I am grateful for ... (sorry the list is so long...I need to do it more frequently, but this is better than nothing, right?)
1289. seeing the house where a friend grew up
1290. movie date night
1291. perfect chocolate icing (it's on the Hershey's Cocoa box if you're interested. Best. Chocolate. Cake. Ever.)
1292. playing board games with senior citizens
1293. creative gifts
1294. seeing a friend back at work
1295. kind note from a student's parents
1296. a friend looking out for me
1297. afternoon coke and candy bar from our school PAWS (I know that sugar crash wasn't good, but I enjoyed it:)
1298. cool, fresh mornings watering my garden
1299. finding out my husband will be home tonight when I thought he had a meeting
1300. reading in the backyard
1301. spontaneous but good decision
1302. salmon on the grill
1303. praying while driving
1304. rainbow in the rear view mirror
1305. homemade oatmeal made by my husband
1306. Sunday pm nap ( I should do these much more often!)
1307. helpful people on the phone
1308. being welcomed at a new Bible study with women I don't know
1309. steaming cup of coffee
1310. harmonies of Shane and Shane
1311. friend liking the gift I gave her
1312. seeing beloved friends
1313 celebrating birthdays of grown ups
1314. bowl of strawberries and raspberries from my garden
1315. light filtering from the trees onto the floor
1316. clean windows
1317. hot shower
1318. last day gifts from students
1319. friend accepting help
1320. husband who takes care of our yard
1321. flexibility to my schedule
1322. stormy morning to sleep in
1323. choosing truth
1326. blessing others
1327. my wonderful husband who always goes above and beyond in honoring and loving me
1328. my sister's wedding day
1329. moments of clarity
1330. first fireflies of summer
1331. smores on the grill
1332. talking over breakfast in bed
1333. classroom para coming to help me during summer school just because she wants to (for free!) on the first few days of summer school which can be overwhelming! She is the absolute best!
1334. evening walk around the neighborhood
1335. energy for tasks I don't want to do
1336. being happy for others
1337. sweatshirt on an unseasonably cold May day
1338. red velvet cake gelato and pizza date night
1339. kitty whose purr you can hear from across the room
1340. feeling rested
1341. staying in bed half an hour more with the season of summer school
1342. cold water on my burns
1343. trusty atlas when the Garmin let me down:)
1344. mini vacay while at a friend's wedding
1345. conversation while watching tball/softball
1346. jovial people in the mornings
1347. watching the bunny in the backyard eat grass (and not my garden:). We have named her Betsy. It was my husband's idea:)
1348. getting to my destination
1349. seeing an old friend
1350. flavored coffee at the motel...an unexpected "perk" :)
1351. husband driving late so I could sleep
1352. hair on my head
1353. leftovers for lunch
1354. balloon and flower from a student
1355. no head lice! ( I had convinced myself one weekend that I had it and thankfully as a good head check from the school nurse, I did not, Praise the Lord!)
1356. being true to who I am
1357. kitty lapping milk from the cereal bowl
1358. music being the soundtrack of my day
1359. fresh cut roses from our huge bush
1360. welcoming my brother in law's family into our home
1361. safe travels for family and friends
1362. husband who gets me a piece of my sister's wedding cake with icing on 2 sides (because I"m too busy talking)...just because He knows it is my favorite!
1363. conversing about parents and grandparents over morning coffee with a friend
1364. glass chapel in the woods
1365. lots of cheese on spinach artichoke dip
1366. a house to clean
1367. surprising my husband
endless gifts
Showing posts with label endless gifts. Show all posts
Showing posts with label endless gifts. Show all posts
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Thursday, May 31, 2012
The art of being happy for others
I used to think I was good at being happy for others. I came face to face with my "selfish-I-don't-really-want-change-thank-you-very much" self these past few months. It makes sense because it shares a space with gratitude and contentment. At the heart of the matter of this : does God really have what's best for me ? Can I trust Him that I'm not missing out? Once again, my time spent with 5 year olds really helps in this situation ...
sometimes I wonder how much I sound like them in my head. "But I wanted that one, God." "Her life is easier than mine." (insert whiny, 5 year old voice here)
I've had plenty ...and I mean plenty-of opportunities the past 2 months to practice this "being happy for others" thing. A few times I did pretty well. Once I cried right in front of the person. And at least once I figuratively fell flat on my face and had to apologize for myself later. However, my friend was gracious and quickly forgave me. But most of the time, I'm in this little "in between" space. I have this ongoing conversation in my head between me and God or me and myself (sometimes it's hard to tell) and I don't want the other person to know my selfish, inner thoughts. Of course, I ruin that now by telling others about it:)
I got to thinking that this "comparing" is a sin, although a socially acceptable one. It makes me think of the rules I have for my kids at school...like the one about "we don't swing our bodies between the tables." And I explain that I'm not being mean, I just don 't want you to get hurt. And it's the same with us...God isn't saying "Don't compare" because he's mean. He's saying it because he loves me and wants the best for me.
I once had a mentor say "Don't feel your way to an action, but act your way to a feeling. "How true this is! Yesterday, I had another situation where someone was telling me something fortunate they were getting to do and on the inside I started whining to myself. But what came out of my mouth was "Oh, I"m so happy for you. Yay!" And it really sounded convincing. And the truth is, I really was happy for this person. I can "act my way to a feeling" in this way.
Here are a few things I've found are sure fire ways to not being content and to make the problem described above worse.
1. Spend more time than necessary on Facebook. It doesn't take long looking at pictures of people's babies or new houses before I start feeling sorry for myself.
2. Thinking that somehow someone has THE life with no worries, all desires fulfilled, etc... That's a lie! Simply not true. We're all on a journey and in a process. One of my good friends said one time "The grass might be greener on the other side of the fence, but you've still got to water , mow, and fertilize that grass."
3. Not spending time keeping track of the small, simple gifts that stack up day after day.
sometimes I wonder how much I sound like them in my head. "But I wanted that one, God." "Her life is easier than mine." (insert whiny, 5 year old voice here)
I've had plenty ...and I mean plenty-of opportunities the past 2 months to practice this "being happy for others" thing. A few times I did pretty well. Once I cried right in front of the person. And at least once I figuratively fell flat on my face and had to apologize for myself later. However, my friend was gracious and quickly forgave me. But most of the time, I'm in this little "in between" space. I have this ongoing conversation in my head between me and God or me and myself (sometimes it's hard to tell) and I don't want the other person to know my selfish, inner thoughts. Of course, I ruin that now by telling others about it:)
I got to thinking that this "comparing" is a sin, although a socially acceptable one. It makes me think of the rules I have for my kids at school...like the one about "we don't swing our bodies between the tables." And I explain that I'm not being mean, I just don 't want you to get hurt. And it's the same with us...God isn't saying "Don't compare" because he's mean. He's saying it because he loves me and wants the best for me.
I once had a mentor say "Don't feel your way to an action, but act your way to a feeling. "How true this is! Yesterday, I had another situation where someone was telling me something fortunate they were getting to do and on the inside I started whining to myself. But what came out of my mouth was "Oh, I"m so happy for you. Yay!" And it really sounded convincing. And the truth is, I really was happy for this person. I can "act my way to a feeling" in this way.
Here are a few things I've found are sure fire ways to not being content and to make the problem described above worse.
1. Spend more time than necessary on Facebook. It doesn't take long looking at pictures of people's babies or new houses before I start feeling sorry for myself.
2. Thinking that somehow someone has THE life with no worries, all desires fulfilled, etc... That's a lie! Simply not true. We're all on a journey and in a process. One of my good friends said one time "The grass might be greener on the other side of the fence, but you've still got to water , mow, and fertilize that grass."
3. Not spending time keeping track of the small, simple gifts that stack up day after day.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
counting issues
Good grief. I realized that last post I had a little wishful thinking ... skipped from 1099 to 2000. Good thing I just teach numbers to 100 on a daily basis or my students would be in trouble. Seriously.
1115. a thoughtful facebook message from the parent of a past student
1116. what i call the "Aldi-Quarter-for-a-cart-handoff" in the parking lot
1117. chunky tomato soup
1118. seeing fruits of our labor
1119. borrowed supplies that we don't have to buy
1120. neighbor kids on their bikes
1121. giving a tour of our house to family for the first time
1122. plants and trees blooming in the yard (it's like a treasure hunt since it's all new to us!)
1123. friend checking to see if i needed help
1124. bowl of bright jelly beans
1125. magnolia tree in bloom outside our kitchen window
1126. someone doing us a favor
1127. shoes i was looking for on clearance
1128. the miracles that magic erasers work while cleaning
1129. a shared load
1130. seeing/hearing a storm roll in
1131. gentle rain at twilight
1132. hard work and preparation paying off for my husband's calling
1133. hot shower to greet me in the morning
1134. help with an undesirable task
1135. people including me
1136. husband encouraging me to try something new
1137. baking chocolate chip cookies with 2 girls on a rainy afternoon
1138. being able to "veg" when I have a headache
1139. others' positive attitudes rubbing off on me
1140. picking up bobbie pins off of the floor
1141. being supportive of a friend
1142. look on a students' face when eating a pickle
1143. van full of youth
1144. being trusted
1145. our realtor
1146. date night in
1147. talk on phone with good friend
1148. getting lost in the country while driving around
1149. husband encouraging me to do what is hard
1150. seeing people i know around town
1151. waking up slowly without an alarm
1152. being greeted by the youth group girls as i drive up to church
1153. spiritual milestone (19 years of walking with Him)
1154. dinner date with my husband
1155. finding something I thought was lost
1156. closing on our house...finally!
