New here? Thankful Thursday is something we’ve been doing in these COVID times; a (frugal and free) exercise to help us hunt for the good that is in our lives and in the world, even in the midst of a pandemic.
I started this post draft earlier in the week, before the sad events in DC yesterday. I don’t know quite what to say about it, but it seemed odd to jump into today’s post without at least acknowledging that it happened.
I have lived through plenty of election cycles, and I took for granted the peacefulness of the transfer of power from one party to another (Republican to Democrat, and Democrat to Republican) and from one president to another.
I hope and pray that this year is anomaly, because the storming of the U.S. Capitol is not a thing I’d like to ever see again.
And just to be clear, I don’t think that was a remotely justifiable thing for people to do. I could say a lot more, but I’m just gonna leave it at that.
This week, I am thankful:
that this election season is about to be behind us
I have never looked forward to the end of an election season as much as I have this time around.
(Probably because there has never been such a bumpy one in my lifetime!)
that we had a nice warm day for taking down Christmas lights
Christmas lights are 79% less frustrating when your hands aren’t freezing.
for a week with fewer doctor appointments
It feels like I have been going to appointments a lot lately.
Nothing’s wrong; it’s just that everyone needed eye checkups and the followups to those, dental appointments, plus dermatology checkups and braces checkups, and so on.
So I am thankful for less of that this week.
And I am also thankful that it is possible to still get those appointments taken care of, even in the midst of a pandemic.
that we got our stimulus check already
We were pretty far back in line to get ours the first time around, so I figured the same would be true this time.
But nope; it’s in our bank account already.
Also a happy thing: it came as a direct deposit. Our first one was on a prepaid card, and we know how I feel about those.
for lots of sun in the forecast
A lot of times, winter days around here start out sunny and then turn cloudy in the afternoon. So, I know that will probably happen with some of these forecast sunny days.
But at least I can be pretty sure the day will start out with sunshine, and I love, love, love sunny mornings.
that all my appliances are currently working
I am seriously not taking that for granted lately.
that our cat actually likes her new Ikea house
We used to keep a cardboard box here for her, but that was pretty ugly to have in the living room.
So, we picked up an official cat house from Ikea, and she really likes it. You never know if cats will actually use a thing you buy for them, so I was pleasantly surprised.
So, the cat is happy and I am also happy because this looks much better in our living room than the cardboard box did.
that sunset happens at 5 pm now
Not that I am checking sunset times every single day or anything.
Lucky Vi says
I am thankful that a very stressful and difficult week is over. My elderly uncle had a heart attack on Monday, and I am so glad that he survived it. He had heart surgery just a few weeks ago to clear out a massive blockage in his heart, and I have been praying that he would be ok; and worrying about him being exposed to Covid post-surgery. He’s recovering now, and I am so very thankful!
LoriB says
Finding it hard to comment. My heart is in my throat. I’m not one who feels comfortable going against the flow even as an invisible person commenting on a blog but I am…
Thankful for the Word of God. Have been turning to it more and more because I am so confused. Confused by the way people treat each other. Frustrated by how we all dig in our heels and think the worst of each other and refuse to look at another’s concern. We lump everyone into 2 camps and the other side is our enemy. I notice as I read these comments on a favorite blog that our country is more divided than ever. If we voted Republican we must be the enemy and vice versa. All Republicans will be lumped together. So I am thankful for Romans 12. It teaches and reminds me what my response should be. The whole chapter is great. Verse 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.[h] Never be wise in your own sight. 17 Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. 18 If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. 19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it[i] to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” 20 To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” 21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Thankful that I don’t have to have all the answers or have my way to behave this way.
Thankful that as a follower of Jesus I am a citizen of heaven. I don’t have to worry about who to vote for there.
Thankful that the US government is not the answer to my problems. Financial or medically.
Kristen says
Lori, everything you said was just fine; no worries.
I do not identify as one particular political party; there are aspects of both parties that I agree and disagree with.
It seems like I am hearing from both Republican and Democratic party leaders that the invasion of the Capitol was not acceptable, though; that seems like a rather non-partisan viewpoint. So please don’t feel unwelcome here just because I said the invasion of the Capitol wasn’t ok.
And I’ll just add that yes, I agree with you that regardless of who is in power, those of us who follow the Lord can still do exactly what we are supposed to do (which the verse you quoted lays out). There is no need to panic or catastrophize; God has laid out good works for us to do, and there is no “as long as the right person is in power” asterisk on that verse.
Jean says
Thankful for the day I had at a local wildlife sanctuary with my 2-year-old grandson (Thursday). It was sunny and bright, a little chilly 37 deg.–so gloves, scarf, and hat.
We had the money in the bank to pay for costly repairs to both of our cars. My husband had an appointment for his car. My engine light had come on a couple of times, so I started to have a concern. Yes–I needed another repair, just had one in Nov. But my car is 7 1/2 yrs old but basically runs well for what I need, has been dependable, is paid off, and the repair was less than a new car.
