the blessings i see

2011-12-14T15:05:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was an interesting day. I took a shower at seven and all was fine - at eight I sent C to take a bath and she comes running and was very upset when she said "The water is all brown and looks like someone 'dddd' in it."

The long discovery story can be shortened to this: The sediment in our unused water-softener overflowed and hit all the systems in our house and clogged all the lines.

We had no toilets, no sinks, and no showers. Talk about a sudden realization about the blessing of indoor plumbing. Tim got the toilets working and one sink. Then we called a plumber. Tim replaced all the valves in the toilets. The plumber came out and confirmed what happened and finished getting things running and made sure all was well. Turns out he is Christian. He saw our New King James Bibles and starting talking bible translations with Tim. We only had to pay 79 dollars for the visit which was a great deal less than I anticipated.

Blessings:

a Christian plumber
an inexpensive plumber
the repairs were relatively easy for Tim to make
and surely the greatest blessing beyond the difficulties and expense is that of having indoor plumbing in the first place.

September 7, 2011

2011-09-09T04:53:00.000-07:00

It is very, very hard to be thankful when you are angry. I imagine the inverse might be true too. It is very, very hard to be angry when you are thankful. However, right now - I am angry. It is an old, old, old source of irritation that has decided to become worse. It is an irritation that when it doesn't change I can live with peacefully but when it gets worse and starts effecting the quality of life around here, I want to start raging. I want to yell, scream, throw things, in short I want to revert to old behaviours that while they may not have helped seemed to feel good at the time.

I am so angry that it effected my dreams. Nothing is worse than waking up angry. Now I want to cry.

So what am I thankful for?

I am thankful that God has taught me how to let go of my anger. I know that with prayer and reflection, He will show me how to let this anger go.

I am thankful for His mercy. I know that even if God doesn't change the problem, He can and will restore my peace and give me the strength to carry on.

I am thankful that while we had visitors. We functioned well and normally.

I am thankful for the beautiful sunflowers in my backyard.

I am thankful that I have no errands that must be run today.

I am thankful for things that I cannot put into writing without compromising my life. I am so thankful that God provides and looks after me no matter what.

opportunities

2011-08-29T04:52:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for the opportunities I experience today.

I get to wake up and prepare for the first day where I teach my children 'school' from home.

I have the pleasure of preparing nutritious food for my family to eat.

I have countless moments where God has given me the opportunity to smile and to spread the joy to those around me.

August 13, 2011

2011-08-13T06:55:00.001-07:00

I am thankful to the bottom of my soul that as long as God gives me breath I have a new opportunity to do better with every subsequent breath. I fall so very short of giving Him anything like the regard, honor, or glory that He deserves. I am so very, very thankful that His grace is able to redeem the mistakes of the past.

January 13, 2011

2011-01-13T13:51:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that God blesses me with friends and family who I do not know well on earth but one day when we are united in heaven I will have the opportunity to get to know very well.

I am thankful for the power of words. I watched the movie Amazing Grace about Wilberforce and I am thankful for how God works through words.

I am thankful that God works through our weaknesses. We are so frail and so prone to pride and yet He works.

forgiveness

2009-02-20T13:16:00.000-08:00

Oswald Chambers challenges us not to be thankful for things but to be thankful in things. I can truly say I am thankful for living inside God's forgiveness. I've received it freely whenever I ask and I can honestly say that with the exception of my MIL I give it freely. Sometimes it is harder to give than others and I know I must forgive my MIL too - I just don't know how.

But today - I can say - I am thankful for forgiveness and for God allowing me to live in forgiveness and to dwell in the safety of His forgiveness even when I screw up.

I can only pray that I can learn another lesson in forgiveness and learn how to forgive my MIL - I imagine the relief will be sublime.

Monday, March 17, 2008

2008-03-17T13:51:00.000-07:00

The girl's are on spring break. I don't have to drive back and forth from school everyday. Yeah!

The temperatures actually get above freezing during the day!!

I love my new washing machine and can't wait to see how much energy I saved using it.

Friday, March 14, 2008

2008-03-14T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have an endless supply of books available to me. I can buy them from a bookstore, borrow them from a library, find them at a thrift store, order them from the internet, borrow them from a friend. I can read fiction and non-fiction. I can have illustrated copies or plain text copies. I know how to read my native language. I have choices.

I have the means to record my thoughts. I can write them on the computer and print them on paper. I can write them on an on-line journal. I can write them on scrap paper. I can write them in a notebook. I can write them in a beautiful journal. I can write them with code, pen, pencil, marker, crayon, even paint. I have choices.

I can moisturize my dry hands to prevent them from cracking. I can use anyone of a zillion lotions available to me at any store. I can buy lotions to suit my scent style. I can buy lotions that smell good to me. I can buy lotions that are safe for allergic people, I can buy lotions especially for diabetics. I have choices.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

2008-03-12T14:22:00.000-07:00

Dark cloudy cave days - they seem so much more relaxed.

Comfort food.

Little hands patting my back. K has a tender, tender, tender heart.

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

2008-03-11T20:53:00.000-07:00

Not only do I have clean water to drink, but I have the option to put ice in it or heat it up using my stove or microwave. If I do not like my water plain, I can choose to steep one of a variety of teabags in it or filter it through some favored coffee grounds. I can add sugar to it or I can pour it over a hot chocolate mix and enjoy a dessert like beverage.

If my headaches, I can go to the cabinet and cut the pain using medication from one of three varieties of non-prescription over-the-counter pain killers. I can drink something with caffeine to reduce the swelling and constrict the blood vessels in my head or I can drink caffeine to offset my addiction. I can put an icepack on my neck or my forehead to relieve my aching head.

After supper, I can choose to read a book, watch television, work on a project, or type here on the computer all because I have electricity. I do not need to go to bed when the light in the sky fails.

I am thankful not only can I do these things but I have a wealth of choices in what I do. I have more than many people on this planet.

Monday, March 10, 2008

2008-03-10T15:12:00.002-07:00

I have a choice of shoes. While I deliberately limit my shoes. I have one pair of dress shoes, one pair of dress boots, two pairs of every day shoes, one pair of snow boots, two pairs of sandals and a pair of slippers. I can choose what I put on my feet when I leave the house. I can choose what suits the weather, my outfit, and my mood.

I have the privilege of staying home with my children and taking care of all their needs every day. I am the one who teaches them their Bible, and listen to them learn to read, and show them how to keep a house. I am the one who intervenes when they fight with each other and don't get along. I am fulfilling my responsibility as a parent to raise a God-fearing child the best way I know how (with the help of God).

I have a mother who I love and admire and who is now (in my opinion, most importantly) my friend.

2007-12-21T04:53:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for God’s willingness to protect us from our own foolishness. Prone to wander – we go back to old sins for that rush even though we know the consequences and know that they are not worth it.

I am thankful for the great artistic beauty in the visitations of fog and freezing temps. The frost has been gorgeous.

I am thankful for the absolute beauty of my children. One moment they are holy terrors the next their beauty beams out and I am smitten once again.

Monday, November 26, 2007

2007-11-26T19:28:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for blueberry and lemon chiffon sunrises.

I am thankful for quiet days and holidays with my Mom and Dad.

I am thankful for the sweetness of spirit that shows more and more in DramaQueen's behavior.

I am thankful for the way Stinkerbell likes to be held when she doesn't feel well. To coz a child is a sweet, sweet gift.

Monday, November 19, 2007

2007-11-19T14:43:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for cool air and how it wakes up a persons body and soul.

I am thankful for friends who care enough to really want to know (like Rudy).

I am thankful for the way time seems to be expanding right now - as if there is more time than I need - when I know there is less.

Monday, April 23, 2007

2007-04-23T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for friends who I can call and unload too.

I am thankful for the Pastor Emeritus of our church and the wonderful sermon he and his son collaborated on while our pastor was away.

I am thankful for the balmy weather and the rain that we experienced this weekend.

Thursday, April 19, 2007

2007-04-19T03:20:00.001-07:00

I am thankful for feeling awake and alert this morning. I need this aloneness and I need it when my brain functions.

I am thankful that the television can be turned off and we don’t have to listen to the news reports out of Virginia Tech constantly.

I am thankful that the pro-life movement won a battle.

I am thankful for masses of projects to work on.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

2007-04-10T12:50:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for Rhonda’s the gentle reminder to thankfulness.

I am thankful for the glorious freedom and magic of a huge flock of pelican in flight. The wheeling motion that moves gracefully through the sky and the magic of how they shift in and out of visibility is awe inspiring.

I am thankful for the fun of finding owl pellets while on our walk today and the opportunity to share that bit of nature with the girls.

I am thankful for the opportunity for a close-up view of a robin grabbing a worm. The cock of the head and then the sudden and sure nab is a beautiful display of perfect creation.

Thursday, March 15, 2007

2007-03-15T14:08:00.001-07:00

I am absolutely delighted that we will get to see Brian and Jenno tomorrow evening. We always have a pleasant visit with them (every other year or so).

I am glad I went nowhere today.

I am glad for the spontaneous thank you from C for something I did which doesn’t usually warrant a thank you.

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

2007-03-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

I am thankful that K was not electrocuted.

I am thankful that K’s molars are finally breaking through!!

I am glad to be going to bed and resting in a few minutes.

Sunday, March 11, 2007

2007-03-11T05:41:00.000-07:00

I am thankful for the downright balmy weather yesterday – it was fifty degrees and the snow was melting! The girls ran around on the driveway wearing only ponchos and they were exuberant beyond all reason – and yet I understand. C kept saying how it felt like spring and smelled like spring. She was right – it does. But as Daddy so fairly warned her. We could easily have up to six more weeks of winter and snow around here. Got to love the upper-Midwest!!

