Cultivating a spirit of gratefulness:
1. Zestar apples. So delicious. I love the tastes of fall in this area of the country.
2. A sunny, highs in the 70's day to play outside with my little boy
3. The delight on said little boy's face when he realized the tractors were outside our house (they're fixing the city gas lines)
4. Having a few neighborhood boys my son's age that enjoy playing and sharing with him, and their sweet grandmother who is so generous and kind to me
5. The rhythmic, soothing normal-ness of knitting
6. Snuggling with my husband
7. A cozy meal in the oven
8. Feeling my active baby girl kick me and make my belly bounce
9. Friends who love the "me" I already am
10. The promise of a visit from family this weekend.
What are you thankful for?
Showing posts with label thankful. Show all posts
Showing posts with label thankful. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Living through accidents
Note: The blog entry below was written before I began writing this blog, and was once posted on Facebook. Brad and I have been through so many car-related troubles, and this is just one way that God has chosen to bless us through awful circumstances. Please note that this took place while Brad was in grad school, and I had recently begun a position as a secretary at a realty company. Money was tight, though the recession had not hit us hard just yet. It was barely 2009, just six months into our marriage.
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For the living to tell about it part, I am incredibly thankful.
So, last week, Brad got rear-ended when he was driving my cute little black Nissan. (You can read more about that car's destiny here. And about how God blessed us through it, here.) Minor, just needed to be taken to a repair shop to get an estimate. Insurance will cover it. No big deal.
On Friday, as in the 30th of January, Brad came down to my office to pick up my car and take it to the dealership to get an estimate. he was driving our new red Chevy (2001 Cavalier), and left it in the parking lot for me while he took my car to get the estimate. the dealership evidently doesn't do that kind of estimate at the location Brad went to, so Brad called me for directions to the other dealership. easy, since I have a computer in front of me all day.
About 15 minutes later, he called, lost, needing help to find the dealership. he had just gone too far, and needed to turn around. (which he did while talking to me on the phone...) as he was pulling his u-turn on a relatively quiet country road, he just didn't look to see the semi coming down the road, and pulled out - an absolutely terrifying experience of glass breaking, metal crunching, and then silence on my end.
I was shocked, and so grateful to hear his voice when he called back 5 minutes later to tell me that he was okay, he had been hit, the car was wrecked, and he had called 911. He was sobbing - way more than disconcerting!
I hopped in the car with my manager, and she drove me all the way to where he was. On the way, I called my pastor (who started praying immediately and put us on the prayer chain), my parents, and the other branch of the office where I worked to let them know what was going on.
When I got there, he seemed okay.I am so grateful for his life.
So grateful. I can't even explain how thankful I am for him. (tears - just a second - I'll be back.)
I'm back. Evidently the damage is fixable (post script: it was fixable, and the insurance money provided groceries for us for a few months. Just one way God chose to bless us through pain). We shall see. at this point, I'm thankful for insurance.
There are so many reasons for me to live a grateful life, and this is hopefully the only attention-arresting moment we'll ever have to endure. It has been a tough two months - with Brad's Saturn dying, having to buy another car, getting rear-ended, and now this. We're not sure how we'll make it, but we know that God will provide for all our needs. He has kept us safe, and we are incredibly thankful to Him - for life, for each other, for safety, and for our family and friends. We love you!
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For the living to tell about it part, I am incredibly thankful.
So, last week, Brad got rear-ended when he was driving my cute little black Nissan. (You can read more about that car's destiny here. And about how God blessed us through it, here.) Minor, just needed to be taken to a repair shop to get an estimate. Insurance will cover it. No big deal.
On Friday, as in the 30th of January, Brad came down to my office to pick up my car and take it to the dealership to get an estimate. he was driving our new red Chevy (2001 Cavalier), and left it in the parking lot for me while he took my car to get the estimate. the dealership evidently doesn't do that kind of estimate at the location Brad went to, so Brad called me for directions to the other dealership. easy, since I have a computer in front of me all day.
About 15 minutes later, he called, lost, needing help to find the dealership. he had just gone too far, and needed to turn around. (which he did while talking to me on the phone...) as he was pulling his u-turn on a relatively quiet country road, he just didn't look to see the semi coming down the road, and pulled out - an absolutely terrifying experience of glass breaking, metal crunching, and then silence on my end.
