Day 21 Gratitude Card Idea: Extended Family
I skimmed an article in Sunday’s newspaper that has some good ideas on keeping the peace this Thursday. I know that holidays can be stressful, so I thought I’d share my ideas about keeping the peace.
1. Remember What’s Important
Thanksgiving is about giving thanks! As I grew up, my family took turns at the table sharing what they are thankful for this past year. Last year we made a game of it. Everyone wrote down their thanks before the meal. After the meal we read a thanks and guessed who it was. We had lots of fun & laughter.
2. Choose Not to Argue
In my family, we don’t have huge fights. However, I know there are families that argue at every holiday. So…Choose not to argue. How can you do it?
Start praying now for God’s strength for you to be humble. Yesterday I share the verse, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Remember that the way to “do all things” is to be satisfied where you are now, be thankful for where God has you.
3. Delegate
Let everyone pitch in to make a wonderful family time. Don’t feel like you need to do everything – grocery shop, bake pies, cook turkey, set table, decorate & clean home…You know the drill!
Ask those coming to your home, to bring their specialty dish. Have your own kids help clean the house before your guests arrive. Besides helping you, this teaches responsibility, work ethic and teamwork.
4. Curb Your “Perfect” Expectations
With all the media around you, it seems like every one else has the perfect family holiday.
Blogs have pictures of the “picture-perfect” family
Movies show families with the perfect home
TV shows highlight the perfect dessert, perfect decoration, perfect meal
Let’s face it…you won’t have a perfect holiday. Something will probably go wrong!
Spend your time planning for an enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday, instead of the perfect holiday.
Having said that, a few suggestions:
- Don’t try new recipes that add stress to your life
- Pick up bread from the bakery, if baking isn’t your thing
- Grab some fresh flowers at the grocery store and use them as a simple centerpiece.
- Stress less by ordering your pies
5. Enjoy the Innocent Moments (& our Thanksgiving Activities for Kids)
Remember your children the first time they saw your home (or Grandma’s home) decorated for the holidays.
Simple twinkle lights brighten a child’s face.
Baking sugar cookies with sprinkles on top – together.
Don’t miss the simple joys of being together as a family. You can’t get a second “first impression”.
Question: How do you keep peace during Thanksgiving? You can leave a comment by clicking here.