1157. sensitive nature of my husband
1158. meeting neighbors
1159. sitting in the back seat on the bus on our field trip
1160. black cows, green grass, blue sky, and white puffy clouds
1115. a thoughtful facebook message from the parent of a past student
1116. what i call the "Aldi-Quarter-for-a-cart-handoff" in the parking lot
1117. chunky tomato soup
1118. seeing fruits of our labor
1119. borrowed supplies that we don't have to buy
1120. neighbor kids on their bikes
1121. giving a tour of our house to family for the first time
1122. plants and trees blooming in the yard (it's like a treasure hunt since it's all new to us!)
1123. friend checking to see if i needed help
1124. bowl of bright jelly beans
1125. magnolia tree in bloom outside our kitchen window
1126. someone doing us a favor
1127. shoes i was looking for on clearance
1128. the miracles that magic erasers work while cleaning
1129. a shared load
1130. seeing/hearing a storm roll in
1131. gentle rain at twilight
1132. hard work and preparation paying off for my husband's calling
1133. hot shower to greet me in the morning
1134. help with an undesirable task
1135. people including me
1136. husband encouraging me to try something new
1137. baking chocolate chip cookies with 2 girls on a rainy afternoon
1138. being able to "veg" when I have a headache
1139. others' positive attitudes rubbing off on me
1140. picking up bobbie pins off of the floor
1141. being supportive of a friend
1142. look on a students' face when eating a pickle
1143. van full of youth
1144. being trusted
1145. our realtor
1146. date night in
1147. talk on phone with good friend
1148. getting lost in the country while driving around
1149. husband encouraging me to do what is hard
1150. seeing people i know around town
1151. waking up slowly without an alarm
1152. being greeted by the youth group girls as i drive up to church
1153. spiritual milestone (19 years of walking with Him)
1154. dinner date with my husband
1155. finding something I thought was lost
1156. closing on our house...finally!
1157. sensitive nature of my husband
1158. meeting neighbors
1159. sitting in the back seat on the bus on our field trip
1160. black cows, green grass, blue sky, and white puffy clouds
Friday, March 16, 2012
and the list goes on
1050. me feeling like a "homemaker" for a day
1051. amazing offer from a stranger
1052. snow day gift
1053. snow gently lilting from the sky
1054. kitty snuggled in husband's sweatshirt
1055. favorite chocolate cake recipe
1056. unexpected fun mail
1057. people sharing their "giftings" with us
1058. seeing my sister
1059. restful Sunday
1060. words I resonate with
1061. being able to help a friend in need
1062. picking out and buying paint colors
1063. renewed attitude
1064. finding old notes and photos while packing
1065. the smell of Johnson's baby lotion
1066. soft new robe
1067. intentional and truthful time with my husband to wash away the "dirt" from the day
1068. friends who share resources
1069. kind healthcare professionals
1070. outdoor recess after a string of indoor days
1071. waking up feeling rested
1072. the miracles that a humidifier works overnight
1073. little girl's new haircut
1074. rainbow prism in the clouds
1075. gentle rain
1076. bowl of oatmeal and watching the steam rise
1077. easy dinner
1078. clean windows
1079. snuggling in the morning
1080. bowl of Roma tomatoes
1081. 2 minute drive to work
1082. student waving to me at the store
1083. cookies dipped in milk
1084. new possibilities
1085. people at our new church who have been so welcoming and servant hearted
1086. first real mail from my great aunt Polly in our mailbox
1087. kitty adjusting to the new house
1088. browsing in a book store
1089. looking out the kitchen window while making lunches in the morning
1090. hot tea on a sore throat
1091. car restarting miraculously after stopping in the middle of an intersection
1092. squirrels out the kitchen window
1093. well written and timely words
1094. relief from a burden
1095. sound of the washing machine from bed on a rainy Sunday (after not having one for 2 weeks)
1096. cupcakes and brownies from one of our new youth friends
1097. student coming to hug me at church
1098. getting my voice back
1099. participating in small town traditions
1100. use of a friend's washer and dryer
1101. husband's cheerful attitude
1102. using fresh herbs
1103. finishing a huge task
1104. blessing my husband with little things
1105. saying "no" to school as hard as it was
1106. free marriage retreat
1107, seeing a good friend
1108. 3 year engagement anniversary
1109. time to leaf through a magazine
1110. beautiful weather
1111. good news for a friend (hard one, but good)
1112. hard conversation=done
1113. an evening with like-minded people
1114. day off after trudging along
1115. showing the house to my parents
1051. amazing offer from a stranger
1052. snow day gift
1053. snow gently lilting from the sky
1054. kitty snuggled in husband's sweatshirt
1055. favorite chocolate cake recipe
1056. unexpected fun mail
1057. people sharing their "giftings" with us
1058. seeing my sister
1059. restful Sunday
1060. words I resonate with
1061. being able to help a friend in need
1062. picking out and buying paint colors
1063. renewed attitude
1064. finding old notes and photos while packing
1065. the smell of Johnson's baby lotion
1066. soft new robe
1067. intentional and truthful time with my husband to wash away the "dirt" from the day
1068. friends who share resources
1069. kind healthcare professionals
1070. outdoor recess after a string of indoor days
1071. waking up feeling rested
1072. the miracles that a humidifier works overnight
1073. little girl's new haircut
1074. rainbow prism in the clouds
1075. gentle rain
1076. bowl of oatmeal and watching the steam rise
1077. easy dinner
1078. clean windows
1079. snuggling in the morning
1080. bowl of Roma tomatoes
1081. 2 minute drive to work
1082. student waving to me at the store
1083. cookies dipped in milk
1084. new possibilities
1085. people at our new church who have been so welcoming and servant hearted
1086. first real mail from my great aunt Polly in our mailbox
1087. kitty adjusting to the new house
1088. browsing in a book store
1089. looking out the kitchen window while making lunches in the morning
1090. hot tea on a sore throat
1091. car restarting miraculously after stopping in the middle of an intersection
1092. squirrels out the kitchen window
1093. well written and timely words
1094. relief from a burden
1095. sound of the washing machine from bed on a rainy Sunday (after not having one for 2 weeks)
1096. cupcakes and brownies from one of our new youth friends
1097. student coming to hug me at church
1098. getting my voice back
1099. participating in small town traditions
1100. use of a friend's washer and dryer
1101. husband's cheerful attitude
1102. using fresh herbs
1103. finishing a huge task
1104. blessing my husband with little things
1105. saying "no" to school as hard as it was
1106. free marriage retreat
1107, seeing a good friend
1108. 3 year engagement anniversary
1109. time to leaf through a magazine
1110. beautiful weather
1111. good news for a friend (hard one, but good)
1112. hard conversation=done
1113. an evening with like-minded people
1114. day off after trudging along
1115. showing the house to my parents
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
How I've been gifted...
1009.sharing a laugh at lunch with the amazing girls I work with
1010. getting a text with some good news!
1011. someone following through and checking on me after God brought me to their mind several times the last week (this woman is one of the most Spirit filled ladies I know)
1012. friendly guy that was working at the dry cleaners. He always makes conversation with me and is so pleasant.
1013. How i can always plan on getting a green or purple jolly rancher when stopping by my principal's office.
1014. substitute from next door stopping by to ask if she can make any copies for me (she may have regretted that later as I handed her a stack:)
1015. honest conversation
1016. cozy breakfast on a Saturday morning with people i Love
1017. new class picture to add to my collection of 8 years now:)
1018. booth on a Friday night with hamburger and fries
1019. friend for dinner after a wild day at school
1020. heavy heart for a friend (hard one to be grateful for:)
1021. cookoo clocks that chime on the hour
1022. someone paying for our lunch
1023. making connections with new people
1024. playing with a baby who smiles A LOT!
1025. yummy salad bar
1026. sleeping for 12 hours...I could conquer the world!
1027. dark chocolate peanut butter cup melting in my mouth
1028. saving the last few chapters of one of my favorite books I've read this past year (Bittersweet by Shauna Niequiest)
1029. pearls on an older, white haired lady
1030. lots of pink at a baby shower
1031. hug on a cold night from a friend
1032. cold water on a sore throat
1033. sky streaked with pink and purple
1034. a night at home
1035. sleep in when I'm sick
1036. holding my husband's warm hand when mine is cold
1037. sharing a new game with a friend
wise people who share wisdom with us
1038. nightlight in the kitchen
1039. neighbor folding my laundry (it was towels, nothing embarrassing:)
1040. how using recipes of a friend's and how it makes me feel connected across the miles
1041. students who want to hold my hand
1042. how I hear "I love you mrs. G" for random reasons at least 3 times a day
1043. talking to my mom on her birthday
1044. familiar faces in a sea of unknown
1045.date night at one of my favorite places
1046. grilled asparagus in February
1047. thunderstorm in February
1048. wooden spoon in a pot of soup
1049. going by the library and finding some unexpected good books
1010. getting a text with some good news!
1011. someone following through and checking on me after God brought me to their mind several times the last week (this woman is one of the most Spirit filled ladies I know)
1012. friendly guy that was working at the dry cleaners. He always makes conversation with me and is so pleasant.
