As we enter into the holiday season, here are a few fun ideas to keep this time of year festive and family-focused.

Thanksgiving Decorating Idea: A Gratitude Tree

As you reflect on your blessings this Thanksgiving season, consider this fun activity for the whole family – making a “Gratitude Tree.”

Making a gratitude tree is quite easy. First, gather some small sticks and place them in a decorative vase. Then you and your family simply list some things you are thankful for – each on a separate piece of paper – and hang them on your “tree.” With a little creativity you can make a nice piece of thanksgiving décor to brighten up your home.

We found dozens of neat ideas on Pinterest (follow this link) or if you want a free printable Gratitude Tree, we found one on SomewhatSimple.com.

Advent Calendars

A favorite holiday tradition is an Advent calendar. “An Advent calendar is a special calendar used to count or celebrate the days in anticipation of Christmas. Many take the form of a large rectangular card with ‘windows’ of which there are usually 24: one for each day of December leading up to Christmas Day. The calendar windows open to reveal an image, poem, a portion of a story (such as the story of the Nativity of Jesus) or a small gift, such as a toy or a chocolate item. Some calendars are strictly religious, whereas others are secular in content.” (Source: Wikipedia)

Here are two creative Advent calendar ideas for you and your family to consider:

• Kindness Focused – A random act of kindness can be revealed each day. Some ideas include bringing a hot beverage to an outside worker, feeding a parking meter or giving food gift cards to the homeless.
• Family Fun Focused – Make the “gift” be the gift of family time. Some ideas include watching a movie, playing a game or going to a tree-lighting event in your town.