Over the river and thru the woods,

Over the river and thru the woods,

To grandmother's house we go;

The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh,

Thru the white and drifted snow, oh!

~

Over the river and thru the woods,

Oh, how the wind does blow!

It stings the toes and bites the nose,

As over the ground we go.

~

Over the river and thru the woods,

To have a first-rate play;

Oh, hear the bells ring, "Ting-a-ling-ling!"

Hurrah for Thanksgiving Day-ay!

~

Over the river and thru the wood,

Trot fast my dapple gray!

Spring over the ground,

Like a hunting hound!

For this is Thanksgiving Day.

~

Over the river and through the woods,

And straight through the barnyard gate.

We seem to go extremely slow

It is so hard to wait!

~

Over the river and through the wood --

Now Grandmother's cap I spy!

Hurrah for the fun! Is the pudding done?

Hurrah for the pumpkin pie!

~

Over the river and thru the woods,

To grandmother's house we go;

The horse knows the way to carry the sleigh,

Thru the white and drifted snow, oh!

~

Over the river and thru the woods,

Oh, how the wind does blow!

It stings the toes and bites the nose,

As over the ground we go.

Free Signature Generator

101 Thanksgiving Blessings

1. The Love of Family Gen. 2:3

*

2. True friends who are there regardless of circumstances. Prov. 17:17

*
3. God's word, the bread of life. Luke 4:4

*
4. Freedom of worship PS 138:2

*
5. Beautiful Music to enjoy PS 33:3
*

6. The warmth of a fire in Winter PS 9:1

*
7. Our Forefathers who paved the way for us. Jer. 6:16

*
8. A mother's love Prov. 4:3

*
9. The singing of birds Song of Solomon 2:12

*
10. Rain in due season Lev. 26:4

*
11. Two hands to perform tasks Ecc. 9:10

*
12. Laughter to express our joy. PS 126:2

*
13. The act of forgiveness Eph. 4:32

*
14. Spring flowers PS 65:10

*
15. Autumn leaf color Ecc. 3:1
*

16. The instruction of a father Prov. 1:8-9
*

17. The innocence of children Math 19:14
*

18. Peaceful sleep PS 4:8
*

19. Tears expressing our joy or greif PS 126:5
*

20. A sister's love 1 Cor 13:4
*

21. Sunshine after storms PS 74:16
*

22. The ability to learn Prov. 1:5
*

23. Kind Words Prov. 15:23
*

24. The pursuit of Happiness PS 146:5
*

25. Lips that worship God PS 63:5
*

26. Eyes to Enjoy the world around us Ecc. 11:7
*

27. The wisdom of our elders 1 Peter 5:5
*

28. Food on our table. 1 Tim. 6:8
*

29. God-given talents 1 Cor. 12:18
*

30. A place to worship God PS 122:1
*

31. The warmth of sunshine PS 133:13
*

32. Fresh water to drink Ex 23:25
*

33. Cool breezes on a hot day PS 147:18
*

34. Laughter in the midst of sorrow Prov. 14:13
*

35. Comfort from a friend. Prov. 27:17
*

36. God's promises 2 Peter 3:9
*

37. The diversity of the four seasons PS 74:17
*

38. A voice to sing songs PS 9:2
*

39. The breath of life Gen 2:7
*

40. The love of a mate. Gen 2:24
*

41. Children in the family PS 127:3
*

42 Good health 3 John 1:2
*

43. A Godly heritage 2 Tim. 1:5
*

44. Ears to hear. Prov. 14:31
*

45. Coffee with a friend Prov. 15:15
*

46. The confidence of a friend Prov. 11:13
*

47. Time spent with family PS 128:1,3
*

48. A Godly mentor Prov. 11:14
*

49. Productive gardens Jer. 29:5
*

50. Time spent conversing with God Prov. 8:17
*

51. Letters from a loved one Prov. 12:25
*

52. A report of good news Prov. 25:25
*

53. Inspiring, caring teachers Prov. 9:9
*

54. The desire for an abundant life. John 10:10
*

55. Hope for tomorrow PS 71:5
*

56. Good books to read Prov. 12:1
*

57. The gift of God's grace Eph. 2:8
*

58. Courage to pursue our dreams. Phillipians 4:13
*

59. The comfort of a bed for sleeping. PS 4:4
*

60. The beauty of the stars on a dark night. PS 8:3-4
*

61. The companionship of animals Gen 2:19
*

62. The harvest of a garden PS 128:2
*

63. Modern technology Prov. 21:11
*

64. Rest after hard work EX 23:12
*

65. Prayer offered for you by a friend James 5:16
*

66. Beautiful artwork. PS 18:3
*

67. The skill of a good doctor PS 34:19
*

68. Rainbows after a storm Gen 9:14
*

69. Friends with strong shoulders to leave on Prov. 27:9
*

70. Family holiday celebrations PS 133:1
*

