How Pie-Giving Made Our Thanksgiving Easier, Happier, and More Meaningful
- The Nourished Queens
- Nov 24, 2025
- 3 min read
Every year, Thanksgiving sneaks up on me — and with it, the endless scroll of recipes, grocery lists, and “perfect table” photos.
But last year, we decided to do something completely different.
We called it Pie-Giving Thanksgiving.
Instead of spending hours in the kitchen juggling ten dishes and a turkey the size of my child, we simplified.
We made one delicious turkey pot pie, a side of mashed potatoes, and a bright cranberry chutney. And of course… we had pie for dessert!
That was it.
No fancy table settings, no endless cleanup — just a cozy meal, a slower pace, and the space to actually enjoy our family.
And you know what?
The memories we made far surpassed any big, traditional feast.
Family Over Fuss
Pie-Giving gave us the gift of time together.
Instead of rushing around the kitchen, we:
Watched football together
Went for a family walk
Played outside with the kids
Laughed through rounds of “Minute-to-Win-It” games
Played a very competitive game of Uno
There were grass stains, laughter, pie crumbs, and full hearts.
It reminded me what Thanksgiving is truly about — not performing the perfect holiday, but living it with gratitude and joy.
This year, we’re bringing Pie-Giving back — and adding something new: Acts of Gratitude.
Acts of Gratitude: Nourishing the Heart
We want our kids to grow up seeing Thanksgiving as more than just a meal — it’s a moment to reflect, give thanks, and remember God’s goodness.
Here are some ways we plan to weave gratitude and faith into our family traditions this year:
Gratitude Cards
Throughout the day, everyone writes down one thing they’re thankful for — big or small — and who they’re thankful to. Place them in a bowl and read them aloud after the meal.
Blessing Board
Set up a small chalkboard or poster that says “God, Thank You For…” and let everyone add words or doodles throughout the day.
Acts of Kindness
We challenge each family member to do one small act of kindness that week — writing a thank-you note to a teacher, helping a neighbor, or calling a friend.
Make a Thankful Tablecloth
Use a plain fabric tablecloth or butcher paper and have everyone write or draw what they’re thankful for. Save it and add to it each year!
Family Prayer of Thanks
Before we eat, we pause together to thank Jesus for every good thing — not just the food, but the time, the love, and the life we share.
Family Fun Ideas for a Thanksgiving to Remember
If you want to focus more on fun and connection this year, here are some ideas we love:
Minute-to-Win-It games: Use cups, bells, or pencils — easy and hilarious!
Family football game: So long as your family is not filled with lots of competitive people (I see you Monica and Ross Gellar 😉).
Board game marathon: Winner gets to pick the first slice of pie.
Thanksgiving family skit or talent show: Let the kids perform something silly or sweet.
🧡 From Our Family to Yours
Pie-Giving taught us something we’ll never forget — Thanksgiving doesn’t need to be complicated to be meaningful.
When we simplify the meal, we make room for what matters most: laughter, gratitude, and Jesus at the center of it all.
This year, whether your table is full of pie, turkey, or takeout — may it also be full of joy. Because the best part of Thanksgiving isn’t what’s on the table, but who’s around it.
Happy Thanksgiving from our family to yours,
The Nourished Knights Family
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