I was shocked, and so grateful to hear his voice when he called back 5 minutes later to tell me that he was okay, he had been hit, the car was wrecked, and he had called 911. He was sobbing - way more than disconcerting!
I hopped in the car with my manager, and she drove me all the way to where he was. On the way, I called my pastor (who started praying immediately and put us on the prayer chain), my parents, and the other branch of the office where I worked to let them know what was going on.
When I got there, he seemed okay.I am so grateful for his life.
So grateful. I can't even explain how thankful I am for him. (tears - just a second - I'll be back.)
I'm back. Evidently the damage is fixable (post script: it was fixable, and the insurance money provided groceries for us for a few months. Just one way God chose to bless us through pain). We shall see. at this point, I'm thankful for insurance.
There are so many reasons for me to live a grateful life, and this is hopefully the only attention-arresting moment we'll ever have to endure. It has been a tough two months - with Brad's Saturn dying, having to buy another car, getting rear-ended, and now this. We're not sure how we'll make it, but we know that God will provide for all our needs. He has kept us safe, and we are incredibly thankful to Him - for life, for each other, for safety, and for our family and friends. We love you!
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
personality, much?
This big cheese is already eight months old.
Has sooo much personality.
What a blessing you are, Joshua! I'm so thankful to be your mommy.
Sitting well.
Pulling up to stand. 
Walking with help.
Cruising.
Making his pleasure or displeasure known. Loudly.
Scooting on his belly - so fast!
Has two teeth on the bottom.
Says "kitty," "hi," and "dada."
Loves peas, pears, nectarines, and sweet potatoes. Oatmeal, not so much. 
Enjoys bath time and splashing in the pool.
Hates nap time and bed time.
Loves meeting new people and smiling as we walk around town.What a blessing you are, Joshua! I'm so thankful to be your mommy.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
little miracle: sneak peek!
Today, we had an ultrasound - at 38 weeks! My doctor had measured my belly at 41 centimeters last week at my 37 week appointment, and wanted to determine the cause for that. I, for one, think it's partly because I'm rather short (5'1") and that there's nowhere for this little guy to go but out!
The sonogram specialist, Dr. Grace, told us that our baby's measurements put him smack dab in the middle of normal range for size: he's about 7lbs, 1oz as of today. There is a bit of extra amniotic fluid, however, which is what's making my belly so big. The doctor wasn't too concerned, though, since the baby is so active and everything else looks good. They'll be watching me for further signs of gestational diabetes and they'll do a non-stress test (listening to baby's heartbeat) next week if I'm still pregnant next week!
All this is to say: I'm carrying a little miracle. And I can't wait to hold him in my arms! I cannot wait to see him in Brad's arms, either, and to confirm outside the womb how much Baby looks like his Daddy.
Look at this smile! He was sticking his tongue out while we watched.
Brad was able to come with me, as I had a super-early morning appointment. It was so amazing to see our baby again - and this time, we got some 3D pictures of his adorable face! I am beyond excited to meet this little one!
Monday, November 19, 2012
reasons to be thankful
For the little things, of course. Those things we overlook. Expect a "little things" post sometime soon.
Why do we, as a nation, take a holiday to be thankful? The Pilgrims celebrated their survival through hardship, friendships old and new, and religious freedom. Certainly, we take a holiday to remember the start of our nation and the beginning of these freedoms we take for granted, the beginning of a country whose national ideals were based on biblically sound principals: valuing all people and their God-given rights to life. We take a holiday to slow down and breathe before a truly busy season that does not often include rest. There's a religious practice called anamnesis - a literal re-remembering of who and what we are, where we came from, how we've been blessed, and to Whom we give thanks. We take time to reenact and remember the past because of how those memories of God's faithfulness can bless us in the situation we're in now.
But other reasons?
Thankfulness helps us to see what really matters in life, and what makes living worthwhile.
Thankfulness, when it's the first thought in my mind, helps me to forgive both myself and others.
Thankfulness leads to contentment.
Thankfulness keeps me from sinking into depression.
Thankfulness causes me to be mindful of all that I have already, and helps me to notice what others might need.
Thankfulness reminds me to pray, and to praise God for what He has allowed and orchestrated in my life.
Thankfulness fosters joy in my heart as I remember how truly blessed I am.
