Cam and I had been planning all along to host a big Thanksgiving. We love having people over, but as it got closer, what we really wanted was a good ol’ relaxing family day, just us, which will be the first time we’ve ever done that on Thanksgiving. I’m so excited to stay in comfies, cook without a set schedule, play Christmas music, just enjoy time together, and celebrate how our little family has grown with baby Grace!
One of my favorite things to do is set the table, and even though we’re not having any guests over, I think it’s just as important to make it special. Simple, natural and with lots of candles. You don’t need much or even to spend money, to make a pretty table. John Shea helped me pick these branches while Grace napped in the stroller on our way home from the playground this morning until our hands couldn’t take the cold anymore (it was in the 30’s, ah!) and the pumpkins were already hanging out on our table from the market.
I know that my kids are still small but even at their young ages, the time is going by at lightning speed. It’s been on my heart over the past weeks to keep my phone out of sight, be more intentional with our time together throughout the day and in creating new family traditions together to keep and enjoy over the coming years as our kids grow up. An easy and fun place to do just that is around the table. I found an idea for DIY Thanksgiving books on Pinterest (here’s a free and pretty printable if you don’t want to make your own!) and quickly made four out of card stock, so that we can write what we’re most grateful for and be able to look back on those pages each year. And chuckle at Mommy’s lack of crafting skills.
I hope you have a wonderful day with delicious food celebrating the family and blessings we’ve each been given! Happy, happy Thanksgiving from Croatia!
Nicholle Montalvo says
I love everything about this post! Your home looks beautiful, and the tablescape is perfect. I, too, have been trying hard to be more "present" and not so focused on my phone, etc. Starting traditions doesn't have to mean that they full comprehend or even participate; it's the act of the tradition itself that pulls the family closer together and makes memories for years to come 🙂 I love the holidays. I'm gettin' all sentimental now. Ha! Happy Thanksgiving, Marshalls!! XOXO!
Amanda Marshall says
Oh why can't we have a playdate and get coffee and hang out!! Yes. Loved what you said! Happy Thanksgiving to you, Montalvos!! Give that big baby boy a hug for me!
M Laidlaw says
So beautiful! I have to ask, where did you have that gorgeous highchair?
Amanda Marshall says
Thank you! It was from a bunny store (what they call little kid stores) in Okinawa!
Katie Cook says
Happy Thanksgiving beautiful friend. I am thankful for YOU!! xoxo
Amanda Marshall says
Happy Thanksgiving, Katie!! Im thankful for you!
Jordan Wagner says
Happy Happy Thanksgiving Amanda! Looks like you had such a wonderful day with family xo
Amanda Marshall says
Happy Thanksgiving sweet Jordan! Hope it was a good one for you, even being away from home:)
Tim and Lanna Britt says
Okay… you've shamed me into setting a nice table not just for guests but for us too! You always manage to make everything look GORGEOUS and super easy. It's probably why you have a blog and a knack for being hostess with the mostess!!
love love love — lanneybear