Happy November, Friends! It is safe to say that I was not ready for the month of November! Obviously, we are week into November and I’m just getting around to making this post! Luckily we still have plenty of time left in November to celebrate and make memories! Of course, the big theme of November is gratitude, and I am here. for. it. I truly believe gratitude is so important, and love being a little more intentional about expressing gratitude during November. Here is my roundup of holidays, activities and treat ideas for November, I hope you find an idea or two that will bring your family closer and more joyful!
Days to Celebrate
- 11- Veteran’s Day
- 12- Chicken Soup Day
- 13- World Kindness Day
- 14- National Pickle Day
- 17- Take a Hike Day
- 18- Apple Cider Day
- 25- Thanksgiving
Memory Making Magic
Have a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving Feast and Movie- Pop some popcorn, make some toast, grab some jelly beans and pretzels and you’re all set. We love watching this each year, and it’s a great way to discuss what gratitude looks like (or doesn’t look like…thank you Peppermint Patty!)
Make Pumpkin Spice Playdough- We are big fans of playdough around here, and the pumpkin spice smell is so good. Here is the recipe that we love. If you’re feeling extra ambitious make a few extra batches to gift to friends with a few turkey building extras…googly eyes, feathers, pipe cleaners and beads. They would make the perfect waiting on the turkey activity.
Design your own Balloon Parade- After reading about or watching clips of the Macy’s Day Parade spend some time getting creative and designing your own parade balloons. For an extra challenge create them using balloons and construction paper and these balloon sticks. How fun would it be to have your own parade?
Go on a gratitude walk- Hopefully there will be a perfect fall day to get out and enjoy nature. Spend time pointing out the things that you are grateful for…the sunshine, fresh air, a safe place to explore, leaves…of course, you’re not limited to just things you see on the walk!
Add some gratitude prompts to dinner- Cultivate some gratitude by looking a variety of things to be thankful for. You can take turn answering a couple at dinner each night, or use them in the car to hopefully spark some meaningful conversation!
Books to Checkout
Here are a few of our favorite Thanksgiving Books. If you can’t find them at the library, give YouTube a try, there are tons of read-alouds on YouTube.
Otis Gives Thanks by Loren Long
We love Otis the Tractor and this one is sweet and simple as Otis counts blessings around the farm.
Porcupine’s Pie by Laura Renauld
I can’t resist a book about pie! Porcupine’s Pie is a sweet story about sharing and friendship!
A Turkey for Thanksgiving by Eve Bunting
This funny tale follows Mr. Moose as he searches for a turkey to bring to their Thanksgiving feast.
Thank You, Sarah: The Women who Saved Thanksgiving by Laurie Halse Anderson
An interesting read about how Thanksgiving came to be a national holiday in the United States, thanks in part to a very determined woman named Sarah.
Balloons over Broadway by Melissa Sweet
Another fascinating story about the history of the Macy’s Day Parade.
Thanksgiving Day Thanks by Lynn Munsinger
Another great book if you’re looking for some inspiration for making your own Balloon Parade.
Spread Some Love
Write a Thank You Note- Take a minute to write a hand written note to someone in your life that has been especially helpful, supportive or has brightened your life in some way this year.
Donate to or Volunteer at a local food bank- November is a great month to make some special effort to give back in your community. Look for a food bank or homeless shelter that might be in need of volunteers or resources.
Host a Friendsgiving- After so little gathering last year take some time to gather with friends and neighbors. Host a potluck, happy hour or playdate. It doesn’t have to be a full thanksgiving spread to be a friendsgiving.
A Recipe to Share
We made these chocolate and caramel pretzel “turkey drumsticks” last year and they were the perfect themed treat- easy, festive and yummy! You just need 3 ingredients;
Pretzel Braid Sticks (the shorter size)
Soft Caramels
Melting Chocolate
Form the caramels around the pretzel to look like a turkey leg and then dip in chocolate. So Easy!
What activities are you looking forward to doing this month?
Happy November
Megan
