You probably know of our little Thanksgiving tradition of filling up our homemade “Thanks Jar” with gratitude notes throughout November. We wanted to keep the tradition going this year, but our book tour kept us away most of the month and it got away from us. So this weekend we decided to sneak this tradition in right at the buzzer… while putting a new spin on it thanks to our new chalkboard.
The word art at the top of the board was a joint effort. Sherry searched something like “pretty script” on Pinterest and tried her best to imitate what she saw for the word “thanks.” A curlicue here. A flourish there. Then I got in there with some different colors to shade things in and add “Give” and “2012” in my “man font” as she called it. I think we were moderately successful.
I actually like doodling different letters and fonts a lot (type geek, represent) but this task nearly got the best of me. Using chalk myself actually gives me the heebie-jeebies BIG TIME. Something about the sound of it. The feel of it grinding against the board. The potential screechiness of it. It doesn’t happen when Sherry or Clara are scribbling away, so maybe it’s the feel of it in my own hand? Yah – it’s weird. But this project was like therapy for my chalk-phobia. What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger, right? I can now check “chalk use” off my list of things that I’d prefer never to do in this lifetime. It’s not THAT bad.
Shortly after getting our little piece of art done we got down to showing some gratitude. With the help of about $10 in Target magnets and some spare, cut-up cardstock our little “Thanks Board” was looking more like this by the end of the day:
Oh and see those few magnets made from round disks of wood with stripes of paint on them? Those were actually handmade by Megan who gave them to us at one of our signings. She just used small wood disks and some tape + paint + magnets glued to the back. Aren’t they awesome? We love them the most.
We opted to write things that we’re thankful for on paper cards because (a) we could later store them in our thanks jar along with our 2010 and 2011 collection and (b) I could avoid having to write directly on the chalkboard any more than necessary. Baby steps, people. Baby steps.
We even got Clara in on the action for the first time ever. It was a bit of a struggle to explain concepts like gratitude and feeling thankful to a 2.5 year old (“Think of things or people that make you happy or glad!”) but she did spit out a few gems. Our hearts melted when she said “Mommy and Daddy make me happy!” A few others were: a balloon, the bookstore, and Bridget’s party (she’s the gal next door who rents a moon bounce (#bestneighborsever).
Here’s a smattering of some of the cards that we each drew up. Since I wrote Clara’s we tried to help distinguish hers from mine by letting her color on her own with crayons. For example, I’m thankful for Skype (especially last week!) and Clara was thankful for Bridget’s aforementioned party (see those festive scribbles?).
Clara got distracted before we finished, though. So, for the record, I’m not the one who’s thankful for her Play-Doh cookie cutters. That’s all her.
Oh, and warning: kids + magnets can be very dangerous. We had a very firm talk with Clara about the magnets not being toys or food. She’s past the phase of putting anything in her mouth, but we didn’t want her to think the magnets looked like candy or anything. We overheard her later telling Burger that he could “look but not touch them because they’re not yummy and they’re not food and ice cream is yummy and that is food” and had a nice laugh. And in the end (after we shot all these photos) we moved all the smaller round ones up on the board to be completely out of her reach and used the larger not-swallowable ones for the lower area – just to be on the safe side.
We’re really glad we took the time to squeeze this little tradition in again this year because it’s a really satisfying process to write out what we’re thankful to have in our lives… even if they’re just simple things like a good TV show to escape to once a week. Yup, Dexter made the board.
And while I’m sure we could’ve easily filled the entire board with things, people, and events that we appreciate, we were sure to leave a good chunk at the bottom open for Ms. Chalks-A-Lot.
She clearly didn’t inherit her father’s aversion to the stuff.
We hope everyone celebrating Thanksgiving this week has some wonderful food, safe travels, loving company, and lots to be grateful for. Heck, here’s wishing the same thing even to those who aren’t celebrating any official holiday. And with that, I can’t help but share our Thanksgiving greeting from last year.
Oh Burger, you slay me. Happy face-stuffing to one and all!
Looking for more Thanksgiving traditions? Check out these posts:
- A free Thanksgiving printable to mail messages of gratitude to friends & family
- A DIY Thanksgiving craft glass-etched Thanks Jar
- Our daughter’s first year writing Thanks Jar messages
Update: You can check out all of our favorite holiday decor finds here – many of which are under $15!