I am thankful for my friends around the world who send such wonderful packages to delight us. Two packages arrived yesterday – they were found on the front stoop – it was almost like tulips popping up out of the ground – so spring-like!!

While I am not thankful for the time change itself (I think it is stupid and I hate using the word stupid – but I feel strongly about this). I am glad that it is causing K to sleep in

Tuesday, March 06, 2007

2007-03-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for a good Bible Study. It was a nice respite. Just quiet with women that I’ve gotten to know fairly well over the last season.

I am so thankful that the dishwasher was fixed. I am liking the noise of it quite well right now!!

I’m thankful for the resonance I am finding in my life that we do not need to go through the same things or be in the same place in life to be children of God. In fact, why would we want to be? It is something that has been popping up in my life lately – the difference is good and fair and equal does definitely not mean the same.

Monday, March 05, 2007

2007-03-05T13:20:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for a wonderful visits with several different people at church before the service started. It eases the loneliness.

I am thankful that God protects us in our stupidity – for instance, when I stuck a fork in the toaster today. It made a nice loud pop –singed the tongs (slightly melted one) but I was okay because it was one of the girl’s forks and had a plastic handle insulating it. I am also glad we have a double toaster. The other side still works!!

I am thankful that the repairman was here and the dishwasher now works again. My hand-washing skills definitely lack. I guess I should practice. ;)

Sunday, March 04, 2007

2007-03-04T04:45:00.001-08:00

I am thankful the snow stopped at 19 inches, I am not sure my shoulders could take much more shoveling.

I am thankful for the neat photo-ops that came my way when I went driving with K yesterday.

I am thankful that the rebelliousness I had in my heart yesterday morning passed without difficulty even though I stubbornly did not pray to God about it. He is gracious.

Friday, March 02, 2007

2007-03-02T05:13:00.001-08:00

I am glad that I now know that my sore neck has nothing to do with shoveling snow last weekend (at least not in a general sort of way – maybe I moved funny once last weekend, I don’t know). I shoveled snow twice yesterday approximately ten inches altogether and my neck is not worse. I’ve had a murderously sore neck most of the week which is now finally starting to abate. Thank goodness!!

I am glad that K at least stays in her room and entertains herself quietly most of the time, if she wakes up at six like she did again this morning...

I am thankful for the fact that keyboards exist and I don’t have to be writing this out by hand, I am not sure I would.

Thursday, March 01, 2007

2007-03-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

I am thankfulness for the quiet of blizzards.

I am thankful for any time where I am not bombarded with the voices asking a million questions or sharing every little thought that passes through their heads.

I am glad that memory is like a quilt – it covers a lot but a foot or head or hand is always out free from it. The idea of memory has played in my mind for years. The roll of it, its function, its importance. It is clearly important. The Bible talks about remembering. The Hebrews were often called to a remembrance of God’s work through altars and commandments. But, the Bible also talks of forgetting, of God forgetting our sins completely and the implication that we need to forget also – not only our own sins against God but the sins of others against us.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

2007-02-28T13:13:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for friends who send me wonderful things like old hankies to use!! What a delight to find lovely hankies to turn into angels for Christmas. Thanks to a wonderful friend named Heather, whom I have never met.

I am thankful that we could finally spend time with Glen today. It has been over a month and the shine on K’s face when she was with him was wonderful!!

I am thankful for this space that I am in. Not just physical, but the spiritual, mental, emotional space as well. I am here, right now, and I am glad.

Monday, February 19, 2007

2007-02-19T12:27:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the relaxing weekend we had with my parents and the relaxed demeanor of C as she interacted with them (particularly my Dad).

I am thankful that hubby’s eye appointment was normal.

I am thankful for the wonderful worship music we had at church yesterday. It was so rejuvenating.

I am thankful for the therapy of living. If we live rather than retreat from life, we find that the little things matter in the best sort of way.

I am thankful that it was above freezing today so that I could actually open windows and enjoy some fresh air in the house. We haven’t been above freezing in what seems a month – if we have been above freezing it was one day at a time and rather generously spaced.

Thursday, February 15, 2007

2007-02-15T12:09:00.001-08:00

I am thankful that while C vomited all over the couch she seems better, and the covers on the cushions cleaned up beautifully.

I am thankful for a quiet day where the everything in my life is quiet.

I am more thankful than I can say that my parents will probably be able to visit this weekend.

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

2007-02-13T14:58:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that all the people I worked with through our health care provider today were helpful and cheerful. After hearing of the death’s of children to influenza it became top priority to get those flu shots. However, scheduling was difficult and today when I called to reschedule I got a very friendly lady who was willing to cancel and then reschedule the appointments without nary a frown in her voice. Then the woman who administered the shots was delightful and very patient with C’s melodramatics (including wrapping her legs around the chair and screaming).

I am thankful for an easy quick trip to the thrift store to get rid of stuff.

I am thankful for the temps in the teens without the temp dropping in the sub-zero range, it is much more pleasant in the house. Somehow even if the house temp theoretically stays more or less the same – it feels different.

Monday, February 12, 2007

2007-02-12T14:44:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for a relatively calm morning in spite of K’s very bad cold and C’s rather obsessive mood. It could have been rather wild but the girls were good.

I am thankful that I have enough clear-coat on hand as I ran errands and suddenly remembered that I forgot to check. I really did not want to run errands again.

I am thankful that things run and they work when I flip the switch and turn them on. It is good to know that the mechanical items in one’s life are reliable.

Sunday, February 11, 2007

2007-02-11T14:51:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a disgruntled day. Hubby cannot find himself satisfied with the used office chair I picked up for five dollars. And now while I am in the midst of a personal endeavor to save money, he decides we must shop for a new chair. After the girls nap we went to get pizza which is our Saturday night treat. He decided he wanted to stop at Costco to look and see what they had. My heart sunk imagining $150 plopped down on an unnecessary piece of furniture. However, as normal it took much longer to get out of the house than he anticipated. So he realized we did not have time to go to Costco. Did we need anything at Wal-Mart (as it was now too early to get the pizza)? I said no but maybe we could stop at the Office Supply store by Wal-Mart. As we drove along. I shot off a prayer. “God I know you will provide for all things, let me stop worrying.” Hubby went in while I sat in the car with the girls. They listened to Beatrix Potter while I read James Herriot and laughed like an idiot. When Hubby came out he asked me to run in and look at a chair that was marked $45 as they style was obsolete and it was on clearance.. When I came out I gave him the go ahead. He went in and bought it. It was $25 as we got the floor model. Of course, he bought a plastic matte for it and some replacement junk. But still it was less than $60. It took me a few minutes before this resentful heart remembered. And suddenly I realized God answers prayer. Thank you God. He took care of my worry!!

Saturday, February 10, 2007

2007-02-10T04:27:00.000-08:00

I am thankful...hmmmm...I am thankful...for the chocolate cake I made yesterday? I had a slice of it for breakfast this morning? I am thankful for the baby monitor that allows me to hear how restless the youngest is as she tries to get those molars in?

I don’t feel even slightly thankful this morning. The closest thing this resentful heart can find as a blessing is the stack of books I thumbed through – most of them collections of life thoughts and lessons by Christian writers. Only those even make me feel guilty as I realize how far off the Bible reading I’ve gotten in the past several weeks. I guess I can be thankful for the reminder. If I turn back to the Bible, I will probably find myself more thankful.

Thursday, February 08, 2007

2007-02-08T13:06:00.001-08:00

I am thankful that my friend is understanding. I took photos of her children way back in November and she finally came and got them today. I should have brought them to her months ago.

I am thankful that God is giving healing to my Grandfather. I am not sure his purpose but I could tell it lifted my Mom’s spirits.

I am thankful for flu shots. My Dad takes them since his open heart surgery and they help him stay healthy and strong. He is sure what he was sick with this week was the flu but that he didn’t get it as severely because of his flu shot.

Tuesday, February 06, 2007

2007-02-06T04:41:00.001-08:00

I am so very thankful that Grammy is leaving and going back to CA today!!

I am thankful that rather than negative twenty this morning, it was only negative three Fahrenheit.

I am thankful that God allowed hubby to find a new wedding band that he liked quickly and easily without hassle.

Monday, February 05, 2007

2007-02-05T04:19:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the prayers of friends that allow this visit from my MIL to run much more smoothly than those in the past.

I am thankful for the heart revival I experience nearly every Sunday as I sit in the pew and worship our Lord through the fellowship song and the food of God’s Word as illuminated by his servant, our pastor.

I am thankful for a warm safe house as the temperature dips to a negative 20 Fahrenheit.

I am thankful for the fun thrift store finds that my MIL and I have made.

I am thankful for the craft projects that have allowed us to get on without talking about explosive subjects.

I am thankful for the gentle pull on my heart I feel for adoption and the openness of hubby towards that call and the awareness that if the call is genuine, we will be able to set aside the money.

I am thankful for the sweet arms of K thrown around my neck, the cheek against my cheek and the words I love you Mom.

I am thankful that C has been so very well behaved in spite of the excitement of having Grammy here.

Tuesday, January 23, 2007

2007-01-23T03:48:00.000-08:00

I am thankful the woman at Goodwill was so understanding about why a mama would let her child stand in the basket of the cart and that she gave said child two suckers after the child fell out and landed on her forehead.

