This Thanksgiving...

Taking the time to stop and allow yourself to really think about the holiday and what it means, it's honestly not my 1st thought. Thanksgiving 2011 for me, however, is looking back at my year and being thankful for my blessings, looking ahead and being hopeful, looking upward and finding strength and looking inward and finding peace.

For me, it has been a year that deserves a little quiet reflection & appreciation. We truly have so much to be thankful for. When I think about Thanksgiving Day and having all of my family around me...how the house smells delicious and everyone is happy and looking forward to being together... I want to remind everyone to stop and remember what they are thankful for this year.

My centerpiece for this year's Thanksgiving table asks family members to add a leaf to the "Thankful Tree" and share what they are thankful for. Then, in return they may choose one of the hidden-treasure walnuts underneath the tree. Crack it open and reveal a special surprise...perhaps a piece of candy, a little message or a gold dollar coin (you'd be surprised how many different little treasures will actually fit inside a walnut.) This is a wonderful and fun tradition my family has shared throughout the years, and is a great way to mix a little conversation and excitement to the Thanksgiving dinner table.