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Books For and About Gratitude

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123s of Thankfulness (Books of Kindness) by Patricia Hegarty

Whether we’re together or apart, there’s plenty to be thankful for this Thanksgiving. Learning the importance of thankfulness is as easy as 1-2-3 with this sweet board book that fosters social emotional development. Babies and toddlers learn to count while discovering the value of celebrating gratitude with this beautifully illustrated board book that’s perfect for Thanksgiving and all year round. (Ages baby-3)

Dr. Seuss’s Thankful Things by Dr. Seuss

Written in super-simple rhyme, this sweet, sturdy board book features Thing One and Thing Two as they celebrate all there is to be thankful for–from things to learn and games to play, to pies and each other! A perfect gift for Thanksgiving, birthdays, baby showers, or any time of year, this sixth book in the Things seasonal board book series is an ideal way to introduce the very youngest children to the concept of gratitude and to the magical world of Dr. Seuss! (Ages baby-3)

Gratitude is My Superpower: A Children’s Book About Giving Thanks and Practicing Positivity by Alicia Ortego

Little Betsy will learn that happiness is made up of simple things in life, both small and big. With the help of the magic stone, she will begin to feel gratitude for her parents, friends, and toys. But what happens when little Betsy forgets to use the magic of her stone? She will realize that the power of gratitude is hidden in her heart. “Gratitude is my superpower” will teach your little ones to appreciate the warmth of home, time spent playing with friends, and family relationships. (Ages 4-9)

Junie B. Jones #28: Turkeys We Have Loved and Eaten (and Other Thankful Stuff) by Barbara Park

Room One is getting ready for their very own Thanksgiving feast. There’s even a contest to see which room can write the best thankful list. The winners will get a pumpkin pie. Only it turns out being thankful is harder than it looks. Because Junie B. is not actually thankful for Tattletale May. Or squash. Or scratchy pilgrim costumes. And pumpkin pie makes her vomit, anyway. Will Room One win the disgusting pie? Can May and Junie B. find common ground? Or will this Thanksgiving feast turn into a Turkey Day Disaster? (Ages 4-8)

Mary Engelbreit’s Little Book of Thanks  by Mary Engelbreit

No matter the season or the reason, a simple expression of thanks is always welcome. In this joyful collection of quotes about gratitude and blessings, readers will delight in the special moments in life that bring a smile to our faces. Each quote, from distinguished writers like Walt Whitman and Maya Angelou, is paired with autumnal art from New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Mary Engelbreit, making this little book of thanks a big book of happy. (All ages)

Thankful Thanksgiving Small Children’s Picture Board Book Exploring Gratitude and Thankfulness by Deb Adamson

Yummy food and football games and family that’s come to play – What are you thankful for on this Thanksgiving Day? A little mouse is thankful for their friends and family, good food to share, and fun games to play. This warm and inviting fall picture book is a wonderful way to start a family conversation about being grateful and kind, not just at Thanksgiving but all year long! A perfect gift to bring to begin fall family celebrations or celebrate baby’s First Thanksgiving. (Ages 2-4)

Five Monterey/Santa Cruz County Trails for Family Hikes

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What better way to celebrate family togetherness than spending time in nature? Celebrate National Hike Day with one of our recommendations.  A hike is also the perfect way to walk off those  Thanksgiving calories!

1. For the view: Point Lobos State Reserve

With miles of stunning coastline views, families can hike short trails or longer journeys. The North Shore Trail is a fantastic starting point for breathtaking views of the Carmel coastline and Pebble Beach. A word of caution: although it is 1.7 miles long, the hike begins with a staircase. If hiking upward is not your thing, then check out the gentle Sea Lion Point Trail or the Cypress Grove Trail, which are both just under a mile long. Entrance to Point Lobos is $10 per vehicle.

2. For an easy option: Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail

The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail is an 18-mile paved trail that allows you to walk to many of Monterey’s attractions, like Cannery Row, Old Fisherman’s Wharf, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The trail is open to pedestrians and bikes and is a great way to see the coastline.

