Thankful Thursday | an identity around what you love
Many people spend large chunks of their day thinking about what they hate. They are always telling you about something they dislike: this food, that group, this place, that coworker.
You are more than your frustrations. Build your identity around what you love.
I find this concept appealing; I want to be known more for what I love than for what I hate. And I would like to spend more time thinking about what I love than about what I hate.
It reminds me a little of this MLK quote: "Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
So, here are some things that I love and am thankful for.
I'm thankful:
that I've barely had to run my air conditioning so far
It was a reasonably cool May, which means my air conditioning had to run minimally. Yay!
that my landlords are getting quotes for a new boiler
As you know, we have had multiple, um, adventures with the oil boiler here (one involving multiple fire trucks!) Gratefully, my landlords have decided it is time to replace this behemoth, which is probably about as old as me.
I am so so so so happy that this winter we will not have to worry about oil furnace issues.
that the rain turned the mosses so green
We had a lot of rain last week and oooh, the mosses are so very happy now.
So many 10/10 options to pet on the trails right now. 😉
for the beauty of raindrops
I love the way drops of water hang around after the rain has disappeared.
I spied these water droplets on some roses outside of CVS and stopped to take pictures.
that there's an easy way to safely dispose of medications
If you dispose of meds any which-way, there's a possibility they could harm someone (like pets or children) or that they could leach into the water supply.
So, since I had some expired medications that I needed to get rid of, I brought them to CVS and deposited them into the vault.
Super simple! And I'm glad to know they're safely managed now, especially since one of the bottles contained my unfinished opioid pain meds from way back in 2016 when I had my nose surgery.
that I didn't have to go in every day for jury duty
I was on call for a week, so every night I had to check in on the website to see what the instructions were. Happily, I only had to go in one day.
Another happy thing: there was wifi in the building, and I had my laptop with me. So I was able to do NCLEX practice questions during the waiting.
Also, we got let out early! Like even before lunch.
I skipped the shuttle and walked to my car since downtown is beautiful and it was nice weather.
And then I took my packed lunch to a park on the way home and ate it there.
You know how A. Marie shared a quote the other day about how you should be skeptical of any endeavor that requires you to buy new clothing?
Well, I was lucky that my divorce proceedings had already necessitated the purchase of some black pants, so I was all set for jury duty. No new purchases required!
that it's such a beautiful time of year to walk
I do stop and take pictures of things in the winter, of course, especially when there's interesting frost and ice. But in the green months of the year, I stop even more frequently.
I am endlessly fascinated with the plants that happen to grow on this barrier by the trail, which is essentially a telephone pole turned sideways.
But somehow, there are always multiple plants that find a way to grow in it!
for my $0/month car payment
Several times recently, I've seen people saying they have a $1200/month car payment, and hearing that made me really appreciate my no-car-loan minivan.
Is it luxurious? Absolutely not.
But having a $0 car payment is its own kind of luxury.
Also, a van is so handy for hauling things! Just yesterday I helped Sonia and her friends pick up a free dining table and chairs (they're all moving to a four-year school a few hours away, and they're renting a house, which needs furnishing).
What are you thankful for this week?
P.S. Regarding the quote at the top of this post: it is a-ok to feel and express frustrations, of course. But if the majority of our brain space is taken up with what we hate, that's a balance problem.
P.P.S. I often share quotes from James Clear's free newsletter; you might enjoy subscribing too!
Loved this post, Kristen.
You are such a talented photographer and I'm thankful for that!!
We also have $0/month in car payments (for either vehicle) and what a blessing.
Clear's newsletter is fantastic!
This week I'm thankful:
- I'm able to visit my parents for a few days. It's a break from my normal routine at home with the kids and it's been lovely.
- Part of what I've done this week is help my parents declutter their garage. It is a BIG task. And while they opted to hold on to lots of unnecessary things, we got rid of close to 40 bags/boxes of stuff (about a 50/50 split of trash and donations for Goodwill). I wasn't planning to work that hard, but I also know that it will feel liberating for them to have their very, very messy shed in much better order and to be free of years of accumulated stuff they no longer needed (some of this was because my grandmother died and they inherited items from her).