1013. How i can always plan on getting a green or purple jolly rancher when stopping by my principal's office.
1014. substitute from next door stopping by to ask if she can make any copies for me (she may have regretted that later as I handed her a stack:)
1015. honest conversation
1016. cozy breakfast on a Saturday morning with people i Love
1017. new class picture to add to my collection of 8 years now:)
1018. booth on a Friday night with hamburger and fries
1019. friend for dinner after a wild day at school
1020. heavy heart for a friend (hard one to be grateful for:)
1021. cookoo clocks that chime on the hour
1022. someone paying for our lunch
1023. making connections with new people
1024. playing with a baby who smiles A LOT!
1025. yummy salad bar
1026. sleeping for 12 hours...I could conquer the world!
1027. dark chocolate peanut butter cup melting in my mouth
1028. saving the last few chapters of one of my favorite books I've read this past year (Bittersweet by Shauna Niequiest)
1029. pearls on an older, white haired lady
1030. lots of pink at a baby shower
1031. hug on a cold night from a friend
1032. cold water on a sore throat
1033. sky streaked with pink and purple
1034. a night at home
1035. sleep in when I'm sick
1036. holding my husband's warm hand when mine is cold
1037. sharing a new game with a friend
wise people who share wisdom with us
1038. nightlight in the kitchen
1039. neighbor folding my laundry (it was towels, nothing embarrassing:)
1040. how using recipes of a friend's and how it makes me feel connected across the miles
1041. students who want to hold my hand
1042. how I hear "I love you mrs. G" for random reasons at least 3 times a day
1043. talking to my mom on her birthday
1044. familiar faces in a sea of unknown
1045.date night at one of my favorite places
1046. grilled asparagus in February
1047. thunderstorm in February
1048. wooden spoon in a pot of soup
1049. going by the library and finding some unexpected good books
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Rolling in to 1000
Well here I am...a journey that began roughly 15 months ago has reached it's destination. I intend on continuing, but I'm excited to reach this milestone. Made it to 1000!
959. how the things I say to my students come back to haunt me :) (examples: "Don't let it ruin your day." "Can you do that even though it's hard?" )
960. warm car in the morning
961. a student's excitement over a new coat I was able to find for her
962. new book I'm loving
963. movement in a situation that I was wanting to go somewhere:)
964. haven of peace at school
965. outdoor recess
966. taking care of my husband when he's sick
967. kitty curled up on my feet
968. the glistening of the sidewalk after the rain on a cold night
969. corner booth at an Italian restaurant, celebrating my husband's new job
970. watching the deforster on my car work and melt ice off the windshield before my very eyes
971. a Christmas gift from a student I had last year (see #121-she's the sweetest thing ever)
972. the para (aide for some of my students) who is so on top of things ... I so appreciate her if I haven't already said it!
973. a sister who is a nurse that I can call with medical questions
974. tomato peels in the sink
975. card game over lunch
976. riding in the backseat of the car (which I don't normally do)
977. sharing our humble apartment with people
978. hearing the arrival of family members at the front door (from the other room)
979. sunlight high up in the clouds in an airplane
980. playing a new game with my family
981. neighbors who leave homemade bread at our doorstep
982. mailbox full of Christmas cards
983. no large crowds or lines more than 5 minutes a week before Christmas
984. God pulling me through a grueling week...He is faithful!
985. the washing machine open when I want to use it
986. taking my mom's wedding dress out of the box that's been sealed for 30 years
987. favorite movie
988. pile of randome teacher things on my desk at the day's end
989. being asked my opinion about something
990. finally being home
991. a detour (hard thing to be thankful for)
992. principal who takes my recess duty
993. principal who reads to my students
994. principal who says "yes" to classroom needs
995. encouragement from a colleague
996. getting my Christmas things out of the box
997. nutcracker tea...I could drink that stuff in July!
998. snack on my way out the door
999. morning candy as I'm walking out to recess
1000. putting ornaments on my classroom tree with a student
1001. sleepover at friends house for New Years...it felt like an "in town" retreat
1002. seeing people who have been very patient and God honoring on their wedding day
1003. being surprised by a friend's presence
1004. Christmas money to spend...
1005. time to read ... and it wasn't even school related
1006. a new quilt made just for me (and my husband too...it's not just mine I suppose)
1007. the sound and smell of bacon frying
1008. meeting a goal
959. how the things I say to my students come back to haunt me :) (examples: "Don't let it ruin your day." "Can you do that even though it's hard?" )
960. warm car in the morning
961. a student's excitement over a new coat I was able to find for her
962. new book I'm loving
963. movement in a situation that I was wanting to go somewhere:)
964. haven of peace at school
965. outdoor recess
966. taking care of my husband when he's sick
967. kitty curled up on my feet
968. the glistening of the sidewalk after the rain on a cold night
969. corner booth at an Italian restaurant, celebrating my husband's new job
970. watching the deforster on my car work and melt ice off the windshield before my very eyes
971. a Christmas gift from a student I had last year (see #121-she's the sweetest thing ever)
972. the para (aide for some of my students) who is so on top of things ... I so appreciate her if I haven't already said it!
973. a sister who is a nurse that I can call with medical questions
974. tomato peels in the sink
975. card game over lunch
976. riding in the backseat of the car (which I don't normally do)
977. sharing our humble apartment with people
978. hearing the arrival of family members at the front door (from the other room)
979. sunlight high up in the clouds in an airplane
980. playing a new game with my family
981. neighbors who leave homemade bread at our doorstep
982. mailbox full of Christmas cards
983. no large crowds or lines more than 5 minutes a week before Christmas
984. God pulling me through a grueling week...He is faithful!
985. the washing machine open when I want to use it
986. taking my mom's wedding dress out of the box that's been sealed for 30 years
987. favorite movie
988. pile of randome teacher things on my desk at the day's end
989. being asked my opinion about something
990. finally being home
991. a detour (hard thing to be thankful for)
992. principal who takes my recess duty
993. principal who reads to my students
994. principal who says "yes" to classroom needs
995. encouragement from a colleague
996. getting my Christmas things out of the box
997. nutcracker tea...I could drink that stuff in July!
998. snack on my way out the door
999. morning candy as I'm walking out to recess
1000. putting ornaments on my classroom tree with a student
1001. sleepover at friends house for New Years...it felt like an "in town" retreat
1002. seeing people who have been very patient and God honoring on their wedding day
1003. being surprised by a friend's presence
1004. Christmas money to spend...
1005. time to read ... and it wasn't even school related
1006. a new quilt made just for me (and my husband too...it's not just mine I suppose)
1007. the sound and smell of bacon frying
1008. meeting a goal
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Pressing on to 1000
902. Joey the cat lapping up milk
903. camp fire under the stars
904. holding a baby under the night sky
905. afternoon playing games on the deck on a beautiful Sunday afternoon
906. He is bigger than "to do" lists and responsibilities
907. the "gooeyness" factor of smores
908.coconut cake
909. someone pulling up a chair to help me with an overwhelming task
910. reading in bed at night
911. a card made by a student "stickered" with love for me (probably at least 30 stickers on a 5 x 6 surface area)
912. Trader Joe's peanut butter cups
913. friend who has "been there and done that."
914. good conversations with parents of students
915. parents of my students who trust my judgement and opinion
916. Veteran's Day
917. an unexpected glimmer of hope
918. victory over temptation
919. saturday afternoon at a coffee shop
920. trick or treating children
921.sleeping in and a snuggle with the kitty
922. chocolate chip pumpkin muffins from a friend
923. new possibilities
924. a clean house that looks and smells like it
925. reflection of the stoplight on the wet pavement
926. full moon on my way home from school
927. homemade ice cream in November
928. silhouettes against a November orange sky at dusk
929. a "crafternoon" with friends at church
930. Friday night pizza
931. migraine relief
932. spaghetti sauce made by my husband
933. meeting new people and hearing their stories
934. squirrel on our deck (Joey somehow missed it, he would have gone crazy if he'd seen it!)
935. nest of birds in a near by tree
936. Saturday morning walk with my husband
937. student from last year who came to read to my class
938. new morning show on the radio
939. the choice to press on
940. extra hour of sleep
941. student who thinks "Mrs. G makes learning fun." (his words, not mine)
942. a "no plans weekend"
943. wearing favorite sweaters again
944. Monday night date
945. principals who have "got my back"
946. flowers from my husband just because (on 11.11.11 no less)
947. accidentally being called "mom" or "grandma" by a student
948. hot chocolate with friends after a hard day
949. watching "Elf" for the first time of the season
950. the food I brought to the church potluck being devoured within minutes:)
951. friends who tell you a Word they heard from the Lord that was meant just for you
952. Saturday morning breakfast at one of our favorite places
953. friends who ask questions
954. cold and windy Sunday afternoon that gives me a good excuse to stay in
955. homemade oatmeal for breakfast
956. God's clear guidance
957. favorite recipes
903. camp fire under the stars
904. holding a baby under the night sky
905. afternoon playing games on the deck on a beautiful Sunday afternoon
906. He is bigger than "to do" lists and responsibilities
907. the "gooeyness" factor of smores
908.coconut cake
909. someone pulling up a chair to help me with an overwhelming task
910. reading in bed at night
911. a card made by a student "stickered" with love for me (probably at least 30 stickers on a 5 x 6 surface area)
912. Trader Joe's peanut butter cups
913. friend who has "been there and done that."
