Bear Says Thanks!

Good Morning Everyone!

Each Thanksgiving I read the book, Bear Says Thanks, to my family before we eat.  It is a book that I got for my kids when they were little.  The author of this story writes a number of children's books that my kids liked mainly because they were fun to read with silly voices for each character!  (And yes, I do the voices for the whole family!)  I wish I had thought to record myself reading it to you, but you'll have to settle for this version from Storybook Central with, alas, no cool voices.  🤣🤣 

I think the story may be more fitting than ever this year because at the beginning bear is feeling all alone and he is bored, bored, bored - just like many of us are feeling with our quarantine restrictions.  Soon enough though, bear and his friends get creative and cobble together bits of a meal to share.  In normal times, I like this book because it reminds us of the power of friends and the importance of finding little things to be thankful for.  In Covid times, I like that this book is also reminding us to be flexible and creative with what we have to offer and in how we might gather to celebrate this season.

During your holiday festivities this week, I ask you to be mindful that this holiday represents, for many, a painful reminder of our country's not always stellar past.  Recognition of where when have failed and the quest to do better is something that I think Thanksgiving can embody.  I would ask you all to think about how you can translate the blessings you have into positives for your family and your community going forward.  Be thankful for what you have but also consider helping to make sure that all others enjoy those same opportunities.  

I hope that you all have a restful, relaxing, and enjoyable Thanksgiving, both with your families who are near, and thanks to Zoom, with those that are far too!  Have a great break, everyone!

Be Well,

Mrs. Hempey