Setting the Table for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is such a beautiful time. I love the fall colors. Although the trees are void of their leaves by now, there is still such beauty during this time. We have had a particularly long and warm fall this year in northern Michigan. In fact, I am writing this on November 16 and it is supposed to be in the mid to upper 60's for the next two days before dropping down into snow-worthy temperatures this weekend. This lengthy fall has extended the enjoyment of some of my favorite things: crisp mornings, sunshine, and warm, short-sleeved afternoons.

 As I think about Thanksgiving I am really looking forward to it this year. While I miss our family that is scattered across the country, I anticipate the kids having a few extra days off school. Because we don't have to get up early or do homework I am excited to play games, watch movies, and make some delicious, seasonal food. 
(Speaking of food, I love the smells of Thanksgiving and fall. From pumpkin scented candles to a turkey roasting in the oven these smells are absolutely wonderful.)

Because we have moved several times the past few years (and moved further from family) we haven't really developed or reintroduced some of our traditions. This is where another one of my favorite things come in: Pinterest. I love all of the ideas for crafts, traditions, and general holiday fun. I am more of a "Pinterest fail" kind of girl, but I do have some successful creations under my belt. ;)

You may take a peek at my Thanksgiving Pinterest board and I thought I would share one of my favorite Thanksgiving Pinterest topics. If you are looking for something for your family this week, maybe these and other Pinterest photos will get your creative juices flowing.

Setting the table.

The table is one of my favorite parts of the thanksgiving meal. Ever since I was little I would help create name cards and set the table. This can be a great way to involve the kiddos and it doesn't have to be expensive.

There are many ideas for placemats, centerpieces, and name cards. I have included some photos of my favorite and more simple ideas from Pinterest. Again, check out my Thanksgiving Board or my Table Settings Board (more themes on this one) for more ideas. 

If you would like to see a few more "Be Thankful" ideas you can find them in this blog post from a few years ago. The "give thanks jar" is a favorite of mine that I plan to do this year beginning at our Thanksgiving meal. We will collect words of thankfulness and share them next year when we sit around the Thanksgiving table.

Please share links below to some of your favorite websites or Pinterest boards so we can glean from your creative ideas as well. Or share photos of your personal favorites that you and your family have done.

Whatever you do or don't do, make or don't make this week, remember that how you love and respond to others can make this week truly extraordinary!

BE Extraordinary!

My name is Traci, and I love sharing insights that challenge and encourage people to be the best version of themselves. Click HERE to receive updates from Be Extraordinary!