2. My sister.  My sister & I are first generation military.  A few days after our wedding, she was shipped off to Texas for tech school training for a new job in the Air National Guard.  I haven’t seen her since our gift opening, making it about 5 months.  I’m very thankful that she was able to find a reasonable flight to Chicago and spend Thanksgiving weekend with my mom & me.  It’s been a very long time since the three of us have been together.  Our weekend plans include brunch, bloody marys & Breaking Dawn

3. Gluten-Free Bloggers.  A few months ago, my doctor diagnosed me with having a sensitivy to gluten.  Luckily, the week that I found out I had to head up to Wisconsin for military stuff and stayed at my parents house.  My mom, who also has to be GF, made the transition very easy for me.  With her help, and along with a few of my other favorite gluten-free bloggers (here, here & here), I’m able to substitute old favorites with new gluten-free options.  And a special thanks to Swirlz in Chicago for making THE BEST gluten-free cupcakes I’ve ever tasted!