November and thanks go together like peanut butter and jelly. The mention of Thanksgiving brings to mind memories of families gathered around a table for a feast that takes hours to prepare and minutes to devour.
It’s common for us to travel long distances through wild weather to enjoy this annual tradition. Will that happen in 2020? Maybe. Maybe not. Regardless of whether Thanksgiving 2020 looks like Thanksgiving 2019, there is much to be thankful for and celebrate. And there is much anxiety as well.
Spoiler alert – there is good news to report: Enter the Thankful Pumpkin to lend a hand in getting our emotions under control so we can enjoy and appreciate this season of giving thanks.
Eight years ago, Amy Latta wanted to highlight positive aspects in her family’s life – to benefit both herself and her kids as she taught them about gratitude and Thanksgiving. Here’s how YOU can enjoy a Thankful Pumpkin:
Buy a pumpkin. Any size, any color will work.
Write whatever it is you’re grateful for (items / people / experiences) on that pumpkin with a permanent marker.
Here are a few examples to get you thinking:
A warm home
Nutritious food for you and your family
Social media – yes, social media can be a good thing! When used for good, it keeps us connected to friends and family, allows us to stay in the know about things that matter to us, and more.
Zoom – to keep you connected with friends, family, colleagues near and far
Favorite places to visit
Television shows that have made you laugh during the pandemic
There is no need to complete your Thankful Pumpkin on one sitting; in fact, it’s great to make this an ongoing event throughout the month.
Keep your Thankful Pumpkin in a place where you and your family will see it regularly. Continual reminders of those things that bring a smile to our face can add a joyful element to your day.
And, of course, our friends at Physicians Committee for Responsible remind us in the image to the right of the health benefits of including pumpkin in our diet.
Give it a try! Let me know if the Thankful Pumpkin brightens your day and lifts your spirits!