3. For hiking and beach time: Andrew Molera State Park

Andrew Molera State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails close to Monterey. The Beach Trail and Headland Trail are nice options for families as you can combine a hike with some time at the beach. This park is much quieter than some of the other state parks in the Big Sur area because the coastline isn’t as dramatic.

4. For the redwoods: Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Whether you are a family with toddlers or teens, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park has something for everyone. There are over 35 miles of hiking and biking trails among a variety of forested areas, including the famed redwoods. For those with younger ones, the Redwood Grove Loop is the perfect starting place. At just under a mile in length, it offers up-close views of the redwood giants.

5. For 34 miles of hiking trails: Wilder Ranch State Park

This state park offers some expansive views of the Pacific coastline and over 34 miles of hiking trails. Families will love Old Cove Landing, an easy 2.6-mile seaside trail. The well-maintained trail is great for younger ones as it is relatively flat and there are plenty of opportunities to see pelicans, geese, and quite possibly sea lion and whales. The beach is accessible by walking across the bluffs. Start at the Visitors Center and follow the trail along the cliffs. The trail ends up looping back around to where you started. There is a fee of $10 per vehicle to gain entrance.

Think Green This Thanksgiving

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It’s the time of year when we gather around the table with family and close friends to enjoy a large, scrumptious meal and think about what we are grateful for in our lives. Yet, Thanksgiving can also get a bit out of control with all the decorations and trimmings.

Here are some tips to make your Thanksgiving holiday a bit more sustainable without having to sacrifice tradition.

Food

  • Choose organic and locally grown foods when you can.

  • Serve organic beverages like apple cider, juice, wine, and beer.

  • Reduce waste by composting leftovers or creatively reusing the food to make soups, stews, salads, and sandwiches.

  • Be mindful of which food items you purchase at the grocery store to avoid those wrapped in all of that excessive plastic, such as dips and pre-packaged fruit salads.


Storage

  • Glass Containers: These are a great option for storing, heating up, and transporting all kinds of foods and liquids. Their secure lids keep liquids from leaking.

  • Mason Jars and Leftover Glass Jars: You can purchase mason jars to store your food in or instead of just tossing glass jars from pickles, pasta sauce, and salsa into your recycle bin, wash them out and use them to store your leftovers.

  • Insulated Stainless Steel Containers: These durable, long-lasting containers are double-walled and have a silicone seal for airtightness so they can keep food and liquids warm or cold.

  • Reusable Non-Plastic Wraps: One of the most innovative ways to store food without using plastic wrap is to use reusable wraps. They are made from a blend of hemp and organic cotton cloth that contains beeswax, tree resin, and jojoba oil to create a self-adhesive to stick to itself so you can create sealed packages and pouches. They are water-resistant, easy to handle, pliable, and come in a variety of sizes.

  • Fabric Bowl Covers: Use the bowls you already have and slap a fabric bowl cover on top.


Serving Dishes

  • Bring out the good china, silverware, and eloquent tablecloths to reduce the usage of plastic plates and cups.

  • If you do need to go disposable, choose paper (recycled is best), bamboo, or even those made from palm leaves.

  • Use real wine glasses—not plastic ones—and don’t serve your drinks with plastic straws or stirrers


Decorations

  • Go natural: Instead of running to the stores stocked with plastic decorations, consider decorating your home more naturally by using items like plants, berries, gourds, acorns, twigs and branches, cranberry garlands, and colorful flowers and leaves. You can go for a lovely hike outdoors a couple of days before the holiday to collect your special nature décor.

  • Make your own: Make some of your own decorations out of non-plastic materials you have lying around the house.

  • Shop second hand: Check out local thrift stores, online sites like freecycle.org, and garage sales for some treasures that can add a sparkle to your holiday look.

  • Trade with friends and family: Another way to cut back on new decorations is to organize a decoration swap with friends and family. You can even ask your guests to bring their favorite Thanksgiving decoration to display during the meal and share why it is meaningful to them.


Give Thanks and Give Back

Are you looking for a place to donate food items this Thanksgiving? Please consider Al & Friends. This local group serves nutritious hot meals weekly to anyone who is hungry, no questions asked, every Sunday morning and holidays at Window On The Bay, located across from McDonalds in Monterey.

