One of the nicest things about the holidays is that it’s an excuse to do one of my favorite things – crafts!
One project in particular is special to me for several reasons this holiday season. For many years in my house, gathering for a Thanksgiving meal was just something we did. My family went through the motions of a traditional holiday.
I knew this wasn’t working, so in 1999, I decided to do something a little different. I bought a tablecloth and used a fabric marker to write “I am thankful for…” in the center.
I gathered all of my family around and asked them to place their handprints around the cloth and write a message about what they were thankful for.
What happened? It was chaotic; there was tons of laughter, spilled paint and even a little complaining from my Aunt Tress.
But in the end, I have a wonderful snapshot of time with my family that I will treasure forever! My son Kyle is away from home right now and serving in the Army, but I have his handprints. My son Tatum’s hands are bigger than mine, but I have his tiny little handprints. My favorite Aunt Tress is no longer with us, but I have her handprints. My dog Chanel that was a part of the family for 17 years is in doggie heaven but you guessed it: I have her paw prints!
I share this with you because the moments that are created while doing this project are priceless, just like the finished project.
Have a wonderful holiday season from me to you.
Supplies Needed:
- White or light colored table cloth (Pre-wash the tablecloth and make sure you DO NOT add fabric softener)
- Acrylic water-based paints
- Sponge brushes or large paint brushes
- Fabric markers
- Paper plates
- Lots of paper towels
Email me at terri.ouellette@abc15.com if you decide to try it. I would love to hear how much fun your family had together.
Catch Terri O weekdays on Sonoran Living Live at 9 a.m. on ABC15.
