Thanksgiving is a time for connection, community, and gratitude. It's a time to reflect and celebrate those that are closest to you, and to give your gratitude for all the beautiful people that exist in your life. However, the stress of hosting, cooking, and making sure everyone is happy and content can take away from that sense of gratitude; so it's helpful to implement some traditions to keep the fun, joy, and mindfulness around this holiday despite everything going on.

Taking Turns Expressing Gratitude

In order to make sure the focus remains on the gratitude and connection part of this holiday, it can be helpful to have a group activity to do at your family's Thanksgiving dinner or your Friendsgiving. Go around and have each person say something they're grateful for, or have them write it down and collect everything in the end. Have them be read out loud.

Compliment Round

Similar to the gratitude round, start with one person and have everyone at the table take turns expressing what they appreciate about that person. Move on to the next person until everyone has had a turn. This will foster deep appreciation, as well as connection between everyone, and has the benefit that those who leave your Thanksgiving dinner will feel loved and appreciated.

Volunteer

Volunteering is especially significant on these holidays. It's easy to take for granted the things that are the norm in your life when you're not exposed to the scarcity that exists in other peoples lives. In the Houston area there are several volunteer opportunities through organizations like the Houston Food Bank, City Wide Club of America, Meals on Wheels, Operation Turkey, and more.

It's also a great opportunity to teach younger children about giving back to the community, being a part of something bigger than themselves, as well as helping those who are less fortunate than them.

Play Games

Take the time to focus on truly being present together. Yes, dinner is part of that but it can also be expanded to after dinner to connect on a deeper level. Pick one game that will become the new Thanksgiving game, or have one person each year be designated to bring and/or pick the game that will be played. Some great options are Charades, Pictionary, or even a conversation-based game like Table Topics.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of how you decide to spend your Thanksgiving, if you're reading this email you have a lot to be thankful for! It's so easy to forget how much we have in our lives that others may not have access to. Here at Oakington Realty we're thankful that there's a holiday to celebrate!

If you're looking to spend your next Thanksgiving in a new house in the Houston area, keep Oakington Realty in mind. We're grateful for you and your referrals!