The entertainment we have had this week is from the chickens roaming the yard, looking in the window
The ladies and I had a wonderful walk through the woods on Monday. We started out at 8:30 a.m., it was brisk but nice. There was a beautiful waterfall.
priskill says
What you said, Kristen — an incredibly sad day for all Americans. We can all disagree but the idea that violence is acceptable is not remotely American. I am thankful it is over (hopefully) and that we can move on in our lives without all this division.
Thankful that:
My mom can get her vaccine next week! And I am somewhere in the list or tier since I am in class. Sooo I can eventually go visit my mom without quarantining and putting her at risk.
We are healthy — let it stay thus!!
My friend and I are walking regularly and both feeling better and stronger — all the little aches and pains are kind of diminishing.
In the silver lining department, not being able to fly east to see my family at Christmas enabled us to save money. We have hardly gotten take out and we keep cooking our dinners.
It is Friday — treat day! We are ready for food I didn’t slap together.
Happy weekend to all!
Hummod ewpl says
It’s not sad. It’s finally a chance for another side to be heard. Which hasn’t been able to happen whatsoever.
It’s so bias, untrue, & very unpatriotic the stuff that’s put out there.
Kristen says
There are legal ways to protest and be heard. Invading the Capitol is not one of them, and doing so is extremely unpatriotic.
That sort of behavior is not appropriate from any side of the political spectrum, and it is not how America is supposed to operate.
CrunchyCake says
I’m with Kristen on this one – it is a sad day. Attacking the capitol is not the way to be heard and it is not patriotic. Just because someone doesn’t agree or doesn’t do what you want doesn’t mean you weren’t heard. As Americans we have the right to protest. We have to speak out and verbalize our beliefs, and it is patriotic to speak up when we disagree, even with our government. What happened last week was not patriotic and not ok.
I do think the media is biased. I do think there’s a ton of things put out there that are untrue. And that’s not right – but the only way we can fix this is to find some common ground and agree on some basic rules to play by. We’re so broken as a country…it is heartbreaking.
Bean says
Thankful the domestic terrorism at the Capitol yesterday wasn’t worse. Hoping it opens some people’s eyes to what has been happening for the past 4 years.
Thankful my son thrives in remote school and can stay home versus needing to be on campus.
Thankful for the hospital staff taking care of all of the patients. California is experiencing a massive surge. It’s bad here people.
Thankful my husband can work from home and my son can school from home and that we don’t have to go anywhere.
Thankful for warm drinks and foggy/rainy days. Means I don’t have to run the sprinklers!
Mary says
I am glad to live in a country where there is hope. Even with the awful event at the Capitol, the Congress did their job and we can hope calmer days are in sight. I am also thankful that our pets are on the mend – one with cystitis, another with upper respiratory troubles. I am glad that the reflection of our lamp was a shadow and not dirt-so I don’t have that to clean today.
Kristen says
Yes, I was so glad that they went back in and finished the work they were supposed to do.
I’m glad your pets are doing better now!
Mar says
Thankful for seeing the sun yesterday, the sky is still blue! I was concerned it may have changed. Ha!
For the delayed sunset, the dogs got a walk in semi-daylight much safer after hubs walked the dogs in the dark and my neighbor drove by said she did not see him and almost hit him. She did see our dogs reflective collars.
That my peeps in health care have their vacs. I hope they are safer because of it.
Saddened by events this week. I’m sorry that lives were lost with both the event and due to covid. Gone from our country is empathy.
Suzan says
It is late Friday here and we have had a change in the weather and’t had our brutal heat and humidity for over 24 hours. I am sure the air conditioners are relieved.
I bought myself and my girls meal planning book for Christmas. My youngest used it and her husband is well pleased with their meals so far this week. I seem to change meals almost daily. Whoops but I am managing to record my spending. There are many leaks to plug. But that is positive and gives me something to improve upon.
While you are in a season of doctor appointments I am relieved that my eye specialist has cancelled my appointment on Monday. We are going into a full three day lockdown for the first time since this virus has crippled our poor planet.
I am participating in a crochet along that is hosted by Lucy from Attic24. I now have three solid days to start that blanket and time to work on another. I also will be able to watch the test cricket as I work and I am very happy about that.
We had done our grocery shop yesterday and should be fine over the lockdown. Many in the areas in South East Queensland have been subject to rush and panic buying. Glad to have missed that. The car was filled too. So we are set to be safe and secure at home.
I pray that the mess that shocked many yesterday is over and that the transition of power goes smoothly.
Lorraine says
I am thankful for a relatively peaceful day after the heartbreaking events of yesterday.
I am thankful for getting round 1 of the vaccine this week.
