5 things that bring me joy this week

Check the entire “5 things that bring me joy this week” weekly series here, a collection of seemingly insignificant things that serve as a reminder to appreciate the little things — those small joys that make a difference in our day-to-day.

It’s Thanksgiving eve, and I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude to YOU all — for visiting my blog, for shopping through my links, and for supporting me, in general. It means a lot, truly.

I can promise you that I will continue to show up authentically both through my blog and Instagram by sharing stories and things that I believe in, and choose to support/shop myself.

As far as the holiday, we’re homebound, and yes, I am cooking our usual meal, including my very favorite potatoes (you’ll find my method in this Instagram highlight — Healthy Eating). I am so looking forward to enjoying it (and a little less to actually cooking it, haha).

Apart from that, here’s what’s bringing me joy this week:

the [frozen] pumpkin cheesecake we have for dessert. We’ve been [im]patiently waiting for Thanksgiving so we can enjoy this delight we bought a while ago at Trader Joe’s. I am debating if I should serve it with a cranberry marmalade (am also considering this recipe) or on its own. We shall see but this reminds me that I need to thaw the cheesecake… Update: I did end up making the cranberry marmalade (though I tweaked the recipe), and I served it with the cheesecake. It was an outstanding choice! My husband doesn’t really go for cranberries, but he couldn’t stop eating it! Plus, I found the cheesecake to be a little too sweet for me, so the tartiness of the cranberries was welcomed.
the extra long weekend ahead. Just enough time to enjoy the yummy food, take long walks and relax watching [Christmas] movies. What’s your Thanksgiving tradition?
the great sales going on. I’d be lying if I said that I didn’t take advantage of a few. I am very excited about my purchases and can’t wait for them to arrive (some are already here). Are you shopping for anything in particular?
the moody weather today. It’s getting me in a cozy holiday mood, and what more can I ask for? Sunshine is great (and Florida sure has plenty of it), but a change is also necessary. So, even if dark and gloomy, today’s weather is bringing me joy.
Califia Farms pumpkin spice latte (linked the closest thing as what I have is no longer available). I am enjoying it mixed with my regular black coffee as the pumpkin spice flavor is too strong for me on its own. Seasonal indulgences sure bring joy.