Finding Grateful is a beautiful picture book written by Dianne White and illustrated by Faith Pray. It is the perfect book for the Thanksgiving holiday because it reminds us of all of the blessings in our lives.

I love the title of this picture book because it rings true in my life! Sometimes I really do have to FIND grateful…especially on days where everything doesn’t seem to be going my way. The truth is, when we all stop and think about is, there is always something to be thankful about. This is a great message for kids and adults alike.

Some of the things that the books shows:

–Noticing the little things like a flower growing out of the sidewalk

–A neighbor who is waving at you

–A smile

–Running through the sprinkler–a cold spray on a hot day

–The smell of honeysuckle, newly cut grass, and burgers on a grill

–Watching a plane fly

–Taking off your shoes and wiggling your toes

–Playing with a puppy

–A hug when you need it

–The ice cream truck

–A bunny

–A yellow bird with a cheerful song

–The silky web of a spider

My favorite line is:”Be where your feet are.” I take that to mean that we should live in the moment and be thankful for it, not longing for the past or yearning for the future. Each day is a gift!

I personally think it is important to teach children that our blessings come from God. We give thanks to HIM because he is the bestower of all good gifts.

“Every good and perfect gift comes from above” James 1:17

FAMILY THANKSGIVING IDEA

On a pumpkin, use a sharpie marker and write things that you are thankful for. If you are at a family gathering, pass the pumpkin and marker and have each person take a turn! (Faith extension: Pray together and thank God for all of the blessings you wrote on the pumpkin!)

For more extension ideas with a Thanksgiving THEME click here

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Post submitted by Mindy Baker. Check out her website at www.mindybakerbooks.com

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