A simple Thanksgiving day tradition

Each year we gather around the table, or tables with friends and family to give thanks for all we have, to share a good meal, and create memories.

Having traditions, in my opinion is especially good for kids, as they grow up, what will they look back and remember? What will they decide to share with their own kids one day? What about family that will pass as the years go on? What would you like to remember about them? For me, I want to remember my mother and father, who are well into their senior years.

My idea is not new, and it's not difficult or fancy, but it can give you years of memories and can be passed on throughout generations. It's just a simple Thanksgiving tradition. We just started ours in 2013, and I can't wait to see how it changes over the years.

• A fabric tablecloth, cotton or polyester
• Fabric markers (as many or as few as you'd like)
• Family and friends!

Place your table cloth out and ask guests to trace their hand print, adding the year, their name, and things they are thankful for.

That's it! Enjoy what they've written for years, even after Grandma's and Grandpa's have moved on and passed away, their happy memories of this holiday can be preserved in the table cloth, and you can watch your children's hands grow and change over time.

When the holiday has ended, carefully wash your tablecloth and use it year after year, adding more and more hand prints. Watch how it magically creates memories and makes a great conversation piece. Pass it down to your own children as they grow up and celebrate Thanksgiving with their own children one day.