my new mantra: "i am on the verge of a breakthrough not a breakdown" • my husband's coffee • autumn's low-angle light • laughing with my mother • a really good book that takes me out of myself • cheery customer service • the quick trust a small group of writers form • whole milk in my cereal. after using 2% for years, i'm giddy with the simple extravagance of full-strength milk • an email from a faraway friend • the other day, a woman i barely know gave me the gift of four words: "i like your heart."

It's Thankful Thursday. Please join me in a weekly pause to express appreciation for people, places, things and more. What are you thankful for today?