914. good conversations with parents of students
915. parents of my students who trust my judgement and opinion
916. Veteran's Day
917. an unexpected glimmer of hope
918. victory over temptation
919. saturday afternoon at a coffee shop
920. trick or treating children
921.sleeping in and a snuggle with the kitty
922. chocolate chip pumpkin muffins from a friend
923. new possibilities
924. a clean house that looks and smells like it
925. reflection of the stoplight on the wet pavement
926. full moon on my way home from school
927. homemade ice cream in November
928. silhouettes against a November orange sky at dusk
929. a "crafternoon" with friends at church
930. Friday night pizza
931. migraine relief
932. spaghetti sauce made by my husband
933. meeting new people and hearing their stories
934. squirrel on our deck (Joey somehow missed it, he would have gone crazy if he'd seen it!)
935. nest of birds in a near by tree
936. Saturday morning walk with my husband
937. student from last year who came to read to my class
938. new morning show on the radio
939. the choice to press on
940. extra hour of sleep
941. student who thinks "Mrs. G makes learning fun." (his words, not mine)
942. a "no plans weekend"
943. wearing favorite sweaters again
944. Monday night date
945. principals who have "got my back"
946. flowers from my husband just because (on 11.11.11 no less)
947. accidentally being called "mom" or "grandma" by a student
948. hot chocolate with friends after a hard day
949. watching "Elf" for the first time of the season
950. the food I brought to the church potluck being devoured within minutes:)
951. friends who tell you a Word they heard from the Lord that was meant just for you
952. Saturday morning breakfast at one of our favorite places
953. friends who ask questions
954. cold and windy Sunday afternoon that gives me a good excuse to stay in
955. homemade oatmeal for breakfast
956. God's clear guidance
957. favorite recipes
Saturday, October 22, 2011
What you can get for a $1
So probably about 6 months ago, I found this book in the bookstore at my church for a $1 in the clearance basket. (Sidenote: Significant is it not that a book about gratitude was in the clearance basket? It seems gratitude makes us focus on what we already have than on what we don't have. And our culture is very "acquisition" focused. On to the next bigger and better thing. What I have isn't good enough. ) Most people (including myself) believe the phrase "You get what you pay for." However, in this case, I got so much more than I was bargaining for when I bought this little book entitled Give Thanks: Powerful Prayers for Everyday Blessings. It doesn't even have an author's name on it. I want to thank that person. It's one more aid in the journey of gratitude that I've been on for a while. I sat down and flipped through the book this morning when I was a little "grumbly" and struggling with keeping my thoughts in a grateful place. Here are a few that really resonated with me.
Doing the Laundry
"Father, sometimes the laundry seems to be never ending, [ and we don't have kids yet] but I'm glad this means plenty of clean clothes for me and my [husband]. Thank you for blessing us with a convenient means of washing away the stains of the day and for providing us with clean hearts, too."
Cleaning the Litter Box
"It's not a task I look forward to, Father, but my feline companion, is worth it. Thank you for all the joy the furry friends [Joey] in my life bring."
Long To-Do List:
"Dear Jesus, I am overwhelmed. There are many things on my list to do today. Thank You for giving me useful work to do, and I pray that Your priorities would be mine."
Looking at the Stars
"Dear Lord, thank You for the beauty of lights in the sky. Thank you for the promise that Your Son will return from heaven with a shout and that there will be a celebration like no other when He comes to earth. Thank You for infinite possibilities."
Anywho, next time someone says "You get what you pay for" I will respond "Usually...but sometimes you're pleasantly surprised."
Doing the Laundry
"Father, sometimes the laundry seems to be never ending, [ and we don't have kids yet] but I'm glad this means plenty of clean clothes for me and my [husband]. Thank you for blessing us with a convenient means of washing away the stains of the day and for providing us with clean hearts, too."
Cleaning the Litter Box
"It's not a task I look forward to, Father, but my feline companion, is worth it. Thank you for all the joy the furry friends [Joey] in my life bring."
Long To-Do List:
"Dear Jesus, I am overwhelmed. There are many things on my list to do today. Thank You for giving me useful work to do, and I pray that Your priorities would be mine."
Looking at the Stars
"Dear Lord, thank You for the beauty of lights in the sky. Thank you for the promise that Your Son will return from heaven with a shout and that there will be a celebration like no other when He comes to earth. Thank You for infinite possibilities."
Anywho, next time someone says "You get what you pay for" I will respond "Usually...but sometimes you're pleasantly surprised."
Thursday, October 20, 2011
to 900 and beyond!
859. husband who takes the trash out
860. cold slush on my sore throat
861. inspiring computer desktop background (the Grand Tetons in the Fall)
862. the smell of fall outside
863. student who makes progress!
864. a favorite family spot (Weston Bend State Park)
865. not having to cook dinner after a full day outside
866. standing in a small town, quiet church
867. hearing a squirrel eating his nut in the tree
868. sitting on a bench, reading in the park
869. sun peeking up over the horizon as I drive to school
870. picnic under a lovely fall tree
871. KFC picnic
872. before and after pictures of a garden
873. pulling vines out of a garden
874. seeing progress
875. old houses with history
876. cupcakes with filling in the middle
877. sidewalk cafe, reading magazines, "people and dog watching"
878. old stairs that creak when you walk on them
879. rest when wearied
880. shaving an inspirational source with a friend
881. talking on the phone or in person with a friend versus text, facebook, or email
882. husband filling my car with gas
883. kitchen sink dripping to the rhythm of the music
884. neighbor running across the parking lot to help with a heavy load
885. "stockinged" feet in bed at night
886. using different voices when reading a story
887. sleeping baby
888. outstretched arms of a baby
889. Halloween oreos
890. wise and aptly spoken words from a friend
891. skittering of the leaves on the sidewalk
892. child looking up from his work long enough to say "I love you, Mrs. G"
893. child practicing independently what I've shown them
894. child with tongue sticking out of the corner of her mouth in concentration
895. lesson plans done in record time
896. little girls playing "wedding" in their backyard
897. kids jumping in the leaves
898.changing clothes after school
899. hearing a friend's familiar voice
900. seeing a "mommy to be's" growing baby belly
901. organic produce delivered to my door
860. cold slush on my sore throat
861. inspiring computer desktop background (the Grand Tetons in the Fall)
862. the smell of fall outside
863. student who makes progress!
864. a favorite family spot (Weston Bend State Park)
865. not having to cook dinner after a full day outside
866. standing in a small town, quiet church
867. hearing a squirrel eating his nut in the tree
868. sitting on a bench, reading in the park
869. sun peeking up over the horizon as I drive to school
870. picnic under a lovely fall tree
871. KFC picnic
872. before and after pictures of a garden
873. pulling vines out of a garden
874. seeing progress
875. old houses with history
876. cupcakes with filling in the middle
877. sidewalk cafe, reading magazines, "people and dog watching"
878. old stairs that creak when you walk on them
879. rest when wearied
880. shaving an inspirational source with a friend
881. talking on the phone or in person with a friend versus text, facebook, or email
882. husband filling my car with gas
883. kitchen sink dripping to the rhythm of the music
884. neighbor running across the parking lot to help with a heavy load
885. "stockinged" feet in bed at night
886. using different voices when reading a story
887. sleeping baby
888. outstretched arms of a baby
889. Halloween oreos
890. wise and aptly spoken words from a friend
891. skittering of the leaves on the sidewalk
892. child looking up from his work long enough to say "I love you, Mrs. G"
893. child practicing independently what I've shown them
894. child with tongue sticking out of the corner of her mouth in concentration
895. lesson plans done in record time
896. little girls playing "wedding" in their backyard
897. kids jumping in the leaves
898.changing clothes after school
899. hearing a friend's familiar voice
900. seeing a "mommy to be's" growing baby belly
901. organic produce delivered to my door
Friday, October 7, 2011
799-858
Good grief...it's been a month. Here are a handful of the "gifts" I've witnessed in the past 4 weeks.
799.listening to Mat Kearney in the morning
800.encouragement from a friend in email form
801. promise of a 3 day weekend
802. student waving and calling goodbye from the bus window ("I love you Mrs. G!")
803.school picture day and how especially nice they look
804. student who ties anothers' shoes
805. my principal's sense of humor
806. new lunch boxes
807. straightened hair
808.enthusiasm for learning in a child
809.Gilmore Girls
810. getting to talk to people who are far away
811. choosing not to be a slave to "the fear of man"
812.early morning sounds
813. not having to cook dinner
814. bear hug from my husband and all seems right in the world
815. clouds that resemble mountain peaks
816. a choice of shoes
817. crunchy pickle
818. a car accident that didn't happen
819. pumpkin spice coffee and homework oatmeal (compliments of BCG)
820. a grasshopper on my windshield
821. carrot cake cookie with cream cheese frosting
822. holding my husband's warm hand
823. spontaneous date with my husband
824. wearing my favorite hooded sweatshirt for the first time this season
825. dusty country road
826. inside jokes that I know about
827. public library
828. brakes on my car
829. fun jewelry
830. peeling paint on a farmhouse
831. a song in my heart
832. rest from a headache
833. friend with a tangible need met by God
834. making the choice to rejoice (I didn't mean to make it rhyme)
835. seeing an entire rainbow
836. hearing the marching band in the morning from across the highway
837. card in the mail
838. spying the first changing tree!
839. pumpkin spice latte on Saturday morning
840. little girl on the monkey bars and how her hair swings back and forth
841. hooray for October!
842. Friday night in the city
843. steam coming out of the vents
844. free upgrade to a king size suite
845. gelato
846. city lights from the 19th floor
847. the golden glow in the air
848. new recipe with my students that went well!
849. soft English muffins
850.student who was so excited about his mom announcing she's expecting...He kept saying the baby would be here in 7 days (instead of 7 months).
851. pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin dip with apples, and 2 bite pumpkin pies all in one day
852. being asked to make my Christmas list
853. friendly looking chrysanthemum
854. running water where I live whenever I turn on the faucet
855. black and white change from 2 weeks ago
856. home again
857. decorating for a new season
858. 2 years with my sweet husband
799.listening to Mat Kearney in the morning
800.encouragement from a friend in email form
801. promise of a 3 day weekend
802. student waving and calling goodbye from the bus window ("I love you Mrs. G!")
803.school picture day and how especially nice they look
804. student who ties anothers' shoes
805. my principal's sense of humor
806. new lunch boxes
807. straightened hair
808.enthusiasm for learning in a child
809.Gilmore Girls
810. getting to talk to people who are far away
811. choosing not to be a slave to "the fear of man"
812.early morning sounds
813. not having to cook dinner
814. bear hug from my husband and all seems right in the world
815. clouds that resemble mountain peaks
816. a choice of shoes
817. crunchy pickle
818. a car accident that didn't happen
819. pumpkin spice coffee and homework oatmeal (compliments of BCG)
820. a grasshopper on my windshield
821. carrot cake cookie with cream cheese frosting
822. holding my husband's warm hand
823. spontaneous date with my husband
824. wearing my favorite hooded sweatshirt for the first time this season
825. dusty country road
826. inside jokes that I know about
827. public library
828. brakes on my car
829. fun jewelry
830. peeling paint on a farmhouse
831. a song in my heart
832. rest from a headache
833. friend with a tangible need met by God
834. making the choice to rejoice (I didn't mean to make it rhyme)
835. seeing an entire rainbow
836. hearing the marching band in the morning from across the highway
837. card in the mail
838. spying the first changing tree!
839. pumpkin spice latte on Saturday morning
840. little girl on the monkey bars and how her hair swings back and forth
841. hooray for October!
842. Friday night in the city
843. steam coming out of the vents
844. free upgrade to a king size suite
845. gelato
846. city lights from the 19th floor
847. the golden glow in the air
848. new recipe with my students that went well!
849. soft English muffins
850.student who was so excited about his mom announcing she's expecting...He kept saying the baby would be here in 7 days (instead of 7 months).
851. pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin dip with apples, and 2 bite pumpkin pies all in one day
852. being asked to make my Christmas list
853. friendly looking chrysanthemum
854. running water where I live whenever I turn on the faucet
855. black and white change from 2 weeks ago
856. home again
857. decorating for a new season
858. 2 years with my sweet husband
Sunday, August 28, 2011
gratitude list:: #704-765
Finally reading Ann VosKamp's One Thousand Gifts (starting a new book after school has started...that's preposterous!) and I ran across this in the book that really spoke my heart:
"And blind eyes see: It's this sleuthing for the glory that shows a life gloriously...Giving thanks for one thousand things is ultimately an invitation to slow time down with weight of full attention. In this space of time and sphere, I am attentive, aware, accepting the whole of the moment, weighing it down with me all there."
704. a mother holding her baby while praying
705. watching Food Network while working out (I get a weird kind of satisfaction out of this)
706. breakfast in bed made by my husband
707. guy at the car place honoring our warranty that expired the day before
708. having more time than i thought I did
709. watching a "bride to be" at a bridal shower
710. Peace in the midst of uncertainty
711. whispers of truth
712. new recipe that is a new favorite
713. being invited by a child for her birthday dinner
714. inspirational teacher movies (and the movie marathons that ensue with Brooke)
715. a clean closet whipped into shape!
716. sunbeams
717. early morning runners
718. glow from the nightlight
719. relief from physical pain
720. rain puddles
721. not allowing discouragement to settle in
722. one full week of school under my belt
723. blueberry whole wheat pancakes
724. Sonic Thursday at school
725. child holding the door open for his friends
726. kitty on my lap while my Bible is open in front of me
727. book orders at school
728. butter toffee coffee
729. contented sighs of a baby
730. cute old lady crossing the street for church
731. opening new school supplies
732. cooler weather after extremely hot and record breaking weather
733. peace that passes understanding
734. freshly grated lemon peel
735. new basil plant
736. white tennis shoes and stiff shoe laces on my students
737. a project completed
738. being trusted with a confidence
739. desperate mews of Joey the cat locked outside
740. concerned friends
741. conversation with our pastor
742. how moving furniture transforms a room
743. "dinner to go" on the first day of school
744. mango salsa
745. first day of school flowers from my husband
746. relief of a stomachache
747. feeling rested
748. city skyline at Twilight
749. trying new food from a different culture
750. my students catching onto routine
751. sitting in a plush recliner in a movie theatre (I highly recommend the "Cinema Suites" at the Power and Light district...so much fun!)
752. baby turtles
753. fun date night with my husband
754. listening to Disney soundtracks from days gone by (those days when I used to sing with my "finger microphone")
755. cattails waving in the golden morning glow on the side of the road
756. Nutella on an English muffin for breakfast
757. husband's haircut that he did himself (and it looks great!)
758. kitty lying on a slice of afternoon sun on our bedroom floor
759. reading the newspaper on a Sunday afternoon
760. cooking with my husband
761. listening to opera while eating Italian food
762. flour on my cheek while baking cookies
763. perfect oatmeal chocolate chip cookies (the secret seems to be oatmeal that has been in the food processor til it's fine like flour)
764. new sheets on the bed
765. no wrinkles
"And blind eyes see: It's this sleuthing for the glory that shows a life gloriously...Giving thanks for one thousand things is ultimately an invitation to slow time down with weight of full attention. In this space of time and sphere, I am attentive, aware, accepting the whole of the moment, weighing it down with me all there."
704. a mother holding her baby while praying
705. watching Food Network while working out (I get a weird kind of satisfaction out of this)
706. breakfast in bed made by my husband
707. guy at the car place honoring our warranty that expired the day before
708. having more time than i thought I did
709. watching a "bride to be" at a bridal shower
710. Peace in the midst of uncertainty
711. whispers of truth
712. new recipe that is a new favorite
713. being invited by a child for her birthday dinner
714. inspirational teacher movies (and the movie marathons that ensue with Brooke)
715. a clean closet whipped into shape!
716. sunbeams
717. early morning runners
718. glow from the nightlight
719. relief from physical pain
720. rain puddles
721. not allowing discouragement to settle in
722. one full week of school under my belt
723. blueberry whole wheat pancakes
724. Sonic Thursday at school
725. child holding the door open for his friends
726. kitty on my lap while my Bible is open in front of me
727. book orders at school
728. butter toffee coffee
729. contented sighs of a baby
730. cute old lady crossing the street for church
731. opening new school supplies
732. cooler weather after extremely hot and record breaking weather
733. peace that passes understanding
734. freshly grated lemon peel
735. new basil plant
736. white tennis shoes and stiff shoe laces on my students
737. a project completed
738. being trusted with a confidence
739. desperate mews of Joey the cat locked outside
740. concerned friends
741. conversation with our pastor
742. how moving furniture transforms a room
743. "dinner to go" on the first day of school
744. mango salsa
745. first day of school flowers from my husband
746. relief of a stomachache
747. feeling rested
748. city skyline at Twilight
749. trying new food from a different culture
750. my students catching onto routine
751. sitting in a plush recliner in a movie theatre (I highly recommend the "Cinema Suites" at the Power and Light district...so much fun!)
752. baby turtles
753. fun date night with my husband
754. listening to Disney soundtracks from days gone by (those days when I used to sing with my "finger microphone")
755. cattails waving in the golden morning glow on the side of the road
756. Nutella on an English muffin for breakfast
757. husband's haircut that he did himself (and it looks great!)
758. kitty lying on a slice of afternoon sun on our bedroom floor
759. reading the newspaper on a Sunday afternoon
760. cooking with my husband
761. listening to opera while eating Italian food
762. flour on my cheek while baking cookies
763. perfect oatmeal chocolate chip cookies (the secret seems to be oatmeal that has been in the food processor til it's fine like flour)
764. new sheets on the bed
765. no wrinkles
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
659 and counting
It's been awhile...but I'm still keeping my eyes open for those everyday gifts.
659. a lone sunflower
660. white sundress on a hot day
661. lime floating in a glass of water
662. "cotton candy" clouds
663. hearing my mom tell about how her dad taught her to float on her back. It was a sweet little story.
664. sharing ice cream
665. mangos 2 for a $1
666. genuine healthcare professionals who really seem to care about my life (either that or they pretend really, really well!)
667. tapping my foot to Michael Buble while driving down the road
668. a cool, dark theatre
669. being home again
670. birthday candle melting in ice cream
671.being a priority
672. grinning, cooing baby
673. blue inner tube at the pool
674. the arrival of a much anticipated package
675. giving a cold glass of water to the UPS man
676. a friend taking me up on helping her unpack boxes after moving
677. fans on high while working in a hot kitchen
678. looking at photos at my mamaw's house
679. the beautiful, rolling "hills/mountains" of Tennessee (my parents have on ongoing debate about which is the correct term)
680. listening to my mom laugh
681. being able to offer something that is a blessing to my parents
682. driving into the sunset
683. my Great Mamaw's mischievous chuckle
684. kiss from my husband when he gets home from work
685. husband planning a date for us
686. cloudy day after a string of unbelievably HOT days
687. early breakfast with friends
688. homemade peach ice cream
689. pleasant surprises
690. happy and giggling baby "streaking" through his house after a bath
691. coming home to a clean house (and it smells like it too!)
