I figured I’d start the thankful traditions of Thanksgiving a little early and share a few highlights of the past week that I could definitely say I’m thankful for….

* One of my dearest friends, Jenn and her family.  I went over to their place the other night to help celebrate their baby Cora’s first birthday! (Want to see her birth from last 11.11.11? Click HERE!)

* Another incredibly dear friend slash client who sent me the most beautiful arrangement of flowers from my favorite florist, Pistil & Vine.  From time to time I send out flowers but truly, whenever I get them I am reminded how insanely good it feels to get that surprise delivery and a note to say that someone is thinking of you (sending out more flowers and hand written letters is definitely at the top of my list for things to do more often in 2013).

* Agate coasters from West Elm. Vasili once told me that if I want to improve on something or create a good habit that I should buy something really nice so it motivates me to use it. So in the spirit of his good advice, I bought these beautiful coasters because it’s those kinds of little things that I am super bad about and I know it drives him bonkers (that and leaving the towel on the bathroom floor ha). But hey, it’s working! I love these damn coasters so much I’ve been putting everything and anything on them.

* Red velvet cupcakes that Jenn sent me home with from Cora’s party.  I enjoyed them early in the morning with coffee for breakfast a few days this past week (it’s these kinds of moments that I try to think back to my childhood self and truly relish the fact that I can, whenever I want, do things like have cupcakes for breakfast).

* Friends with big hearts. The other night Vasili and I went to watch a friend box at an event he helped organized and host to benefit the Motts58 Boxing Camp for kids.  There is sadly way too much gang and gun violence that takes so many kids’ lives each year here in Chicago, so it’s things like the Motts58 Boxing Camp that are working hard to get these kids off the streets by engaging them in positive activities.

* Lazy days – I mean, moments – in bed.  Last weekend I took an extra hour in the morning to just lay in bed and snuggle with my pups and catch up on American Horror Story (that and the Walking Dead are my latest tv obsessions these days). I haven’t had much time for lounging or snuggling these days, so I am extra appreciative of these moments when they do come.