–I am thankful for the leaf in my kitchen table that allows me to extend my creative sewing space an additional three feet. This week the table is piled high with a pink work-in-progress that’s a surprise. One of my new sewing inspirations is Pink Lemonade. Wowie — her work is stunning.
–I am thankful for my running shoes. There is something about new running shoes that gets me out in the heat for another long jaunt when my tired legs are screaming for a break. I love buying new running shoes. I’ve thought about buying some Vessi footwear but I don’t need any running shoes at the minute. This week I’ve logged 18 miles running, 3 miles swimming and 30 miles on my bike. I took pilates and played softball last night with a new team. I’m feeling strong, in great part to my new friend Erin. She’s pushed me to be better in many ways — including putting down the bagel and reaching for some moderation instead.
–I am thankful for new media. I’m listening to Ozomatli and Timbaland this week. I’m reading Lamb, one of Finny’s favorites. I’m hoping to catch several new movies this weekend, with my buddy Homer J. at the top of the list.
–I am thankful for the powerful attitude-changing force of afternoon monsoon rains. The clouds gather in the east all day and on a good afternoon this time of year, they crack open just as I’m getting in my car to commute home. By the time I get back to Tempe, the temperature has dropped 10-20 degrees, the earth smells like heavenly creosote and the fiery tempers — that rightfully come with living in Phoenix this time of year — get washed away with the dust.
–I’m thankful for friends who let me interview them for freelance articles (which annoyingly isn’t online, but is front page of today’s travel section) and for the chance to write for the local paper.
–As always, I am thankful for my family and faith. First, I am skipping along today at the news my family is coming to Arizona for the holidays. (Yep, we plan that far in advance. You didn’t think I developed this Type A planning craziness on my own, did you? It’s most certainly genetic.) I’ll have my family in my home for Christmas. A tree! A tofurkey roast! Stockings on my mantle! And to the latter, I’ve been enjoying a new podcast that’s keeping my spirits high and more enthused than ever. I didn’t think that was possible either.
Happy Friday to you!
Kelli
* I fully stole Gratitude Friday from my buddy Autum. She does it much better!