Our pastor did a sermon series on parenting last summer, and he and his wife talked about the fun use of the “red plate.” Whoever in their family had a special achievement or a good day, they got to eat on the “red plate” and be celebrated.
My husband and I really liked that idea, so we decided to implement it in our house. We looked all over for our “red plate,” knowing it had to speak to our family, not imitate our pastor and his family.
We were given a beautiful Pampered Chef wooden plate that has the words “thankful, grateful, blessed.” It’s actually a cheese board but can be used in a variety of ways. We decided it would be perfect as our “red plate.”
In addition, I bought two of those felt message boards. You know the ones – you see them on Facebook announcing cute things or accomplishments.
I have tried to be intentional this year (I’m still a work in progress and miss the mark more times than I hit it) by celebrating the little as well as the big. Some of the things we have celebrated include:
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries
- Being picked to be a kindergarten helper
- Induction into the National Honor Society
- Graduating with an Associated before turning 19
- Completing the C25K race
- Publishing my book
I’m really trying this year to be more intentional about celebrating family this year. Big, little and things in between. Life is too short and I have spent too many years with Eeyore hanging over my shoulder.
I’m grateful to our pastor and his wife for reminding me not to take life too seriously and instead to celebrate more.
What about you? Do you like the idea of celebrating the big and little moments in life regularly? I’d love for you to comment below and share your ideas.
© Cheri Swalwell 2019