I am thankful to work for people doing their best to keep us safe. Although we cannot shut down my workplace completely, most folks can work from home most of the time and with the surge in cases, the office has further reduced the number of people to be there from 25 percent to 10 percent of the staff.
I am grateful for the stimulus check that showed up in my bank account and will offset a few of the furlough days we are required to take starting this month.
I am thankful for furlough days! I would much rather take unpaid time off than take a straight pay cut!
Sara says
I’m not sure if I have ever commented, but I have been reading for many years. I’m sad today because my great aunt died. Just a few hours ago. So I want to say the things I am thankful for that are just about her.
1. I’m thankful for all the memories of Thanksgivings at her home when I was a child. There was nothing as exciting as seeing Aunt Doris’ dessert table.
2. I’m thankful I have the Christening gown she made with so much love for my daughters to pass down to their children one day.
3. I’m thankful that she gave me her “secret” pizzelle recipe and that can live on.
4. I’m thankful that she loved God with all her heart and she is with Him and all our passed loved ones tonight.
Becca says
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Lindsey says
What a nice tribute to her!
Kristen says
Oh, Sara. I am so sorry for your loss, but I’m glad for your good memories of your aunt. So bittersweet.
Jamie S. says
I don’t comment here very often, but I am a loyal reader. However, I would like to tell you, Kristen, that these posts have inspired me to start a gratitude journal. After yesterday’s events, it was nice to think of things I was still thankful for in the midst of a lot of sadness. So, I’ll do it again publicly here today!
1. I am thankful for this blog and the lovely group of readers/commenters. I feel like I always gain some enjoyment and new bits of knowledge here in this space.
2. I am thankful that my husband and I both have steady jobs as teachers and haven’t had to worry about money like so many others have during the pandemic.
3. On that note, I am thankful that we have enough money to donate to charities that can help those who are struggling right now.
4. I am thankful for meal planning (something I wouldn’t do as faithfully without this blog!) so on nights when I feel spent emotionally, I don’t have to make any decisions about dinner because I already did that!
5. Finally, I am thankful for our Roomba. I don’t know if you ever decided to get one, Kristen, and I know they get mixed reviews. But for someone like me who works full time and has two pets, it sure is nice to run the Roomba on a schedule and keep the floors somewhat clean in our house. It is always satisfying to dump the bin after it runs and see just how much pet hair and dust it picked up off our hardwood floors!
Sara says
I LOVE my roomba. My husband bought it for me and I was very skeptical. I keep my house very tidy and sweep and mop often. It runs everyday while we are out and everyday it is full.
J says
Which type or model do you have? I know I want one, but am not sure what exact one.
MB in MN says
Sad day indeed and utterly unsurprising to anyone who has been paying attention and applying critical thinking to what and who we have experienced over the last four years. So today I am thankful for that chapter to be over and I am hopeful for a better tomorrow.
Dawn says
Spot on and amen to this!
Bee says
I did not intend to comment on our political situation. I come here not to talk about politics but to escape it. However, after reading some of the comments here, I find it difficult not to do so. Although I’m retired, my background is in politics and economics.
As I said yesterday, my heart is heavy. Over the last 12 years, the grandstanding and divisive rhetoric on both sides of the aisle – aided by our media — has reached a crescendo. We are a country divided — approximately 50% of the people vote for Republicans and 50% vote for Democrats. With a population such as this, the only way forward is through cooperation and negotiation.
Our forefathers designed this country with checks and balances in place so that our leaders would have to build a consensus or coalition to govern effectively. However, this is not being done. Democrats and Republicans are demonizing one another and being irresponsible with sacred trust that we have placed in them,
So I personally am begging our leaders to stop putting politics and power first. Put America and her citizens first. As we move forward, I hope that the Democratic Leadership will remember that they BARELY have the majority. Nearly as many people disagree with their political platform as agree with it. So it’s time to reach across the aisle and consider the views of all people.. If we don’t, things have the potential to get much worse.
Each one of us can start by asking someone who thinks differently than we do, “why?” then really listen.
So today, I am thankful that
I have a voice however small
I woke up safe and warm this morning in my bed
I have a small glimmer of hope that out of yesterday something good may come
I have my rescue pup
I have been frugal so I hope to weather the storm
Battra92 says
Someone at work today made a good point and said “You’re going to have to expect more of this when the media and their corporate overlords continue to demonize average, normal, hard working Americans.”
If Biden wants to unite us, and I’m not convinced that he does but if he does, I hope he attempts to try reaching across the aisle and tackle some issues that affect all Americans and not just those on the far Left such as good paying jobs for Americans, ending foreign involvement and becoming a more independent country and less the world’s policeman. It’d be nice to see someone abandon the fringes and unite the center but I’m doubtful that will happen.
M says
Amen!
Chris says
Amen all day and night.
Kristen says
I definitely hope that he will work to unite Americans. And I hope the same for whoever is elected after him as well. No matter which party is in power, my hope is always for uniting, not dividing.
