Bringing a very old white tennis ball discovered during home emptying in the back of her childhood bedroom closet, Marietta meets with Branchlands residents and any guests for a pre-Thanksgiving celebration.  Why does this dilapidated tennis ball fill her with gratitude every time she looks at it?  Now, she asks the participants: What is it about your cherished object, the one that whispers truth in your ears?  What touches your heart about the item you brought?  What is it about that scrapbook, that ring, or that photograph that stirs your soul?  Allow your object to speak, telling a story about who you are and what you hold dear.  

They will spend quiet time together, whether writing a letter, composing a poem, creating a drawing or painting, perhaps journaling in a notebook.  Then, each person will describe briefly what makes their treasure so dear to their hearts.

What a perfect time of year for a gathering of thankful storytellers.