- Birdsong. I don't think I've ever paid attention to it before, but this spring I take special care to stop and listen when I'm outside and wow. It's incredible!
- My husband so capably taking care of the kids. I juggle so many schedules and school forms and coordinating rides and this week, almost none of that. Sweet relief. I know it makes for a busy week for him with work and all the kiddo care, but they've also made some super special memories without me that really warm my heart. I'm so often the solo parent at home so it means a lot to be able to switch. (Don't feel too bad for him; I do 35-40% of my time solo parenting and he's heading off to Rwanda for a 2-week humanitarian trip later this month and I'll be doing 2 weeks alone with the kids.)
- Mom's cooking. What a delight to not have to cook this week.
- Finishing a great book last night with a twist I didn't see coming (The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton).
@Elisabeth, yes to the comments about your husband and taking care of the kids. I can't believe how many mothers I meet who say their OH couldn't cope with the kids on their own. I'm a stay at home mum and don't leave my daughter often but when I do I know my husband will manage just fine (as long as he doesn't have to do any gardening!). It has made some family emergencies easier to deal with recently and I am so thankful!
@Jen, I find it infuriating when men can't take care of their kids or call it 'babysitting'. It's not babysitting if it's YOUR children!
@Sophie in Denmark, I agree with you. A father is not babysitting their own children they are just being a parent.
@Sophie in Denmark, I agree! What makes it worse is when men say will take care of (their) child & then dump child off with other people.
@Jen and @everyone,
it's been many years now, but my husband was always great at taking care of the kids, but had a bit of difficulty caring for the house at the same time. He always fed them well, made sure they were clean, homework was done, and he played with them for hours taking them to the pool, the beach, and the park. However, depending how long I was gone, it could take me a couple of days to get my household back in order.
We all bring our childhoods along with us into adulthood. Some men did not have present fathers and didn't learn to be good fathers. Others, like my husband, grew up in unorganized homes and never learned how to load a dishwasher. However, there is always room for change. Sometimes it just takes a while.
@Elisabeth, I loved that book too. I read a lot, and it's not too often a book manages to surprise me, but that ending knocked me sideways.
@Elisabeth, I second the birdsong! I love sitting on the deck in the quiet listening to them "talk" to each other!
@Jen,
This week I managed two or three arrangements from my end but EVERYTHING else he did without involving me at all which was delightful. I underestimate how much energy it takes to stay on top of all "the things" - practically and emotionally. I didn't have to remind a kid to shower, or pick them up from a playdate with friends. I didn't have to make sure our son had sunscreen on this morning when he headed out for his field trip and it feels AMAZING!!!!!
@Lisa K, So good, right????!!! I was leaning toward giving it 4 stars and then read the last 8 or so chapters and it shot right to a 5/5 for me. I find endings seem to wrap up too quickly in most books, but this one was so well done.
@Bee, Such an insightful observation. This is so true. And a great reminder to me to be so thankful for my husband who is a wonderful father, capable cook, and (when he has the time) a great tidier/cleaner of the house.
@Bee, My DH is a fantastic dad, and I never worried about going anywhere--that said, his style of parenting was different than mine when the kids were little! I once went to visit my best friend for a week, when my oldest was about three years old. Again, I had no qualms, but it was very funny when I got home and got the "report" from DS:
--"Mommy, I got to eat EVERY MEAL in front of the TV!" (definitely not a Mom thing; DH even put his little table and chair right smack in front of the TV, apparently, so it was a fine dining experience!
--"I had buttered pasta or pancakes for EVERY MEAL!" (DH looked at me and said, "I think I opened a can of fruit at some point."
--"Before you came home, Daddy looked around and said, 'We'd better get this place cleaned up before your mommy comes home, and he was right cause it looked like a tornado came through!" 😀
And yes, the house was perfectly cleaned when I got home--DH just figured, why expend the energy keeping it up when he could just blitz it at the end? Efficiency! They had fun and were happy, that was the main thing.
@Bee, I understand that, but it frustrates me when men are called 'super dads' simply for brushing their kids' hair and the standard for mothers seems impossible at times. Of course, that's not the fathers' fault, but the difference in expectations is very unfair. Sometimes it's as if men aren't expected to try and look after their kids at all.