Bobi says
It’s everyone’s responsibility to meet in the middle and stop demanding all their desires be met. We must ALL learn to bend and work together. Weren’t we taught this in kindergarten? (And remember, if Biden reaches over, someone has to reach back!)
Anita Isaac says
I agree with you 100%. I have never posted here and never thought I would but some people just won’t listen to another opinion. I have lost so many friends because of my opinions.
M says
Amen!
BJS says
Bee, if you ever decide to run for president I’m absolutely voting for you.
karen says
Thank you Bee for saying exactly how I feel but so much better than I could.
Beth B says
I am so thankful for your blog, Kristen. I always enjoy hearing your thoughts, especially on tough subjects, such as the craziness in DC yesterday. I am thankful that there wasn’t more death and destruction yesterday and hopefully we can get through the 13 days without any more chaos.
Vanessa says
I’m thankful for the friendly technician who installed my sump pump, who came back ten days later to fix a small issue that actually wasn’t a problem with the pump at all…it was to do with the furnace vent, but he figured out the loose connection and fixed the problem for no additional charge. What a guy!
I’m thankful for funds in my house repair budget that enabled me to pay for the sump pump installation…not exactly what I felt like buying but a flooded crawlspace was no fun at all, and living on the wild wet west coast, it is wise purchase.
Thankful for the surgeon I’m seeing tomorrow for wrist surgery. I’ve been waiting a year so I should have a happy wrist and hand soon.
Happy New Year to all!
Nora says
Healthy family
Farhana says
1. I’m thankful that you’re safe.
2. That you’ve acknowledged the shameless display of terrorism of the extremists yesterday. I shudder to think what would have happened if they were from a different race/ color/ ethnicity/ religion. What hypocrisy!
3. For my friends from all walks of life. I’ve learned that you canNOT be inclusive about being inclusive.
Hawaii Planner says
I don’t have a lot of words to describe how I felt yesterday, other than..devastated. I’m trying to focus on positive things today as well.
I’m grateful for:
-A negative COVID test for me, and the health of my entire family. Particularly because my county/state is struggling so much right now
-For leftovers. I typically cook on Friday-Sunday, & we eat leftovers the rest of the days. It really helps on long work days.
-A bit of sunshine today, to perk me up
-My son came out of the shower last night & put on his Christmas outfit (it’s like a track suit, but very Christmas festive & was a gag gift from my sister). He wore it around because he was out of pajamas. He’s 13 & typically a moody/sullen teenager, & I so needed the laugh last night.
-I had a video chat with a doctor, who thinks she has a solution for a long standing health issue. I’m trying a medication, and so far, it appears to be helping! This would be incredible, if it works.
Battra92 says
I’m not worried about the situation yesterday because people didn’t seem to be worried about all the riots from the last year so why should I worry about this?
But let’s see.
The post office decided to finally deliver my Christmas present from my wife. Now if they could just get around to delivering my medication, that would be great.
That my daughter and I have found an anime we both enjoy watching together. A lot of her shows are mind numbingly awful (Daniel Tiger can go to Hell as far as I’m concerned) so it’s nice to be able to watch something together that isn’t making me contemplate destroying the television.
That I caught my dental issue before it got worse. Luckily I can still go to the dentist.
Heidi Louise says
You’ve seen the meme that points out Daniel Tiger’s family has tiger striped curtains in their living room?
Parents around the country are celebrating the cancellation of “Caillou.” I agree.
Battra92 says
I haven’t noticed that. Maybe their home planet is somewhere on Oniboshi? (That’s an obscure joke, I know!) My problem is how much it talks down to children whereas the original Mister Rogers did not.
I never had to see Calliou but I know people who have and they say it’s horrific.
Val says
Calliou was kind of a brat.
WilliamB says
I am glad that you acknowledged the elephant in the room. It needs to be recognized and condemned. I’m practically inarticulate on the subject – not something that happens often – and I expect more bad things to happen before and during the inauguration. Whatever you think of this Administration, or the last one, or the next one, the right methods for the arguments are talking, marching, organizing, and voting. And remember that in a democracy, the party that loses leaves, peacefully and hopefully with grace.
What am I thankful for this week?
– That the body count yesterday wasn’t higher. It was a very close run thing.
– That the demographic process continues nonetheless. It’s not much of a win but it’s something.
– That I may get the vax much sooner than expected, maybe. My employer is is seeing which non-priority employees are interested.
– That my family saw each other, distantly, and we all stayed healthy.
– That my parents already have round 1 of their vax.
Anne says
Exactly what you said, WilliamB.
Profesora H-B says
1. Thankful that maybe I’ll get some sleep tonight. Monday and Tuesday were challenging days and then Wednesday started stressful before devolving into utter chaos throughout the US.
