Gratitude: go back for seconds and thirds.

CAPES [something empowering] There's always room on your plate for more spoonfuls of gratitude. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Make a list of what you're thankful for, and then add to it things that people have done for you that you're thankful for. As you watch the list grow and grow, and you'll find yourself truly grateful and truly satisfied.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Speaking of being satisfied...I'm very thankful for the Honey-Caramel Apricot Tart topped with crème fraîche whipped cream. This year marks its fourth appearance at the VP Family Thanksgiving.

cupcake sandwiches and a sweet girl turns eighteen

CAPES [something empowering] As often as you can, avoid the "maybe" reply. "Maybe" communicates lack of commitment, and we see right through your "I'll be there unless something better comes up" cover-up.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Do you own belts that are too big? Or when you wear them over a cardigan, they flare out in an annoying way? Solution: beltloopy.com. Love these.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] Tonight I had the privilege of attending the 18th birthday of someone super special, not to mention she is probably the most faithful reader of this blog. The cake for the festive occasion came in cupcake form, and I was so proud to see all the ladies correctly eat their cupcake sandwiches (which allows for equally proportioned cupcake-to-frosting bites).

"No one can be un-cheered with a balloon." (Winnie the Pooh)

CAPES [something empowering] Occasionally, there are no words, and that's okay. Sometimes life calls for a wordless chorus.

"Relationships can be..."

"Sure."

"...but they're also be..."

"That's right."

(George Clooney to Brad Pitt in Ocean's 13)

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] A while back, my good friend came up with the idea to velcro a tube of chapstick to her bed frame. That way, when dry lips came a-knocking in the middle of the night, she was ready. I think I'll use this idea in other places too - like my car (somehow, I always lose tubes of chapstick in my car).

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] For those of you in a long-distance relationship...a Scottish designer has the remedy for your heartache.

"I realize why I cannot fly," said the bird with the broken wing, "though my lift is gone, my voice is strong, and I can still sing." -The Elected

CAPES [something empowering] It's not about what you can't do, it's about what you can do. Stop defining yourself by your limitations, switch off your "comparison-mode", and start celebrating the things that you're good at.

COFFEE [latest trend or addiction] Even Twistband supports Movember with their Mr. Mustache Collection.

THE COLOR ORANGE [something noteworthy] No-shave-November now has an official name. Happy Movember!