@Elisabeth, your comment about mom's cooking is 100% spot on! We stopped by to visit my folks this weekend and she had a container packed of a treat that she makes and it was SO GOOD. I don't think I'll ever be able to make it. There's nothing like having something someone you love made for you!
@Bee, Also I think it's scientifically proven that men and women's brains are different. I think we are better able to organize and see the big picture much more easily. I am married to a great guy but he really does have to stop to concentrate on organizational things that I don't need to think twice about.
@Sophie in Denmark,
Yes, societal expectations are much different for woman than men. Having been a working mother 35 years ago in a backward Southern city, I have some stories. Although things have improved significantly, I find woman still are expected to be able to do EVERYTHING and do it well. However, I find modern fathers are expected to help and are encouraged to be active parents. Perhaps this is just my own experience and it is different elsewhere. My son and my husband both work for companies that offer maternity leave to father's. This was unheard of a generation ago. When my first son was born, my husband came to see me in the hospital during his lunch hour.
@Jen, In all the years we did foster care, my husband never hesitated to handle any situation. However, he did once insist that I be interrupted during a work meeting because "There is something hanging out of Wooly's butt and I think it is a baby! You need to come home!!" Wooly was a miniature sheep breed and we thought she was getting fat, as she had been given to us because she was not reproducing so the farmer didn't want her.
Haha, apparently the farmer misdiagnosed her. 😉
@Bee, in Denmark paternity leave is very generous. Although the father hasn't given birth he is given the time to be with the baby and support the mother. There is also paternity leave in the UK but it's shorter. Either way, society moving in this direction is heartening!
@Kelly, those studies have mostly been debunked, such as in the link below. Differences between men and women's thinking are mostly down to society.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210325115316.htm
@Regina,
A friend at work's ex used to do that all. the. time. when their daughters were littlle, and she had to work a Saturday. Note he is her EX. Ha.
@Liz B.,
Meaning, he would dump their girls at his mom's house.
I would go so far as to say that a $0 car payment is a status symbol. It used to be something that only us frugalmeisters had, but now everyone is doing it (or would like to be doing do it).
I haven't had to wear "nice" pants since 2015, so my professional wardrobe is non existent. For some reason I had the foresight to pick up a pair of black pants from Costco a few months ago just in case. Little did I know that I would end up wearing them to my stepson's high school graduation! It was a freakishly cold day. So I am grateful for that flash of Frugal ESP.
Same here! My “professional” wardrobe was seriously lacking after being a work at home, homeschooling mom for so long. Which is why my divorce events necessitated a little shopping.
But I bought my two pairs of black pants at TJ Maxx. Ha.
@Birchie, @Kristen, someone has a $1200 car payment? I struggle with a $350. car payment. What a waste because we all know that in the end, that car is not going to be worth what you paid for it.
And I am in the process of paying off my husband's truck by next week, so one less payment for us!
I almost cannot believe it’s a real thing but it is!
@Maureen, congrats on paying off the truck.
And I'm another member of the $0 car payment club. DH paid cash for the Element back in 2010, and my goal is to keep ol' Nellybelle on the road until they have to take me off the road.
@Maureen, congrats on no more payments soon! This is our last payment month for our van and I am so excited!
@Maureen, that threw me too! $1200?? I'm hoping that is for more than one (or two) cars! I am happily in the $0 car payment club. We will need to purchase a new car early next year but we will be selling a truck, so I'm hoping we can just purchase a new car outright with that money.
@Maureen, keep making the "payment" to your savings (or emergency fund if that is on the slender side). Paying cash for a vehicle is the best but a hefty down payment helps too.
Great way to start my day!! Being a terminally happy and positive person, negative, complaining people just really suck the life out of me!! Even if its someone I really care about I've learned to limit my time around them.
Your walk photos always make my day. I always look forward to the fresh colors of spring, especially the many colors of green.
Happy Thursday to all!!
Those mosses are beautiful!!
I’m thankful for
-hard sleep. For years I could not sleep well and heavy sleep has returned. It might take a few years if good sleep to catch up, but for now it’s nice not to lie awake for hours.