2. Thankful that I procrastinated developing my course syllabus because we had to shuffle my spring courses around and I am no longer teaching what I had planned. Sometimes my procrastination pays off.
3. Thankful we have almost another week before the semester kicks off.
Dawn says
I just love Thankful Thursdays!
While I fully expected yesterday’s heinous actions (it’s been building for months now… perhaps 4 years?), it was still shocking, sickening and horrific to see unfold. With tears in my eyes, I couldn’t help but worry about my son’s future. May God watch over our country and guide us to peace and healing. SOON.
1) So very thankful that I get to watch my son play soccer! His high school season started recently and I consider each game as a gift, as COVID continues to rise in TX and it is very possible our season could be halted or cancelled at any moment. As the mom of this senior, these games are priceless.
2) Thankful to be able to work from home.
3) Thankful my parents and in-laws remain healthy (elderly with pre-existing conditions keeps me worried if they are exposed to COVID).
4) Thankful we are having gorgeous weather here in San Antonio ~ beautiful blue skies and a chilly breeze. Such a nice break from our brutal summers.
5) Thankful for this blog. Honestly, it is a bright spot in my day and I love reading your words, Kristen, as well as the readers who share so much kindness, wisdom, humor and ideas.
Jem Horwood says
I am thankful that your election was finally certified, and that Republican gridlock in the senate was broken. (I say “your” because I live in Canada, but we are extremely affected by it here too.) I feel that there’s a real chance for some positive change there now. I’m also thankful that the so-called “coup” was a group of people whose goal was to take selfies in Mike Pence’s chair. When I think of government buildings being taken over in coups in other countries, the parties doing the taking are usually better organized with an actual intent to occupy and rule.
I’m thankful our beautiful tree has made it thus far. We officially declare January 6th the last day of Christmas in our house, and so today we have the bittersweet task of taking it down. But it went from green and verdant to dry very suddenly, and I was afraid it might have to come down early.
I’m grateful for the beauty of the Garry oaks in my yard. All this time spent at home would be less pleasant without beautiful nature outside every window. They are full of squirrels who chase each other around, performing daring aerial feats and generally entertaining us. There are lots of birds too, and we are planning to get a bird table to add to the fun.
I’m thankful I finished the first half of my stats requirements before Christmas, and that I was accepted into the second half, which starts on Tuesday, after being waitlisted for months. It’s a requirement for the degree that I’m slowly working on, and I really procrastinated on it so it’s a good feeling to be getting it done.
Lastly – I’m very thankful for grandchildren, and for the grandparent exception that allows us to provide childcare, which means they can be in our “bubbles”. We may not be able to keep it up if numbers continue to climb, but doing without them is very hard. (I should say, we’re fairly young grandparents – I’m 55 – so we’re not in the most at-risk age group. That would be a harder decision if that were the case.)
Oh! I mustn’t forget the vaccines! I’m incredibly thankful for them as they offer the possibility of freedom from this crippling fear and a return to more connection with others. Even if those who are hesitant don’t get them, if the rest of us do it will still be a much safer situation.
Thanks for this. I think it’s the first time I’ve done it, and you’re right – it does help!
Kristen says
Yes! I had the same type of thought; feeling grateful that this was a fairly disorganized, pointless invasion of the U.S. Capitol building.
WilliamB says
Some people weren’t very disorganized at all. (Deleted details available upon request.) It’d be more appropriate to be thankful that the organized, focused ones weren’t as competent as they might have been.
Kristen says
Yes, that might be a better way to put it!
Kris says
I mentioned this earlier this week, but SO thankful for the ability to see my mom in her assisted living facility on Monday. What a blessing.
Thankful I have had the first covid vaccine dose and am looking forward to the circle of vaccinations widening.
Thankful for the ability to pull soup out of the freezer for an easy meal Monday night as I was way too tired to pull something together.
Thankful for the snow we have had and for my teens being willing to channel their inner younger selves and make a snow couple!
Thankful for my family.
Jody S. says
I love it when my teens take time to be young again. . .playing in the snow, legos, or whatever with or without the younger kids.
Nancy says
Agree with everyone about yesterday. May we have Peace.
1. Thankful for a house full of food, gave food items to my daughter in law.
2. Grandkids ,just 2 helped make cookies. We made a card to send to mama who is deployed.
3 Happy to see sun, too many gray days.
4. Thankful for beautiful winter day.
5.Thankful my husbands eye surgery seems to be healing well.
Jenny says
Wishing safety and blessings for your grandchildren’s mother, and for you and your husband, and the children. And for all of the other deployed service members and their loved ones. I just wanted to say that, Nancy.
Anne says
I am mystified about the various ways in which the stimulus money is issued. A number of people have found the money in their checking accounts. You got a prepaid card last time, we got a green paper government check. I wonder what determines this.
