Welcome to Make It! Monday!

I'm going to *try* to make this a regular weekly feature here at This Beautiful Life.  I'll be sharing recipes and directions to make some of my favourite foods, crafts and activities

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, today's activity is "The Blessing Tree".  I often do this with my Sunday School classes to help illustrate just how much we have to thank God for.  The best part is, all of the materials are things you probably already have around your home, and if there's anything you do need to buy, they're inexpensive items.  Here's what you'll need:
 - a large dead branch with no leaves - try to find one with lots of smaller branches and twigs on it
 - a large bucket or pot filled with dirt
 - construction paper
 - large apple or leaf paper punches (you can also draw and cut these by hand if you choose - since I'm basically lazy and can't draw to save my life, I use the punches)
 - pens/pencils/markers/coloured pencils/crayons
 - scissors
 - hole punch
 - yarn or string

1.  Punch out apples and/or leaves from construction paper.  Punch holes in the top of each one and thread a short piece of yarn/string through and hole.  Knot the end to make a hanging loop.
2.  Give your kids some writing implements and encourage them to think of as many things as they can that they can be thankful for.  Encourage them to be creative! Nothing is too small or insignificant to be thankful for.
3.  While they're doing that,  "plant" your branch in your pot or bucket.  Then make some apples and leaves of your own!
4.  Hang your apples and leaves on the tree. 

And voila! You now have a visual reminder of all the blessings God has showered upon your family!

Tip: If you have enough different shapes you can use, consider making a different set of shapes for each child.  Alternately, you could use one shape and make it in different colours for each child.

Until next time,
J.