This Past Week

Thanksgiving is just a few days away, a time not only to eat delicious food but also to think about what we're thankful for. Since I started a gratitude journal quite a while ago, I am so much more aware of what I am grateful for, how many blessings there are in my life. I have come to be thankful every day, and it feels good. I notice so much more, little things. And big things.

Take this past week, for example.

There was a gorgeous morning sky, right before the sun climbed over the hills, that I could see from my bedroom window.

On the way to the neighborhood market with Kaefer, we saw this beautiful passion flower.

Autumn in Sonoma County is just breath taking with all its colors and grapes in the vineyards.

When I went to Trader Joe's, all the wonderful Christmas goodies had arrived! We have been waiting for the Lebkuchen (gingerbread) from Germany.

Speaking of Germany, I also received a lovingly wrapped package from Germany, from my blogging buddy Cynnie who is an American living in Bavaria.

I had won a giveaway on her blog, some awesome German art magazines, and before sending them to me she asked me what my favorite chocolate is. I said "Milka" and thought that she might include one bar of it - however, she put in six of them!!! Six! Just imagine my joy. And I have been good - so far I only ate one of them, with the help of my family.

Last but not least, there is Anja. Just like myself, Anja is from Germany, but lives in California, in my town.

I had met her last year when we went to our first Stammtisch - a bi-weekly get-together of Germans living here - and I liked her from the very first moment. Last Thursday, the Stammtisch took place at her house (we take turns who is hosting) and we had so much fun together. We really are on the same wavelength and have a very similar kind of humor. The day after she sent me such a kind message via Facebook that truly made my day.

I am really blessed with some wonderful friends.