Not gonna lie—life’s been a little  crazy lately. I know I’m going to look back and say that if 2011 was a game-changer, then 2012 was the beginning of that Whole Other Ballgame. For the most part, it’s all to the good, but wow. Sometimes I need to take a step back and just shake my head for a second.

In a way, it’s nice to have a place I have to show up for 40 hours a week and set aside whatever personal stuff I might have going on and just focus on  things like patient interviews, nutrition notes and adjusted desirable body weight equations.   Working with sick people has also made me especially thankful for the small good things in my life right now. 

miso-glazed salmon with spinach and parsnip puree

For example, I’m lucky to have such wonderful friends and family. This afternoon, I was able to spend some time with my mom and sister while I was out in NJ for a doctor’s appointment (gotta get my would-be skin cancers checked). It doesn’t get much better than a mellow afternoon of grocery shopping, lunch (complete with wine) and a visit to the nail salon.

I also fell back in love with the gunmetal silver polish I was rocking all fall and winter.  I am thankful that OPI makes such great colors. Also, though I have no idea why my ten-year-old self bought this ring at a hippie festival my neighbors took me to back in the day, I’m glad she did. Good buy, little Jess. 

I’m also thankful for the lunch lady at the hospital who gives me free peanut butter packets. They’re great for packing breakfast and snacks and help me get the healthy fats I need to keep my hair glossy. It’s all about the healthy, shiny coat, am I right? 

What are you thankful for?