We not only spoil our indoor cat, we spoil the ferals that come to our backyard. They both have real cat houses, outdoor cats have a two story structure, toys etc. Can’t help ourselves, they seem like furry babies that need care, although none of the ferals will let us near them. But they all keep us entertained with hours upon hours of cat TV.
Kristie Lawrence says
I’m interested in the reasoning, also. Last time ours was a direct deposit. It’s being mailed to us this time. Nothing at all has changed. Same bank account, have not moved. Weird.
Kristen says
Yep, same here. We got a card last time and now a direct deposit! This is a positive switch for me, but it does seem odd.
Becca says
I am thankful for the national guard. Also for the police. Maintaining law and order is very important for a country to function and I am glad there are people willing to put themselves in harms way to protect us.
I am thankful for Zumba. It is such a fun class and doesn’t even feel like exercise.
I am thankful for the really nice snow and fairly warm weather we’ve had lately. 32 degrees and lots of fluffy fun to play in snow for my boys to enjoy.
I am thankful for all the scientists who worked hard on the covid vaccine. I get my second dose next week and I am so excited.
I am thankful for my family. There’s no group of people I’d rather be staying at home with .
Susan says
Watching things unfold yesterday was heart breaking as an American. I really hope people are held accountable for their actions.
I am thankful for:
*the GA senate race outcomes. I heartily dislike Mitch McConnell and am happy he will not be able to block legislation for 2 years. I hope this leads to $2k stimulus checks. I don’t qualify for them, but I am happy for the people who really need them that do.
*online food bloggers that post gluten free versions of some of my daughter’s favorites. Last night I made GF copycat panda express orange chicken. It was pretty good!
*the time I’ve had with my college kids home. It may only last another week, so I am trying to enjoy it.
*getting back to a routine. My holiday vacation time was needed and appreciated, but this week has been a good reminder of what I like about my job (and some of what I don’t like, it is work after all).
*the ability to message our doctors via mychart. It is so much easier to send a quick message than call the office to leave a message and hope that I can answer the phone when the nurse calls back.
Heidi Louise says
Strong agreement about MyChart! Seeing lab results quickly and not having to wait for calls where numbers and terms are rattled off quickly; sending messages and not waiting for call-backs from busy offices; requesting a refill electronically; Lots of pluses here!
priskill says
So true — love that I can see my numbers and start to understand what they mean — love the direct contact with the medical people! And very thankful for them right now!
CrunchyCake says
1. Thankful for the potential that a new day brings. Yesterday I felt hopeless in a way that I haven’t felt in a long time. Then my daughter randomly decided that she was going to try to play kumbayah (she’s never played it before and she didn’t know what was going on D.C. – she’s 9). And it made me smile. It was imperfect, a little broken at times but with each attempt, the tune and the pace was a little better and it reminded me of our nation’s harmony. It’s imperfect and feels broken but if we have enough people who care, we’ll work at it and it’ll be better.
2. Thankful that even though our room fan/heater isn’t working correctly, I can enjoy the warm heat on my legs. I can’t control the temperature so it’s cranked WAY up and is stuck there but it really feels good under the table where my 2nd grader and I work all day. So in two months when the weather warms up, I’ll be cursing it. But for now, it’s pretty sweet!
3. Thankful that my crankiness yesterday resulted in my kids cleaning up the toyroom instead of us all in tears. At least something positive came out of my sour mood!
4. Thankful that my family is healthy in the middle of this COVID surge. Also very thankful for the medical professionals who haul themselves into work each day despite the risk and emotional toil it must take. I have friends who are in the middle of it and they’ve talked about how they never imagined they’d have to work in a situation like this.
5. That sleep is considered a good thing and a healthy thing. I really love it. It’s not even 9:00am yet and I’m already thinking about it!
Heidi Louise says
I am thankful for the generation that preceded me in my family, which ended last week with the deaths of my mother-in-law and my aunt, and my father last summer. I hope I can uphold and pass on the legacy of love and responsibility they taught me, as I am one of the old ones now. (And I’m not that old! They were 87, 85, and 97).
I am thankful I saw the moon again! Two days ago on my nocturnal bathroom visit, when I try not to open my eyes very far, I saw moonlight shining through the window onto the floor. We have had cloud cover for what seems like weeks and weeks at night, including during the “Christmas star.” Seeing what Mom called a “fingernail moon” reminded me of the rhythms of nature I have been missing.
I am thankful for the care and patience of my husband. And that he acts without being asked. I try to do the same.
Kristen says
I’m so sorry to hear of the losses in your family. Much love to you!
Heidi Louise says
Thank you much, Kristen! We are geographically far apart, and not having traditional prompt funerals is challenging. Yet connecting electronically with siblings and with the cousins I rarely see has been good. You wrote some time ago of visiting family for a funeral in South Dakota? maybe? who you had visited as a child? Those memories are deep.