692. new thrift store finds
693. tank tops
694. completing something I started
695. feeling rested when waking up in the morning
696. invitation from a friend even though they know you'll probably say "no"
697. looking through my awesome birthday cards one more time before putting them away
698. what happens with a little windex and paper towels
699. eating at my Mamaw and Papaw's favorite restaurant
700. aptly spoken words of truth
701. a newly organized closet
702. snoozing and lazy Joey the cat
703. some awesome finds for the upcoming school year
659. a lone sunflower
660. white sundress on a hot day
661. lime floating in a glass of water
662. "cotton candy" clouds
663. hearing my mom tell about how her dad taught her to float on her back. It was a sweet little story.
664. sharing ice cream
665. mangos 2 for a $1
666. genuine healthcare professionals who really seem to care about my life (either that or they pretend really, really well!)
667. tapping my foot to Michael Buble while driving down the road
668. a cool, dark theatre
669. being home again
670. birthday candle melting in ice cream
671.being a priority
672. grinning, cooing baby
673. blue inner tube at the pool
674. the arrival of a much anticipated package
675. giving a cold glass of water to the UPS man
676. a friend taking me up on helping her unpack boxes after moving
677. fans on high while working in a hot kitchen
678. looking at photos at my mamaw's house
679. the beautiful, rolling "hills/mountains" of Tennessee (my parents have on ongoing debate about which is the correct term)
680. listening to my mom laugh
681. being able to offer something that is a blessing to my parents
682. driving into the sunset
683. my Great Mamaw's mischievous chuckle
684. kiss from my husband when he gets home from work
685. husband planning a date for us
686. cloudy day after a string of unbelievably HOT days
687. early breakfast with friends
688. homemade peach ice cream
689. pleasant surprises
690. happy and giggling baby "streaking" through his house after a bath
691. coming home to a clean house (and it smells like it too!)
692. new thrift store finds
693. tank tops
694. completing something I started
695. feeling rested when waking up in the morning
696. invitation from a friend even though they know you'll probably say "no"
697. looking through my awesome birthday cards one more time before putting them away
698. what happens with a little windex and paper towels
699. eating at my Mamaw and Papaw's favorite restaurant
700. aptly spoken words of truth
701. a newly organized closet
702. snoozing and lazy Joey the cat
703. some awesome finds for the upcoming school year
Monday, June 13, 2011
#564-588
564. watching a movie on the couch and NOT working on school stuff!
565. newly painted toe nails
566. husband who gladly goes grocery shopping
567. winning at my favorite game three times in a row! (bananagrams-love it!)
568. antique fairs on Saturdays
569. unseasonable coolness outside
570. brushing Joey the cat (and how happy it makes him!)
571. morning conversation with my neighbor (and I was just saying yesterday I hadn't seen him in a while...)
572. forging new friendships
573. Saturday morning breakfast and time in the Word at Panera: blueberry scone, coffee, and my husband
574. being told "I love you Mrs. G" by one of my new students
575. gracious people
576. 20 minute naps and how it's often the perfect amount!
577. finding the perfect gift
578. friendships that have not only lasted but thrived for nearly a decade
579. how the room smells after the Lavendar and vacuum cleaner have been there
580. art musems and how I feel smarter and more sophisticated by going to one (even if I only get 40% of what I read on the plaques on the walls)
581. consistency with people
582. a new journal
583. how water visibly makes a plant perk back up in half an hour's time (you are so smart, God!)
584. open invitations
585. nearly inaudible prayers and how it humbles me
586. seeing someone's faith journey (and how it inspires me)
587. praying specifically from God's Word and how it lifts me up!
588. seeing the "love pit" in the hallway and being genuinely happy to see him!
565. newly painted toe nails
566. husband who gladly goes grocery shopping
567. winning at my favorite game three times in a row! (bananagrams-love it!)
568. antique fairs on Saturdays
569. unseasonable coolness outside
570. brushing Joey the cat (and how happy it makes him!)
571. morning conversation with my neighbor (and I was just saying yesterday I hadn't seen him in a while...)
572. forging new friendships
573. Saturday morning breakfast and time in the Word at Panera: blueberry scone, coffee, and my husband
574. being told "I love you Mrs. G" by one of my new students
575. gracious people
576. 20 minute naps and how it's often the perfect amount!
577. finding the perfect gift
578. friendships that have not only lasted but thrived for nearly a decade
579. how the room smells after the Lavendar and vacuum cleaner have been there
580. art musems and how I feel smarter and more sophisticated by going to one (even if I only get 40% of what I read on the plaques on the walls)
581. consistency with people
582. a new journal
583. how water visibly makes a plant perk back up in half an hour's time (you are so smart, God!)
584. open invitations
585. nearly inaudible prayers and how it humbles me
586. seeing someone's faith journey (and how it inspires me)
587. praying specifically from God's Word and how it lifts me up!
588. seeing the "love pit" in the hallway and being genuinely happy to see him!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
when I want someone else's life...
I'm so glad that God doesn't tire of me. His Father's heart makes it impossible. I know I get exhausted listening to my inner dialogue:
"I can't wait for ..."
"My life will be good when..."
"When____ happens, I will be content."
This is why I do the "gratitude list." Looking for the "endless gifts" that my Savior has blessed me with in everyday, nitty gritty, sometimes up, and sometimes down life. This is what I heard from the Spirit yesterday when I was having yet another "I want that person's life!" moment:
"I am the Standard, Megan. I am the 'measuring stick.' Compare yourself to me. Someone will always have what you consider a better job, better place to live, better body, better lifestyle, etc... (and someone will always have what you consider worse than you too...so help them!). "
This probably never happens to you, but I often find myself in a downward spiral after being on Facebook for an extended period of time (which is why I try to keep it short). I start seeing pictures of people's lives and wishing I were them...in an unhealthy way sometimes. I want their house, their kids, their location, their job (or lack of a job so I can stay home with the imaginary children I have:)...I do have to say I never want anyone else's husband:) I can very emphatically say that!
Anyway, I realized yesterday this is one more reason why I"m specifically looking for things to be thankful for...to notice God's active Grace in my life. You're probably like me and you can much more easily see where God is working in others' life...so much more than your own. The ironic thing is that yesterday morning I was asking God to help me "see the big picture" as I was half grumbling, half praying on my drive to school.
My new motto for when I get in this downward, ungrateful, discontent spiral towards the "greener grass on the other side": "It's only true if I agree with those thoughts." I can discard them. Put on new thoughts. That's what Paul was saying in Ephesians 4:20-24
"20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." (emphasis mine)
So after that little intro, here's my "gratitude list"...with renewed vigor I might add!
541. getting splashed when sitting on the edge of the pool (the kid that splashed me achieved his first cannon ball...cute!)
542. a mom and her son playing "Go Fish" on the train
543. bandaids on knobby knee
544. friends who save us money
545. small town train depots
546. neat rows of farmland
547. small Missouri towns
548. cold aloe vera on a sun burn
549. not worrying about the price (Let's just say when Bob told me this at dinner on Saturday night, I didn't know the price and mine ended up being 3 times as much as his. He will definitely never let me live it down. )
550. view from the 40th floor
551. friendly waiters and waitresses who almost seem like old friends
552. fans in a hot room
553. people who go above and beyond
554. old and artful buildings
555. hearing different accents when people talk
556.public transportation
557. people who explain things in terms I can understand
558. clean towels
559. honest children
560.smell of sunscreen
561. a "stolen kiss" on the elevator
562. fun finds at Pier 1
563. six hours with nothing to do but play card games, drink coke, read, nap, and talk about random things
"I can't wait for ..."
"My life will be good when..."
"When____ happens, I will be content."
This is why I do the "gratitude list." Looking for the "endless gifts" that my Savior has blessed me with in everyday, nitty gritty, sometimes up, and sometimes down life. This is what I heard from the Spirit yesterday when I was having yet another "I want that person's life!" moment:
"I am the Standard, Megan. I am the 'measuring stick.' Compare yourself to me. Someone will always have what you consider a better job, better place to live, better body, better lifestyle, etc... (and someone will always have what you consider worse than you too...so help them!). "
This probably never happens to you, but I often find myself in a downward spiral after being on Facebook for an extended period of time (which is why I try to keep it short). I start seeing pictures of people's lives and wishing I were them...in an unhealthy way sometimes. I want their house, their kids, their location, their job (or lack of a job so I can stay home with the imaginary children I have:)...I do have to say I never want anyone else's husband:) I can very emphatically say that!
Anyway, I realized yesterday this is one more reason why I"m specifically looking for things to be thankful for...to notice God's active Grace in my life. You're probably like me and you can much more easily see where God is working in others' life...so much more than your own. The ironic thing is that yesterday morning I was asking God to help me "see the big picture" as I was half grumbling, half praying on my drive to school.
My new motto for when I get in this downward, ungrateful, discontent spiral towards the "greener grass on the other side": "It's only true if I agree with those thoughts." I can discard them. Put on new thoughts. That's what Paul was saying in Ephesians 4:20-24
"20 That, however, is not the way of life you learned 21 when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness." (emphasis mine)
So after that little intro, here's my "gratitude list"...with renewed vigor I might add!
541. getting splashed when sitting on the edge of the pool (the kid that splashed me achieved his first cannon ball...cute!)
