Our Thankful Tree

This Thanksgiving, we started a quick, easy, and meaningful new tradition (thank you, Pinterest!).  Kevin and I grabbed a few sticks from the yard and I stuck them into a mason jar that I had on hand (mason jars are awesome for so many reasons!).  I took some Fall/Thanksgiving scrapbook paper that I also had on hand and used my Cricut to cut out some leaves.  I punched a hole in each leaf and tied loops of jute through the holes to hang them.  Kevin, Ava, and I sat down at the table and took turns discussing things that we are so thankful to have in our lives.  Kevin wrote each one down on a leaf and then we hung them from our "tree" and placed it in the center of our table.  

Sorry for the poor picture quality--I took these pics after it got dark and had no natural light.  Next year, I will spray paint the sticks a fun glittery gold and will also decorate the jar (I'm thinking a nice burlap bow).  I will also place all of these leaves in a baggie to keep for next year and then we can just add any new blessings to new leaves.  Here are some of the things we are thankful for this Thanksgiving:

-a happy, healthy marriage 

-our amazing parents

These two things really go hand in hand.  Kevin's parents have been married for 43 years and mine have been married for 36 years.  We are both so fortunate to have them as such strong, positive role models for us in a world where unfortunately broken homes are more and more prevalent.  They have taught us to always respect one another and that marriage is sometimes work but it is always worth it when you love each other.  Not to mention, all they do for us on a regular basis.  

-our beautiful daughter, who is the best of both of us and the light of our lives

-our relationship with God and a church home that is passionate about changing lives and spreading the Word

-our grandparents (we are so blessed to still have 7 of our 8 grandparents!!), siblings, and extended families 

-our country where we are free and the soldiers who fight and are willing to give their lives to keep us that way

-our home where we are kept warm and dry and make wonderful memories

-our awesome friends (many whom we have known for over half of our lives)

-our jobs (especially Kevin's for allowing me to stay home the majority of the time)

-our puppies (or furry children) who are so sweet and loyal  

-our health

-our kitchen being filled with plenty of food to eat

Ava was thankful for many of the above plus her mommy and daddy, her cousins, her toys, her teachers, and her school.

It was amazing to see our tree so full of leaves as we are truly blessed!!!  I hope all of you have a wealth of blessings as well. 

 Happy Thanksgiving!

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