Josh, Jude, and I celebrated Thanksgiving a day early, so for us, today (and tomorrow and Saturday) is a day of rest. I hope you all are having a lovely day with family, friends, and loved ones.

I’ve got no shortage of things to be thankful for this year. I’ve got a loving, attentive husband and a healthy and happy son. I have two cats who regularly spend nap time curled up beside me. Our apartment is warm and (most days) stocked with food.

In addition to all of this, I’m thankful for all the friends Josh, Jude, and I have made since moving to Chicago, especially

Tracie, who made super tasty baked macaroni and cheese for last night’s feast and who has loaned me everything but the kitchen sink since we moved to Rogers Park (including, but not limited to, a table, some chairs, a blender, and coffee).

Shav, a true hero. When he got a frantic message from me on Tuesday night requesting his presence in my apartment, he hustled down to help. Without him, our Thanksgiving turkey would still be sitting in my sink. There was no way I was touching that thing.

Kirk and Sarah, our neighbor friends who not only brought a FANTASTIC cornbread stuffing and green bean casserole for dinner last night, but who were also kind enough to loan us the use of their gravy boat and chairs.

Mark and Katrina, two of the nicest people I’ve met since moving to the city. The rolls they brought for dinner were a huge hit with Jude (and everyone else!), and their presence in my family’s life has been an absolute blessing.

Tim, who played with Jude for what (I’m sure) seemed like forever yesterday before dinner and who also brought beer to go along with our meal. Being able to focus on the last-minute food details was such a help. I don’t think we ever would have gotten around to eating if it hadn’t been for Tim’s willingness to entertain my son.

In addition to all of *that,* I’m also thankful for

Josh and Jude and all the love and joy they bring to my life
My mom and my grandpa, who I miss especially around the holidays
This year’s arrival of my first nephew, Gavin
An amazing family of in-laws
The willingness of my friend Helen to travel with her daughter to Rogers Park as much as (or maybe even more than) Jude and I travel to Lincoln Park
Having a clean kitchen
Christmas music (sorry, Josh!)
A day (or two, or three) free from all work-related obligations
Webcams, the gmail video chat function, and Skype
Leftovers
My food swap family and the delicious meals they prepare and share each month
Good novels
Second, third, and fourth chances

Blessings and happiness to you, my faithful reader(s). Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!