What things come to mind as you take the time to be thankful?
Why do we, as a nation, take a holiday to be thankful? The Pilgrims celebrated their survival through hardship, friendships old and new, and religious freedom. Certainly, we take a holiday to remember the start of our nation and the beginning of these freedoms we take for granted, the beginning of a country whose national ideals were based on biblically sound principals: valuing all people and their God-given rights to life. We take a holiday to slow down and breathe before a truly busy season that does not often include rest. There's a religious practice called anamnesis - a literal re-remembering of who and what we are, where we came from, how we've been blessed, and to Whom we give thanks. We take time to reenact and remember the past because of how those memories of God's faithfulness can bless us in the situation we're in now.
But other reasons?
Thankfulness helps us to see what really matters in life, and what makes living worthwhile.
Thankfulness, when it's the first thought in my mind, helps me to forgive both myself and others.
Thankfulness leads to contentment.
Thankfulness keeps me from sinking into depression.
Thankfulness causes me to be mindful of all that I have already, and helps me to notice what others might need.
Thankfulness reminds me to pray, and to praise God for what He has allowed and orchestrated in my life.
Thankfulness fosters joy in my heart as I remember how truly blessed I am.
What things come to mind as you take the time to be thankful?
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Baby is...
...an adorable little one? Yes. We think so!
But that's probably not what you wanted to know. :o)
...BOY!!!
We had our second trimester sonogram today, and Baby Boy looks great!
Since Hubby couldn't make it to the sonogram because of a stupid meeting that he had to attend, I made a scrapbook page with two options for the sonographer - a "boy" square in blue, and a "girl" square in pink. She was so willing and happy to paste it on the page for me after she found out, and then tucked it away in an envelope. Then, we waited all day to find out. Hubby and I opened the envelope together when he got home from work. We're so excited and thankful for our son!
Friday, May 4, 2012
little things
So, our lawn languishes and lives ever on, growing daily in length. By this I mean that the lawn is now between 6" and 8" long in most spots, with various prolific weeds towering to 12" or more. It looks like a mini hayfield. Or a jungle, depending on rabbit or human perspective.
This does present a positive, though. It means that there are wildflowers all over! The forget-me-nots have been particularly widespread, as have the violas. I've even found purple pansies in the yard! So, now. Counting the little things:
2. It's warm enough to wear flip flops and billowy skirts. Hooray!
3. Our baby is about the size of a raspberry. Isn't that cute? And amazing?
4. I only have one exam and one paper left to finish before graduation.
6. We've found a new apartment!
7. Someone decided to give us their barely-used crib. Score.
9. My recital is over and it went well! Now I have time to hit the gym again. Looking forward to a run.
10. Graduation is coming. Baby is coming. Life together with my husband every day is coming. God is good.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
thrifting
It's an art, my friends.
Well, not really. But there is a bit of a method to the madness.
First, find out about the store's "specials." For example, at the Salvation Army, they'll put items with a certain color price tag on sale, just for the day. Some have a frequent shopper program where you can get a stamp on a card for each $XX purchase, and then get a certain percentage off your next buy. Some allow you to earn credit for your "donations" or the items they buy from you. Some allow you to make an offer on an item. Some put out their newest items on Tuesday morning, just like the other store by that name.
But my favorite stores? They have Half-off-everything-in-the-store Day. One store I know calls it Wow Wednesday. Wow, indeed. Things start off at a decent price, and end up just...wow.
I went home to visit my parents for a couple days this week and happened to be there on Tuesday, which is their 50% off sale day each week. Yay! I was also in town for 50% off Wednesdays at the local Salvation Army store - hooray!
Here is how I go about searching a thrift store for awesomeness.
First, I take a few seconds to breathe and avoid feeling overwhelmed. This usually means that I move away from the doorway, step into an aisle, and take a few minutes to see the general layout of the store. Women's stuff here, shoes there, Men's stuff, baby and kids' stuff, home stuff. What are today's deals? What color tag should I be looking for? Check.
Then, I ask myself what I'm looking for - is this just for fun? Do I have a need in mind - new fabric to sew with, jeans for the hubby, closed-toe dress shoes in the perfect brown? How much time do I have?
Next, if there is a specific goal, I head directly to the point of the visit. Sometimes this is really disappointing, and I'm out of the store just a few minutes later. Other times, it starts the shopping success with a great find!
