Playing catch up....

I got so behind! Every day, I kept thinking I needed to catch up and between our internet at home being screwed up and working late for awhile… the days just flew by!

Nonetheless… I’m here now… time to catch up on Day 16 through Day 30.

Day 16: I am thankful for the Fightin’ Texas Aggies. I may not have finished school, but I will forever bleed maroon. I love everything about A&M and of course, our football season this year!

Day 17: I love that I grew up in the 80’s and 90’s. I loved my childhood. The toys, the shows, the nostalgia of it all. I got my cousins’ hand-me-downs, some of which were very 70’s/80’s-esque. 

Day 18: Thankful for mascara. It’s amazing what a little tube and a brush can do. When I don’t feel like going through the entire process of full makeup… I feel a bit better with just a few strokes of mascara.

Day 19: My church home. We’ve had ups and downs this past year or so and granted, I haven’t been coming in many months…. But I am so grateful for the family I have gained at FCC Rowlett.  

Day 20: Grateful for comfort food. Whether it’s a bowl of (my new ‘like’) chicken and dumplings or a scoop of ice cream…. I love that a taste can bring back a memory or make you feel at home.

Day 21: Llamas. Today, I am thankful for llamas. Because, duh… why do I need to explain?

Day 22: Thankful for my car. It may not be everyone’s dream car… but I have transportation to and from work… somewhere to take me where I need to go or want to see. 

Day 23: Today I’m thankful for my home. I am beyond blessed to have the opportunity of this house. I love that I can fix things up and redo and make it my own. I love that it’s OURS and most of all, I am thankful for the simple fact there is a roof over my head…. Unlike so many other people all over.

Day 24: I am thankful for movies and TV. I grew up watching all sorts of classic movies and TV shows. I knew all the old actors and admired the greats. I adored Lucille Ball and idolized Gidget. It’s amazing how you can know every episode of FRIENDS and say the words along with the Breakfast Club. From the 40’s to now, so many of them hold good memories, good feelings, tears of joy and warmth and more!

Day 25: Also thankful for music. Music speaks to my soul. In worship, it’s how I feel closest to God. In everyday life, I can crank up music and escape from the world. I sing the songs in the car and in the shower. Whether it’s Bach or Britney, Johnny Cash or Ja-Rule…. I listen to it all. Music too, holds great memories and warm feelings. I recall rockin’ to the oldies growing up and love it all today.

Day 26: Last week I was working a bit late and glanced out the window. I saw the most gorgeous sunset… a sky full or blues and yellows and pinks. How can that not take your breath away?

Day 27: Silly as it sounds, I am thankful for Pinterest. I’m so glad there is a place to share tips, crafts, recipes and more. I’ve made several things I have seen and enjoy it so much. People are so creative. 

Day 28: Today, I’m thankful for God’s timing. Not only in my own life, but lately… God has been showing Himself to others in just the right time. I am in awe of the miracles He creates… big or small. I hope He always reminds me that I need to let go and trust in Him.

Day 29: Today I’m thankful for pink. And glitter. Or better yet, pink glitter. Seriously, don’t ask me to explain that one.

Day 30: Since tomorrow is the first day of December… today, I am thankful for Christmas. I am thankful for lights and Christmas carols. For nativity scenes and tinsel and trees. Stockings from the mantle, White Christmas on the TV, fire in the fireplace…. The birth of our Savior. Merry Christmas all!

She works hard for the money!

Day 15

Today I am thankful for my job. I'm going on my third year here at the church. Time has flown! I am thankful I can wear jeans and that if I am sick or something is wrong with the car or I need to check on my grandma... everyone understands. I am thankful that even though I have days like these....

They are often overshadowed by days and moments like these:

I am thankful I have work that I (hope) is secure. I am thankful that while we have our trials, it's a good place to work for (and since God is the CEO, I think I have the best boss too.) Seriously, I do love my coworkers. I love the congregation. I enjoy eating with the Seniors at their monthly luncheons and love the calls from my "regulars" who call to check in and chit-chat.

So when maybe I feel like....

I'll just remember my window faces the parking lot and I can see who is coming to the door (which is locked when I am alone)-- and that means I can have office karaoke and a dance party at my desk while working:

What a blessings FCC Rowlett is!

Out with the old...

Day 14

Today I am thankful for indoor plumbing. Seriously... I know it sounds silly... but on these chilly mornings, I am so thankful I can sleepily shuffle to the bathroom and not outside to an outhouse. I'm glad I'm not heating water on the stove for a bath in a tin washtub and I love that my OCD-self can wash my hands as many times as I want. I've heard stories from my parents and grandparents of going out to the outhouse and am so glad I don't have to contend with the weather, critters, the smell, and the deep black hole. I'm grateful I've never had to traipse through the yard to pee, that's all. Amen for modern plumbing!

Day 12 & 13

Oops! I got behind a day!