To donate, call (831) 402-0820 or email alvinsiekert@gmail.com. Find out more about the organization at www.alandfriends.org.

Books to Celebrate Thanksgiving

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BABIES AND TODDLERS

Little Critter: Just a Special Thanksgiving

by Mercer Mayer

From the school play to a surprise dinner for all of Critterville, celebrate along with Little Critter and his family as they give thanks this holiday.

Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson

A friendly witch, hungry dragon, and muddy monster learn about friendship, and readers will delight in the surprising (and not too scary) ending.

Llama Llama Gives Thanks by Anna Dewdney

In Llama Llama Gives Thanks, it’s Thanksgiving time for Llama Llama and his family! That means yummy foods and autumn leaves and being thankful for everything from pumpkin pies to blue skies.

AGES 3-6

How to Catch a Turkey by Adam Wallace

This zany picture book combines STEAM concepts and traps with a silly story and fun illustrations, perfect for starting a new holiday family tradition or giving as a Thanksgiving gift.

10 Fat Turkeys by Tony Johnston

This silly rhyming story about ten turkeys teaches children how to count backwards.

I Am Thankful: A Thanksgiving Book for Kids

by Sheri Wall

I Am Thankful is an adorable, rhyming storybook that follows three different families as they celebrate the holiday with their own traditions, acts of kindness, and ways of giving back.

Gratitude is My Superpower: A children’s book about Giving Thanks and Practicing Positivity

by Alicia Ortego

Do you want to teach your children how to be grateful for the things they already have? Little Betsy will learn that happiness is made up of simple things in life, both small and big. With the help of the magic stone, she will begin to feel gratitude for her parents, friends, and toys.

AGES 7-UP

Thanksgiving Word Search for kids: 100+ Words A fun activity for kids ages 6 and up. Searching for autumn and Thanksgiving words will keep them occupied while dinner is in the oven.

What Was the First Thanksgiving? by Joan Holub

Learn more about the history of the feast that started off as a harvest celebration and has now become a national holiday.

TEENS AND ADULTS

Thanksgiving Coloring Book: Thanksgiving Coloring Book for Adults Featuring Thanksgiving and Fall Designs to Color 

High-quality adult coloring book for the Thanksgiving holiday filled with beautiful designs to celebrate Thanksgiving and the autumn season.

Perfectly Pumpkin

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Pumpkin is the flavor of the season when Thanksgiving comes around, especially when used in desserts and sweet treats the whole family will enjoy.  Here are four delicious pumpkin treats your family will love!

Pumpkin Loaf

  • Nonstick cooking spray

  • 4 eggs

  • 3 1/2 cups flour

  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon

  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 2 sticks butter

  • 2 cups sugar

  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree

  • 1 cup chocolate chips

  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped

  • Heat oven to 350 F.

  • Prepare loaf and muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray.


  1. In bowl, whisk eggs. Set aside.

  2. In separate bowl, sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt together. Set aside.

  3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add whisked eggs and mix until blended.

  4. Alternately add flour mixture and pumpkin puree to egg mixture, beating until blended. Fold in chocolate chips and walnuts.

  5. Pour batter into loaf and muffin pans. Bake 40-45 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.

  6. Cool 10 minutes before removing from pans.


Spiced Pumpkin Bars

  • 2  cups flour

  • 2  tsp baking powder

  • 2  tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1  tsp baking soda

  • 1/4  tsp salt

  • 4  eggs

  • 15 oz can of pumpkin

  • 1 2/3  cups sugar

  • 1  cup cooking oil

  • 3/4  cup chopped pecans (optional)

  • 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened

  • 1/4  cup butter, softened

  • 1  tsp vanilla

  • 2  cups powdered sugar (sifted)

  • Pecan halves (optional)


  1. In a medium bowl stir together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; set aside.

  2. In a large mixing bowl beat together eggs, pumpkin, sugar, and oil on medium speed. Add the flour mixture; beat until well combined. If desired, stir in chopped pecans.