71. Air conditioning in the summer. PS 105:1
*

72. Mentors who care Prov. 22:2
*

73. An unexpected Valentine 1 John 4:7
*

74. God's mercy PS 100:5
*

75. Inner joy that makes you smile PS 16:11
*

76. Employment Ecc. 9:10
*

77. The ability to laugh Prov. 17:22
*

78. The shade of a big tree Job 40:22
*

79. Victory after a battle 1 john 5:4
*

80. Strength to run a race PS 18:29
*

81. The small things in life PS 103:2
*

82. Spiritual direction PS 1:1
*

83. A field of wildflowers PS 104:31
*

84. The majesty of mountains Ps 125:2
*

85. The desire to smile PS 144:15
*

86. Time to smell the roses PS 46:10
*

87. Opportunities to improve yourself Prov. 4:1
*

88. Communication with others Prov. 16:13
*

89. Common courtesy from others Phillipians 2:4
*

90. Leisure time with friends. Rom 12:10
*

91. The ability to provide for your family Prov 31:27
*

92. Words of wisdom from a friend Prov 19:20
*

93. A new day PS 118:24
*

94. Beautiful poetry PS 68:11
*

95. Courage when needed Deut. 31:6
*

96. Contentment 1 Tim 6:6
*

97. A beautiful sunset PS 104:19
*

98. A phone call from an old friend or relative Prov. 16:24
*

99. Early morning solitude with God. PS 104:34
*

100 The power and beauty of a river. PS 104:10
*

101.The privilege of doing good for others Prov. 3:27

~Taken from the book: 101 thanksgiving Blessings, by Vickie Phelps

Free Signature Generator

Setting a Thanksgiving Table, Napkins & Potpourri

For A Formal Place Setting:

1. Place the service plate on the table directly in front of where guest will be sitting.
2. Locate the bread and butter plate at the 10:00 position in relation to dinner plate.
3. The butter knife should be placed on the bread and butter plate in a slight diagonal, pointing to the 11:00 position.
4. Place water glass at 1:00 position relative to dinner plate and just above knives.
5. Put red or white wine glass just below and to right of water glass.
6. Set champagne glass above and to right of red or white wine glass. Finally, set sherry glass to the right of red or white wine glass.
7. Put dessert spoon above dinner plate in a horizontal position
8. Place dessert fork above dessert spoon, facing in opposite direction.
9. Dinner knife should be located to the right of dinner plate.
10. Place fish knife to the right of dinner knife.
11. Put soup spoon and the fruit spoon (if used) to the right of dinner knife.
12. If serving shellfish, oyster fork should be located to the right of soup spoon and/or fruit spoon.
13. Place salad fork to the left of dinner plate. Put dinner fork next to salad fork.
14. Place fish fork to the left of the dinner fork.
15. Place napkin to the left of all forks.
    

Tips: For less formal dinners, remove unnecessary pieces such as fish forks and knives and extraneous wine glasses.

Pretty Rolled Napkins
Napkin Folding Instructions: 27 Photographed Napkin Folds
Custom Linen Service - Napkins - Napkin Folding 101
Napkin Folding- Special Napkin Folding for Your Table
Napkin Folding Demonstrations: 17 Napkin Folding Video Lessons
Napkin Folds: Easy How-To Cooking Tips & Advice: All Guides Free: RecipeTips.com How to Fold Napkins - MyPaperShop.com

More links not from TipNutz:
Holiday Napkin Folding: The Diamond Silverware Pouch Fold
Silverware Napkin Folding: The Silverware Pouch
Napkin Folding- Create a Wings Napkin Fold
Cocks Comb or Bird of Paradise Napkin Fold: Easy How-To Cooking Tips & Advice: RecipeTips.com

Fragrant Home: 13 Simmering Pot Recipes

This is a lovely way to make your home smell warm and inviting. Just fill a pot with water, add your favorite ingredients and simmer all day. This also helps humidify the home a bit.

The recipes below are just guidelines, you can use different amounts and mix up ingredients as you like. Experiment to find your favorite smells.

Save: orange, lemon and lime peels, apple skins (dry them out first before storing in a container)

Frugal idea: For apple juice, cranberry juice, herbs and spices that are outdated, don’t throw out–just add to your simmering pot

You can refrigerate your simmering recipe and reuse daily for up to one week. Just keep adding water as needed.