I am thankful that hubby ate the bowlful of soup without complaining after we figured out that it was sweet because I put vanilla half and half in it. I appreciate it so much that he finished it!!

I am at the moment thankful that changing our long distance service went so smoothly.

I am thankful for the kindness of Mrs E -- C’s preschool teacher – most of the other mother’s and father’s of children in C’s class already know each other and seem to have known each other for years and years. Also, there is seems to me to be a certain ‘type’ to them all. A way of dressing and a way of mannerisms and attitude necessary to feel comfortable. It could be just me. But I do feel that way and while I know I shouldn’t let it bother me, I do. Mrs E is so kind and open and warm – and truly cares about the students and is delighted that we enrolled C to start regular school at MCCS that I feel good about it all.

Sunday, January 21, 2007

2007-01-21T04:06:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the technology of the phone. We are without long distance service right now. I did thorough checks via phone to our two phone companies and on my own through the internet and can find no reason for the lack of service. We can make local calls and we can make toll-free calls but we cannot make straight long distance calls. When I talked to our long distance provider they claimed it was our local provider blocking us. I tried calling them but they are closed for the weekend. I am frustrated as I feel a bit isolated without the seldom used option to call long-distance.

I am thankful for beds. I took a long nap yesterday. Sometimes it is luxurious just to stay in bed warm and comfortable and drowsy.

I am thankful for the beautiful light falling on K yesterday as she sat reading – it was such a precious image.

Friday, January 19, 2007

2007-01-19T04:35:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for those brilliant flashes of insight that the Holy Spirit will occasionally give.

I am thankful for citrus essence cleaning products. They work well and smell great!

I am thankful for hubby being so understanding yesterday when I felt so gross from my sore throat and numb lips.

Thursday, January 18, 2007

2007-01-19T04:30:00.000-08:00

I guess that I am thankful that I could go to the dentist today.

I am thankful for bath-tubs it is a good place for myself and for the girls to get some ‘private’ time. The girls need it for time away from each other. Some days – they cannot leave each other alone even though the presence of the other is only a source of irritation. Then is the time to stick one in a tub full of bubbles and put up the kiddie gate and issue strict instructions for the other to leave the soaking child alone.

Tuesday, January 16, 2007

2007-01-16T14:30:00.000-08:00

I am glad that freecycle exists. To get what one needs for free while protecting the earth by reusing what someone else does not want – is a great feeling.

I am glad the clinic called and said we have something. Now perhaps we can work out some of my ailments!!

I am exceedingly glad for all things that keep a person warm. When it is ten below with thirty below or more wind-chill outdoors, it is good to be warm!!

Monday, January 15, 2007

2007-01-15T04:14:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the pleasant conversations with my parents this weekend. It was relaxing and connective.

I am thankful that hubby let me go to church while the girls (who were sick) stayed home with him. The service was just what I needed.

I am so very thankful that my energy levels seem to be increasing.

I am thankful that K is so snugly and loving.

I am glad that light bulbs can be unscrewed. As now at least K can't see what she is doing when she gets up in the middle of the night and won't go back to sleep.

I am thrilled that hubby did a little church with the girls while I was gone.

Wednesday, January 10, 2007

2007-01-10T14:04:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that my Uncle P called today, it was a fun visit.

I am thankful for a fun visit it with ‘Grandpa’ Glen today. He was in a bit of a needy mood so bringing him home for lunch today was a good plan.

I am thankful that the days are getting longer.

Tuesday, January 09, 2007

2007-01-09T14:26:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for freebies from hubby’s work the latest goody is fine sanding paper – and lots of it!!

I am thankful I am practicing thankfulness, I just wish I was more involved and into it. Right now it seems only and exercise and not spontaneous at all.

I am thankful for the ladies’ in my Bible study...today their transparency was a blessing to me.

Monday, January 08, 2007

2007-01-08T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the calmness of sweeping a floor. Somehow, I find it very soothing.

I am thankful for my new Bible – this version speaks to me somehow more than the translation I was using.

I am thankful for the small signs of the days getting longer.

Sunday, January 07, 2007

2007-01-07T04:10:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the thoughtful and thought provoking posts of fellow bloggers.

I am thankful for small things like when I spilled my tea this morning it fell into a basket that had a plastic liner so the carpet wasn’t stained for the gazillioneth time.

I am thankful for small arms clinging to my neck in the midst of a temper tantrum.

Friday, January 05, 2007

2007-01-05T13:04:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for child safety restraint belts. My kids need them just to keep themselves safe from their own activity.

I am thankful for the gift of memory and the new ways I am learning to remember from “The Memory Book.”

I am thankful for containers – so handy when working in the kitchen you use them for measuring, saving, mixing, sorting and so many other things.

Thursday, January 04, 2007

2007-01-04T13:32:00.000-08:00

I am genuinely thankful for the patience most people show around my children when we are in public. They don’t sit still, the can’t stand still, they aren’t quiet and now K throws massive tantrums.

I am thankful for garbage disposals, nuff said.

I am thankful that my children nap. I would be a basket case if they didn’t.

Wednesday, January 03, 2007

2007-01-03T14:44:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that I am starting to feel a genuine affection for Glen. The girls adore him but getting to know him over the past two years has been difficult.

I am thankful for phones – even though I don’t like being on them much. It is nice to have the lunch conversation with Hubby.

I am thankful for dried bananas...If I am ever going to lose weight I need snacks that make me feel full and won’t cause a sugar crash.

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

2007-01-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for heaters – it is always good to walk into a warm house or take a warm shower.

I am thankful for cell phones even though we don’t have one – it is nice to be able to call my parent’s when they are on the road.

I am thankful for snow and how it reflects light and shadow.

Tuesday, January 02, 2007

2007-01-02T03:55:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the gloriously relaxed and loving and lovely weekend that the four of us started our New Year with.

I am thankful for new calendars – fresh starts always fill one up with sincere hope for change.

I am thankful for the blank slate of white snow – not only is it lovely but it is great fun for the family.

Sunday, December 17, 2006

2006-12-17T14:36:00.000-08:00

While it is disconcerting to have so many people comment on my haircut – there is a bit of it that is nice - the realization that what I do matters to so many people in our ‘new’ church.

I’m thankful for the man (whose name I can’t recall) whose dream led him to realize there needed to be a hole in the eye of the needle to make the sewing machine work.

I am thankful for keyboards – it is for me so much easier to type my thoughts than to write my thoughts.

Friday, December 15, 2006

2006-12-15T13:02:00.001-08:00

I’m thankful for all the delightful bits of growing and learning I see in my girls daily.

I’m thankful for thrift stores and the fun of shopping in them.

I am thankful for the blinding light reflecting off wet roads in the morning – somehow there is glory in it.

Sunday, December 10, 2006

2006-12-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for the unity of the church that exists in our congregation – the joy in church this morning was contagious and I felt such a communion with the spirits around me.

I am thankful that the company that hubby works for is so generous. The company party last evening was a treat a nice meal and the delightful little play at the little dinner theater we were at.

I am thankful for a discovery that a member of our church and the wife of a co-worker of my husbands is struggling with the same issues with one of her daughters as I do with one of mine.

Tuesday, December 05, 2006

2006-12-05T12:14:00.000-08:00

I am thankful that my parents could visit here this weekend. We had a wonderful time – we fit four days worth of activity into a day and a half and had a delightful time doing it.

I am thankful for the women in my Bible Study now that we are drawing closer the feeling of companionship on a journey becomes stronger and one feels supported.

I am thankful for quiet afternoons – I need the perspective of silence.

Friday, December 01, 2006

2006-12-01T11:42:00.001-08:00

I am thankful for the birthday gifts I received yesterday. Particularly the Newsboys cd which has some new songs which fill me with joy.

I am thankful for the interlude at Bunker this morning and the opportunity to photograph a large hawk and to hear his wonderfully wild screams.

I am thankful for the wild geese flying over the school parking lot this morning and the freedom with which they sent my spirit flying.

September - November 2006

2006-12-01T11:37:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, September 20, 2006

I am thankful for MC our new church home for this past year. We started attending after our old church excommunicated a friend for a reason that we did not agree with. MC has been a God-send in our life.

I am thankful for Ron Carlson and the incredible apologetics presentations he made at our church this week. I was particularly thankful for the inspiration of his lecture on evolution.

I am thankful for that brilliant and magical blue of autumn skies...

Thursday, September 21, 2006

I am thankful for the YMCA it gives the children a place for structured play while I get away mentally and physically.

I am thankful for the drippy rain we have been having and the good it does this earth.

I am thankful for the sense of smell – the apples I pared today had the most incredible apple-floral smell.

Sunday, November 12, 2006

I am thankful for my fellow bloggers and the encouragement I receive from them.

I am thankful for the brisk cleansing wind.

I am thankful for finding dried fruit that doesn’t contain sulfates so that now once again I can eat dried apricots to my hearts content. I loved eating them by the bowlfuls as a child. We got them from a health food co-op so I am sure there were no sulfates. Until I found this brand, I was struggling with eating them because nearly all dried fruit you can buy today contains sulfates and would give me terrible cramps.

Monday, November 13, 2006

I am thankful for freshly fallen snow and the clarity and beauty it brings to this world.

I am thankful Sissy contacted me and let me know that she was praying for me in my anger and said she had worked through lots of anger.

I am thankful for Kira’s sweet and loving nature. She was so happy this morning just to have me come in and change her diaper so that she would be able to sleep better.

I am thankful for Meadow Creek and the people who have befriended us. I especially thankful for Marj and Pastor Jim and also for Penny Johnson.

