We started a tradition in my family a few years ago where we write down what we’re most thankful for, and it can’t be just “my family” or “my job” – we have to be specific. In my immediate family, every day in November we talk about one thing we’re thankful for, and it doesn’t have to be serious; for example, on Day 6 of Thanksgiving, my husband was thankful for the “mute” button on the remote.

This is my 2014 Thanksgiving list, in no particular order:

1. I am thankful to live in a city that is so beautiful and so close to so much natural beauty.

2. I am thankful for the laughter that is so much a part of my family. Not a day goes by that I don’t hear my children giggling or that we don’t make each other laugh.

3. I am thankful for the opportunity to spend so much time with my children as they’re growing up, and I am thankful for the most wonderful spouse who truly makes raising these two precious souls a team effort. I can’t imagine doing this without him!

4. I am thankful for our furkids who are more than just pets; they are teachers, companions, guards, therapists, and friends.

5. I am thankful for the “mute” button on the remote.