-school finishes today!! I’ll miss my students but I am excited to enjoy the outdoors all day every day for a few months.
-cool breezes from open windows. I’ve only turned fans on in this house twice so far. I love living in the north.
-good music that kept me company while I stayed up late making cinnamon rolls for a little party at work.
@Kaitlin, What did you do to get the good sleep to return??
YAY for sleeping!!! So happy for you.
@Madeline, Two things: (1) stopped living with someone who expressed a desire for me to be dead (2) lots of therapy.
@Kaitlin, wow. Glad that is behind you, in a sense. Prayers for continued healing.
@Kaitlin,
Holy cow. So glad (1) is out of your life, and thankful for (2). I'm a firm believer in therapy.
Kristen, I do enjoy your photos, especially of those little things. So many times those beautiful little things get lost in the bigger picture. Kind of like life sometimes.
Good to know about CVS having a safe disposal place for unneeded medications. And a reminder that I need to take some old meds that we have. Our local police station has a safe disposal place in the lobby and our town has a safe disposal event for meds, plus free paper shredding and electronics disposal twice a year.
A habit of taking pictures has made me notice those little things more and more, I think! It’s like the opposite of a vicious cycle. 🙂
@Kristen, let's call it a "virtuous cycle"!
@Addy, Walgreens also has the safe disposal box
When I picked up my son's meds after his wisdom teeth came out, the pharmacist gave me a packet with a product that I could put in the bottle and shake around with the hydrocodone when I wanted to dispose of it. I haven't used it yet, but I expect it deactivates the drug somehow. I thought that was neat.
I'm also thankful for a cool spring. We've actually had rain. Happy plants. And it hasn't even gotten above 90 degrees yet. Happy me.
Oh that’s cool! I’ve never seen that type of product before.
There used to be a lady in our office that if you said to her, "what a beautiful day out" she would find something negative about it. Her husband bought her a diamond ring for an anniversary present (his idea) and she told him to return it as she would rather have a washing machine. Never mentioning that it was such a thoughtful gift, just return it and get me a washing machine. Negative Nelly!!!!
That is why I love today's post. And Kristen, you always say, "there is always something positive to be seen".
I am thankful that I have a roof over my head, I can pay my bills and I have money in savings. It was not always that way and we were always robbing Peter to pay Paul, but in the end (after 42 yrs), with hard work and with patience, it has worked out.
Thankful that the garden is planted. Last thing to do tonight is put down some plastic in between the rows to keep the weeds out. Let's just say, there will be a ton of tomatoes to give away unless I want to process and can all 18 plants!
I am thankful that I no longer bother my daughter and now she calls me at least once a week. With texting it was so easy to say hello and how did everyone's day go, but she thought I was bothering her too much. So I don't text everyday and now she calls me, which makes me feel better. Give her space and she'll come back. (And yes, I had a really hard time letting go when she didn't return from college 16 years ago!)
Thankful that my granddaughter has had a good week at school. With special needs, it is not always that way. But she is getting there.
Thankful that my husband is feeling better. He bought an electric bike to help with his riding so that he is not pushing himself too much. The MD said it was OK and just to keep an eye on his heart rate, etc. when riding and to not ride alone. So he is ready for his 3 day adventure with his brother in law. Unfortunately, it is supposed to rain.
Love the quote and the perspective.
Yes, let's rein in our frustration (don't pretend we don't have them, just don't let them dominate our lives!) and keep focusing on what we love.
It's like looking at pictures of those we love or talking to them. Contrast that feeling with how we feel when we are focusing on what we don't like or hate (Hate is such a strong emotion. I feel anger about a lot of stuff but hate? Not so much. Frustration? yea. But actual hate? Only one person generates that in this world right now.
But the point is to keep sharpening our focus so that we can reap the benefits of focusing on what we love, what works...rather than letting the crap that gets to us determine the course of our days.
It's a choice when we get up each day, WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GIVE YOUR ENERGY?
I find that focusing on helping someone, on doing whatever I can to deal with an issue and then letting it go, and accepting that "No, you are not in control of the outcome."
