We had SO very much to be thankful for this week. A recap just in case you weren’t following along on Instagram.

Day 5: I’m thankful for coffee this Monday morning. Last week was a long week, but the return of the holiday red cups and a hot cuppa joe makes me thankful today.

Day 6: I’m thankful that we live in the United States and we have the right to vote. No matter what you believe or who you believe in, your voice can be heard. God bless America. We thankfully vote in the cafeteria at the girls’ school. So we walked over before school and voted as a family, it was great to have the girls see the whole democratic process first hand. Although Addie also got a taste of it later in the day. Mrs. P had the second graders elect a class cookie! They had to write, and give, a persuasive speech for one of the candidates (Chips Ahoy or Oreo) and the winner was….the Oreos! (Of course that was who Addie was pulling for – a girl after her Aunt Kimmer’s heart!)

Day 7: I’m thankful for 2 of the 4 food groups, chocolate and peanut butter. (The other two food groups being cheese and coffee.) DELICIOUS. These cookies were pretty excellent. Pumpkin, peanut butter, and chocolate ganache. They will not disappoint, find the recipe here.

Day 8: I’m thankful for the love of my life, Jam. For a million reasons really, but today I’m thankful that he still surprises me with my two favorite roses when he knows I’ve had a particularly bad day. I will never be able to list all of the reasons I am so in love with him, but after 20 years he still tries really hard, and that has to be near the top of the list. I know that he was completely consumed with his new job and craziness this week, but in his own quiet way I also knew he was thinking about, and worried about, me. Total keeper, this one.

Day 9: Today I’m thankful for stolen coffee dates with my beautiful sis-in-law. Of course, I’m also very thankful that Jeff married her, but our date was just what I needed this morning. I have tried to be so good about not spilling their news before it was time, but yes indeed…they are expecting a baby in the Spring! Just in time for my birthday and believe me…it has created all kinds of new cousin excitement in our house. (And maybe a bit of necessary crafting coming on, too!)

Day 10: I’m thankful the girls are healthy and growing and able to run and play like little girls should. I’m also a little bit thankful for only one more soccer Saturday left. It has felt like a long season! Her team – Daddy’s team – has shown huge progress and I have loved helping them, but enough is enough. I’m ready to have our Saturdays back. But it is a good reminder that at least they can run…and kick…and stand and watch balls. I’m thankful for all of that.

Day 11: So thankful today and always for the men and women who sacrifice for our country. I’m so thankful to live in our great nation. As we were walking to church this morning the driveway was lined with these little American flags. It was a good reminder to stop, take pause, and remember all of those who have fought to keep us free.