If there's no real goal but spending time with someone, I'll start by exploring the perimeter of the store. I love to touch things and get a sense of the texture of an item before I try it or buy it, but I'm pretty picky: I won't touch something that doesn't look like it's brand new (or almost new), vintage in great condition, brand name, a great color, something I or someone I love could use, or something inspirational. This limits the speedy pushing of metal-hooked hangers along a rack (squeak, squeak, squeeeeeak, clack, squeak). It also limits the number of chenille sweaters I touch (shudder).
Once I pick something up, I'll carry it around with me until I'm ready to try it on (clothes), or until I convince myself to put it back. When I'm thrifting, I'm generally looking for almost-new clothing, classic styles, and brands I love. I'll almost always try it on, unless I already own the item in a different color and know what size it is. I'm always thinking about the price I would pay in-store for any given item, and if the tag at the thrift store is worth it.
For instance, I know for a fact that I could purchase a lightweight cotton sweater for my hubby at Old Navy for $15. When I saw the same sweater, new with the tags still on it, at the thrift store, it was marked $15. However, it was 50% off day! Score.
Sometimes I drool over the luxurious sweaters, scarves, dresses,shirts, pants... made by J. Crew, but I quickly click away because I can't afford the $50-$200 price tags. I'm so excited when I find some of their great stuff at thrift stores! Today was no exception. Here are my scores, with the price I paid and the estimated store-price in parentheses:
Well, not really. But there is a bit of a method to the madness.
First, find out about the store's "specials." For example, at the Salvation Army, they'll put items with a certain color price tag on sale, just for the day. Some have a frequent shopper program where you can get a stamp on a card for each $XX purchase, and then get a certain percentage off your next buy. Some allow you to earn credit for your "donations" or the items they buy from you. Some allow you to make an offer on an item. Some put out their newest items on Tuesday morning, just like the other store by that name.
But my favorite stores? They have Half-off-everything-in-the-store Day. One store I know calls it Wow Wednesday. Wow, indeed. Things start off at a decent price, and end up just...wow.
I went home to visit my parents for a couple days this week and happened to be there on Tuesday, which is their 50% off sale day each week. Yay! I was also in town for 50% off Wednesdays at the local Salvation Army store - hooray!
Here is how I go about searching a thrift store for awesomeness.
First, I take a few seconds to breathe and avoid feeling overwhelmed. This usually means that I move away from the doorway, step into an aisle, and take a few minutes to see the general layout of the store. Women's stuff here, shoes there, Men's stuff, baby and kids' stuff, home stuff. What are today's deals? What color tag should I be looking for? Check.
Then, I ask myself what I'm looking for - is this just for fun? Do I have a need in mind - new fabric to sew with, jeans for the hubby, closed-toe dress shoes in the perfect brown? How much time do I have?
Next, if there is a specific goal, I head directly to the point of the visit. Sometimes this is really disappointing, and I'm out of the store just a few minutes later. Other times, it starts the shopping success with a great find!
If there's no real goal but spending time with someone, I'll start by exploring the perimeter of the store. I love to touch things and get a sense of the texture of an item before I try it or buy it, but I'm pretty picky: I won't touch something that doesn't look like it's brand new (or almost new), vintage in great condition, brand name, a great color, something I or someone I love could use, or something inspirational. This limits the speedy pushing of metal-hooked hangers along a rack (squeak, squeak, squeeeeeak, clack, squeak). It also limits the number of chenille sweaters I touch (shudder).
Once I pick something up, I'll carry it around with me until I'm ready to try it on (clothes), or until I convince myself to put it back. When I'm thrifting, I'm generally looking for almost-new clothing, classic styles, and brands I love. I'll almost always try it on, unless I already own the item in a different color and know what size it is. I'm always thinking about the price I would pay in-store for any given item, and if the tag at the thrift store is worth it.
For instance, I know for a fact that I could purchase a lightweight cotton sweater for my hubby at Old Navy for $15. When I saw the same sweater, new with the tags still on it, at the thrift store, it was marked $15. However, it was 50% off day! Score.