Directions: Fill a saucepan with water and bring to a boil. Add the ingredients from your favorite recipe, boil for a few minutes, then turn the heat down to simmer all day. Top up water as needed.

Caution: Set your timer for 30 minutes so you remember to top up with water. You don’t want the pot burning dry. Do not leave the house with this left heating on the stove.

Simmering Pot Potpourri Recipes

Recipe #1
Cinnamon sticks

Apple peels

Orange rinds

Whole cloves

*

Recipe #2
Apple juice

Cinnamon sticks

Whole cloves

*

Recipe #3
Vanilla (a few drops)

Orange peels

*

Recipe #4 - Christmas Potpourri Simmering Pot
3 sprigs evergreen or handful pine needles

2 cinnamon sticks

2 TBS whole cloves

2 bay leaves

2 pieces orange rind

2 pieces lemon rind

*

Recipe #5
2 TBS whole cloves

2 cinnamon sticks

5 star anise

1 orange peel

*
Recipe #6
Whole cloves

1 tsp nutmeg

*
Recipe #7
Peel from a whole orange

Whole cloves

2 Cinnamon sticks

*
Recipe #8
5 bay leaves

1 TBS whole cloves

2 sticks cinnamon

*
Recipe #9
Peel from 1 lemon

Peel from 1 orange

2 bay leaves

3 cinnamon sticks

2 TBS whole cloves

*
Recipe #10
1/8 cup cloves

1/8 cup allspice

2 cinnamon sticks

*
Recipe #11
6 whole cloves

1 cinnamon stick

1 tsp vanilla

*
Recipe #12
1 cup dried lavender

1 tsp anise

1 TBS nutmeg

1 TBS whole cloves

1 Cinnamon stick

*

Recipe #13
2 sticks cinnamon

Peel from one lemon

Fresh rosemary

Whole cloves

For the Oven:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Take a piece of tinfoil (a few inches wide), pour a teaspoon of vanilla on top and place the foil in the oven. Turn off oven and prop the door open a bit.

Fill a loaf pan with water and your favorite recipe from above. Set in oven on high heat until it starts filling your home with lovely smells. Turn off oven, then prop the door open.

To Encourage Appetites:

Make fresh bread or fry up an onion or set an onion in the oven to heat. The smell will make everyone good and hungry at meal time ;).

Fragrant Home: 13 Simmering Pot Recipes » TipNut.com

Free Signature Generator

Thanksgiving Checklist

Follow This Checklist and Be Prepared for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Checklist
Here's an easy-to-use checklist of how to prepare for your Thanksgiving feast.

FOUR WEEKS OUT:
*Make your guest list.
*Make your menu.
*Order your turkey--especially if you want a fresh one. (Plan on 1 1/4 pounds per person.)Measure your oven to make sure your turkey will fit.
*Invite your guests. (Before you get on the phone, have a list of guests and a list of dishes. Then, if someone offers to bring a dish, accept the offer. And if they don't offer, ask them.)

THREE WEEKS OUT:
*Check your equipment:
*Table (one large enough for all your guests)
*Chairs for all of your guests

Dishware:
*Dinner plates
*Dessert plates
*Coffee cups and saucers

Silverware:
*Polished forks, knives and spoons

Glassware:
*Water glassesClean wine glasses

Linens:
*Clean napkins
*Tablecloth (large enough to fit your table)

Cooking and serving items:
*Roasting pan: Is it the right size for your turkey? Will it fit into your oven? (Don't laugh: It's easier to buy the right pan today than it will be on Thanksgiving morning.)
*Big-enough bowls, pots and serving platters
*Trivets
*Bread basket
*Sauceboat
*Gravy pitcher
*Well-sharpened knives
*Coffeepot--Can yours make both regular and decaf for a crowd? Maybe you should get a thermos.
*Sugar bowl
*Cream pitcher

SUGGESTION: If you can afford it, having someone to do the dishes will make an immense difference in your enjoyment of the meal.

TWO WEEKS OUT:
*Make a seating chart.

*Work on your shopping lists--don't forget tonic, seltzer and apple cider for the kids.

*Begin cooking--relish will keep in the fridge for a week; gravy freezes well.)

*Select a wine--Caterers recommend providing a half bottle for each guest--not counting children, of course.

ONE WEEK OUT:
*Tidy up the house.

*Put clean towels in the bathroom.

*Make a final shopping list--Remember ice, cream for the coffee and nuts for nibbling in the living room.

THANKSGIVING WEEK - MONDAY:
*Defrost your turkey (if it's frozen).