542. a mom and her son playing "Go Fish" on the train
543. bandaids on knobby knee
544. friends who save us money
545. small town train depots
546. neat rows of farmland
547. small Missouri towns548. cold aloe vera on a sun burn
549. not worrying about the price (Let's just say when Bob told me this at dinner on Saturday night, I didn't know the price and mine ended up being 3 times as much as his. He will definitely never let me live it down. )
550. view from the 40th floor
551. friendly waiters and waitresses who almost seem like old friends
552. fans in a hot room
553. people who go above and beyond
554. old and artful buildings
555. hearing different accents when people talk556.public transportation
557. people who explain things in terms I can understand
558. clean towels
559. honest children
560.smell of sunscreen
561. a "stolen kiss" on the elevator
562. fun finds at Pier 1
563. six hours with nothing to do but play card games, drink coke, read, nap, and talk about random things
Saturday, May 14, 2011
halfway there!
479. the kitty snuggling with me on a Saturday morning
480. cheerful Gerbera daisies on a cloudy day
481. smell of fresh pineapple I can smell from across the room
482. breakfast date at First Watch
483. walking out the door in the morning and non-humid air after 3 days straight of stiffling, humid air
484. a child's hand finding it's way into mine
485. a good cry
486. searching the Scriptures for relief
487. finally doing what I know I need to do
488. complete rainbow @ 6:30
489. coconut in chocolate
490. unexpected rest
491. my husband's funny "radio announcer" voice
492. people meeting practical needs for far away loved ones
493. fellowship around the table
494. learning something new
495. what a tablecloth will do for a room
496. watching kids' movies
497. rearranging
498. Sonic drink Wednesdays
499. advice and wisdom from those wiser than me
500. husband who says "let me go grocery shopping so you can rest" after a crazy weekend
480. cheerful Gerbera daisies on a cloudy day
481. smell of fresh pineapple I can smell from across the room
482. breakfast date at First Watch
483. walking out the door in the morning and non-humid air after 3 days straight of stiffling, humid air
484. a child's hand finding it's way into mine
485. a good cry
486. searching the Scriptures for relief
487. finally doing what I know I need to do
488. complete rainbow @ 6:30
489. coconut in chocolate
490. unexpected rest
491. my husband's funny "radio announcer" voice
492. people meeting practical needs for far away loved ones
493. fellowship around the table
494. learning something new
495. what a tablecloth will do for a room
496. watching kids' movies
497. rearranging
498. Sonic drink Wednesdays
499. advice and wisdom from those wiser than me
500. husband who says "let me go grocery shopping so you can rest" after a crazy weekend
Thursday, May 5, 2011
#456 and on and on and on
456. working windshield wipers
457. sweet potato friends, olive oil, and rosemary
458. Seeing one of my sweet students reunited with her mom after a month of not seeing her...I was in tears and swallowing all kinds of lumps in my throat. I've walked this hard road with this little girl the past month and it's been so heart wrenching but it was rewarding to see her joy today!
459. my husband's excitement over his new birthday gift
460. having an apartment full of people that I have "history" with
461. a crayon "masterpiece" by a 2 year old
462. the sky after it rains
463. God using me in the right place at the right time
464. witnessing someone open the card I made them and seeing their face light up
465. a two day break
466. the connection we have with the Father...I can talk to Him anytime! I take that for granted.
467. a laugh with coworkers at 7:30 am
468. hearing someone's story of their walk with the Lord
469. homemade-ish rolls (love Rhodes rolls!)
470. that Thursday afternoon mantra..."One more day, one more day..."
471. knowing I was made for more than this
472. hearing my favorite new song on the radio ("Christ is Risen" by Matt Maher)
473. mexican food on cinco de mayo
474. notes written from moms in kids' lunchboxes
475. being missed
476. rare card making time after school
477. my Michael Buble pandora station
478. a fabulous selection on etsy! One click=awesome and personal gift
457. sweet potato friends, olive oil, and rosemary
458. Seeing one of my sweet students reunited with her mom after a month of not seeing her...I was in tears and swallowing all kinds of lumps in my throat. I've walked this hard road with this little girl the past month and it's been so heart wrenching but it was rewarding to see her joy today!
459. my husband's excitement over his new birthday gift
460. having an apartment full of people that I have "history" with
461. a crayon "masterpiece" by a 2 year old
462. the sky after it rains
463. God using me in the right place at the right time
464. witnessing someone open the card I made them and seeing their face light up
465. a two day break
466. the connection we have with the Father...I can talk to Him anytime! I take that for granted.
467. a laugh with coworkers at 7:30 am
468. hearing someone's story of their walk with the Lord
469. homemade-ish rolls (love Rhodes rolls!)
470. that Thursday afternoon mantra..."One more day, one more day..."
471. knowing I was made for more than this
472. hearing my favorite new song on the radio ("Christ is Risen" by Matt Maher)
473. mexican food on cinco de mayo
474. notes written from moms in kids' lunchboxes
475. being missed
476. rare card making time after school
477. my Michael Buble pandora station
478. a fabulous selection on etsy! One click=awesome and personal gift
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
307-353
Just a clarification...this ongoing list of things I'm grateful for which my "mentor" Ann Voskamp calls "the endless gifts"...it's not just tapping into "the power of positive thinking." These come straight from God's hand...even if somewhat indirectly. When life is hard or monotonous (when is it not for one reason or another?), it's a comfort to know He's pouring out into our lives. He's there...we just have to look. And it keeps me as the recipient from my Gracious Father. I deserve nothing...these bright spots in my days are straight from the Giver of all Good Gifts.
307.friend asking for my help (for some reason I feel honored when someone asks me to do them a favor...maybe because I know a lot of my friends are like me and hardly ever ask for help)
308. cupcakes from our neighbor
309. the weather that matches my mood
310. mail from a 3 year old
311. curling up in the recliner on a Sunday
312. pizza delivery
313. husband who makes my lunch
314. mint crinkle cookies at Panera
315. the long line of cars at the recycling place on Saturday...that means a lot of people taking care of the Earth!
316. migraine meds that work
317. grace from my husband when I don't feel well
318. the path of lamplight
319. conversations about life with my school custodian
320. awesome substitute teachers
321. board games
322. new markers
322. microwave defrost cycle
323. pigtails and leg warmers on a 2 year old
324. students who love to read
325. spring decorations
326. a mix CD from my principal (she comes driving into the parking lot each morning with her music blaring...I can hear the bass. I told her I liked her music. She said she'd make me a CD :)
327. house shoes
328. school nurses...not just there to help the kids!
329. children laughing outloud while I read them a story
330. down blankets
331. outdoor recess
332. genuine concern
333. new shoes
334. airport runs to pick up people i love (the road that circles the KCI terminals is exactly .49 miles long)
335. book fairs
336. oatmeal with peanut butter, bananas, and craisins
337. free coffee drinks
338. my husband who gets giddy (so that he can't sleep!) about our new phones
339. my husband enjoying his job and telling me stories (we all know he's heard just a few of my stories...)
340. miracle of Joey the cat coming back home (I was reminded of it this week as it was the "year anniversary" where he ran away)
341.my dad's jokes
342. familiarity of knowing who is at school by checking the cars in the parking lot
343. Holy Spirit reminding me when not to say something ... ("Leave it alone, Megan")
344. rain boots
345. movies
346. a hidden chocolate stash at home and school!
347. awesome parent volunteers
348. knowing I'm empty and can't make it through the day without Him
349. snooze alarm...it makes me feel like I'm stealing a few more minutes of sleep...all about perspective I say.
350. getting home earlier than usual
351. Saturday morning breakfast at a new restaraunt
352. prayer times in the car
353. watching a friend have faith in God and His Goodness that encourages and inspires me
307.friend asking for my help (for some reason I feel honored when someone asks me to do them a favor...maybe because I know a lot of my friends are like me and hardly ever ask for help)
308. cupcakes from our neighbor
309. the weather that matches my mood
310. mail from a 3 year old
311. curling up in the recliner on a Sunday
312. pizza delivery
313. husband who makes my lunch
314. mint crinkle cookies at Panera
315. the long line of cars at the recycling place on Saturday...that means a lot of people taking care of the Earth!
316. migraine meds that work
317. grace from my husband when I don't feel well
318. the path of lamplight
319. conversations about life with my school custodian
320. awesome substitute teachers
321. board games
322. new markers
322. microwave defrost cycle
323. pigtails and leg warmers on a 2 year old
324. students who love to read
325. spring decorations
326. a mix CD from my principal (she comes driving into the parking lot each morning with her music blaring...I can hear the bass. I told her I liked her music. She said she'd make me a CD :)
327. house shoes
328. school nurses...not just there to help the kids!
329. children laughing outloud while I read them a story
330. down blankets
331. outdoor recess
332. genuine concern
333. new shoes
334. airport runs to pick up people i love (the road that circles the KCI terminals is exactly .49 miles long)
335. book fairs
336. oatmeal with peanut butter, bananas, and craisins
337. free coffee drinks
338. my husband who gets giddy (so that he can't sleep!) about our new phones
339. my husband enjoying his job and telling me stories (we all know he's heard just a few of my stories...)
340. miracle of Joey the cat coming back home (I was reminded of it this week as it was the "year anniversary" where he ran away)
341.my dad's jokes
342. familiarity of knowing who is at school by checking the cars in the parking lot
343. Holy Spirit reminding me when not to say something ... ("Leave it alone, Megan")
344. rain boots
345. movies
346. a hidden chocolate stash at home and school!
347. awesome parent volunteers
348. knowing I'm empty and can't make it through the day without Him
349. snooze alarm...it makes me feel like I'm stealing a few more minutes of sleep...all about perspective I say.