Day 12

Yesterday I had the privilege of standing in baggage claim with at least a hundred others, welcoming home a man from our church. Jordan was wounded a little over four months ago and to see him walk through that airport was absolutely amazing. When Chris and I joined the church, he was already in the military and I had only met him once, at a Halloween Party. That didn't matter. It was my honor to clap with family, friends, and strangers and welcome this American Hero home. Thank you, Jordan, for your service.

Likewise, since it's Veteran's Day... I am thankful for all vets, past and present. To their families as they wait and pray. I am thankful for those we have lost and those still with us. I am thankful for the people who give up their afternoons to welcome home soldiers at an airport and for so much more.Most of all, I am thankful for these two men... My grandfather and my dad. These are MY favorite veterans!

Day 13

Hard to compete with day 12....  especially with the simple thing I am thankful for today. Nonetheless.... today I am thankful for coffee. On these chilly mornings, all I can think about it a good cup of coffee. Warming, soothing, so so yummy! I can have it plain or flavored.... either way, I'll take it!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

Day 11

Today, I am thankful for three things. These are three things that have recently changed in my life and have helped me... for the better. Sonic. E-Cigs. Happy pills.

Sonic drinks. Route 44, to be specific.

 Sure, I have my morning sodas (usually diet now) but I no longer have a couple Route 44 ounce sodas daily. Instead, I pull through once or twice a day and order a $.76 ice water... what a difference! No more sugar, no more damage to my teeth, no more icky carbonation. The water usually tastes so much better and of course, makes me feel... so much better. I am sure my kidneys are breathing sighs of relief.

My E-Cigarettes/Vaping.

 I'm on day 67 since I had my last analog (real cigarette.) I feel so much better. What a blessing these are for so many people. I could talk and talk about how wonderful these are and what an amazing cessation tool vaping can be.  0 mg of nicotine, simply vapor. Savings loads of money. I am thankful for quitting smoking and thankful for everyone who has supported me. I am sure my lungs are breathing a sigh of relief.

Anti-Depressants

 I'm on my third week of my first ever 'happy pills.' The dose just got bumped up and I know it's still early... but in the past couple of days, I have begun to notice a couple subtle changes. (This post also goes hand in hand with thankful, day 8.) I know a lot of people are not all "for" prescriptions of this type... but I do believe depression is an illness. It may not bee warranted.... but it can come on strong and get worse over time. I have hope of freedom with these and eventual counseling. I know my brain is breathing a sigh of relief.

The information highway...

Day 10

Today, I am thankful for technology. How amazing is it to have any question answered at the touch of your fingertips? I am thankful that I can find directions on my phone or look up the age of a classic actor on my laptop. I am thankful that I can keep up with old friends on Facebook and find new recipes and ideas on Pinterest. I can laugh at online videos, listen to music, watch old TV shows and movies. I can call anyone from anywhere. It's absolutely amazing and I can only imagine what the future will bring.

The branches continue.

Day 9

Today I am thankful for the "rest" of my family. My aunts, uncles, cousins, and all of my in-laws. I am thankful even for my estranged family.... because you were all large parts of my life growing up. I pray for you and hope your hearts can change. I am thankful for my Aunt Sharon, Uncle Billy, Cousins Stacy, Kelli, Caleb, Rob, and Todd. I give thanks for my new family... the family I gained when I married Chris. I'd list you all, but Huggins' family.... I think we know that'd take awhile. :o) Each of you has given me guidance and love. Thank you so much for all that you are, all that you do, and all that you continue to be.

An Apple A Day?

Day 8

Today, I am thankful for my health and the "saint" who helps me. I know I need to lose weight and maybe I do have PCOS and acne and psoriasis and allergies... but I'm healthy, overall. Perhaps I wish I could get a breast lift and have my nose reshaped... but there are people out there who are having their breasts removed because of cancer and a baby has been born with a defect and is missing some of its nose. I take it for granted. Instead of going out for a walk and picking the couch instead, I will remember that I am grateful I have the ability to walk. When I don't wear my glasses, I will remember that I at least have the ability to see. When I complain my ears feel full of fluid, I'll remind myself that at least I can hear.

I am thankful too, for Rhonda, who helps me when I am sick and without insurance. Who knows me and understand me, before I even say a symptom! She has been a saving grace for Chris and I countless times... and I will never be able to repay her. What a blessing she is to not only us, but every patient she sees.

My Country Tis' of Thee...

Day 7

Today I am thankful for the country I live in and the men and women who protect it. A country where I can do pretty much whatever I want, without thinking about it. I am free to believe in my God, without persecution. I have the freedom to vote and speak my opinion. Most days, I live without fear or want. It often times, doesn't even cross my mind. We take for granted our lives in comparison to so many out there... who live daily in terror and hunger and need. The men and women who sacrifice themselves for us, everyday.... are to be thanked for that. Past, present, and future. May God bless them and keep them... and may God reign over this nation and our world, keeping it safe, in His hands.

