…on this Wednesday. I got to spend some time with friend, Dee, today and that was a treat! She looks so good and I’m always happy to hang out with her. Good friends like Dee. Sunshine and crisp November temperatures. A new purse. Talked to Son about his class schedule for next semester. Love hearing about his plans. A new video of grand boy giggling that made Nanny and Pops giggle too! How about you? What are you grateful for today?

It’s been a really great day at IRWA Retreat. Lots of writing, lots of critiquing, lots of sharing ideas, and lots of good fellowship. For all of that, I’m thankful. I’m also glad for: The perfect weather day–cool, but not cold and sunshine. I even worked outside for a while. The third floor bedroom and the stairs, which have been good exercise. Learning new writing tips and ideas from my colleagues. Laughter. Meeting new writers here and finding things other than writing in common. How about you? How was your Saturday special?  

…so lots to be grateful for tonight! Lovely drive down to the Retreat–listened to music and sang along with Rod Stewart. Retreat is in a beautiful venue–an old manor house that’s full of history. Laughter in the next room–everyone is enjoying themselves. Already doing writing and critiquing, so we’re off to a roaring start. Sandy and Cheryl–my two critique partners. How about you? What are you thankful for today?  

…a little late, but I was so thankful yesterday, I forgot to write it down! Dee was released from the hospital last night. Had lunch with a dear friend. Got to talk horses with said friend—sometimes I really miss my critters. Down 2 more pounds with MyFitnessPal Got to Skype with Grandson/Son last night—fun! Did you remember to be grateful yesterday?

The election returns have distracted me from making my list this evening, but I am so grateful for  many things: The long line when I went to vote—how great it was to see the huge turnout! Son’s interest in the election and his opinions, which are well-thought-out and well-expressed. Leftover homemade soup for supper–easy meal and delicious! I walked on the treadmill today with only a little pain. Dee texted me to tell me she is feeling so much better today. YAY! Have you thought about your list or are you also distracted tonight?

It was a peaceful Sunday here at the lake, damn cold, but peaceful. So much to be grateful for tonight: All my dear lady friends at the lake, Moe, Har, Patt, and Bonnie The guys too always make me smile, Rich, Bill, Ron, and Glenn Got a bunch written today Skyping with little Grandboy last night–he just gets cuter and cuter! God’s hand of protection around Dee–she needs extra prayers right now as she struggles through a difficult time. Did you count your blessing today?  

… the lake–even in November, it’s quite beautiful Our friends here at the lake. The bottle of zin we brought with us, great way to warm up after being out in the cold Children’s laughter A bonfire What about you?

…at Liz Flaherty’s “Window Over the Sink” blog. Come on by and talk to us about your “mom” things. We’d love to have you join in the conversation.  

  …yes, I know, I know!  It’s already October…sheesh! Dear September, What happened? One minute it was Labor Day weekend and we were sitting around a giant bonfire and eating fried fish; the next I’m turning over the page on the calendar in the kitchen. How exactly did I lose almost 30 days? One of which, by the way, just happened to be my birthday! Confused and aging fast, Nan *** Dear DIL, Thanks so much for helping make the surprise for Son so very much fun. The look on his face when I showed up on your doorstep with a 38-pound box of LEGOs in my arms was priceless.…

Time for memos, just stuff I’d really like to rant about, but I don’t have the time… Dear Dr. Abby and Stacy, You’re geniuses, both of you. I’m a new woman. Well, okay, maybe not a new woman, but at least a way more comfortable old one! Flexibly yours, Nan *** Dear Damn Tiny Ants in My Kitchen, Okay, so we’ve bombed you, smashed you, ant-trapped you, washed you down the drain, and wiped you up with wet paper towels and dropped you in the trash, and yet somehow, you keep reappearing. Go away. Go away immediately! Ick, Nan *** Dear Muse, Welcome back. Big love, Nan *** Dear Coach…