Things I’m Thankful for This Year

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It’s that time of the year again. That time where we gorge ourselves on turkey, spend time with our family, and — most importantly — reflect on what we’re thankful for. While year after year I’m generally thankful for the same things (consistent things like family and friends), the details can change with time. So in the spirit of the upcoming holiday, I ask you all to reflect (and maybe even blog about) the things you’re thankful for. Here is my list.

My Husband

Wow, it sounds so weird to type the word “husband” instead of “boyfriend” (or “fiance”, which I hated saying out loud since it sounds so formal and uppity). I’m so mature now, I know. James is a wonderful person and I’m lucky enough to have had him in my life since 2009 when we first met as friends in college. He supports me in everything I do, whether its starting a new blog project or getting a promotion at work. He’ll have my favorite candy bar waiting for me when I get home after he knows I had a long day. He willingly let me get two cats (we’ll get to them later) even though he’s never had one before growing up. The list goes on, but I’ll stop myself before I get too sappy.

My Family

I became the person I am today thanks to my parents. So whether you like me or hate me, you can thank them. They instilled in me the importance of working hard and being nice to people. I know everyone says, “Every parent does that”, but I can assure that no, they do not. I know that I can call up my parents at any time of the day with a question and they will be there to help.

My Friends

As you get older, the number of people you can still call a friend dwindles. I don’t have time for fake friends anymore. I don’t have the energy to try to fight for friendships when the other person isn’t putting in any effort. So for the few who are still hanging around, I am very thankful.

 

My Coworkers

I work with some great people who always push me to do better, support me inside and outside of the workplace, and have my best interests in mind. I genuinely enjoy going to work each day (which is something not everyone can say)!

My Cats

If you’re not an animal person, you just won’t “get it”, but I’m also very thankful for my two cats, Bella and Harvey. It’s easy to give thanks to people (a warm gesture, gift, or thank you card are just some options), but what about thanking your pets for all of their love and affection? Since I don’t have children (or nieces and nephews), I spoil my cats. Here’s how to make a DIY Cat Thank You Basket, just in time for Thanksgiving.

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DIY Cat Thank You Basket

 

Supplies: 

(all of these products can be found during your next Stop & Shop or Giant Food shopping trip. I found mine at Stop & Shop.)

• Tidy Cats Litter (which now features guaranteed TidyLock™ Protection that locks away the odors that can lead to Stank Face)
• Fancy Feast
• Friskies 
• Purina DentaLife Cat Treats (you can print a $2 coupon here)

 

Instructions:

1. Head to your local Stop & Shop or Giant Foods and shop for a variety of treats and food for your cat. I feed my cats wet food as a treat (dry food is their standard meal), so for them getting a can of wet food only happens during special occasions. Because I don’t give them wet food all the time, they go crazy when they see me open a can. It’s adorable.
2. Be creative! Find a basket, bin, or holder that fits the products you chose.
3. Add on cute details like a thank-you card or note.

Ready to make your own cat basket for Thanksgiving? Right now, save $2.00 on any one (1) package of Purina® Tidy Cats® brand Cat Litter when you purchase one (1) Purina® Friskies® OR Fancy Feast® Wet Cat Food Item (offer good through 12/30/16). You can also pick up your Stop & Shop Savory Magazine for this money-saving coupon in stores.