I am thankful that while our worship service is more contemporary, they still sing old hymns almost every Sunday.

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

I am thankful for the obvious enjoyment crows get out of flying in the wind – somehow it always makes me smile...

I am thankful for my inexpensive dress purchase at Goodwill and for the wonderful conversation outside the store with an older woman who was picking out wool sweaters to full and make purses out of.

I am thankful for the astringent and anti-fungal properties of tea tree oil.

I am thankful that while we were backing out of the church parking lot we did not hit the big SUV that came quickly behind us.

Thursday, November 16, 2006

I am thankful for the headway that I am making with wrapping up Christmas gifts. I shouldn’t let me down that I am not further along, we haven’t even reached Thanksgiving yet.

I am thankful for my friendship with Lisa Poole my first Artist/Writer/Christian friend!! To connect is a rare and beautiful thing.

I am thankful for my sewing machine. It is a pleasure to make something that is long-lasting and well made – and personal to boot.

Friday, November 17, 2006

The wonder of watching creatures being themselves is such a wonderful way to see how marvelous God’s creation is – if we stop and watch – those crows in the parking lot yesterday were so humorous. And always this time of the year with the geese and ducks flying and calling touches me deeply.

Saturday, November 25, 2006

I’m thankful that there are strangers in this world willing to read my blog and thus become friends.

Today I am very thankful that I can park the girls in front of the television and ignore them. I know television is not good for kids but sometimes I just need them quiet so that I can think. We only watch television on the weekends so I don’t think I need to feel guilty, although, I often do.

I am thankful for the wonderful surprise of going to JoAnn’s and finding patterns on sale for two dollars and the buttons on sale for fifty percent off so that I could use my coupon on binding tape and then to go back in the evening for more buttons and get a embroidery pattern for fifty percent off because the woman in front of me gave me her coupon.

Monday, November 27, 2006

I’m thankful that the little boy who was dropped off at nursery yesterday was identified. I feel so sorry for this particular boy there is a restraining order on his father and he is such a sad child.

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

I am thankful for that sheer lightening brief moment of backing down the driveway with the window open, hearing the song of a bird and looking into the spruce tree and seeing a shaft of light on the cardinal sitting near the stump – an instant was all it was.

I’m thankful for the fact that Glen gets so much pleasure from our visits – it makes them so much more enjoyable for me. I am also thankful that the girls adore him and that he adores them.

It was so cool to run into Marty from my old job today...It is a neat thing to run into old work companions whose company you once enjoyed. He seemed genuinely pleased to see me and that was a pleasant and heart-warming feeling.

Thursday, November 30, 2006

The fragrance of pineapple filling the house as I dehydrate it.

June and July 2005

2006-12-01T11:36:00.000-08:00

Saturday, June 11, 2005

I am thankful for warm rainy mornings perfect for eating breakfast out and at my leisure...

I am thankful for warm, humid mornings perfect for my garden...

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

I am thankful for the freedom of flying down a hill on a bike – letting the breeze riffle through my hair.

I am thankful for the pleasure of watching my garden grow – the tomatoes are huge – now if they would only ripen!!

I am thankful for the fact that C and M are going to help me meet my objective to go visit P.

Thursday, July 14, 2005

I am thankful for water in this heat wave – watching sections of my yard die very rapidly reminds me how important water is for sustaining life. Without it everything shrivels and turns to dust. Water as the source of life is a powerful metaphor.

May 2006

2006-12-01T11:33:00.000-08:00

Sunday, May 01, 2005

I am thankful for being organized...I’ve been thankful for a that a lot lately as it is allowing me to do what I want to do and what I need to do.

I am thankful for my cold frame...I am going to plant tomatoes early this season!!

I am thankful for newspaper and egg cartons – inexpensive craft materials!!

Tuesday, May 03, 2005

I am thankful that Como Zoo and conservatory has been able to expand and improve their facilities...

In spite of the racket – I am glad we are finally getting our roof replaced today.

I am thankful that I come from a family that feels it is important to write things down. Because Grandma M was and extensive letter writer and because my Mom was moved to write – I now have a portrait of a side of Grandma, I never knew.

I am thankful that M was there to take pics of Grandpa and Grandma K anniversary.

Thursday, May 05, 2005

I am thankful for hand lotion – what with all the fiber-crafts I do, my hands get terribly dried out and constant use of hand-lotion keeps them somewhat pliable.

I am thankful for my dishwasher, it is used often lately between cooking meals and craft projects in the kitchen, I fill it up quite regularly.

I know I’ve said this before but I am thankful for being able to do research on the internet...it is very convenient. I am having a hard time thinking of things that move me to gratitude today.

I am thankful for Coon Creek!! The girls do love going there and so we take walks often. What is better nature walks that can start from your own house...sunshine, birds, an occasional animal, fellow walkers, bikers, bladers, and runners, grass, trees, the creek. It was gorgeous at the creek yesterday.

Friday, May 06, 2005

I am thankful for the ability to write. Even when I stair at the white space before me and cannot articulate – it is there the desire to try snag the corner of emotion and memory and when I succeed in some small way – the relief of having managed to express it.

I am thankful for the miniscule bit of talent I’ve recently developed in holding my tongue and not blabbling everything that pops into my head all the time. The practice of holding my tongue that way has allowed me to bite back retorts and hurt responses and simply move on. Now I just have to practice letting go in my head...

I am thankful that I can stay home. It is good for the girls and good for me and good for hubby as it lets him feel the provider and gives him a refuge of manhood that he seems unable to find most places.

Saturday, May 07, 2005

All the wind chimes are up for the summer and I am thankful for the pleasant melody the gentle random ching of the clapper knocking gently against a chime creates. It makes me wish I were gifted at writing music, I would write a melody from the small riff of notes that sometimes drift into the house from the wind chimes.

I am thankful for plant nurseries that grow their own plants and don’t just sell other people’s plants...you know they care about their produce and the quality of it.

I am thankful for things like water bans that control the greediness of people in their attempt to make a good impression and their concern over appearances...some people actually do fear the law and then take it easier on Mother Earth. Of course, the law is only interested din the needs of the city and not the earth – but it is the end result that counts, right?

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

I am thankful for bluebirds.

I am thankful for the rain that soaked me and the earth as I planted tomatoes yesterday.

I am thankful for people who open doors for Mom’s who are juggling multiple children and packages.

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

I am thankful for bubble bath- if I put the girls in a bath of bubble bath – I can buy myself more time to get things done.

I am thankful for the vacuum cleaner – somehow when I vacuum the girls get quieter and play nicer while they wait for mom to turn that dumb thing off.

I am thankful for television – terrible Mom that I am, I sometimes turn it on (very rarely) so that I can finish something before we leave the house.
Friday, May 13, 2005

I am thankful for the photo cd of Zambia Kita sent – now I understand much better.

I am thankful for Microsoft picture resizer now I can have a slide show of Kita’s shots without staggering my computer.

I am thankful for umbrellas. Yesterday, I actually took the camera out in the rain and took shots while it was raining...waterproof jackets are a cool thing too. Actually, come to think of it so are rain boots. Hmmm it is nice to stay dry when rain falls from the sky and the temp is just forty degrees Fahrenheit.

Monday, May 16, 2005

I am thankful for friends who like to write. Getting real letters and chatty email is such a thrill!!

I am thankful for being able to stay at home with the girls. I know I’ve said it before in this journal but I was reminded again how fortunate I am to stay home and raise them in a way that I think is proper...and for what it is worth. I love them more than I can say.

I am thankful for rain as it kept Tim from going out in the yard and dumping more chemicals on the dandelions. I am also thankful for my weed dog as I went out and dug up most of them in the front yard while he was getting an oil change.

Tuesday, May 17, 2005

I am thankful our regular mail carrier is back. The one that was doing our route would place things on top of the post box and let it fall in the street or if it didn’t fit in the post box she wouldn’t deliver it. So glad our regular is back!!

I am thankful for cafeteria supplemental insurance plans. Got my eyes checked for the first time in 2 ½ years yesterday. Ouch – glasses and contacts are expensive!!!!!!!!!!!

I am thankful for ibuprofen and tylenol...been clenching my teeth in anticipation of the two-week-long visit – murderous headaches as a result...painkillers are a lifesaver.

Wednesday, May 18, 2005

I am thankful for days when everything clicks when I look into the camera...then I know I know what I am doing and I actually have talent.

I am thankful for vinyl slip sleeves for paper – it is a great way to sort letters, store patterns, keep keepsakes etc...I am the queen of vinyl slip sleeves since I like things organized but I am not into to scrapbooks.

Aha – so that leads to my third thankful entry for today...I am thankful for three ring binders to stick all the junk in!

April 2005

2006-11-29T11:16:00.000-08:00

Saturday, April 02, 2005

I am thankful for Paintshop Pro. I just made the coolest Little Red Riding Hood embroidery pattern with it.

I am thankful for peace and quiet in the mornings.

I am thankful for the endless resources of the internet.

Sunday, April 03, 2005

I am thankful for finding Craftster and Needltecrafter.com they are totally inspiring!!

I am thankful for water. Think about it thirst-quencher, showers, hot baths, watering the garden, the magic of a thunderstorm, soup...the list could go on forever.

I am thankful for spring and the fact that Tim went and picked up all the supplies I need to build my new garden bed.

Monday, April 04, 2005

I am thankful for all the people in this world that are so made about their hobbies that they are willing to share their end products, their tips and techniques and their work on the internet.

