Ways to Express Gratitude on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is full of tradition. There is the turkey, the pies and the parade. But, the most important tradition is remembering to give thanks for family, home and other blessings from throughout the year. As you enjoy Thanksgiving, here are five simple ways to help you incorporate the spirit of gratitude into your celebration.

• If you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner, send guests home with a small gift, such as a piece of pie or other sweet treat. Include a handwritten note saying thank you for sharing the meal and telling why you appreciate each person.


• Before eating dinner, go around the table and let everyone tell what they are most thankful for this year.


• Start a gratitude jar. Place an empty jar, paper and pens on a table. Ask guests to write things they are thankful for and put them in the jar. After dinner is over, you can settle into to comfortable seats and read all the blessing out loud.


• Incorporate Thanksgiving quotes into your table settings as part of place cards or as signs around the centerpiece. As guests read them, they will be reminded to say thanks.


• Teach kids about the meaning of Thanksgiving by helping them make cards for grandparents and other family members. Provide craft supplies, and encourage them to write ways they are thankful for each person in the card.