Kristen says
Yep! I wrote about that here: https://www.thefrugalgirl.com/im-back-from-south-dakota/
And interestingly enough, that funeral, in pre-Covid times, was about 6 months after my grandpa’s actual death. There were just some family scheduling issues that made it impossible to do any earlier.
WilliamB says
There are many traditions in which the family gathers months after the beloved’s actual death. They tended to have developed when communication was slow and travel hard, but I think it’s time to revive them.
Heidi Louise says
Building on what WilliamB wrote, I would almost prefer to attend wedding “receptions” some months after the actual weddings, if it means the couple doesn’t have to spend ridiculous amounts of money, and can actually pay attention to their guests. (They also know what they really need for gifts as well).
Barb says
I don’t normally post here but had to say I love your new kitty house! The kitty looks so contented in it.
I”m thankful that yesterday is over & that more people weren’t injured or killed. It’s hard to fathom this actually happened.
Thankful I received my stimulus check via direct deposit right away. Nice surprise.
Cleaned out my kitchen cupboards starting New Years day & found some surprises I’d forgotten about. There were some items that had been pushed to the back because I wasn’t crazy about them & was able to gift some unopened supplements & protein powder in a local “Buy Nothing” group. Nice to be able to find new people who can use things I can’t.
Grateful for iced coffee mixed with chocolate milk!
Kristen says
Oh, it’s good to hear from you, Barb! Don’t be a stranger.
Zoe likes to mix a little coffee into her chocolate milk; like a mocha but sort of backwards proportions.
Julie C says
My daughter uses hot cocoa mix as creamer for her coffee to get a mocha-like drink
Kristen says
That would be tasty!
Betty says
I am thankful that my family is healthy.
I am thankful for the ability to exercise.
I am thankful for the multiple ways of keeping in touch with family.
I am thankful for my grandmother.
Kristen W says
I’m thankful for:
1. This community, your posts, and a chance to refocus each week on what I have.
2. being able to really evaluate some things my husband and I want to do in life and make some unorthodox decisions that we may not have ordinarily done if my husband’s job hadn’t ended last year.
3. a new cookbook that my SIL gave me for Christmas that I made 3 delicious different meals this week.
4. for my local library and the seeming never-ending supply of books I have access to.
5. for the time I had with a friend that passed away unexpectedly last week.
Martha C says
Thankful
1. that the horrifying situation yesterday was not worse and did not seem to spread all over the country as I had feared.
2. for a community of supportive loving kind people of faith in my life
3. For peeks of sunshine today
4. that my daughter decided to extend her visit with us (she is scared and lonely in the pandemic living far across the country)
5. that the vaccine is already being distributed and that eventually we will all have access to it
Ruth T says
I wasn’t up to reading about yesterday’s terrible news last night, so I read about it this morning and I’m glad for the chance to do a thankful list to pull my mind away from the horribleness of what people did. *Heavy sigh*
1. I’m thankful that my kids are little.
2. I’m thankful that it was warm yesterday (like, 36 degrees) so we could play outside after school. I was needing some fresh air.
3. I’m thankful for my Zoom Bible study group. Those ladies are such a blessing to me.
4. I’m thankful that my oldest is back in school and has 4-day weeks for most of the month. I’m finding that I love weeks with 4 school days.
5. I’m thankful that my living room feels so much bigger with the Christmas tree gone and the furniture rearranged. We’re home a lot, so it’s nice to have more space!
JD says
Yesterday was a bad day! I’m thankful for a new day, for starters.
1. I’m thankful that, thanks to a lab work scheduling mix-up, my husband’s hidden UTI was discovered, when his quarterly lab work was somehow scheduled earlier than it should have been. The lab caught the infection and his endocrinologist, who’d ordered the labs for his diabetes, called us to let us know. He was started on an antibiotic and we hope we will get this one knocked out without having to go to a hospital again. We had enough of that in 2019.
2. My uncle just passed away, but I’m still thankful for his 100.5 years that he got to live. He was active up until the very last.
3. I’m thankful that a backordered Christmas gift for a daughter arrived earlier than expected, and it fit her.
4. I’m thankful for hilarious videos featuring my wild and crazy grandkids that are sent to me.
5. I’m grateful for safe travel in my long commute every weekday.
Jackie says
As a Canadian I was horrified by yesterday’s events.
I’m thankful for having leftovers that I can make into soup.
Thankful that we are in a lockdown although I love getting out and about.
Thankful that I don’t get bored in lockdown and have many things that I can entertain myself with.
Stephanie says
Omg. I want and NEED a cathouse! Too cute
I am so sad and disheartened about yesterday. WE ARE THE UNITED STATES IF AMERICA. I am not sure what that means today.
Thankful that I got my stimulus check.
Thankful for my family.
Thankful ( but sad) that my Uncle went to heaven this week at the age of 87. He was always there for anyone and everyone in our family.