I am thankful for the fact that now when I am depressed and angry I listen more closely to God’s voice telling me I know better than to think and behave the way I am. I still rebel and sometimes it still takes a few weeks to fall back in line but at least I listen and I hold a dialogue with him about why I don’t want to...Actually, it is not a dialogue, I complain and he listens and I am still left knowing what I ought to do.

While I don’t like the time change – I have to admit, the girls are sleeping better this morning for which I am thankful.

Tuesday, April 05, 2005

I am thankful for all the reasons I have to do things. But most of all I am thankful for my girls and the reason to do the things I do for them.

I am thankful for nicest springtime weather when we can live with house windows open and not use the heat or air-conditioning.

I am thankful for having a house where I have enough room to be organized and yet make messes while doing projects....

Wednesday, April 06, 2005

I am thankful for the ease and convenience of feminine products today...they make it possible to stay active in a way women weren’t allowed in the past.

I am thankful for rain – it is refreshing and invigorating and yet calming at the same time.

I am thankful for the fun of fabric...and yes I am weak on gratitude today...

Thursday, April 07, 2005

I am thankful for tape – tape is another one of those terribly handy things when it comes to holding things together. It is especially handy for paper – I’ve covered thread before – have I ever mentioned velcro – very cool stuff.

I am thankful for those rare occasions when I can let go and be whimsical inspite of the ‘work’ that needs to be done.

I am thankful for the fact that things are starting to green up – the long brown springs here can get terribly dull. It is depressing to have gorgeous weather and nothing green in sight.

Friday, April 08, 2005

I am thankful for spring. I will keep saying it over and over again until spring is gone. The renewal, the freshness, the hope, the turning – a conversion in life.

I am thankful for so little compared to the blessings that I have received and yet some days I find it hard to make it matter for much...

I am thankful for the pleasure of creation – no matter what form that creation takes.

Saturday, April 09, 2005

I am thankful for Band-Aids. I have a finger that has split open and it hinders my embroidery unless I have it covered with a band aid. Of course, Band-Aids are useful for many things. They are a great placebo for fussy children.

Monday, April 11, 2005

I am thankful for this mild spring where we can leave the doors and windows of the house open – it is very refreshing. I am also thankful that for some reason my allergies haven’t been bothering – otherwise this place would be locked up and the air-conditioner running.

I am thankful for this nice quite place of early morning.

I am thankful for the closer bond that is being forged between me and my sister Beck.

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

I am thankful for the fact that we live in so much comfort. This morning I was feeling frustrated and went out to put the recycling on the curb and as the garage door opened at the press of the button, I realized I have way toooooo much to be thankful for.

I am thankful for antihistamines...right now they are the only thing that stand between me and a hamburger face from too much itching.

I am thankful for the blessings of good friends. Last night I went to Ladies’ Night out with Christy and Betsy and we had a delightful time.

Wednesday, April 13, 2005

I am thankful for days that end well. C was wretched (so was K) yesterday. And then at bedtime C was good and sweet and kept hugging and kissing me and telling me that she loved me.

I am thankful for the drive that creativity has given me – it keeps me going and creates motivation.

I am thankful for our air mattress – it makes sleep much more restful.

Thursday, April 14, 2005

I am thankful for refrigerators; I don’t know what I would do without one. It not only keeps the milk fresh and the butter from melting and the meat from spoiling, it also makes ice and stores the scads of left-overs my cooking generates.

I am thankful for inspiration and the drive that it gives me. If one remains disciplined, one finishes current projects before succumbing to new projects and creativity and the desire to make something new, keeps one going.

I am thankful for the gift of organization. It helps make it possible for me to do all the things I want to do and make sure I accomplish all the things I need to do.

Friday, April 15, 2005

I am thankful for the wonderful flexibility of eyes. It is remarkable to me that at night I can walk downstairs into K’s room and in the dark I can see her almost as well as during the day when the room is darkened but daylight seeps through.

I am thankful for task-lighting as I get older and more conscious of saving energy small lights where I need it become more and more appealing.

Sunday, April 17, 2005

I am thankful for days where I have to focus on one specific thing. I am an addicted multi-tasker and sometimes don’t realize how much can be done when one stays focused.

I am thankful for mapquest, it makes it much easier to give directions to people. Especially when you are me and tend to be poor at directions.

Monday, April 18, 2005

I am thankful that K shows so much spunk. Right now it just frustrates me and even makes me sad as she hurts herself by being so stubborn but as we raise her we can teach her how to direct it and it can be an awesome asset someday.

I am thankful for living with the windows open. To be honest, it has been several years since we have done it between allergies and pregnancies and maybe just me. Now we’ve been doing it for about a month and it is great because I feel like we are living in pulse with the world.

I am thankful for pen and paper and the hope that true letter writing is still possible.

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

I am thankful for super-duper flimsy cheap paper plates. I am afraid I am filling up my allotment of the earth’s tree waste in landfills with them. They are great for heating stuff up in the microwave.

I am thankful for the noise of birdsong...it always means that it is the best time of the year for early mornings – spring and early summer.

I am thankful for the jogging stroller. It is handy to have a large double stroller that is easy to maneuver and now that the weather is better we go for lots of walks using it. I know C should walk too but it is a battle to get her out of the stroller...I keep hoping.

Wednesday, April 20, 2005

I am thankful for markers – for some dumb reason when jotting notes; I prefer sharpies rather than pens or pencils.

I am thankful for inkjet printers. I can do so many things with my printer. I make cards, print transfers, type business letters, print photos and the list goes on.

I am thankful for the washing machine – I am sure I’ve said it before but it sure beats rubbing the clothes against a rock or a board trying to clean them.

Thursday, April 21, 2005

I am thankful for my crock pot – just found another great use for it...making baked potatoes...saves turning on the oven.

I am thankful for C’s help in the garden today. She truly was helpful. She held the hose and helped fill up the wall-o-waters for me. She also pushed the bins full of dirt while I dragged them to the garden plot and she helped me rake the garden plot.

I am thankful for feeling awake today. I am not sure why I feel so good today when I had an interrupted night again but if feels good to be awake and alert as I have been so groggy lately.

Friday, April 22, 2005

I am thankful for the ease and relative inexpensiveness of a pop-up tent cold-frame. It is working beautifully. It is already nice and sweaty inside. Now time for some plants!!

I am thankful for the steamer I just bought. Now I am actually able to make sticky rice. I made coconut sticky rice last night – yummy!!

I am thankful for friends who love and support my work. It is reassuring to know that others like what I do.

Saturday, April 23, 2005

I am thankful for my cherry tree and dogwood bushes. They provide me with hours of entertainment in the form of photos.

I am thankful for garden hose. What an ingenious device. Can you imagine carrying water by the bucketfuls to your garden beds whenever they needed watering? Ugh – talk about backbreaking labor.

I am thankful for shovels – another ingenious device. Digging a hole in the ground with your hands would cause a great deal of pain and bleeding in the form of torn fingernails and scraped hands. .

Sunday, April 24, 2005

I am thankful for digital thermometers – they are cool things – now I can sit inside the house and watch the temps change inside the cold frame as the sun goes down – very interesting and fun... ;)

I am thankful for embroidery hoops – embroidery would be almost impossible without some sort of support to hold the work taut.

I will again say – I am thankful for the indulgence of Dr Pepper – it tastes mighty fine this morning!!

Monday, April 25, 2005

I am thankful for a fenced in backyard – now my neighbors aren’t quite as exposed to my bizarre antics as I go around my yard taking photos. Also I can let C out in the backyard by herself and Willow can run off leash.

I am thankful for the fact that Emily is moving back here. It will be fun to see her regularly. Of course, I will miss being able to escape and visit her in California but it is better for Emily to be here with the children.

I am thankful for living near walking and hiking trails. It is nice to be able to go to the creek with the girls whenever I want.

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

I am thankful for plastic containers. I have friends coming for supper tonight and plan to make a big meal, Beef Provencal Stew, Molasses Cornmeal Bread, FrogEye Salad, and Chocolate Sundae Cake. Yesterday, I prepared and filled containers with ingredients for the different stages of each dish. I love cooking that way.

I am thankful for strong tea – such a great astringent for the tongue!!

I am thankful for neat discoveries on the net – such as this very cool Issa Haiga site... http://sakuo3903.blogspot.com/

Thursday, April 28, 2005

I am thankful for my cherry tree – poor over-photographed thing.

I am thankful for playpens for children, as that is what Kira sleeps in rather than her crib.

I am thankful for new discoveries in tea – I just found my new favorite tea next to Ashby’s Apricot...New Republic has a black tea with blood orange and pomegranate and it is awesome!!

Friday, April 29, 2005

One wonders, am I thankful for this or not. Perhaps it is a curse. The need to create and to create all the time in all sorts of mediums (at least lately).

I am thankful for this journal – it helps me focus and forces me to write at least a little nearly everyday.

I am thankful for these mornings...being up and able to focus without the distractions of other people’s needs means a lot to me.

March 2005

2006-11-28T13:02:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, March 01, 2005

I am thankful for paper-shredders. Christy has had two cases of identity theft recently and I am glad that we have a good shredder now and shred our documents. I am sure that identity theft makes one feel violated. She received nasty collection letters and I am sure a boatload of worry and anger.

I am thankful for shadows. I saw shadows on the ceiling the other night from my grape ivy that I started from clippings from Grandpa M. They made me smile and say I am glad.

For a box of family history in the photos that I have from both sides of the family. Even the ugly is good to know because it helps us to be human.

