Every November, I am challenged to make a list of things I am thankful for. I decided that despite this difficult year with the pandemic lockdown, wildfire smoke, contentious politics and cancelled events, I could still find at least one thing per month to be grateful for. I dug into my photo archive and I was delighted. In addition to several family milestones, there were many smaller, precious moments as well.

In January, we refinanced the house so that more of our money goes to equity rather than interest and fees. Eliana lost her front teeth.

In February, we joined the minivan clan so we carry more friends, family and things comfortably around. We also reorganized our hallway, and went for a Valentines Date at an indoor restaurant.

On March first we got haircuts before the shut down. Adding more chairs made our backyard fun and I learned to make Swiss Meringue Buttercream.

In May, I learned to cut hair and made a pineapple upside down cake. For date night we picked raspberries at a farm.

In June, we finished the school year by distance learning. All of America and I made Banana Bread.

In July, we got a new kitchen floor. We also picked dandelions and walked in the woods.

In August we went for family bike ride. Eliana had a Zoom birthday party. We experienced elbow space on a plane.

In September, the Grandmas visited. Our ten-year anniversary was celebrated by a jaunt around Washington state.

October brought us costumes and Trunk or Treat. Ivy graduated from her crib. We participated in outdoor restaurant seating.

November is only a week old, but we’re enjoying the leaves changing color. The election is finally over, and history has been made. Despite the challenges this year has brought, my heart is full.