3 gifts on thursday

I debated about whether to post today, given the Thanksgiving holiday, but after further contemplation it seems fitting to give these gifts on a day when Americans are intentionally giving thanks.

For previous 3 Gifts installments, click here. If you would like to have a "gift" featured in this series, please see the bottom of this post for details.

1.Gift of Multiplied Giving

Since Thanksgiving weekend here in the US also is the kick off to the great holiday buying extravaganza, I wanted to share a treasury I put together on etsy of handmade items which have a charitable component. If you are looking for unique items and love to support businesses which help others, check out this list for some ideas.

2. Gift of a Great Coleslaw Recipe
Coleslaw is quickly becoming a tradition at our table when we gather as a family and is my specialty. And although it's probably too late for you to add it to your Thanksgiving menu today, it will be here for next time. Note: I use organic ingredients because they taste better and are healthier, but the "regular" versions work well too.

1 head of organic cabbage
2-3 medium organic carrots
2-3 Tbsp minced organic onion

If you have a food processor, shred the cabbage and carrots, otherwise cut in shredded pieces, about 1/4" wide. Add the minced onion and toss together.

Dressing
1 scant cup of Helman's mayonnaise (because it's the best)
1/2 tsp sea salt
dash of pepper
dash of paprika
2 Tbsp white vinegar
2 Tbsp milk (regular dairy, but organic unsweetened soy milk works well too)

Mix dressing ingredients together and pour over cabbage mixture. It's best to make it at least one hour before eating to let the flavors blend. Sometimes, if I know I'll be pressed for time, I'll prepare the veggies and dressing separately the night before I need it and then mix the next morning.

3. Gift of Giving Thanks
I'm learning the value to giving thanks in all circumstances - to dig deep and find those nuggets of gratitude nestled amidst the most trying of times. Here's a link to a post on Ann Voskamp's blog on the beauty in counting the gifts of today. Every day.

If you have a "gift" you'd like me to consider wrapping into a 3 Gifts on Thursday package, please email me the details. It can be anything you are hosting or have heard about: from a giveaways to service projects, household/parenting tips, resources, promotions/coupon codes, items such as books, music, movies, etc (ones available for purchase online). If I choose to incorporate your gift suggestion into a 3 Gifts post, I will email you to let you know when it will be featured.