Sometimes I drool over the luxurious sweaters, scarves, dresses,shirts, pants... made by J. Crew, but I quickly click away because I can't afford the $50-$200 price tags. I'm so excited when I find some of their great stuff at thrift stores! Today was no exception. Here are my scores, with the price I paid and the estimated store-price in parentheses:
 |
Navy cabled sweater vest, Aeropostale, $1.50 ($45)
I've worn this twice already. I still have it on.What a cozy layer!
I've worn this twice already. I still have it on.What a cozy layer!
Navy/green floral ballet flats with grosgrain bow, $2.50 ($30)
Spring can't come fast enough!
Spring can't come fast enough!
Vintage red/navy/white Pendleton wool skirt, $1.50 ($30)
I'm planning to shorten this skirt and fix up a little moth hole before I wear it!
I'm planning to shorten this skirt and fix up a little moth hole before I wear it!
Men's gray/navy/white cotton sweater vest, Old Navy, $7.50 ($20)
For the hubby, of course.
For the hubby, of course.
Vintage half slip, $0.50 ($20)
Because the vintage slip material is so silky soft. Love.
Because the vintage slip material is so silky soft. Love.
Gray cashmere scarf, Caroline Grace Cashmere $10 at T.J. Maxx($100)
I've been waiting for this scarf to go on sale since I spotted it in the store in late November!!
Charcoal gray embellished V-neck tee, J. Crew, $4.50 ($30)
Grape-purple cotton sateen A-line miniskirt, Express, $1.50 ($30)
Possible Easter outfit beginning?
Next, my absolute favorite score of the week...
Gray/navy/orange/red argyle merino wool and angora cardigan, J. Crew, $2 ($60)
Look at those cute little gold buttons!! I love this sweater! So classic, so me.
God blesses us with everything we need, and so very much more. If I had purchased all these things at full price as I estimated above, it would have come to about $365. I paid $25.50, and my momma picked up the other $6 as a little gift to me. I'd say paying less than 10% of the estimated retail value of these things is a pretty great deal!! Happy.
Thankful.
Grateful.
And so content in God's provision for me.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
in an instant
Today, I'm enjoying instant cocoa, made with instant heat on my electric glass cooktop, instant communication through texting, bright pink cactus blossoms, streaming sunshine and blue skies in this western New York January, light at the flip of a switch, status updates on Facebook and instant encouraging words in email. So much can change with the instant...
a smile
a twinkle
a spark
a clap of thunder
a breath, a cry, a life
a flickering flame, light
a smoldering wick to remind
what happened in an instant
What am I thankful for today? For the many normal moments piled up on each other that make up life (including the drudgery of dishes, the beauty of lightly floating falling snow, the taste of tea and cookies, the voice of my mother on the phone, the warmth of my hooded sweater), for communication, for no screeching-halt turn-around crisis moments in this day, for moments of clarity and perspective in this (short, wispy, momentary) life. Thankful for the normal, for this very instant, and for the many instants we take for granted.
But mostly, I'm thankful for the moments that God stepped into time, bore the constraints of a human life, died a painful death, and rose to new life, making it possible for me to enjoy life for every moment in His presence.
Thankful.
Monday, March 28, 2011
(grad) student life
Graduate student life is such a paradox.
I am an adult, but I'm a student.
I'm a teacher, but a peer.
I have homework, but also housework.
I have school bills, but also energy, trash, and rent bills. And school loans.
I have a presentation to do, meetings to attend, rehearsals, and my own homework.
And I'm blogging to take a few minutes to breathe.
Things I'm enjoying right now:
1. the white fuzzy angora sweater I'm wearing
2. the sunshine outside, even though it's way below freezing
3. my pink planner that makes my life look more organized
4. being allowed to take scores out of the library
5. that my husband will be home when I get there tonight
6. nice-tasting water in my purple narrow-mouth Nalgene
7. my friend Nicki sitting across from me, commiserating
8. my mom, just a text message away
9. having a vehicle so I can drive myself to and from school and the grocery store and wherever-I-need-to-go-at-anytime-I-want
10. the nearness of God in my simple prayer.
Lord, please help me to focus and to do my very best at this work. Help me to accept what is truly my best, and to not push myself beyond what is healthy emotionally, physically, mentally, or spiritually. Thank you that you are near to me.
I am an adult, but I'm a student.
I'm a teacher, but a peer.
I have homework, but also housework.
I have school bills, but also energy, trash, and rent bills. And school loans.