Thankful for the help of some small kitchen appliances during an extra frugal post holiday spell.
Thankful for free library books and music.
Bless us all in 2021!
Ruby says
1. Thankful to wake up to a nation with much less chaos this morning.
2. Thankful as always that everyone in my little family is still working and healthy. My husband and son had/are having a stressful work week, but we’re getting through.
3. The year of no silly spending is going well for Week One. I have not spent anything six of the first seven days. Ideally I want to confine my spending to only the days I go grocery shopping. We’ll see how that goes.
4. Got my cholesterol test back. Thankful it’s better, but it’s not much better. New medication looms. Thankful for health insurance.
5. Thankful for like-minded frugal folks to hang out with, always.
Jody S. says
1. I am thankful that our laundry room is getting the flooring re-done and a new sink that is deeper than the shallow one that was in it before.
2. I am thankful that I am done with my homeschool portfolios.
3. I am thankful that it is just a week until the movers move my father’s things into our house. (This, of course, means a lot of work on our part to make room, but this is slowly happening.)
4. I am thankful the rest of my children’s Christmas presents finally made it here.
5. I am thankful that most of the packages I mailed out to my Etsy customers are finally getting to them. (It seems the earliest ones ordered are still in the USPS black hole, but I’m hoping that they’re just at the bottom of the pile that is shrinking.)
6. I am thankful for today’s sunshine. A good dreary day is needed sometimes to really enjoy your tea and a good book, but too many days of dreary in a row is simply dreary.
7. I am thankful for Krumpe’s Donuts. We missed our usual going to a night-time Christmas choral concert and get donuts afterwards tradition earlier in December, but we managed to go out last night for the donut part, at least.
8. I’m thankful for coffee and cream, too, Kristin. Always. I can’t believe it took me more than 40 years to find this new love.
Maureen says
Thankful for:
1. My husband taking his vacation. He really needed it after working almost non-stop since late October. This is all comp time this week for him. Even tho there are things to do around the house, I am glad he is also enjoying a book, riding his bike, walking the dog and all around relaxing.
2. Took my car to a warranty place and the guy really had no clue. Called the warranty company and they are waiving the $50. copay to let me take it to a dealer since the other guy had no clue. We think he just didn’t want to deal with it. And the dealer? So knowledgeable!!!!
3. Haven’t received our stimulus check, but I’m sure it’s coming as we got an e-mail from Turbo Tax. Apparently, the government screwed up with quite a few deposits!
4. Also received an e-mail from our mortgage bank and they are doing an escrow analysis this month. We paid our 2019 tax refund to apply to our solar bill that is taken out thru escrow, so hopefully since the total solar amount due will be less, our mortgage payment will go down. We shall see.
5. We’ve been eating at home all week! YEAH!!!!
Julia says
1. Thankful that our family is safe and healthy.
2. Thankful I get to hike with a good friend later today.
3. Thankful that even though it’s cold it’s sunny and not windy.
4. Thankful that I had a few days to myself- and I have cleaned, organized and worked on house projects. I can get a lot done when no one is home. Why is that?
5. Thankful for all our crazy animals that make me laugh every day.
6. And very very thankful that not more people were injured or killed in yesterday’s attack on our nation’s capital.
kristin @ going country says
Yeah. Your post yesterday was very timely–unfortunately–for the ridiculous events that unfolded in the afternoon. But thanks to the previous almost-year of experience, I knew enough to read the headlines, then shut my computer and go outside to move manure to garden beds and sit in the sun to read while my children played. Because me reading about it would not effect the outcome of anything but my anxiety levels.
Anyway. Thankful for:
My husband’s flexible schedule that allows him to occupy our 3-year-old daughter while I’m juggling the three boys on Zoom school and my own teaching requirements.
The warm weather that has allowed my children to go outside to run “bowl factories” (i.e., mud play) and thus, be out of the house much more than they will voluntarily be on cold days.
For the friend who gave me “Guns, Germs, and Steel,” to read. This is probably not a book I would have started (or finished–it’s about 500 pages) myself, but since she gave it to me, I feel obligated to read it. And there is a lot of fascinating information in it. So much that I don’t feel like I’m absorbing it all efficiently, but I’m enjoying it as I go.
For coffee with cream. Always thankful for it when I have it.
betta from daVille says
G, G & S is a great book! Another one (which actually predates GGS) that is equally great is Tools of Empire, by Daniel R. Headrick
Battra92 says
G,G & S makes for an interesting theory but it doesn’t hold water when studied more closely so it’s not taken very seriously by historians.
WilliamB says
True, but it started a lot of conversations and research that would not have happened otherwise. Rather like Freud in that respect.
kristin @ going country says
Whether you agree with the conclusions drawn by the author or not–and there is a lot of “not” now, fifteen years after its publication–the amount of sheer data and information he compiled in it is pretty staggering. Worth reading for that alone.