Wednesday, March 02, 2005

I am thankful for friends like Christy who I can call when my children are extra naughty and know that she understands perfectly.

I am thankful for chocolate...C says food makes her happy. While I think that philosophically and psychologically and many other reasons argue that is not a rational or healthy statement. I understand. Chocolate does seem comforting and I know there are scientific studies that mention serontonin.

I am thankful for ponytail holders. They keep the hair out of reach of a little grabber I know.

Thursday, March 03, 2005

I am thankful for the ability to feel pain. Recently, hubby and I watched a newscast about a little girl who could not feel pain. She inflicted terrible damage to her body and never knew she was doing it because she could not feel it. I thought how terrible a lesson to a parent to such a child – the need to protect would be over-whelming.

I am thankful for office supply boxes that reams of paper come in – they are the perfect size for storing stuff – especially on the shelving in Willow’s room.

I am thankful for my scanner – for obvious reasons...

Friday, March 04, 2005

I am grateful that when K is upset, the only song that will calm her down is “Amazing Grace.” It would be easy to attribute some other-worldly attribute to the calming effects of the song. Or, it would be easy to perhaps think that K is extra-spiritual for liking the song. I think perhaps her love of the song is a gift from God to me to remind me (every time I have to sing the song to calm her down) that I need an encompassing measure of grace from Him not only for myself but also so that I might raise these children given to my care.

I am thankful that my parents have been married for thirty-four years and that they loved each other enough to add not only my life but my siblings lives to this planet.

I am thankful that even though they pick on each other. The first person the girls want to see in the morning is each other.

Saturday, March 05, 2005

I am thankful for my sisters and their understanding and loving natures. I pray that they may both experience the joy of childbirth for themselves although it seems quite possible that neither of them will be able to.

I am thankful for a Saturday that was much better than most Saturday’s are for me.

I am thankful for days when I try a new recipe and love it!! Like tonight!!

Sunday, March 06, 2005

I am thankful for cows that give us milk and for their milk. Milk is awesome with cookies and with chocolate. Can you imagine life without ice cream or butter? I mean we could do goat or sheep cheese and that would be great – but somehow I don’t think goat’s milk would make good milk chocolate – maybe it does – maybe that is why Swiss Chocolate is so good – hmmm – will have to check that out sometime.

I am thankful that I am on a calling plan where I can call my Mom everyday. When she is not there, I miss her.

I am thankful for Italy lots of neat toys for the girls come from Italy. A nice woman named Kita comes from Italy. Some of the world’s best foods come from Italy (who could live without pasta?). The list could probably go on.

Monday, March 07, 2005

I am thankful that Grandma could offer comfort to Mom even through the Alzheimer’s as heart-breaking as that comfort was. Grandma recognizes no one regularly but her brother John. However, when my Mom visited her, Grandma said several times “You look familiar, should I know you?” Then one time when walking down the hall holding my Mother’s hand she said “You still love me, don’t you?” And on a couple of other occasions she said “Don’t cry for me, I am still here just harder to find.”

I am thankful that my Uncle Melvin could do something tender for his wife. Since La Von has last almost all of her hair to chemo she shaved what was left off. Melvin joined her and shave his hair off too. Which is something as he has always had nice thick hair. I think it is terribly sweet.

I am thankful for melting snow and gorgeous reflections.

Wednesday, March 09, 2005

I am thankful for the ability to recognize my flaws and I only pray that my blind spots are negligible and that my mirrors are kind enough to point them out to me (my parents, my children, my friends are mirrors).

I am thankful for lotions to soothe and heal the skin as I am prone to terribly dry skin. I am particularly thankful for Shea Butter and Brazilian Nut Oil as they are my favorite for my hands (they smell yummy to) and I am thankful for Lanolin as it works wonders on my tough ol’ feet.

I am thankful for crock pots. They are a wonderful tool for someone who likes to put a wholesome meal on the table but also wants to do things during the day.

Thursday, March 10, 2005

I am thankful for the brute strength I’ve been gifted with. It allows me the ability to do things women aren’t expected to do because they are weaker. Today, I put some glides under heavy furniture.

I am thankful for good sharp knives that making preparing food much easier than it is when using dull knives.

I am thankful for hot showers they can do a great deal to improve one’s mood.

Friday, March 11, 2005

I am thankful for the heavy deep dark grey blue of storm clouds in the spring. The color is always pleasing to me. The promise of precipitation and the nurturing of the earth always makes me happy.

I am thankful for hand-me-down clothing. I have some of the cutest clothing from Claire that I can’t wait for it to be spring so that I can dress K in them.

I am thankful that while our house is starting to be a financial drain we live in it. It is much better than living somewhere else. It is cozy and I like where we live.

Saturday, March 12, 2005

I am thankful for quiet Saturday morning with lovely muted light and cool weather.

I am thankful for light – guess it is a light day for me.

I am thankful that sometimes light is a mood – I guess it is definitely a light day for me.

Sunday, March 13, 2005

I am thankful for those whose response to life is full and deep they make me feel that I am not such an alien in this world. I am at this time thinking in particular of Sylvia Hannig whose work moves me deeply.

I am thankful for quietness in the back of church. When children are noisy – it is nice to sit quietly with them in the foyer.

I am thankful that power naps work because if I nap longer than 15 minutes to half an hour I can’t function. But a power nap can really perk me up.

Monday, March 14, 2005

I am thankful for Monday mornings and life returns to the normal routine..

I am thankful for breezes as long as they aren’t too heavy they freshen things up and clear the cobwebs. I like good heavy breezes or winds only when it is storming – then they add tremendously to the cleansing power of the weather.

I am thankful for routine...life is easier to see when it is normal – throw it out of whack and one starts missing the little things.

Tuesday, March 15, 2005

I am thankful for humidifiers they make it easier for sick babies’ to breathe.

I am thankful for modern conveniences because on days when there is not much that perks me up I can always look around the house and realize how physical easy my life is – I don’t see a mortar stone anywhere.

I am thankful I do this journal so that I have to stop and think because on some days – I really have to think.

Wednesday, March 16, 2005

I am thankful for curtains – they make windows much more interesting.

I am thankful for short meditations – I seem to lack the initiative for longer meditations. Right now, it is Chuck Swindoll.

I am thankful for maps and globes – they are such interesting things – they do seem to grab the imagination.

Thursday, March 17, 2005

I am thankful for my children. I know I have to haul that subject out periodically but I am thankful for them. They are wonderful – sometimes they are rotten and I wonder why – but they make up for it in many ways. Especially in the sweetness of their love. Lately, C will come up to me lean against me at look at me with the sweetest smile on the planet – the smile where her eyes get all sparkly. And, K has a wonderful way of laying her head against you when she is tired. Lately, when she is particularly happy to be picked up, she will clap her hands!!

I am thankful for page protectors. I have three-ring binders full of letters and journal pages and history pages etc all in wonderful archival page protectors. I am also thankful you can buy them in bulk, cheap at Costco.

I am thankful for fans. They are particularly helpful for blowing smoke out of the house and circulating the air after I burn pan-fried tuna steaks.

Friday, March 18, 2005

I am thankful that I had K for another reason. It is wonderful to watch her and C together when they aren’t bickering. She adores C – her every movement when she is with C speaks of the ecstasy of love and admiration she has for her. And now that the jealousy is dissipating and K interacts more – C is much more appreciative of this.

I am thankful for my sewing machine. A whole new world is opening up for me.

I am thankful for the desire to create – it is life.

Saturday, March 19, 2005

I am thankful for nearly six hours of uninterrupted sleep.

I am thankful for loving the darkness – it is so soothing. Especially for showers or baths.

I am thankful that some things are still free – like air, love, and water.

Sunday, March 20, 2005

I am thankful for good recipe books that are fun to browse – keeps one inspired in the kitchen. A good recipe book not only lists recipes but it also talks about food and culture and why we eat.

I am thankful for my toaster – toast with a suitable spread almost always provides a good meal and satisfaction if you can’t think of anything else to eat.

I am thankful for decongestants!! Now I can breathe!!

Monday, March 21, 2005

I am thankful for decongestants!! Now I can breathe again!! I would be even more thankful to get over this cold.

I am thankful for buttons – clothes would not be nearly as convenient without them. Plus, I just like buttons.

I am thankful for fusible interfacing!! The stuff rocks!!

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

I am thankful for scissors. Knives cut some things well but can you imagine trying to cut out a dress pattern with a knife. Or trying to get a smooth cut on thread so you can thread a needle. Or getting a smooth stylish haircut with a knife. Or...

I am thankful for exersaucers, highchairs, bouncy swings, door-gates etc. Right now it is very helpful to be able to physically separate the girls otherwise, they are after each other and on each other’s nerves all the time!

I am thankful for the small amount of self-discipline that I have. Which is why I am sitting here working on plastic canvas rather than starting on the bag I want to work on.

Thursday, March 24, 2005

I am thankful for oversized mugs. They make great cereal bowls. You can sit on the couch curled up under a blanket and still eat a bowl of cereal.

I am thankful for spoons – they make it much easier to eat things like soup, cereal, jello and pudding. Some delightful comforts would be hard to enjoy – perhaps even dangerous (third degree burns from your soup, anyone) without a spoon.

I am thankful for the tactile relaxation my return to crafting has given me. And, I am thankful that my mother had me do so many projects when I was young. I realize now that I actually quite literate in crafting and that the skills learned come back rather quickly.

Friday, March 25, 2005

I am thankful for antibiotics. One good dose and my ear is already feeling much better.