*Remember that you have to allow 24 hours for every 5 pounds if you're going to defrost a turkey in the refrigerator. That means a 15-pound turkey will take three full days, so get started on Monday.

SUGGESTION: If you miss that deadline, you can defrost the bird faster in a sinkful of cold water, allowing about half an hour for each pound of turkey and changing the water occasionally. (It will still take 7 1/2 hours for that 15-pounder, so do it after work on Wednesday, then refrigerate it.)

THANKSGIVING WEEK - TUESDAY:
*Do your final food shopping.

*Make a cooking schedule for Thanksgiving Day.

*If guests are invited for 5 P.M., count backward from a 6 P.M. dinner, writing down the time everything goes into the oven or the microwave. Don't forget the dishes that will have to be reheated.

THANKSGIVING WEEK - WEDNESDAY:
*Set the table.

*Clear out the coat closet for guest coats.

*Clean the guest bathroom. If possible, make it off-limits to the family.

*Take the gravy out of the freezer and put it in the refrigerator so it can defrost.

THANKSGIVING DAY:
*You'll be so caught up that you'll be looking around for things to do. Have a great Thanksgiving!

Free Signature Generator

Thanksgiving Countdown

Thanksgiving Countdown
by Brandie Valenzuela

Now is the time to make those preparations for your Thanksgiving dinner! Here you will find a countdown that will help you to have everything ready by the big day.

2-4 Weeks Prior To Thanksgiving (or now!)

1) Plan your menu. Think about which items that can be made ahead of time and frozen, and plan these items in on your "to-do" list (see #4 below). Have a few items listed which you don't mind if a guest brings -- delegate these items when inviting your guests.

2) Invite your guests and get a firm commitment from them ASAP.

3) Make your shopping list, but only after you know exactly what your guests might be bringing. Don't forget to include important items such as film, batteries, and beverages.

4) Make a "Thanksgiving To-Do" list. List every little thing that you feel must be done prior to Thanksgiving. For example, detail cleaning, washing of serving pieces, shopping, raking of leaves in yard, cooking, decorating, etc.

5) Take your "Thanksgiving To-Do" list, and schedule time for each item. You may wish to complete one or two items a day until Turkey Day. Be sure to get the help of your spouse and children - delegate! Work on your personal "Thanksgiving To-Do" list in addition to the items in this countdown.

6) Order your turkey and ham, if this applies to you.

10-14 Days Prior To Thanksgiving

1) Take an inventory of your chairs, tables, dishes, flatware, glassware, and linens. If items need to be cleaned, do so now. If you need more chairs, arrange that at this time.

2) Will guest be spending the night in your home? Be sure to think about sleeping arrangements.

3) Make sure you will have enough room in your freezer or refrigerator for the turkey. If you don't have enough room, plan now to make room by eating meals made from some of the items taking up the space.

4) Clean your refrigerator inside and out.

5) Shop for nonperishable groceries on your shopping list, or items you know will keep until Thanksgiving.

One Week Prior To Thanksgiving

1) Will children be at your home for Thanksgiving? Search the web and craft books for easy activities and games that will keep the children busy.

2) Also, if you are having young children in your home, do a safety check of your home. Are medicines and cleaners out of reach? Do your outlets have covers? Do you have breakable items that might be better off on a higher shelf? Do a thorough check of each room the children will occupy.

3) Have the children help you with some simple decorations. Create turkey's from pinecones, place cards, draw pilgrims for the refrigerator door, and more.

4) Reevaluate your "Thanksgiving To-Do" list. Is there many items you listed, that may be impossible to get done now? Be realistic and cross off items that can be skipped.

Five Days Prior To Thanksgiving

1) Plan seating arrangements.

2) To save money on bagged ice, start making your own ice cubes now, by freezing in trays, and when frozen, dump them in a freezer bag.

3) Shop for perishable Thanksgiving items between now and two days prior to Thanksgiving.

Two Days Prior To Thanksgiving

1) Is there any other dishes or desserts that can still be prepared ahead of time? If so, do them today.

2) Fill your salt and pepper shakers and butter dishes.

3) Defrost in the refrigerator any frozen side dishes.

4) Be sure your home is clean. If any other details need to be taken care of, do them now. Is your bathroom clean? Do you need to clean your front walk?

Day Before Thanksgiving

1) Prepare any dishes you couldn't freeze.

2) Chill beverages in refrigerator.

3) Buy bouquet of flowers for table or countertop, if you wish.

4) Spot clean the rooms that will be used during the festivities.

5) If you have a formal dining area, set the Thanksgiving table now.