I’m thankful for YHL! (and my children, hubby, health etc) :-)
Aw, we’re thankful for you!
xo
s
John – I am totally a type geek AND I have a serious chalk aversion! Holla. I always love the way chalkboard walls look but could never do it because chalk makes me shudder.
Happy Thanksgiving Petersiks! And by the way (apologies if others have been pestering you with this) but any news on when the NYC stop will be rescheduled? SoHo is back and running and ready for you! :)
Yes, they still aren’t sure if they want to do things in Dec or Jan (just based on holiday stuff at the store, travel booking, etc) but as soon as it’s finalized we’ll shout it from the rooftops!
xo
s
I was the 2nd person to sign up – I’ve been stalking the Living social page since you put up your book tour (since the flor event sold out in a hot second). Yay!
Haha, so excited to see you there!
xo
s
I love chalkboards, but I totally agree–writing with chalk makes me all goose-bumpy!
I FEEL YOU on the chalk.
I think chalkboards are pretty cool, but I will never allow them in my home because the screechy noises make my blood run cold.
Can’t. Won’t.
But your straight man font paired with Sherry’s flourishes look pretty rad. #cooltypography4lyfe
Looks great!
Glad you had, and posted about, the magnets-are-not-food talk.
:D
BTW, I have the same aversion to chalk!
Same here, JOhn. Even thinking about writing with chalk sends cold shivers up my spine. It’s happening right now! What is that all about?
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Petersiks!!
You too Karen!
xo
s
After Sherry so graciously replied to my fan girl comment last night, I now have a renewed vigor to start leaving more as opposed to being a creeper (: I just wanted to wish your family a Happy Thanksgiving and say that I’m thankful to have YHL. Hope you guys have a wonderful day! (:
Haha, you’re so sweet! Thanks Ashleigh! Happy Turkey Day to you too!
xo
s
I have a question I’ve wanted to ask since I saw the chalkboard post. I’m tempted to make one, but I wanted to ask if the chalk is hard to clean up. Does it leave dust and stuff around, or is it pretty easy to vacuum? I teach and keep thinking of the mess in the chalkboard tray :-) But, I’m thinking their quantity is probably a lot different!
Just a wet rag or paper towel on the board is all it takes. We haven’t had it get on the floor or the walls or anything, so we haven’t used a vacuum or anything. Sometimes a little collects on the bottom lip of the frame around the board, but the same wet rag or paper towel grabs it up!
xo
s
Happy Thanksgiving, John & Sherry and Clara and Burger!
A big hug from [taxes / Boston (but really NYC!)] Meagan :)
Hahah! Sending you a hug right back.
xo
s
Hope ya’ll have a wonderful holiday weekend!
*like*
Happy Thanksgiving Petersiks!
Right back atcha Julia!
xo
s
I was about to buy a Living Social ticket when I realized I’m going to be in Chicago that weekend :( Sounds like a fun event!
Aw man, so sorry to miss you Megan! We think it should be super fun!
xo
s
love clara’s chalk artwork. looks like she is channeling basquiat!
She’s quite prolific when it comes to chalk art! Haha.
xo
s
GAH I despise chalk and chalkboards too! I am a kindergarten teacher and will be forever thankful that I can teach with white boards and markers, and a SmartBoard! Gone are the days of teachers wiping chalk on their pants! :)
Happy Thanksgiving!
Two words. Chalk Markers. seriously will revolutionize your relationship with your chalkboard!
Good to know!
-John
I’ve read that the chalk markers dont work that well on chalkboards made from chalkboard paint. They tend to ghost. Maybe there are certain brands that do work, but I remember reading that you have to be careful with them for that reason.
Yeah, that’s what I have heard too! Don’t want to stain the chalkboard paint :)
xo
s
Love the chalkboard pens. That’s what Starbucks uses to draw on the chalkboards in their stores. They’re so easy to use and to draw details with.
But with the ghosting possibility of the pens and the better shading ability of real chalk, I would probably opt for one of those chalk holders. You know the ones that work like cigarette holders. Teachers used to use them when the piece of chalk got too tiny to grip. That way the chalk wouldn’t have to touch your hands at least, so one dislike is averted. *shudder* Loved playing with chalk when I was little, but hate the feel of chalk dust on my hands.
Great tip JB!
xo
s
I have an aversion to Popsicle sticks John. I know your pain. Something about the wood on my teeth….can’t do it!
I hope you guys have a happy happy t-gives :)
I love that tradition (I may steal it if you don’t mind).
