelves. Containers you seldom or never use, your candle stock, animal figurines (porcupines, owls, birds, turkeys, etc), pictures that might express what you want to convey or that fit with your scheme, certain toys, glasses or dishes, candle holders topped with gourds, small pumpkins, acorns, baskets, seeds, grains, sacks (paper and burlap), unusual sticks, autumn flowers, Indian corn, etc.
- Collages. Why not take old picture frames or window frames and make a "thankful for" collage? Notes, pictures, special items or collectibles: anything that brings back memories of things or people for whom/which you're thankful.
- Make a List. Prepare a list of questions for you to answer every day of the month. Ask yourself questions, that the answers will give you a great memory, fill you with happiness, encourage gratitude, and give you satisfaction. It's a great activity for the month of November. Suggestions:
- A list of all the things you're grateful for this month.
- Make a list of your close family members (or friends) and write one thing you appreciate about them.
- Prepare a list of good things that's happened this past year.
- Write down all the ways you feel you've improved this year.
- Make a list of all your favorite things.
- Write down some ways you can share this season.
- Make a list of some ways you can spread cheer this season.
- Prepare a list of ways you can give back to your community or church.
- Think of things you're grateful for concerning your minister and share with a card to him and his family.
- Last, but not least, begin a journal of writing down all your feelings, whether good or bad, and prepare to increase the happy ones or learn from the sad/bad ones.
However, whatever list you choose to use, do so with an open heart, share or don't, but use it for good. To you or others. Use a journal book, or a jar to keep your thoughts in, but try it. You'll be amazed how fulfilling you'll feel.
Happy Thanksgiving month!