Thanksgiving Day

1) Finish last minute details: turkey, mashed potatoes, but most of all, enjoy yourself!


About the authorBrandie is a freelance writing mother of three children. She is also the editor of the HomeMade Living ezine, a free ezine for stay-at-home mothers.



Free Signature Generator

Lesson Theme of the Week: The Mayflower and Colonial Times

The Mayflower

General Information
A cut-away plan and description of The Mayflower ship, its decks, superstructure and compartments.
http://www.mayflowersteps.co.uk/mayflower/mayflower.html
MayflowerHistory.com
http://www.mayflowerhistory.com/
Mayflower Passenger List
http://www.mayflowerfamilies.com/mayflower/mayflower_passenger_list.htm
Sail1620 - Discover History: The Good Ship Mayflower
http://www.sail1620.org/
The Mayflower Compact
http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0101029.html
The Ship - Mayflower
http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~mosmd/mayflowerbig.htm

Lesson Plans
Aboard the Mayflower
http://www.teachervision.fen.com/american-colonies/lesson-plan/787.html
Learning to Give - Lesson Plan - Mayflower Compact Started It
http://www.learningtogive.org/lessons/unit39/lesson2.html
Mayflower
http://www.eduref.org/Virtual/Lessons/Social_Studies/US_History/USH0043.html
Mayflower Math: Voyage into history and math with our shipshape
http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-80747667.html
Mayflower Voyage
http://www.lessonplanspage.com/SSArtThanksgivingPilgrimHardshipsAndThankfulForQuilt1.htm
No Extra Room on the Mayflower
http://www.econedlink.org/lessons/index.php?lesson=EM675&page=teacher
Sad Seasick Sailors
http://www.learningtogive.com/lessons/unit84/lesson3.html
Thanksgiving : The Mayflower:: Lesson Plan
http://atozteacherstuff.com/pages/441.shtml
Traveling on the Mayflower
http://www.learnnc.org/lp/pages/2855


Crafts
Mayflower Hats
http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/mayflower-toppers-661840/
Mayflower Ship Craft
http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/watertrans/l/blmayflowcr.htm
Mayflower Thanksgiving Centerpiece
http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/mayflower-centerpiece-664344/
The Pilgrims' Voyage: Map and The Mayflower
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/crafts/thanksgiving/map/


Cooking
Mayflower Cupcakes Recipe
http://www.recipezaar.com/Mayflower-Cupcakes-146294
Mayflower Sandwiches Recipe
http://find.myrecipes.com/food/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=521025


Online Activities
Mayflower Drag & Drop Puzzle
http://www.primarygames.com/holidays/thanksgiving/games/dragdrop/index.htm
Mayflower II Photo Puzzle
http://gonewengland.about.com/library/puzzles/nmayflowerpuzzle.htm
Quia - Mayflower Compact Quiz
http://www.quia.com/quiz/105992.html
Quia - Mayflower: Vocabulary Game #2
http://www.quia.com/rr/109625.html
Thanksgiving Games - Find the Differences - The Mayflower
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/holidays/thanksgiving/different/mayflower.html
The Mayflower, Its Occupants and Crew Quiz
http://www.funtrivia.com/playquiz.cfm?qid=154094
The Voyage of the Mayflower - US Colonial History Quiz
http://www.funtrivia.com/quizdetails.cfm?quiz=113278


Printouts
Mayflower Order to 50 and to 100 Math Worksheets
http://www.math-drills.com/thanksgiving.shtml
The Mayflower Poem Word Search
http://ex.susd.org/tjagodzinski/mayflower_compact.htm
The Mayflower - Thanksgiving color sheets for kids
http://www.apples4theteacher.com/coloring-pages/thanksgiving/the-mayflower.html

Life in Colonial Times

General Information
Archiving Early America
http://www.earlyamerica.com/
Colonial Currency
http://www.coins.nd.edu/ColCurrency/
Colonial Hall: Biographies of America's Founding Fathers
ttp://colonialhall.com/index_t1.php
Early American Paintings
http://www.worcesterart.org/Collection/Early_American/
English Colonial Era Timeline
http://www.historyplace.com/unitedstates/revolution/rev-col.htm
Food in the 13 American Colonies
http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/articles/ushistory/13coloniesfood.htm
The Avalon Project : Colonial Charters, Grants and Related Documents
http://avalon.law.yale.edu/subject_menus/statech.asp


Lesson Plans
Geography of the English Settlements
http://www.cstone.net/~bcp/3/3DGeo.htm
Life on Plymouth Plantation
http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/activity/plymouth/
The Thirteen Colonies
http://www.cstone.net/~bcp/3/3DHistory.htm
To Market To Market
http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/score_lessons/market_to_market/
Virtual Jamestown in the Classroom
http://www.virtualjamestown.org/tscreators.html


