The cookie swap lineup a few years ago.1. My family's annual cookie swap, which has been happening for more than 25 years (no one knows the number for sure). It's the one tried, true, and continuing tradition I share with my mom and sisters, and all the kids and kids' kids we've produced.

2. My middle daughter's birthday, the goofy and great mother of my grandsons. Happy birthday, Megan!

3. My son-in-law's birthday, as equally goofy and great as my daughter to whom he's married and the sons to whom he's the dad. Happy birthday, Preston!

4. My dear friend's birthday, the one friend I've stayed (thankfully) close to for more years than any other. Happy birthday, Debbie.

5. The birthday of a friend from days long gone (but still a Facebook friend!). The high-school friend who graciously invited me to live with her when my mom moved mid junior year. The friend who, inexplicably so, was later diagnosed with MS, just as I was, just as her Dad had been years earlier. Truly, inexplicable. Thoughts of her always warm my heart, make me smile. Happy birthday (today!), Joanie.

6. My baby sister's birthday. A baby sister all grown up—grown up to be several inches taller than me, in fact, and oh-so much stronger in oh-so many ways. Happy birthday, Susan.

7. The anniversary of being laid off from my longest-held job. Three years ago I became an editor no more. I thought it was an end, but it was truly just the beginning of great and unexpected things. Happy anniversary to me...and to all my Special Sections co-horts who were laid off with (and some before) me!

8. The countdown to a new year, a new year which holds the promise of being, as always, better than the one ending.

Today's question:

What about December besides Christmas warms your heart?

As a Thanksgiving activity, Bubby and his preschool classmates crafted turkeys made of footprints and feathers. On each work of art, the teacher wrote what each toddler said he or she was thankful for.

Here is a photo of Bubby's masterpiece:

Did you catch what Bubby is thankful for? Bath toys. Yes, bath toys! Nary a mention of a loving Mommy and Daddy, an adorable baby brother, a cozy home, abundant health, always having plenty to eat.

And that's okay. Because, at three years old, Bubby surely takes for granted that all little boys, all little girls have such things.

At three years old, Bubby is blissfully unaware of the profundity of his good fortune, his bountiful blessings.

At three years old, Bubby surely has no idea that life could be any different.

For that, I am truly grateful.

Today's question:

Name one thing from your day so far that you're grateful for?