Giving Thanks

So many wonderful things about the Fall but the one that causes us to pause, be reflective and spend time with loved ones is the best. Thanksgiving brings up so many warm and fuzzy feelings. I love it, it is so necessary to stop and reflect and be thankful to God for everything He has given us. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells: “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”  For me, unfortunately thanks is not my natural reactions to most situations that I am not completely happy with. Thanksgiving makes me stop and truly ponder all He has done for me.

This year we invited my in-laws over for an intimate late afternoon dinner.  Last year was my first time hosting Thanksgiving.  I really enjoy it, who knew?

I did my research and picked the very best recipes I could find. The In-Laws brought the turkey and stuffing. I made all the traditional favorites (links to recipes at bottom of post) like mashed potatoes, sweet potato casserole, creamed corn, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and rolls.

I set the table with stuff from my craft bin, not too shabby…

Ooops, missing a plate!

For the kids table, I made it super special with an Iron Man tablecloth 🙂

The kids each received a gift bag with Thanksgiving stamps and a homemade stamp book, also a personalized turkey for a place holder.  The adult placeholders were simple construction paper tents with dollar tree leaves.

All in all, it was a fantastic day with yummy food, football and family! Plenty of reasons for giving thanks.

Recipes:

Pioneer Woman Creamy Mashed Potatoes – made these the day before, just like the recipe

Yummy Sweet Potato Casserole -I added a few marshmallows to mine

Green Bean Casserole

Homemade, Slow Cooker Cranberry Sauce – made the day before, this was a HUGE hit

Best Sugar Cookie Cutouts Recipe – I made these with the kids 2 days before Thanksgiving

And last but not least…. Brown and Serve Rolls from Kroger. I did not have the courage to make homemade bread. These are always a hit with everyone so why mess with perfection?

All in all, it was a great day! I am thinking of trying to pull of a Christmas Dinner next. Stay tuned!