I have a presentation to do, meetings to attend, rehearsals, and my own homework.
And I'm blogging to take a few minutes to breathe.
Things I'm enjoying right now:
1. the white fuzzy angora sweater I'm wearing
2. the sunshine outside, even though it's way below freezing
3. my pink planner that makes my life look more organized
4. being allowed to take scores out of the library
5. that my husband will be home when I get there tonight
6. nice-tasting water in my purple narrow-mouth Nalgene
7. my friend Nicki sitting across from me, commiserating
8. my mom, just a text message away
9. having a vehicle so I can drive myself to and from school and the grocery store and wherever-I-need-to-go-at-anytime-I-want
10. the nearness of God in my simple prayer.
Lord, please help me to focus and to do my very best at this work. Help me to accept what is truly my best, and to not push myself beyond what is healthy emotionally, physically, mentally, or spiritually. Thank you that you are near to me.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Festival of Hope
"Everyone needs compassion,A love that's never failing;
Let mercy fall on me.
Everyone needs forgiveness,
The kindness of a Savior,
The Hope of Nations.
Savior, He can move the mountains.
My God is mighty to save, He is mighty to save.
Forever, Author of salvation,
He rose and conquered the grave.
Jesus conquered the grave. "
- Laura Story, "Mighty to Save"
This coming Sunday afternoon, we have the opportunity to watch online as Samaritan's Purse gives us a glimpse of the hope they're bringing to the people of Haiti. They'll be streaming online starting at 1:30pm EST. Will you watch with me? I'm pretty sure my hubby won't be watching football, since the Bills' season is over...
The people of Haiti are living on hope. How can I be so upset here in the land of luxury? No, I probably can't get all the groceries I need next week, but I have a freezer full of meat and canned goods. We'll last just fine. I'm living in a real, brick and mortar house, not a blue tarp pulled over sticks. I'm not afraid that the roof is going to collapse on me. I still have my husband, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and even grandparents and our little furballs. I have an education, a computer, heat and electricity, and running water. Why is it so hard for me to be thankful?
I have a comfortable bed, more than (a lot more than) one set of clothes and shoes, jackets, and not one, but two cars. I have decorative dishes and not just clean water to drink, but juice and milk besides. I have fresh eggs in the fridge and fresh fruits and vegetables. I have a beautiful, peaceful view of the countryside, with no threat of war in my backyard.
I have so much to be thankful for. Praying that I have the strength to not complain about the difficult things, but to put them in God's hands. He's big enough to take care of my details. He knew me before I began. I can trust Him.
The people of Haiti are living on hope. How can I be so upset here in the land of luxury? No, I probably can't get all the groceries I need next week, but I have a freezer full of meat and canned goods. We'll last just fine. I'm living in a real, brick and mortar house, not a blue tarp pulled over sticks. I'm not afraid that the roof is going to collapse on me. I still have my husband, mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, and even grandparents and our little furballs. I have an education, a computer, heat and electricity, and running water. Why is it so hard for me to be thankful?
I have a comfortable bed, more than (a lot more than) one set of clothes and shoes, jackets, and not one, but two cars. I have decorative dishes and not just clean water to drink, but juice and milk besides. I have fresh eggs in the fridge and fresh fruits and vegetables. I have a beautiful, peaceful view of the countryside, with no threat of war in my backyard.
I have so much to be thankful for. Praying that I have the strength to not complain about the difficult things, but to put them in God's hands. He's big enough to take care of my details. He knew me before I began. I can trust Him.
Friday, March 13, 2009
it has been a while.
so here goes.
it has been crazy.
this past week, my husband was off from school, so i had some extra help around the house. this is excellent. i'm enjoying not having to do everything at once!
found out this week that my insurance doesn't cover regular doctor's visits. i'm not sick - i just need an appointment. and we don't have vision coverage. and i need new contacts. a new prescription, actually. insurance here in NY is super expensive, and ridiculous. people talk about affordable healthcare for everyone - um, when? and how in the world is that possible?
taking a moment for an attitude check:
i really do have everything i need
i am grateful for my job
i am loved
and it's sunny outside.
pms is such an annoying thing. trying to cope without crying, yelling, or overreacting. or being insanely silly, like i was at worship rehearsal last night. or overeating on sweets. i have kept up the walking-during-lunch-every-day thing at work. so that's a plus, right? it almost negates one piece of candy.
