Thanksgiving Blessings

Tornado Tuesdays  are very busy but very fun.  I always try to have the kids make projects for the upcoming holidays when we are in a Holiday month.

I had some leftover Thanksgiving decor from last year and pulled those out.

 I went out and cut branches for each child.  Then they divided up the goodies and wrote things they were thankful for.

 The kids are all friends or relatives of each other.  We have meshed into this big family with love and support...and yes....some minor spats carried over from the playground or the neighborhood.  The latter are quickly squashed.  The kids helped make their own rules.  No gossiping, no tattling, and they have to remember their manners.  If not Oma steps in and gently reminds them.

 I am thankful for their presence in my life. They all bring their own smiles and hugs and so much joy......and yes......even frustration at times.  I have learned each child's strengths and weaknesses and how to teach them each in the way they are able to learn.  I love hearing about their day and their dreams and what makes them happy and even unhappy.  When someone is sad, others rally around in support and empathy.  When someone shares something exciting that is celebrated as well.

      It is sweet to see that we all have the same blessings in family and friends, food and shelter, and
making special memories to look back on years to come.

 Two days before Thanksgiving, we had our annual  pie baking afternoon.  I opted for premade crust, due to the time constraints and there is only one of me!!  Ten pies were made in all and this helper was too busy to take a lot of pictures.

 fluting the edges  is fun.............

Taking turns with my small mixer worked well.

Peeling apples is a chore....I helped peel and cut apples for 6 pies.  Five others made pumpkin cream pies.......yum.
i have been reflecting on just how many blessings I have in my life and am forever grateful.
Hope your blessings are very abundant.