Creative Thanksgiving Fun

I was going to put off writing this a few more days, but time seems to be speeding by faster than usual this year.  I was afraid if I waited any longer, Thanksgiving would have passed before I remembered to give you these ideas. I know that after that big meal most of us take a nap, watch a football game, or play computer games but this year you might try something different. Here are some ideas about what do do after a Thanksgiving meal.

Before your company arrives, set out some board games. Have some games available for all different ages. Put them out in the open where everyone can see them. You will be surprised how many guests will say, “I haven’t played this in years and used to love it!”

Have a stack of family photo albums sitting out for everyone to go through, laugh over and remember. This is a great way for kids to learn family histories. It is also fun because when you see an event in a picture and remember it, you’ll find that your brother or sister will probably remember it totally differently. It is fun for your kids to hear Uncle Bill’s version and how it differs from mom’s or dad’s version of the story.

Have a small table set up with a puzzle on it. I like to put together a Christmas puzzle and if it doesn’t get done that day I leave it up all through Christmas. Then when the kids, grandkids or anyone for that matter come over, they always seem to love adding a couple of new pieces to the puzzle. I have a puzzle of a cute Nativity scene that I always try to have done by Christmas Day.

Having these things set out ahead of time helps to entertain everyone while the last minute meal preparations are being made and to keep some unneeded help out of the kitchen. This year, don’t let your family park themselves in front of the TV or computer once again, but get creative with your Thanksving fun! Put out the games, puzzles and photos and start learning to have fun together in a completely different way.

      -Jill

photo by: Mark Strozier