I am thankful for glue because it makes crafting a lot easier for kids.

I am thankful for a one step button whole attachment on my sewing machine...

Saturday, March 26, 2005

I am thankful for heat...just wish I could get over this cold and get over being hot and sweaty or cold...

I am thankful for hand lotion – my hands are dry and it gives them some relief.

I am thankful for telephones so I can stay in touch with my Mom.

Sunday, March 27, 2005

I am thankful for needles, really quite a clever idea if you think about it. I think in one of the Clan of the Cave bear books they theorize how sewing was done before a needle with an eye was created – how tedious and tacky... :)

I am thankful for the feeling of spring air – there is an undeniable – un-identifiable feeling in the air that lifts the spirits and makes one want to be outside even if it is chilly.

I am thankful for the times when the girls can play together quietly (about ten minutes each day) without adult intervention or oversight. Maybe we can stretch that out to a longer length of time.

Tuesday, March 29, 2005

I am thankful for spring weather – it is a tonic that gives energy and hope. I love to hear the geese fly overhead and the cardinals calling for a mate and the turtle doves cooing and all the sounds that mean that nature is ready to start fresh.

I am thankful for days when everything goes well and the only issue is holding myself back from ruining the day by trying to do too much.

I am thankful that hubby knows how my brain works and can find things when in an eccentric or sleep deprived moment I do something in a fit of brilliance and later find I can’t remember what I did.

Wednesday, March 30, 2005

I am thankful for all the craft skills my Mom taught me when I was a child. Now, over fifteen years later, I am using them and loving them.

I am delighted with a cd of music that I bought for C that is all songs using the verse of Robert Louis Stevenson. There is only one song on the cd that I don’t care for and many I love and C loves the cd too.

I am thankful for the days when I blessed with the gift of perspective – life is immensely more enjoyable when we can keep our perspective.

Thursday, March 31, 2005

I am thankful for baskets. I use them for everything – they are functional and pretty. I can always find more uses for baskets.

I am thankful for my kid sister B she is funny and wonderful to talk to. She is also very patient with the eccentricities of her big sister as she now gets all the email that anyone on my “daily” list gets. Thanks B.

I am thankful for spring rains – they are just about the most pleasantest thing I can think of in terms of renewing the earth.

February 2005

2006-11-27T04:39:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 01, 2005

I am thankful for the computer as a place to write – my mode of operation and my hand-writing make it a great deal more preferable to type than write.

I am thankful for calling cards they make it a great deal cheaper to call Scotland.

I am thankful for phones in general it is nice to talk to hubby in the middle of the day (some days).

Wednesday, February 02, 2005

I am thankful for being on a calling plan that makes it practical to call my Mom every day or even twice a day. I am also thankful for email which allows me to share so many things with her.

I am thankful for fans because they keep the air circulating in the house during the winter and keep things from getting too stuffy.

I am thankful for the grace given that permits me to move on without bitterness.

Thursday, February 03, 2005

I am thankful for quick-read, ear thermometers so I don’t have to take my children’s temperatures rectally.

I am thankful for a Dr Robinson who really seems to genuinely care about my kids and their well-being.

I am thankful for Microsoft Money – it makes paying bills and balancing accounts a great deal simpler.

Saturday, February 05, 2005

I am thankful for coasters – they give me such pleasure and as I am fond of saying “You can never have too many coasters.” And I am testament to that.

I am thankful for DVDs and videos to park my sick child in front of. I can’t imagine entertaining her.

I am thankful for the fact that I write this journal because it makes me stop and think everyday about all the good things in my life like ice cubes, cameras, plants, books, computers, comfy clothes etc.

Sunday, February 06, 2005

I am thankful for fans and other things that make white noise so that I can block out the rest of the world while the girls nap and so they aren’t disturbed quite so much.

I am thankful for triple blade razors that when I bother using them actually make the skin on my legs nice and smooth.

I am thankful for wrist braces they do make it a lot easier to do things that take hand strength.

Monday, February 07, 2005

I am thankful for macros and the computer skill to make them. It allows me to press a button and have the date entered or the font changed according to my standard without having to type it out by hand everytime.

I am thankful for the quietness and solitude of early morning. A time when I can write, muse, create, and visit.

I am thankful for indoor toilets. Can you imagine using an outhouse in the middle of winter in Minnesota?

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

I am thankful that there are people in this world who go through serious illness and have the courage and strength to write words like this “To all of you who have been beyond kind and caring, offering me so much encouragement and cheer...I promise i will remember you all in my heart and prayers, as long as i breathe...Thank you for making this experience such a Blessing for me :))” How many people will call an illness a blessing.

I am thankful that someone decided to research happiness and that someone else decided that Time Magazine should do a special issue on happiness and that someone wrote and article suggesting things that can improve one’s sense of well-being and that one of the suggestions was to keep a gratitude journal – to count one’s blessings.

I am thankful that I can find common ground with people who share similar interests as it keeps one from feeling alien and lonely.

Thursday, February 10, 2005

I am thankful for toothpaste...it makes the mouth feel so fresh and clean and when my mouth feels clean I feel more awake and more alive and tea is even more astringent.

I am thankful astringent face washes. They are a much nicer way to freshen ones face up than splashing water on it and getting water all over the sink, your arms, the front of your shirt and everywhere else. Plus the zing that most have also perk one up.

I am thankful for thrift stores. They are a fun place to shop and a great way to get rid of what one has outgrown or items that were a mistake for the wardrobe etc.

Friday, February 11, 2005

I am thankful for my aunts and uncles who are so willing to be a part of my life. Many people do not enjoy that sort of relationship with their aunts and uncles.

I am thankful that we live close to the clinic. As much time as we have spent there in the last three weeks, it is good that it is less than five minutes away.

I am thankful for cds and CD burners so that I can keep track of and back up and protect my reams and reams of photos.

Monday, February 14, 2005

I am thankful for urgent care at the clinic...I’ve spent seven days there in the last sixteen but at least when I can’t get into the doctor on the day I need to – I have the option.

I am thankful that Grandpa M stayed with Grandma and didn’t leave her in spite of how difficult the marriage was. I am grateful that for some odd reason, they decided to have 7 children. I am glad for how Grandma’s illness impacted Grandpa’s ministry and I am thankful for Grandma’s own strangely effective ministry of short scribbled notes and religious tracts.

I am thankful for nice ladies’ at the checkout counter at Wal-Mart. Ladies’ who know my name, won’t check my credit card signature because they know me and who love my girls.

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

I am thankful for hot water heaters that allow me to take long hot showers.

I am thankful for vacuum cleaners to clean up all the crud in the carpet.

I am thankful for people in this world who do their thing without complaining and wish I were one of them.

Wednesday, February 16, 2005

I am thankful for quiet early mornings so I can think!!

I am thankful for when fevers break and the crud is expelled and children begin to sleep the way children ought too. Deeply with the sleep of the innocent.

I am thankful that there are people in this world willing to read my daily thoughts and shots.

Thursday, February 17, 2005

I am thankful that my parents are coming for a longer visit this weekend. I know that technically that isn’t suited to the purpose of this journal but there – you have it.

I am thankful for envelopes they are a neat little invention – I wish I knew how to fold one that didn’t require cutting with a scissors – I think that would be cool.

I am thankful for file sleeves to help organize all the letters I’ve saved over the years – it is very, very, handy...

Friday, February 18, 2005

I am thankful for rolling cutters for cutting paper – especially the kind on my Fiskars cutting board – it makes the production of paper products especially cards much easier and more efficient.

I am thankful for deep freezers – I love preserving my tomatoes from the summer to use throughout the winter. It gives me hope for the season’s end and a new spring.

I am thankful for garbage disposals when they work because when they don’t work the line always backs up – gross and quite unsanitary, I am sure.

Sunday, February 20, 2005

I am thankful for used bookstores – they are a wonderful place for bibliophiles to indulge their obsession or just go visit to dream. This weekend was the first time in a long time that C had been to a used bookstore, when we walked in, she looked around and said “There are a lot of books.” I love having readers for daughters.

I am thankful for having a family that likes to prepare food. It is fun to spend time with my parents in the kitchen. Much more wholesome in my mind than going out to eat all the time like some people do.

I am thankful that my children love their grandparents. It is gratifying to watch them do things with their elders, snuggle with their grandmother, and especially to hear them tell your parents “I love you.”

Monday, February 21, 2005

I am thankful for six hours of uninterrupted sleep everything seems brighter and fresher after a long sleep.

I am thankful for the invention of cups and glasses can you imagine the time when you had to kneel by a stream and somehow figure how to drink from it – did you lap like a beast of the field or did you cup your hand to carry it to your mouth? Or worse yet, did you scoop it up in an animal bladder and drink it from the neck of the bag?

I am thankful for cookbooks. They are a source of inspiration for feeding the family, for renewing ones soul, for why one would be a mother and parent and spend all this time giving away the work of ones hands rather than keeping it for ones self.

Tuesday, February 22, 2005

I am thankful for refrigerator magnets. They are a wonderful invention. How else would we decorate our kitchen with kitschy objects? How else would we hang our children’s artwork up in the kitchen? What other cheap souvenir would be as useful.

I am thankful for the sounds of a peaceful happy busy house. Sounds like the washing machine running, the dishwasher running, children playing quietly and independently, the tick tock of a too loud clock, etc.

I am thankful for the invention of cupboards, and closets, and trunks, and other storage devices. Can you imagine leaving it all lay around?