Crafts
Colonial Soap Making. Its History and Techniques
http://www.alcasoft.com/soapfact/history.html


Cooking
Preparing Snacks using Colonial Recipes
http://www.monroehistoricsociety.org/cookies.html


Multimedia
Colonial House
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/colonialhouse/history/panoramas.html
Hargrett Rare Library Map Collection - Colonial America
http://www.libs.uga.edu/darchive/hargrett/maps/colamer.html


Virtual Fieldtrips
Virtual Jamestown
http://www.virtualjamestown.org/


Online Activities
Colonial America Scavenger Hunt
http://www.ih.k12.oh.us/es/5/michael/colonial.htm


Printouts
13 Colonies Map/Quiz Printout
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/usa/statesbw/13colonies/13colonies.shtml
A Pilgrim Home
http://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag68.html
Come to America
http://www.eduplace.com/ss/wtp/level5/unit3/org.html
Label 13 Colonies Printout
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/usa/label/13/13.shtml
Pilgrim Food
http://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag69.html
Pilgrim Paperdoll
http://www.bry-backmanor.org/actpag115.html


To Subscribe to the Lesson Theme of the Week use the links below.
Lesson Theme of the Week http://groups.yahoo.com/group/lessonthemeoftheweek/

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Pumpkin Recipes

I'll be adding more than several recipes, tips, ideas and articles I've collected. Hopefully having them here they will more easily accessible and therefore I may finally try most of them this year! If you decide to try anything let me know how it goes.

Don't have pumpkin pie spice? Combine 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/8 teaspoon allspice for every teaspoon required.

Pumpkin Bars

1-3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 cup sugar, divided

1/2 cup butter, softened

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

2 eggs, beaten

3 small packages (4-serving size) instant vanilla pudding

3/4 cup milk

2 cups pumpkin

dash cinnamon

12 oz. Cool Whip, thawed and divided

1/2 cup chopped nuts

Mix together graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup sugar, and softened butter.

Pat into bottom of a 9 x 13 pan and set aside.

In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, beaten eggs, and remaining 3/4 cup sugar. Beat until fluffy and spread overcrust. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes; allow to cool.

Combine dry pudding mixes and milk and beat for 2 minutes at medium speed

Add pumpkin and cinnamon and mix well. Stir in one cup of Cool Whip and spreadover cooled cream cheese layer. Spread the rest of Cool Whip over the top,sprinkle chopped nuts, and chill.

Pumpkin Apple Butter

Try this thick and delicious pumpkin-apple butter the next time you make homemade bread. Fresh bread spread with homemade apple butter (with pumpkin as the base) is a rich treat!

1 can (15 ounces) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

1 medium apple, peeled and grated

1 cup Apple NESTLÉ® JUICY JUICE® All Natural 100% Juice

1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar

3/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

COMBINE pumpkin, apple, Juicy Juice, sugar and pumpkin pie spice in medium, heavy-duty saucepan. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours. Serve with buttermilk biscuits, breads, corn muffins or hot cereal. Store in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 2 months.

Recipe makes 3 cups.

Harvest Pumpkin Apple Bread

Enjoy this tasty bread with your morning (or anytime) coffee or tea!

3 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

3 cups granulated sugar

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

4 large eggs

1 cup vegetable oil

1/2 cup apple juice or water

1 large baking apple, peeled, cored and diced

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease and flour two 9 x 5-inch loaf pans.

COMBINE flour, cinnamon, baking soda and salt in large bowl. Combine sugar, pumpkin, eggs, vegetable oil and apple juice in large mixer bowl; beat until just blended. Add pumpkin mixture to flour mixture; stir just until moistened. Fold in apples. Spoon batter into prepared loaf pans.

BAKE for 65 to 70 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

FOR THREE 8 X 4-INCH LOAF PANS:

PREPARE as above. Bake for 60 to 65 minutes.

FOR FIVE OR SIX 5 X 3-INCH MINI-LOAF PANS:

PREPARE as above. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes.

Pumpkin Cranberry Bread Mix

Turn this bread mix recipe into a gift thats great for the holiday's!

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon baking soda

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup OCEAN SPRAY® CRAISINS® Sweetened Dried Cranberries

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

COMBINE all ingredients, except pumpkin, in large bowl. Pour into 1-quart resealable plastic bag. Place in fabric bag. Place bread mix and can of pumpkin in 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.