With a little help from my friends...

Day 6

Today, I am thankful for my fantastic friends. New and old, each one of my friends mean so much to me. They calm me down when I am being ridiculous, they give me advice, they make me laugh and talk deep talks with me. They'll be there when I need them and they'll dry my tears. They'll come bearing wine if need be and understand my rants. They GET me, like others don't... and know the real (crazy) me, that my introverted self hides in everyday life. Some have come and some have gone.... but they all have helped mold me into who I am today. Thank you, to all of you! I am thankful for each of you, more than you will ever know.

Fur-babies...

Day 5

"Animals are such agreeable friends -  they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms." - George Elliott

Today I am thankful for my three "sons." My fur-babies, Duke, Sinatra, and Moondoggie. I can't imagine not having these animals to curl up with, to laugh at, to hug and love. Each of them is very special to me and seemingly came into my life at just the right moments. From Sinatra sleeping on my head and purring louder than most cats can... to Duke looking up with those sad eyes and jumping in your lap.... and Moondoggie, with his dancing and belly rubs, his sweet pom cuddles and Chewbaca noises. They know when I am sad and bring me joy. I laugh at them and love that each has their own personality. What fuzzy blessings!

Maw Maw & Paw Paw & Bam Bam & Paw Paw

Day 4

"Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do.  Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children."  ~Alex Haley

Today, I am thankful for each of my grandparents. How can a girl luck out and get two sets of wonderful, generous, loving, and caring people in addition to Mom and Dad?

• Paw Paw Miles passed away when I was five. I remember his warmth and his smile. I remember his laugh and the way he always smelled like Certs. He'd take me to get tacos and loved me in a certain little dress. I remember waving to him in the hospital from a window, because I was too young to go inside. I love hearing the stories about him and know how much he loved my grandmother.

• PawPaw Thorne passed away where I was seventeen. I was blessed to have been there that night. To say my goodbyes and the I love yous. I'll remember his silliness and his loving heart. He always was good natured and never met a stranger. He was my chauffeur to and from school for years and always shook his head when me, my mom, and grandmother were gone all day shopping. He deeply loved my grandmother. I love hearing more stories about him and value the ones I remember him telling me himself.

• Maw Maw passed away in 2010. I took her for granted... like we always seem to do when we are growing up. Never know what someone means to you, until they are gone. I will remember her love for God and for my grandfather. Her forgiving heart, her wonderful smile, and loving laugh. I'd give anything to have a hug and kiss from her right now. To hear the same stories 100 more times. I was there in her final months and visited the day she passed. She was possibly, my biggest fan and loved my husband. I have a respect for her that I never knew was possible.

• Bam Bam is thankfully still with us. I can't imagine life without her. She was my partner growing up... telling me silly bedtime stories, making crafts with me, and feeding me wonderful food. She's so good hearted and such a wonderful woman. She loves our Lord and taught me His word. I value our Christmases... her favorite! I believe she is stronger than she gives herself credit for. I love that my husband loves her, and she loves him. I admire her love and strength she had for my grandfather. The memories I have with Bambi, my Perky, are endless. Her laugh, her heart, her fudge! I love you Bam Bam... you are definitely one of my heroes!

Mama & Daddy

Day 3

Today, I am thankful for my amazing parents. I am beyond blessed to have these two people in my life... to mold me, to shape me, to nurture me. I owe them more than I could ever repay. They have bailed me out and guided me. They gave me good taste in music and classic movies. We've built memories to last a lifetime and my childhood was better than anyone could want or hope for. I was given opportunities and challenges... and as an adult, have grown to have a respect and admiration for them as my parents and both of them as individuals. I thank God for Ron and Kathy Miles... and all that they do and are.

Give thanks...

It's the month of November! How did this year fly by so quickly? I need to do a post on our Halloween and decorations, but I'll save that for another day! Today, I want to do Day 1 and Day 2 of "What I Am Thankful For..." (I'll probably stay behind, as always... but I'll try and be more aware of updating on schedule.)

DAY 1 

First, I am thankful for my incredible Lord, my Savior, my God. I am humbled by His love and grace. I stumble, every day... but He is there to hold me up. I wouldn't be able to be "thankful" for anything else... if it weren't for the abundant blessings I receive from Him. My sins are forgiven and I am loved.It's absolutely overwhelming, in the very best of way. How GREAT Thou art!

DAY 2

Today I am thankful for my husband, Chris. In him, I have a best friend, a companion, a lover, a fighter, a good soul and heart, a confidant, a sounding board. Sometimes I don't know what in the world I would do without him. (Other times, I could wring his neck! Ha!) He's a good man, a child at heart, and loves the Lord. He's a leader, a little ADHD, spontaneous, and fun loving. We are so similar, yet complete opposites. I'm a lucky girl and I thank God he brought our hearts together.