the in-laws are coming this weekend, and i'm excited. i've baked a cake to celebrate their birthdays - dad's on last Sunday, and mom's on this Sunday. it's amazing yellow cake - fluffy, perfectly vanilla-y sweet. i made a round 2-layer, and stuck strawberry jam between the two. the best part? the icing is Hershey's special-dark chocolate. you actually melt a whole stick of butter, add the baking cocoa, and then gradually the 3 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with the 1/3 cup of milk. vanilla goes in last, and voila - amazing. so smooth, so very chocolaty. and great for me being so overemotional and such. it came out perfectly when i iced the cake, so i topped it with heart shaped sprinkles (maybe a little too valentine-esque, but whatever. i like it.), and displayed it on my crystal cake stand...in the fridge, of course. i'm proud of myself!
last night, in addition to worship rehearsal after work (which was good), I managed to clean the entire shower (not fun) and the vinyl shower curtain liner. bleach is my friend. i don't like either of those tasks, but it's over. and stuff is clean.
want to hear about a laundry fiasco? i'm already frustrated that i have to pay for laundry, though i know that many other people do, but this was worse. our clothes went in the washer, with soap, for the right amount of time, on the cold cycle. i came back 23 minutes later to find that the machine didn't actually complete the final spin cycle. everything was absolutely soaked. and freezing. and it was raining outside.
so i squeezed most of the water out of most of the things and i hung them up to dry. here's the most annoying part: there was my lovely, thirsty cotton-loop bath mat in that load of wash. it was so heavily soaked that it was hard to carry, let alone hang. and there was no space. i put it in the dryer on high, alone. it came out still wet, but at least it was hang-able. i hung it up for three days to dry - and when i took it down, it had RUST SPOTS. three lovely lines of yellowish rust. this seems impossible, especially knowing that my metal drying rack is actually painted white. there are no chips in it. it's almost new. but, alas - there are the stains.
i know someone else has to have made a mistake like that.
at any rate, i've been very thankful for my husband's help this week - he has been really amazing.
love.
it has been crazy.
this past week, my husband was off from school, so i had some extra help around the house. this is excellent. i'm enjoying not having to do everything at once!
found out this week that my insurance doesn't cover regular doctor's visits. i'm not sick - i just need an appointment. and we don't have vision coverage. and i need new contacts. a new prescription, actually. insurance here in NY is super expensive, and ridiculous. people talk about affordable healthcare for everyone - um, when? and how in the world is that possible?
taking a moment for an attitude check:
i really do have everything i need
i am grateful for my job
i am loved
and it's sunny outside.
pms is such an annoying thing. trying to cope without crying, yelling, or overreacting. or being insanely silly, like i was at worship rehearsal last night. or overeating on sweets. i have kept up the walking-during-lunch-every-day thing at work. so that's a plus, right? it almost negates one piece of candy.
the in-laws are coming this weekend, and i'm excited. i've baked a cake to celebrate their birthdays - dad's on last Sunday, and mom's on this Sunday. it's amazing yellow cake - fluffy, perfectly vanilla-y sweet. i made a round 2-layer, and stuck strawberry jam between the two. the best part? the icing is Hershey's special-dark chocolate. you actually melt a whole stick of butter, add the baking cocoa, and then gradually the 3 cups of powdered sugar, alternating with the 1/3 cup of milk. vanilla goes in last, and voila - amazing. so smooth, so very chocolaty. and great for me being so overemotional and such. it came out perfectly when i iced the cake, so i topped it with heart shaped sprinkles (maybe a little too valentine-esque, but whatever. i like it.), and displayed it on my crystal cake stand...in the fridge, of course. i'm proud of myself!
last night, in addition to worship rehearsal after work (which was good), I managed to clean the entire shower (not fun) and the vinyl shower curtain liner. bleach is my friend. i don't like either of those tasks, but it's over. and stuff is clean.
want to hear about a laundry fiasco? i'm already frustrated that i have to pay for laundry, though i know that many other people do, but this was worse. our clothes went in the washer, with soap, for the right amount of time, on the cold cycle. i came back 23 minutes later to find that the machine didn't actually complete the final spin cycle. everything was absolutely soaked. and freezing. and it was raining outside.
