1. Friends (who invite us over for Thanksgiving every year; they do the bulk of the cooking, the kids have fun together, and there’s no traffic problems getting there or getting home)

2. Good weather (we live in California, and it was glorious on Thanksgiving day; we pay a lot for our real estate, but sometimes it’s worth it)

3. Lego (it keeps our little guy engaged and happy and creative for hours on end)

4. Books (they keep our oldest engaged and happy and creative for hours on end)

5. Our little neighborhood grocery store (no huge lines, no traffic getting in and out, and most items you need)

6. Leftovers

7. Batter Blaster (organic pancake batter in a spray can; the kids can make their own warm breakfast while we sleep in or read the paper; no giant mess left behind either)

8. Good movies on TV (the holidays always bring out the better programming)

9. Work (thankful my husband has it and we’re doing okay, as many others are not so fortunate; wishing them all well)

10. Each other (our boys and my husband make life great)