Ramp up the Thanksgiving Fun!

It’s a given. You’re sitting at the children’s table again this Thanksgiving. Ugh! When will you be old enough to sit at the big table? The adults always talk about the juiciest things.

And when will Aunt Sue quit commenting on how tall you’ve grown? What are you supposed to say?

Sometimes, holidays can be overwhelming, but there’s always plenty to do to keep it fun, especially if you have cousins. Here’s what’s worked for me over the years:

• Take your heaped-up plate outside and drag your cousins with you. Raise your cup to the pilgrims.
• After the meal, play touch football, corn hole or horseshoes. Better yet, grab your favorite cuz and go for a walk. You may not see him or her again for a while. If the weather’s bad, dig out a deck of cards. You can talk and play at the same time.
• If you feel the need to look at your phone, use it to photograph family members. Candids are a blast to share years later.
• Help the little ones with a craft, like making a peanut butter pine cone bird feeder. You could also sing with them or lead a parade. They’ll look at you adoringly all afternoon because of the attention you paid them.
• Ask your oldest relatives questions about their childhoods. You’ll hear some amazing stories.
• Help dry the dishes. You’ll earn brownie points with your parents. Plus, you can towel whip your brother when he sneaks into the kitchen for seconds on pie.
• Find a quiet place and reflect on all the blessings God has given you this year. Then, take a few minutes to pray, thanking him for his unending love and goodness.
• Memorize a Bible verse of thanks. Here’s one of my favorites:

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.

— 1 Chronicles 16:34

What is your favorite thing to do on Thanksgiving?

Do you have a favorite Bible verse about thankfulness?