happy thanksgiving!

I'm thinking about all of you in the States today, wishing you a happy & safe holiday. Here's my favorite Thanksgiving Day video to celebrate.

Joe & I have countless blessings, but here are the top ten things I'm thankful for, in no particular order:
1.my amazing wedding, which turned into an amazing marriage, which all happened right in time for us to get here;
2. our good fortune in finding jobs here & arriving safely;
3. the health of our families after one of their most difficult years;
4. our parents, their faith in us & their support (and patience);
5. my sister, the be-all-end-all for me;
6. the passion that Joe & I share for reading & writing;
7. the possibility of our country to make serious changes toward a more sustainable future, & a chance to be a part of that change;
8. France's health care, as we wouldn't have any in the States;
9. completed graduate school applications;
10. hot chocolate & Christmas tree decorating with my husband

I realized that Joe wasn't on the list, but looking back he is in every part of the list. The holiday is a bit hard on us, but we have a few things going to keep our minds off of it. Item #1: Christmas decorating.

My grandma's Christmas package arrived yesterday, and we're taking advantage of the items inside. When Joe gets home, we're having hot chocolate while decorating the tree with our new ornaments. I may even force him into some Christmas music.

I would say that after that, I'll decorate the rest of the apartment... but I am not a patient person. I caved in last night when my emotions were getting the best of me, so most of the decorating is done. Pictures to follow.

Tons of love from both of us.