  3. Spread batter into an ungreased 15x10x1-inch baking pan.

  4. Bake in a 350° F oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until the center comes out clean. Cool completely in pan on a wire rack.

  5. In a medium mixing bowl beat together cream cheese, butter, and vanilla until fluffy. Gradually add sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth.

  6. Frost pumpkin bars. If desired, top with pecan halves. Cut into squares. Store, covered, in refrigerator up to 3 days.


Spiced Pumpkin Carrot Cheesecake Cupcakes

Serves 12

  • 1 box (14 ounces) pumpkin quick bread, divided

  • 1 cup carrots, shredded

  • 3 eggs, divided

  • 3/4 cup milk

  • 1/2 cup golden raisins

  • 2 tablespoons canola oil

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 cup pecans, chopped

  • 3 tablespoons butter, softened


  1. Heat oven to 350 F. Line muffin tin with cupcake liners.

  2. In large bowl, stir 1/2 pumpkin quick bread package, carrots, 1 egg, milk, raisins and oil until blended.

  3. Fill each cupcake liner 3/4 full.

  4. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, remaining eggs, sugar and lemon juice until smooth.

  5. Spoon cream cheese mixture over cupcake batter.

  6. In medium bowl, use fork to combine remaining bread package mix, pecans and butter until crumbly. Sprinkle evenly over cream cheese in each cup.

  7. Bake 25 minutes. Cool completely on wire rack.


Pumpkin Caramel Spice Cake

  • Nonstick cooking spray

  • 1 box spice cake mix

  • 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin

  • 1 cup water

  • 1/2 cup canola oil

  • 3 eggs

  • 1 1/2 cups caramel sauce, divided

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • 1 cup powdered sugar

  • 1 carton whipped topping


  1. Heat oven to 350 F. Lightly spray 9-by-13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.

  2. In bowl, mix cake mix, pumpkin, water, oil and eggs until smooth. Pour batter into prepared pan.

  3. Bake 30-33 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in middle of cake comes out clean.

  4. While cake is hot, using end of wooden spoon, poke holes throughout top of cake.

  5. In microwave, heat 1 1/4 cups caramel sauce.

  6. Pour sauce into holes of cake. Let cool completely.

  7. In bowl, mix cream cheese and milk. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing. Mix until smooth. Fold whipped topping into mixture.

  8. Spread frosting over cake, pressing frosting into holes of cake. Smooth out frosting.

  9. Drizzle remaining caramel sauce over frosting.


Find more dessert recipes at Culinary.net.

6 Ways to Keep Gratitude Journals With Your Kids

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1. Blog. My son just starting getting writing assignments in second grade using a student blog site. He loves seeing his words online and gets so excited when classmates comment on his posts. Why not set up a family gratitude journal blog (password-protected, of course)? You can even involve grandparents and cousins, no matter how far they live. You could introduce this idea at the Thanksgiving table and challenge everyone to submit a post each week throughout the year.

2. Audio Recording. Children love to hear their own voices. You can have them record their journal on a phone or iPad. Once you have the recordings, you can get really creative by posting them online for others to listen to or you can even put it to music and create a song or rap using highlights of what they said.

3. Videos. Children also love watching videos of themselves. My daughter can spend hours watching herself on my phone. They will have a blast talking about what they are thankful for and watching it over and over. Maybe have them pretend to be reporters and their gratitude is the news of the day. Or they can act out scenes from the wonderful moments they had.

4. Drawings. For children who are more visual or artistic, ask them to draw or paint what they are thankful for at the time. You can then put the artwork together in a book organized by month or year. Create your own handmade journal or take pictures and use Snapfish or an online slideshow to present the images.

5. Collage. Looking for pictures in magazines or online to build a gratitude collage is a fun family project. And no artistic talent required! All that cutting is also a great way for your child to build fine motor skills.

6. Family Gratitude Jar. Make gratitude a family project by setting a large jar on your counter or table and placing strips of paper near it. Whenever a family member has a moment of gratitude, write out a simple note and place it in the jar. You can read the entries weekly or just pull out a few whenever you need a lift.

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer and mother. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and the environment. You can find her at www.happysciencemom.com.

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