so i squeezed most of the water out of most of the things and i hung them up to dry. here's the most annoying part: there was my lovely, thirsty cotton-loop bath mat in that load of wash. it was so heavily soaked that it was hard to carry, let alone hang. and there was no space. i put it in the dryer on high, alone. it came out still wet, but at least it was hang-able. i hung it up for three days to dry - and when i took it down, it had RUST SPOTS. three lovely lines of yellowish rust. this seems impossible, especially knowing that my metal drying rack is actually painted white. there are no chips in it. it's almost new. but, alas - there are the stains.
i know someone else has to have made a mistake like that.
at any rate, i've been very thankful for my husband's help this week - he has been really amazing.
love.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
jolly good fun
on Sunday, we had been at my in-laws' house for the weekend, so we had a three hour drive back to our house. after that, my husband went directly to ultimate frisbee practice and a meeting, and i was stuck at home. no way i was doing clean up right away!
so i went for a run in the mild 32 degrees-F weather. it was beautiful! I took some pictures and really enjoyed running for a bit.
since it was perfect snowman weather, i made one. here he is:
it was also a great day for sunsets and snowy landscapes:
and i have much for which to be thankful.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
insurance stinks
i'm not going to bore you with the details of our policy, but it comes down to this: we're not covered for the stuff we need, and we don't have the money to pay out of pocket. we just bought a car, we have very little savings, our apartment is expensive (but good for our area), and i don't know how we're going to make it.
i'm feeling really frustrated, especially with the insurance company and the school through which we purchased the insurance. i had no idea that we wouldn't be able to have this covered for the duration of the policy - i had been told that it would be. so frustrated.
tomorrow, it's my plan to call the school's health center and to find out if anyone has been mistaken, and if there's a way to cover more of our costs. i hate this.
however, i am thankful for safety. and for food to eat, a home to live in, my dear husband, and the opportunity he has to study here. i am thankful above all for the grace of my God, who always provides for me.
i'm going to rest in that.
i'm feeling really frustrated, especially with the insurance company and the school through which we purchased the insurance. i had no idea that we wouldn't be able to have this covered for the duration of the policy - i had been told that it would be. so frustrated.
tomorrow, it's my plan to call the school's health center and to find out if anyone has been mistaken, and if there's a way to cover more of our costs. i hate this.
however, i am thankful for safety. and for food to eat, a home to live in, my dear husband, and the opportunity he has to study here. i am thankful above all for the grace of my God, who always provides for me.
i'm going to rest in that.
Monday, January 19, 2009
girls' night
last night was really nice - a bunch of the girls and i all got together and had a girls' night in. it involved making really tasty salads, enjoying nutella and truffles, and just being girly together. i haven't had fun like this since college, and it was great to enjoy their company!
coming home, though, made me even more thankful for my husband. he is everything i could have asked for, and so much more than i deserve. so in love.
today i'm thankful for the beauty of the blue sky and sun - so lovely.
my husband's car broke down and is irreparable. today we just bought a new-to-us used car from a man at church who fixes up old cars and resells them at a crazy-low price. we're so blessed to be able to even get another car - and we're thankful. even though it means half our savings are gone.
we'll make it through - God takes care of us, and provides for all our needs.
coming home, though, made me even more thankful for my husband. he is everything i could have asked for, and so much more than i deserve. so in love.
today i'm thankful for the beauty of the blue sky and sun - so lovely.
my husband's car broke down and is irreparable. today we just bought a new-to-us used car from a man at church who fixes up old cars and resells them at a crazy-low price. we're so blessed to be able to even get another car - and we're thankful. even though it means half our savings are gone.
we'll make it through - God takes care of us, and provides for all our needs.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
today i'm finding things to be thankful for. at the moment, i'm so happy to have had a hot shower, a hairdryer that works, tasty leftovers for lunch, and a great computer. the colors of fall are so vibrant - i love that! i'm enjoying the feeling of fuzzy sweaters, and feeling thankful for the last few wildflowers of summer. i just got a call from my husband - just to say that he loves me. earlier today i had an invitation to go shopping with a new friend, and i can't wait!
these are today's blessings.
and here's a link to my flickr page - i love taking photos! http://www.flickr.com/photos/from_linnea/
these are today's blessings.
and here's a link to my flickr page - i love taking photos! http://www.flickr.com/photos/from_linnea/
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