350. getting home earlier than usual
351. Saturday morning breakfast at a new restaraunt
352. prayer times in the car
353. watching a friend have faith in God and His Goodness that encourages and inspires me
Saturday, February 26, 2011
#277-306
277. matched pairs of socks while sorting laundry
278. spontaneous gifts from parents
279. seeing my girls Katie and Tara
280. the sound of my husband's voice on the phone
281. "sour strawberry belts" in a surprise package in the mail (background story: A student I had several years ago in Bolivar who is now in 5th grade-- saw my favorite sour candy and told his mom they had to get some for me because it made him think of me. It made my day!)
282. smell of my hair mousse
283. notes my husband hides for me to find
284. newly decorated rooms
285. alphabet soup noodles
286. a child asking you to read them a story
287. harvest-like full moon in February
288. the lights of Bolivar when you drive over the last hill on highway 13 (a welcome sight on a Friday night after driving after a full work week)
289.smelling dinner when walking up the stairs
290. well loved kitchen tables
291. new candle scents
292. wisdom from my little 90 year old friend I go visit
293. unexpected 3 day weekend
294. new sheets on the bed (possible I've said this one before but don 't want to go back and look)
295. vacuuming (have i mentioned how much I love my bagless vacuum and getting to dump out all of the dirt and junk each time...I love seeing where I've made a difference...weird I know!)
296. concern of a friend
297. date nights
298. new craft ideas that are abundant via blogs
299. new uses for old things
300. grocery shopping with my husband
301. grocery store produce sections...amazing! We are so blessed we can just walk in and find just about anything...
302. finding myself with a little extra time on my hands (so unusual!)
303. snow day when I really need a sick day...no worrying about getting things together for a substitute
304. cars careening into snow banks and not a dent (Bob's car this morning on the unexpected icy roads)
305. the energizing effect of listening to country music while cleaning our apartment
306. mistake that turns into a great new discovery (a card I was working on and Bob's suggestion saved the day!)
278. spontaneous gifts from parents
279. seeing my girls Katie and Tara
280. the sound of my husband's voice on the phone
281. "sour strawberry belts" in a surprise package in the mail (background story: A student I had several years ago in Bolivar who is now in 5th grade-- saw my favorite sour candy and told his mom they had to get some for me because it made him think of me. It made my day!)
282. smell of my hair mousse
283. notes my husband hides for me to find
284. newly decorated rooms
285. alphabet soup noodles
286. a child asking you to read them a story
287. harvest-like full moon in February
288. the lights of Bolivar when you drive over the last hill on highway 13 (a welcome sight on a Friday night after driving after a full work week)
289.smelling dinner when walking up the stairs
290. well loved kitchen tables
291. new candle scents
292. wisdom from my little 90 year old friend I go visit
293. unexpected 3 day weekend
294. new sheets on the bed (possible I've said this one before but don 't want to go back and look)
295. vacuuming (have i mentioned how much I love my bagless vacuum and getting to dump out all of the dirt and junk each time...I love seeing where I've made a difference...weird I know!)
296. concern of a friend
297. date nights
298. new craft ideas that are abundant via blogs
299. new uses for old things
300. grocery shopping with my husband
301. grocery store produce sections...amazing! We are so blessed we can just walk in and find just about anything...
302. finding myself with a little extra time on my hands (so unusual!)
303. snow day when I really need a sick day...no worrying about getting things together for a substitute
304. cars careening into snow banks and not a dent (Bob's car this morning on the unexpected icy roads)
305. the energizing effect of listening to country music while cleaning our apartment
306. mistake that turns into a great new discovery (a card I was working on and Bob's suggestion saved the day!)
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
#251 and beyond
So typing is a little hard right now (as I cut my finger pretty good last night on a knife while doing dishes), we'll see how far I can go...
251. half days off of school so I can go to a 20 minute doctor's appointment. I got a nap out of it with Joey the cat!
252. being a kindergarten teacher on Valentine's day (how can you not feel loved with chocolate and cards?)
253. my sister's boyfriend writing a song and singing it for her...it really wasn't cheesy at all actually!
254. the pointer finger on my dominant hand...it does so much in an average day!
255. students who rub off my rough edges
256. my teacher friend who brought me sour patch kids (one of my favorite sour candies) one day to cheer me up after a rough day before
257. students who ask me"What's wrong with you Mrs. G? Are you sick?" when I tell them I'll be gone in the afternoon.
258. getting 2 hand written notes in the mail today
259. chapter to read for free from Ann Voskamp's new book
260. snow and slush melting off the fields and from the "mountains" in parking lots (never mind that the Farmer's Almanac predicts another blizzard much like the "Groundhog Day" one the end of February...)
261. breakfast in bed
262. pink shoes on a gray day
263. highs in the 60s and 70s in February
264. outdoor recess and the sound of balls bouncing
265. five years olds and hula hoops
266. popcicles on a sore throat
267. my husband who anticipates my needs
268. the worship and visual arts team at my church and the little things they do that enhance our worship experience
269. gift cards in the mail...thanks mom and dad!
270. being trusted
271; studying God's Word and application with a good friend
272. breakfast date at Ginger Sue's in Liberty
273. antique stores...if only something being old actually made it less expensive in this case! I could spend days antique shopping.
274. town squares
275. creating something I know others will love
276. my funny husband who bought me a Valentine's Day card that meows...he gets me! (every time Joey the cat hears it, he comes running)
What is something you are thankful for today? An "endless gift?" A blessing from above. Nothing is too small...
251. half days off of school so I can go to a 20 minute doctor's appointment. I got a nap out of it with Joey the cat!
252. being a kindergarten teacher on Valentine's day (how can you not feel loved with chocolate and cards?)
253. my sister's boyfriend writing a song and singing it for her...it really wasn't cheesy at all actually!
254. the pointer finger on my dominant hand...it does so much in an average day!
255. students who rub off my rough edges
256. my teacher friend who brought me sour patch kids (one of my favorite sour candies) one day to cheer me up after a rough day before
257. students who ask me"What's wrong with you Mrs. G? Are you sick?" when I tell them I'll be gone in the afternoon.
258. getting 2 hand written notes in the mail today
259. chapter to read for free from Ann Voskamp's new book
260. snow and slush melting off the fields and from the "mountains" in parking lots (never mind that the Farmer's Almanac predicts another blizzard much like the "Groundhog Day" one the end of February...)
261. breakfast in bed
262. pink shoes on a gray day
263. highs in the 60s and 70s in February
264. outdoor recess and the sound of balls bouncing
265. five years olds and hula hoops
266. popcicles on a sore throat
267. my husband who anticipates my needs
268. the worship and visual arts team at my church and the little things they do that enhance our worship experience
269. gift cards in the mail...thanks mom and dad!
270. being trusted
271; studying God's Word and application with a good friend
272. breakfast date at Ginger Sue's in Liberty
273. antique stores...if only something being old actually made it less expensive in this case! I could spend days antique shopping.
274. town squares
275. creating something I know others will love
276. my funny husband who bought me a Valentine's Day card that meows...he gets me! (every time Joey the cat hears it, he comes running)
What is something you are thankful for today? An "endless gift?" A blessing from above. Nothing is too small...
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
#237-250
237. sharing cosmic brownies with Dawn at school from the leftover snack basket...because "if you eat half, it doesn't count."
238.how using Ivory dishwashing soap in the kitchen makes me think of my Mamaw and Papaw's house in Georgia (and washing dishes with them when I was little...and how much fun I thought it was!)
239. the peace I gain from an afternoon of crafting and creating
240. sharing the blizzard with our neighbor and friend with a movie we'd never heard of before and tortilla soup
241. new recipes and when they turn out like I hoped they would
242. so thankful that the shower didn't break on a day I had school!
243. the heated corn sack (that my friend BJ made me) that lies at my feet each night when I got to bed
244. renewed relationships
245. my school friend Janie popping in to my classroom to say good morning and good bye everyday
246. joey the cat being entertained by a pen for at least 10 minutes
247. the blizzard imposed "snowcation" and how it's a perfect excuse for staying inside like a little hermit crab and cuddle up with my husband while watching the adventures of Michael,Dwight, Jim, and Pam (otherwise known as the Office)
248. one of my most frustrating students giving me a heartfelt hug when he's remorseful
249. sending Valentines in the mail
250. sweet little girl in my class with a new haircut...she had at least 6-8 inches chopped off!
She was so excited to show me!
238.how using Ivory dishwashing soap in the kitchen makes me think of my Mamaw and Papaw's house in Georgia (and washing dishes with them when I was little...and how much fun I thought it was!)
239. the peace I gain from an afternoon of crafting and creating
240. sharing the blizzard with our neighbor and friend with a movie we'd never heard of before and tortilla soup
241. new recipes and when they turn out like I hoped they would
242. so thankful that the shower didn't break on a day I had school!
243. the heated corn sack (that my friend BJ made me) that lies at my feet each night when I got to bed
244. renewed relationships
245. my school friend Janie popping in to my classroom to say good morning and good bye everyday
246. joey the cat being entertained by a pen for at least 10 minutes
247. the blizzard imposed "snowcation" and how it's a perfect excuse for staying inside like a little hermit crab and cuddle up with my husband while watching the adventures of Michael,Dwight, Jim, and Pam (otherwise known as the Office)
248. one of my most frustrating students giving me a heartfelt hug when he's remorseful
249. sending Valentines in the mail
250. sweet little girl in my class with a new haircut...she had at least 6-8 inches chopped off!
She was so excited to show me!
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