RECIPE TO ATTACH:

Beat together 3/4 cup LIBBY'S 100% Pure Pumpkin, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs and 1/4 cup orange juice or water in large mixer bowl until blended.

Add contents of bag; stir until just moistened.

Spoon batter into greased and floured 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.

Bake in preheated 350° F. oven for 60 to 65 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean.

Cool in pan for 10 minutes; remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Recipe makes one loaf.

Pumpkin Spice Quick Bread

Great for a brunch or as a snack with whipped cream cheese.

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar

1/2 cup (1 stick) butter (we recommend Land O Lakes®), softened

2 large eggs

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease 9x5-inch loaf pan.

COMBINE flour, pumpkin, brown sugar, butter, eggs, spice, baking soda, salt and baking powder in large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed, scraping bowl often for 1 to 2 minutes until well mixed. Spoon batter into prepared pan.

BAKE for 45 to 55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack 10 minutes; remove to wire rack to cool completely.*Substitute 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger and 1/4 teaspoon each ground nutmeg and ground cloves for pumpkin pie spice.

VARIATIONS:

Banana Bread: Prepare quick bread as directed above, substituting 3/4 cup sugar for brown sugar and 1 cup mashed bananas for pumpkin; omit pumpkin pie spice.

Banana Chocolate Chip Bread: Prepare quick bread as directed above. Stir 3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels and 1 cup mashed banana into batter.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread: Prepare quick bread as directed above. Stir in 3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Morsels into batter.

TIP: Wrap bread in plastic food wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze up to 3 months.

Spiced Pumpkin Bread

Just one slice of this kissed-with-spice quick bread gives you 25 percent of the vitamin A you need in a day.

2 cups all-purpose flour

5 teaspoons ground allspice or pumpkin pie spice

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

1 cup packed brown sugar

1/2 cup Apple NESTLÉ® JUICY JUICE® All Natural 100% Juice

2 large eggs

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

PREHEAT oven to 350° F.

SIFT flour, allspice, baking powder, baking soda and salt into medium bowl. Combine pumpkin, sugar, Juicy Juice, eggs, oil and vanilla extract in large bowl; stir well. Stir in flour mixture just until moistened. Spoon into greased 9 x 5-inch loaf pan.

BAKE for 65 to 70 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes; remove to wire rack to cool completely.

Pumpkin Banana Nut Bread

Add a pumpkin twist to your banana nut bread!

4 cups all-purpose flour

4 teaspoons baking powder

4 teaspoons ground cinnamon

2 teaspoons ground ginger

2 teaspoons baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 can (15 oz.) LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin

4 large eggs

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup packed brown sugar

1 cup (2 medium) very ripe bananas, mashed

3/4 cup vegetable oil

1 cup chopped walnuts

PREHEAT oven to 350º F. Grease and flour two 9 x 5-inch loaf pans.

COMBINE flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda and salt in medium bowl. Combine pumpkin, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, bananas and vegetable oil in large mixer bowl; beat until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture; stir in nuts. Spoon into prepared loaf pans.

BAKE for 55 to 60 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans on wire racks for 10 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely.

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Thanksgiving Proclamations

THE FIRST THANKSGIVING PROCLAMATION - JUNE 20, 1676:"

The Holy God having by a long and Continual Series of his Afflictive dispensations in and by the present War with the Heathen Natives of this land, written and brought to pass bitter things against his own Covenant people in this wilderness, yet so that we evidently discern that in the midst of his judgments he hath remembered mercy, having remembered his Footstool in the day of his sore displeasure against us for our sins, with many singular Intimations of his Fatherly Compassion, and regard; reserving many of our Towns from Desolation Threatened, and attempted by the Enemy, and giving us especially of late with many of our Confederates many signal Advantages against them, without such Disadvantage to ourselves as formerly we have been sensible of, if it be the Lord's mercy that we are not consumed, It certainly bespeaks our positive Thankfulness, when our Enemies are in any measure disappointed or destroyed; and fearing the Lord should take notice under so many Intimations of his returning mercy, we should be found an Insensible people, as not standing before Him with Thanksgiving, as well as lading him with our Complaints in the time of pressing Afflictions:

The Council has thought meet to appoint and set apart the 29th day of this instant June, as a day of Solemn Thanksgiving and praise to God for such his Goodness and Favor, many Particulars of which mercy might be Instanced, but we doubt not those who are sensible of God's Afflictions, have been as diligent to espy him returning to us; and that the Lord may behold us as a People offering Praise and thereby glorifying Him; the Council doth commend it to the Respective Ministers, Elders and people of this Jurisdiction; Solemnly and seriously to keep the same Beseeching that being persuaded by the mercies of God we may all, even this whole people offer up our bodies and souls as a living and acceptable Service unto God by Jesus Christ."


