Petite Southern Thanksgiving
What is on our table
3-Ingredient Cranberry Sauce
We’re not saying eating it from the can is wrong, but our version of this simple sauce is definitely right. Absolutely don’t skip the orange juice AND zest. This will make you a true believer in homemade cranberry sauce.
Green Bean Casserole
She’s not the most glamorous, but can you imagine a Thanksgiving table without her?! Use fresh or frozen beans, top with your favorite cheese. Any way you spin it, this is a classic that we can’t possibly pass up!
Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes
I’m a fan of sweet potatoes in any form but I love this version especially if you’re having smoked turkey. The smoky chipotle brings out all the savory flavor of Thanksgiving’s favorite bird.
Apple Cranberry Cobbler
Pair leftover cranberries with apples (so inexpensive when in season) and you’ve got a simple, affordable, easy-to-make dessert that everyone will enjoy!
Pumpkin Pie with Rum Whipped Cream
Again, it is essential that you DO NOT skip the orange zest here. It might be our secret weapon in this version of the classic, seasonal dessert. Also, the rum. Don’t skip that either.
5 ways we’re practicing thankfulness
GIVING BACK
This doesn’t require lots of money or time and can be repeated in so many ways. You can give someone a meal, physically give something away (clothing or toys), or volunteer your time. There are so many ways to give that, in turn, promote thankfulness for what you do have. I love this podcast from Sunshine Parenting interviewing Natalie Silverstein about her book, Simple Acts: The Busy Family’s Guide to Giving Back.
GRATITUDE ALPHABET
I love this activity for the whole family. Little ones can work with a parent or sibling to create a list of things that they are thankful for using each letter of the alphabet. This printout from Lovin’ Life with Littles can easily be done at the dinner table, on the ride to school, or a Thanksgiving roadtrip.
Reading books that promote thankfulness
I love this guide from Children’s Library Lady. She highlights some fantastic children’s books, gives characteristics and benefits of an appreciative and grateful mindset, and provides questions for children about gratitude. Some of my favorite books on the list are:
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña
Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora
Thankful by Eileen Spinelli
Thankful Tree Craft
This can be done at any age but is really perfect for kiddos that love Daniel Tiger! The craft comes from PBS Kids and connects directly with an episode of the preschool show called “Neighborhood Thank You Day”. Using this guide, you’ll create a tree where each leaf lists something you are thankful for—anything from friends to chicken nuggets! It’s fun AND makes for a pretty cute centerpiece at the kids’ table.
Thank you Cards
For our preschool friends who love Daniel Tiger, this guide also connects with the aforementioned episode but Thank You cards are simple enough to freestyle. Thank a friend, teacher, grandparent, or anyone in your life who deserves a little extra praise and recognition.