Thankfulness Tree

Last year I saw an idea for a Thankfulness Tree and decided to start a new tradition with our family. This was our second Thankfulness Tree, and we had a fun time making it and thinking about all the blessings in our lives. Bella and Addie came up with their blessings all on their own. For Jacob, I asked him "What makes you happy?" and for Will, the girls and I together came up with things that make Will happy. I did, however, nix some ideas from Addie such as "Chuck E. Cheese" - she cracks me up.

Here is a list of the kids' blessings:

Bella: I am thankful...
...for books.
...for good times.
...for food and water.
...that God made the earth.
...that God created me.
...for a family.
...for siblings.
...for forgiveness.

Addie: I am thankful...
...for food and water.
...for the Tooth Fairy. (Guess who has her first loose tooth!)
...for the dentist.
...for pretty clothes.
...for special days.
...for Jesus dying on the cross.
...for having a church.
...for having my wonderful parents.

Jacob: I am thankful...
...for monster trucks.
...for Dad.
...for my water cup.
...for rocket ships and airplanes.
...for Mom.

Will: I am thankful...
...for Sarah.
...for play time.
...for my family.
...for toys.
...for story time with Daddy.

For my blessings, I listed that I am thankful...
...for God's grace, forgiveness, and salvation.
...for a beautiful and healthy family.
...for a blessed marriage to a wonderfully amazing man.
...for a home, family, food, shelter, protection - all that God provides.
...for kisses, squishy hugs, cuddles, and zerberts with my 4 favorite little ones.

As for Jake, I got him to make one handprint, on which he wrote, "Children who wake up too early on weekends & puppies who pittle. OK - maybe not the puppy who pittles." Ah yes, dripping with sarcasm... that's my Jake! But the kids thought this was hilarious, and spent the whole next day repeating what he wrote and laughing like crazy. At least I know deep down that he is thankful for our children.