THANKSGIVING DAY PROCLAMATION BY GEORGE WASHINGTON
City of New York, October 3, 1789

WHEREAS it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favour; and Whereas both Houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me "to recommend to the people of the United States a DAY OF PUBLICK THANKSGIVING and PRAYER, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness:"

NOW THEREFORE, I do recommend and assign THURSDAY, the TWENTY-SIXTH DAY of NOVEMBER next, to be devoted by the people of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being who is the beneficent author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country previous to their becoming a nation; for the signal and manifold mercies and the favorable interpositions of His providence in the course and conclusion of the late war; for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty which we have since enjoyed;-- for the peaceable and rational manner in which we have been enable to establish Constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national one now lately instituted;- - for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed, and the means we have of acquiring anddiffusing useful knowledge;-- and, in general, for all the great and various favours which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

And also, that we may then unite in most humbly offering our prayers and supplications to the great Lord and Ruler of Nations and beseech Him to pardon our national and other transgressions; -- to enable us all, whether in publick or private stations, to perform our several and relative duties properly and punctually; to render our National Government a blessing to all the people by constantly being a Government of wise, just, and constitutional laws, discreetly and faithfully executed and obeyed; to protect and guide all sovereigns and nations (especially such as have shewn kindness unto us); and to bless them with good governments, peace, and concord; to promote the knowledge and practice of true religion and virtue, and the increase of science among them and us; and, generally to grant unto all mankind such a degree of temporal prosperity as He alone knows to be best.

GIVEN under my hand, at the city of New-York, the third day of October, in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine.

THANKSGIVING DAY PROCLAMATION BY ABRAHAM LINCOLN
October 3, 1863

The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of so extraordinary a nature, that they cannot fail to penetrate and soften even the heart which is habitually insensible to the ever watchful providence of Almighty God. In the midst of a civil war of unequalled magnitude and severity, which has sometimes seemed to foreign States to invite and to provoke their aggression, peace has been preserved with all nations, order has been maintained, the laws have been respected and obeyed, and harmony has prevailed everywhere except in the theatre of military conflict; while that theatre has been greatly contracted by the advancing armies and navies of the Union. Needful diversions of wealth and of strength from the fields of peaceful industry to the national defence, have not arrested the plough, the shuttle, or the ship; the axe had enlarged the borders of our settlements, and the mines, as well of iron and coal as of the precious metals, have yielded even more abundantly than heretofore. Population has steadily increased, notwithstanding the waste that has been made in the camp, the siege and the battle-field; and the country, rejoicing in the consciousness of augmented strength and vigor, is permitted to expect continuance of years, with large increase of freedom.

No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy.

It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquillity and Union.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.

Done at the city of Washington, this third day of October, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and of the independence of the United States the eighty-eighth.

Abraham Lincoln
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Seasonal Play Doughs

Although I've had these saved in my email for what seems like forever I haven't made them yet. I'm sure I have plenty of the ingredients on hand left over from last year. This seems to be the perfect way to use them up and get those Thanksgiving smells going through the house.

These are NOT for eating.

Pumpkin Pie Play Dough

1 cup flour
1/2 cup salt
2 teaspoons cream of tarter
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon veg oil
1 cup water
6 drops red food coloring
15 drops of yellow food coloring

Combine dry ingredients in a non-stick pan Add oil, water, food coloring and whisk until smooth. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it forms a ball. Turn onto counter, let cool slightly, knead until smooth. Dough will keep in a plastic bag for about a week.

Pumpkin Pie Playdough

5 1/2 cups flour
2 cups salt
8 teaspoons cream of tartar
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 (1 1/12 ounce) container pumpkin pie spice
Orange food coloring (2 parts yellow, 1 part red)
4 cups water

Mix all of the ingredients together. Cook and stir over medium heat until all lumps disappear. Knead the dough on a floured surface until it is smooth. Store in an airtight container.

Gingerbread Play Dough

2 cups flour
1 cup salt
1 tbsp. ground ginger
1 tbsp. ground cinnamon
2 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 cup water

Mix together and knead until smooth

Sparkling Snow Dough

2 cups water
2 cups flour
1 cup salt
4 tsp. cream of tartar
4 tsp. oil
iridescent glitter

Combine ingredients in a heavy saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly with wooden spoon until mixture thickens and pulls away from sides of pan. Form dough into a ball, place on waxed paper and cool. Knead in glitter.

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