I love the visual of actually seeing how much you have to be thankful for. Not to mention the pretty writing on the chalk board – NICE! :-D
Have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving. :-D
That burger thanksgiving photo would make an EXCELLENT dog shaming post!!
http://www.dogshaming.com
Happy Thanksgiving Petersiks!
Hahhhaha!
xo
s
I love this…you have tons to be thankful for! Johns quite the chalk artist!
Haha, it’s true!
xo
s
John — one day after school around 3rd grade, I was writing on the chalkboard while eating a cookie, and I got confused about what was in which hand…so I can tell you, as much as you may not like the feel of chalk, the taste is WAY worse.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Ewwwww! That even gave me the chills!
xo
s
Happy Thanksgiving!!! Even though I don’t know you guys and you don’t know me, I thank you for letting me into your home and lives on a daily basis. You keep me laughing, smiling, and dreaming, and THAT is something to be grateful for :-)
Aw, we’re so grateful for you guys!
xo
s
I’m thankful you guys share your adventures and help those of us with less fortunate DIY genes attempt to activate them. (Or at least paint a ceramic animal in your honor.)
Happy Thanksgiving YHL family!
Ha, you’re so sweet Anele!
xo
s
You could always color-code and rewrite John’s on blue paper or something, that way 30 years from now you would know play-dough cookie cutters are Clara’s love:) It looks great!
Hahahh!
xo
s
HAPPY THANKSGIVING, Petersiks!
good call on moving the little magnets just in case. maybe it was a lapse in instructing the youngest child on important life lessons, but when I was 5, I swallowed a nickel in kindergarten and had to get an x-ray at the hospital.
Yes, i was beyond the acceptable age of putting things in my mouth, but sometimes you get bored during naptime
Eeks! So glad you’re ok! My brother swallowed the emerald out of my mom’s favorite ring when he was like eight… Yeah, he was in trouble for that.
xo
s
So what happened? Both Rebekah and Sherry’s brother? Did you just have to er… poop it out?
My brother did – it just passed and my mom was too queasy to “search” for it, so she just said “oh well, it’s gone.”
xo
s
LOL, yes, there is really nothing to do but wait. Not sure if magnets would cause more of an issue though, especially if multiples were swallowed and stuck together (sorry for the visual).
As the doctor told my parents “this too shall pass”
I’m cracking up at your doc’s comment!!! “This too shall pass.” Oh you poor thing… on the other hand, you can definitely say that you pooped money. Not everyone can say something like that…
Happy Thanksgiving! Hoping to see you in Richmond for the signing! The thanksgiving greeting from last year made my day (too funny :))
What a great way to visualize your gratitude.
Have a happy Thanksgiving :)
We’re on our second year of our Thanks jar all because of you. We love this tradition so thank you for the idea!! Happy Thanksgiving!
YESSSS! I just got my tickets to the crafting party! See you guys at 10 a.m. on Dec 1st to get my craft on! I’m definitely thankful for that! :^D
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wahoo! Sounds like fun!
xo
s
I havent used them but I wonder of the chalk paint pens would be nicer?
We hear those are awesome but if you don’t wipe them off a lot (and leave them up for months, which we just might do…) they can stain the chalkboard permanently… so we’re gun-shy about them…
xo
s
Those are my magnets!! :D I was at the Dallas signing and I knew those painted wood discs would be so cute on Clara’s chalkboard!! I even have some on my fridge! I’m so glad you guys like them! It was fantastic meeting y’all!!!
You’re so creative Megan!!! We love them!! It was amazing to meet you!
xo
s
Happy Thanksgiving (or for the UVA fan John is “Happy eat-a-Hokie-bird-day”)! My dad did a little shopping last weekend at a bookstore and bought me your book! He said it’s for my girls to give me. But, before it’s wrapped, I plan on bringing it to Mongrel for you to sign!
Aw that sounds awesome! Hope you love it and that we get to meet you at Mongrel in December!
xo
s
love love love love love love love love love.
I have the same chalk aversion. I’m going to school to become a teacher right now and I am seriously thankful that most schools have switched over to white boards. As in so thankful I actually thought about it just the other day when I was observing in a classroom. :)
Hope you all have a very happy and restful Thanksgiving! Thanks for always supplying your readers with great writing and inspiration.
Me too! I teach and supervise yr1 & when some whiteboards became available last year I demanded they go into the year one classrooms (and anyone who knows me would know just how unlikely it is for me to demand things from my boss!!
