Before our prayer of thanks for the big meal, each person
gets 2 kernels of corn. We pass around a small basket. As we each drop in the
kernels we share 2 things that we are thankful for during the past year. Later on
each person writes what they shared in our family journal and again on a plain white
cotton dish towel with a fabric pen. The dish towel is given as a gift to the
family who joined us that day to help them remember our celebration together and our
blessings from the Lord. - Linda Temme (Angola, IN)

 After my husband and I moved away from Mississippi family
gatherings became more important than ever. We hold several traditions close to our
hearts. My cousin Susan (Good) Craig always makes the dressing. It was handed down
from my my Great - Grandmother Good. She used to say, " stand back kids - I gotta
stir the dressing." We still carry on this "stand back tradition" even though we
really don't know why we have to step back....My Dad, Johnny Upchurch
always fries the turkey and we all clamor to get the first sample.

Another tradition that my Mom, Nancie Upchurch, started is our annual "killer
dominos" game after the big meal. Even though the big meal is the main attraction
we never forgot all of our blessings and how much family means to each of us. Happy
Thanksgiving! - Robin Walters (Canton, GA)

 

 My sister & I cook everything for the entire family (parents,
neices, nephews, aunts, uncles & more).  Our invitations always say something about
it's time to gather & give thanks for our bountiful blessings.  It also says come,
enjoy and bring only your appetite.  We use the china, crystal & silver - it's our
gift to our family.  We are blessed! - Sharon Helms (Montgomery, AL)