his Thursday as you gather with family and friends, you will be carrying on a tradition that was first celebrated here in the “New World” almost 400 years ago. Edward Winslow gives us a glimpse into that first Thanksgiving in 1621, following the great trials and tragedies of the first winter that claimed half of the those that arrived on the Mayflower:

“And God be praised we had a good increase... Our harvest being gotten in, our governor sent four men on fowling, that so we might after a special manner rejoice together after we had gathered the fruit of our labors. They four in one day killed as much fowl as, with a little help beside, served the company almost a week. At which time, amongst other recreations, we exercised our arms, many of the Indians coming amongst us, and among the rest their greatest king Massasoit, with some ninety men, whom for three days we entertained and feasted, and they went out and killed five deer, which they brought to the plantation and bestowed on our governor, and upon the captain and others. And although it be not always so plentiful as it was at this time with us, yet by the goodness of God, we are so far from want that we often wish you partakers of our plenty.” —Mourt’s Relation

As you sit at the table this week, take a moment to look into the faces that surround you, each one made in the image of God and placed in your life for your good and His glory. Remember the seasons of plenty and the seasons of want and thank God for them all. Rejoice, feast, and recreate! Exercise your arms if you’re able! I trust you will find a big helping of gratitude will make everything sweeter.

From all of us at Landmark Events, we give thanks for you and wish you the very best Thanksgiving! To God be the Glory!

Special Thanksgiving Kit

Our good friends at Leyden Preservation Group in Plymouth have put together a wonderful downloadable Thanksgiving Kit to enrich your celebration this year. We highly recommend it!