You inspired me to do my own Thanks jar this year with my family! It has taken some will power not to grab out my husbands pieces of paper to get a sneak peak. It really made me realize how much I have to be thankful for. Can’t wait to read them all tomorrow. Happy Turkey day to you!
Aw, have so much fun reading them tomorrow!
xo
s
If it makes you feel any better, chalk gives me the heebie jeebies too. I got shivers reading your description. Eeesh.
Have a great Thanksgiving!
I got the heebie jeebies even THINKING about writing on a chalkboard! You’re not alone!
Happy Thanksgiving–we had the Canadian version in early October, but I will never pass up the opportunity for more stuffing and pumpkin pie, or giving thanks.
Happy to hear you’re home safe and sound!
I LOVE this idea! How wonderful. I really like the new chalkboard addition for the thanks gathering. I think you should do this every year! And way to mix manly and girly chalking skills. The couple who chalks together stays together!
Haha, so funny!
xo
s
Eww, chalk!! Seriously, I can’t touch chalk without getting the heebie-jeebies (wow, that looks strange typed out) and wanting to run away LOL. My husband thinks I am so strange for having an aversion to chalk but this just proves that there are others in the world who are with me!
I’m thankful for you guys and the inspiration you give me to just go for it when it comes to projects! You gave me the confidence to tackle this latest project:
http://www.ourwhitepickettfence.com/2012/11/the-big-reveal-headboard.html
So THANKS!
Love the headboard! Amazing job Krista!
xo
s
I got the heebie-jeebies just reading out you getting your heebie-jeebies. eek! chalk!!
wishing you all a very happy thanksgiving. thank you, for letting us all be a part of your internet family!
Happy Thanksgiving, Petersiks!
I want to say thanks to you for inspiring Kevin and I to start our own little blog and encouraging us (and everyone) along the way!
Aw, we’re so thankful for you guys!
xo
s
I totally get the heebie jeebies from chalk too! I hate the stuff! But chalkboards look so nice! It’s definitely a catch 22.
Happy Thanksgiving!! :)
Love it! Happy Thanksgiving to the four of you too!
Feel you on the chalk. And I’m a former teacher,so chalk was a necessary component of my job. Thank goodness for whiteboards!
I’m thankful for having basically good health, a good job, healthy kitties, and friends – and for finding your blog a while back. You guys gave me the tutorials, and courage, to do a bit of DIY – including using Sherry’s great short-handled brush to paint trim for the very first time in my master bath, after removing wallpaper and painting that room a few weeks ago. Baby steps, indeed, but steps!
I’m also thankful I had a chance to meet you in Chicago, and have signed one book to use (and get messy) and one book ‘for nice’. And a West Elm cup storing some make up brushes in the aforesaid master bath – think of you guys and wish you the best every time I see it.
Best wishes to you and your extended families!
Aw you’re so sweet! We’re so thankful for you!!!
xo
s
It’s so nice to know I’m not totally weird about the chalk aversion thing. I HATE it too! Same goes for the sound of cotton balls scrunching. *shudders*
Although I will have to check out chalk markers! Thanks Julia! If they work out good, and don’t leave much chalk dust afterwards, I might actually consider getting on board on the chalkboard trend after all.
That’s such an adorable picture of Clara in smiling at the end, in front of her masterpiece and your thanks!
Love that Clara “teaches” Burger important things, such as not swallowing magnets. I totally did that as a kid except we had no pets so I had to “teach” my stuffed animals.
Hahahah!
xo
s
We finally got around to doing a Thankful jar this year. My husband gave me one of those “really? we’re doing this?” looks when I told him about it on Nov 2 (day late & a dollar short always). But he has been dutifully putting in his “minimum of one thankful thing” each day. We’re going to be apart this weekend (he’s going to his parents, while I’m hosting mine), so he gets a break this weekend. Somedays, it really is a super little thing (like getting the green lights on the way to work), but after Sandy, it’s really helped me be more grateful for everything I have.
That’s so sweet! One of ours was about Sandy too! Lots to be grateful for!
xo
s
Happy Thanksgiving! I want to do some Christmas drawings/phrases on our chalkboard but I’ll admit that the thought of the dirty, dusty chalk all over my hands is turning me off a bit!
P.s. I’m thankful for you guys and hope to do an activity like yours tomorrow!