Grateful Lately

I give thanks for...

Fresh air. I left work early the other day to beat the forecasted snow squall and sneak in a few miles on the trails. I had no idea how badly I needed that. When the snow started to fall midway, I felt childish giddiness. We had the longest, loveliest fall, but now that we are on the countdown to Christmas, I'm ready for winter.

Ted and mom time. Mike traveled last week so Ted and I hung out in the evenings. One night he picked up dinner on his way home from the gym. Picked up and paid.

Ted's picking up his guitar again. He's in a John Mayer phase and I sort of love it.

Flannel sheeting all the beds.

Getting shit done. It's been a productive couple weeks at Casa Wags.

Brunch with family friends. The girls gave Lily great tips on her upcoming travel abroad from their own experiences.

Barcelona in one month! Visa arrived today. We're ticking of lists.

She got a sub-leaser. Only one, but as we know...it's better than none.

Just enough room on my lap for both Hazel and Gus.

We finally met Snowy's 4 week old kittens. We would love one, but we have a happy little duo right now, and trio when Manny comes to town.

 

Manny's spot on the hearth.

Progress. These boys side by side...

And almost cheek to cheek.

Where Gus goes when he needs alone time.

Hazel's spot is our bed. She doesn't even like Gus to get on it. She tolerated Manny last weekend when he jumped up to see what was going on. After a couple minutes, I gently removed him and my girl started to purr immediately and was extra lovey. Mike sent me the photo of Gus stealing Hazel's spot the other day when I was at work. I'll have you know, he's not been on the bed since.

 Wool pillows make perfect cozy perches for this little lady.

 This girl by day and then by night. Mike picked her up yesterday and between his car and the kids' Jeep she is moved out of the Saxony, home for a few weeks and then headed to Europe.

 

Their first weekend trip is planned for Interlaken, Switzerland. I like that because I know it's a very safe, clean, beautiful place for travelers which makes it a good maiden voyage.

Christmas cookies. Lils and I broke down and stocked up so we can crank out at least a few of our favorites.

We got our tree on a beautiful night last weekend and now it is up and lit with Gus's help. We'll all trim it tomorrow when Ted gets home Hazel and Gus included.

Rainbow trees.

The spirit of this season. Hope and light and love. The promise of peace. Good thoughts and generous deeds.