Wednesday, February 23, 2005

I am thankful for the strange things children pick up to play with. It makes me realize how worthless ‘toys’ are. Children need space to play and stuff to get their hands on but they don’t really ‘need’ toys. I need to remember that.

I am thankful my girls like the written word. Yesterday C started writing letters with her crayon without me ever showing her how to make letters.

I am thankful that not everyone I know on this planet is an American. I think that American’s tend towards being to isolationist and that they are narrow-minded.

Thursday, February 24, 2005

I am thankful for receiving blankets/swaddling cloths. I love swaddling my babies not only because they sleep better but also because they are such wonderful little pea pod bundles. C swaddled until fifteen months. I wonder how long K will swaddle.

I am thankful for the technology that allows digital cameras. It saves me vast amounts of money.

I am thankful for Lanolin as it keeps me from getting quite so raw with this breast-feeding terror of mine!!

Friday, February 25, 2005

I am thankful for the reminders that come into my life that the end the end, the doing is more important than the saving.

I am thankful that the girls adore their father and each other.

I am thankful for my Mom.

Saturday, February 26, 2005

For people who keep going in spite of much greater odds stacked up against them than my pitiful excuse for self-pity. They remind me what is important and that there is only one way to go if one wants to live.

For string cheese because it is yummy.

For eyes to see, ears to hear, tongue to taste, fingers to touch, and nose to smell the beauty of this earth. The words to write it down and the camera to try to capture it.

Sunday, February 27, 2005

I am grateful for Lydia and the nice conversation I had with her today.

I am grateful for Christy and the fact I have one good face-to-face friend. And I am glad she will watch C tomorrow when I take K to the doctor for her nine month check-up tomorrow.

I am grateful the guest bedroom as it is decorated in a way that is pleasing and peaceful to me and provides me with a good retreat.

Monday, February 28, 2005

I am thankful for fun times playing with C in the snow and drawing on the sidewalk with chalk. It is good to see the joyous side of your child when at this age they are so often cranky and contrary.

I am thankful for puffed oven pancakes because they are easy to make and satisfying to eat.

I am thankful that K has lived for nine months in my life.

January 2005

2006-11-26T05:36:00.001-08:00

Tuesday, January 11, 2005

Nearly everyday, I am reminded, how grateful I am that God gave me K. I was not planning on having more children – I was planning on making more children an impossibility when God gave K to us...I am so glad he did...somehow, she was a turning point in my life.

I am glad that C learns so much from what I say and do. Sometimes she seems so unresponsive to what I try to explain to her and then I will catch her lecturing Willow or K or explaining something to Willow or K that hubby or I taught to her.

I am glad that it is not my imagination. Photography does make me happy. Total immersion in something is one of the key things for happiness in life. If I am not totally immerged when I take photos then I don’t know what total immersion is.

Wednesday, January 12, 2005

A dumb thing – but I am thankful for tea. It is relaxation and invigoration and astringent cleansing all in a cup.

I am thankful I don’t have to work and that I can stay home with the girls. I love the time I spend with them and I am sure that I am teaching them many important things about life. Much more than they would learn in daycare.

I am very thankful for my Mom who listens to me and supports me and will do almost anything I ask her to. And who adores my girls.

Thursday, January 13, 2005

I am thankful that I don’t have to take the girls to daycare. I know I said that yesterday. But, this morning, as I was up I saw the woman across the street warming up the car and packing up her little girl to take drop her off at daycare as she headed off to work. I can’t imagine mornings of waking up children and dropping them off with strangers.

I am thankful for my bread machine and blenders and food processor and all the other things that make it much easier for me to prepare wholesome food for my family.

I am thankful that K slept better last night. She may have been up for two hours in the middle but she was only up once and slept in once we fell asleep again.

Friday, January 14, 2005

I am thankful for candlelight. It has been with mankind for hundreds perhaps thousands of years and in recent years electricity has taken away its practical usefulness. But for me nothing is more symbolic of my desire to relax than a glowing candle. I take baths and showers by candlelight. I love to light a candle when the girls lay down for a nap and then read, drink tea, or work on photos.

I am thankful for a warm house and the fact I don’t need to leave it. Today the temps are starting out in the teens below zero Fahrenheit.

I am thankful for sunshine. I like overcast weather but on days when you are shut inside – the sun is definitely a blessing.

Saturday, January 15, 2005

I am thankful that God let someone invent Dr Pepper – my great caffeine sin. I love the stuff!

I am thankful for wool blankets and wool socks to help keep me warm when the house is chilly.

I am thankful that my girls are healthy and don’t have any serious health concerns.

Sunday, January 16, 2005

I am thankful for my friend at church. They truly are wonderful ladies. They are concerned and compassionate and genuinely warm.

I am thankful for all things that grow. I love having plants in the house and I love to garden. Plants are such a symbol of death, birth, and renewal. In my house, I have plants from when I first went to college from my parents, I have a philodendron I found in the trash at college, I have plants from our first apartment in the Twin Cities, Our first house, and now plants from my grandfather’s house after he died.

I am thankful for books. I am a true bibliophile. I have so many books I want to read. Perhaps in heaven there will be a room of all books and a place dedicated to reading.

Monday, January 17, 2005

I am thankful for Tylenol, Advil, and caffeine. I’ve been having headaches again lately and they make it easier for me to get through the day.

I am thankful for our gas fireplace – it is a nice way to punch up the heat in the basement when it is this cold.

I am thankful for early mornings when I can sometimes be awake enough to have my own quite time.

Tuesday, January 18, 2005

I am thankful for cruise control on my car. It is only by using it that I don’t speed.

I am thankful for that wonderful thin light some winter days have – it is ethereal.

I am thankful for a wonderful thrift store to go and play in... ;)

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

I am thankful for being a healthy person who is able to pursue all the things in life that I wish to pursue. I am grateful that the lesson of patience in poor health has not been forced on me.

I am thankful for all my friends who share my love of photography...it is always good to be understood.

I am thankful for the warmth of small bodies pressed next to mine in hugs, in nursing, in reading a book.

Thursday, January 20, 2005

I am thankful for the color combination of blue and green – to me it is the most beautiful color combination in the world and thrills me to bits. I especially like the deep blue of thunderclouds set off in the foreground by a shelter-belt of trees whipping in the pre-storm wind.

I am thankful for the dumb things that give me that weird almost twisted shivery feeling. Like popping a good zit, peeling off a sunburn, pulling a hangnail, shaving ice off the drive way, etc...Yes, the sick things.

I am thankful that my girls nap well (most of the time).

Friday, January 21, 2005

I am thankful for time spent with my daughter, C, when she is being delightful and not a little pill. For instance, this morning when we made banana bread together and she was the sweetest child on the planet and hugged me and told me how much she loved me.

I am thankful for windows with beautiful light shining through so I can take awesome photos of C.

I am thankful for music – I love music. It is there available for every for every mood...always a consolation and always sympathetic.

Saturday, January 22, 2005

I am thankful for friends and family who are willing to receive and look at/read my endless stream of poems, photography, stories about the girls, and thoughts on what I am thankful for. :)

I am thankful for a beautiful night last night while I shoveled snow from the driveway. It was lovely, quiet, and peaceful.

I am thankful that both the girls like to be read too. It is a great way to spend time together and I feel as if I am having an impact on their lives.

Sunday, January 23, 2005

Today is Grandpa M’s birthday and I am thankful he lived a life worth remembering and that his memory creeps into my life in unexpected ways.

I am thankful for the M family and the relationship that is a bond between the generations. The bond is strong and embraces the contributions of young and old.

I am thankful for the computers and email which Grandpa appreciated and embraced as one more way to keep in touch with his family both far and near.

Monday, January 24, 2005

As I take care of more and more shopping from our computer, I can say in all honesty – I am very thankful for the Internet. I think that the rest of hubby's birthday presents will be purchased from home so that I don’t have to run all over kingdom come to get them.

I am thankful for the a wonderfully cozy weekend at home and celebrating hubby's 36 birthday on Saturday in a wonderfully low key way.
I am thankful for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy both as a book and a movie – great escapism (we are watching part three in the evenings on nights I don’t go to bed early).

Wednesday, January 26, 2005

I am thankful for Videos and DVD’s that way I don’t have to let the girls watch whatever crap is on television or see all the advertisements for things we don’t need (and I don’t want).

I am thankful for garden catalogs that help me dream my way past the long winter. I can dream up all sorts of fabulous gardens.

I am thankful for the fact that hubby is willing to take care of K quite a bit these days and he really seems to enjoy her.

Thursday, January 27, 2005

I am thankful for days like today when the girls don’t fight too much (or Cdoesn’t pick on K too much).

I am thankful for warm days when I can take shots of snow that look cold... ;)

I am thankful for a clean house (I did a lot of cleaning today).

Friday, January 28, 2005

I am thankful that babies have such soft skin and cute voices. K's babbling – “Mamamamamamam” and the pats from her little hands absolutely enchant me.

I am thankful for the Internet as an awesome place to do research.

I am thankful for wool socks and blankets and sweaters– I may have been thankful for them before – I don’t know but they are soooooo cozy when the weather is cold – they are like the skin’s equivalent to comfort food.

Monday, January 31, 2005

I am thankful for the postal service. I may not use it as much as I ought for sending stuff. But I love getting stuff in the mail and it is nice to send stuff to family and friends too.

I am thankful for tape it makes it much nicer to wrap things.

I am thankful for garbage removal services – it makes it much nicer just to put stuff out at the curb rather than haul it away or burn it or try to figure out what to do with it.