Unexpected Thanks from Jade Lee

I know that by the time this blog goes live, everyone will be deep into holiday shopping (or avoiding holiday shopping) and Thanksgiving will be a lost memory except for when our clothes feel tight. But for the moment, I’d like to slip there and revisit gratitude. We all know the three Fs -- family, friends, and food. Add in the the basics of life like clothing and shelter, and we’ve got a list that will satisfy any social gathering.

Except, I’m going to be grateful for the weird things. And you get to guess what they are. As always, the answer could be all, none, or some combination of my multiple choice.

I’m grateful for…

A.      My cat when she brings us presents. Yes, Cinnamon adores hunting and bringing home her toys. My husband and I then spend a great deal of time chasing partially chewed mice about the house and cursing the feline. Except without such antics, what would I have to tweet about?

B.      Impulse buys. We all have impulse purchased something and regretted it within minutes. But what is life without a few stupid purchases that make everyone else point and laugh at you? Like this, my most recent impulse buy. Isn’t this a great sweater? 

C.      Cleaning house. No one likes to clean and organize, but because I’m hosting family this holiday I have to seriously clean up. The result? I found lost things. I also put together this pile of shipping of my foreign editions. They’re off to libraries across the country that have collections in languages like Thai and Portuguese. 

D.     Needing to go to the bathroom. A lot. In part because I drink gallons of water, but also because I have a bladder the size of a walnut. Why am I grateful for this? Because it’s an automatic bonding discussion with any middle aged female I meet. 

E.      Cooking. I know, I know, lots of people love cooking, but it’s one of those joys that make me smile.

Answer: Everything but E.  Sorry. I HATE cooking. I even try to eat raw not because it’s healthier to eat living food but because I despise making things. I even resent having to boil water for tea.

           As for the rest, they’re absolutely true. My cat is a pain at times, but I love talking about her. And petting her. And chasing her even when I’m cursing her. I’ve cleaned and shipped those books and yes, I’ve had great conversations with women in bathrooms across the world. It’s something we all share. And impulse buys are one of my true joys in life.

So, do you like my sweater? Look back at that picture and see what’s on the table. That’s the first four books of my Bridal Favor series plus a promotional mousepad. Want them? One lucky commenter below will that package! Just tell me one unusual thing that you’re grateful for. Can be anything from the ratty slippers you adore to the way your husband grumbles about the weather but refuses to move.

And while we’re at it, let me mention that I’m also grateful for one more thing. ONE ROGUE AT A TIME releases Dec 1. It’s a delightful romp with a gallery of rogues who will steal your heart. Reserve your copy today!