I've learned like others, over the years, the hard way, that wanting total control only creates unnecessary pain and chaos in our lives.
It's like that saying: Don't like conversation? Change it.
Don't like how you feel? Switch your focus.
Thanks for this Kristen. Perfect way to start the day
First, I'm deeply thankful to everyone here who left me a message of support on what was a hard day yesterday. You all are the best.
Second, I'm thankful to NDN's CF, who gave me a big hug and a lovely pot of flowers for my deck.
Third, I'm thankful to the Bestest Neighbors, as I so often am. They had me over to dinner last night, and Dr. BN also gave me a Yahrzeit (Jewish memorial) candle for DH, which is still burning.
And on a lighter note, I'm glad (and amused) that the Thoreau line I quoted a few days ago is getting so many likes!
It has been a middling week here, so this is a good exercise for me.
I am very thankful that DH is feeling better after a health setback. I'm also thankful he let me take care of him and see to things while he recovered.
I'm thankful that I was able to meet and talk with a fellow student who, as it turned out, is considering homeschooling and was delighted to learn I had some experience and could give her resources and advice. The encounter reminded me that I really do need to get back out into the world after 20+ years of homeschooling and being at home, and that I can maybe even do it. I am not good at striking up conversations, but she initiated it and it was very nice. (The anxiety of an upcoming exam has the effect of bringing people together!)
I'm thankful that both DS#2 and I got 100% on our first A&P I exam. All those study sessions are paying off, plus we have such good, fun conversations when we talk. He took this class on his own a year and a half ago, but admitted that a) he did not apply himself and b) really benefitted from study sessions with me when he took A&P II.
I am not thankful that I had to learn third-hand that my favorite uncle suddenly passed away, but I am thankful that my DH is very supportive and even asked me if I wanted to try to go to the funeral (all the way on the East Coast.) However, DS#4 has oral surgery on Friday and besides I know (thankful I am aware enough for this) that I would not be welcomed, as that side of the family has sided with my estranged mother. So. I am thankful for my good friends who offered their prayers and support, and for the memories I have of my Uncle Jim.
And, as always, I am thankful for Kristen's blog posts and the lovely Commentariat.
Congrats on your A&P grade!!! Woohoo!!
And I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your uncle.
@Karen A., So sorry for your loss. I understand the estranged & not being welcomed part, but glad you found out about your Uncle's death sooner instead of later. May the good memories bring you comfort.
@Karen A.,
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your favorite uncle. It sounds like the best plan, as you mention, is not to go to the funeral, but instead perhaps remember fun times with your uncle.
The only uncle I ever knew passed away during Covid, and I was told by my mom and oldest sister (who was closest to this uncle) that I was not welcome to come with them when he was terminally ill, or after he had passed away. (It had nothing to do with worries about Covid transmission). This is a frustration I haven't come to terms with.
I am thankful that our weather seems to be similar to yours and we haven't used our A/C yet either. I am extremely thankful that our almost 14 year old cat is finally used to her nightly medication routine and doesn't try to run away anymore. Or gag. Or clamp her mouth shut. Or try to scratch. Come on......we're talking about a cat LOL!!! I am so very thankful that I didn't wake up with a headache this morning (43 year migraine sufferer here). And as always, I am thankful to God for everything, the good and the bad:)
P.S. Kristen, I couldn't help but notice that your glasses match the brickwork on the ground outside the courthouse!!!!
Haha, look at me unintentionally matching the sidewalk!
There's beautiful weather here too!
A somewhat philosophical take - I think sometimes what we hate can be tied to what we love. For example, this week I mastered a deadlift in the gym. I hated deadlifts before because they're hard and made me feel weak...but now that I can do them and lift a respectable weight, I feel proud and strong! I wouldn't go so far as to say I love deadlifts but I love having done them! On a more societal note, I hate the current injustices in the world, but love the people fighting for others' rights.
My other thankfuls:
1. There has been more sunshine this week so I'm thankful for walks and swims at the beach.
2. I'm thankful for an upcoming public holiday.
3. I'm thankful for libraries, and that the libraries I use have such a great collection. I searched for some older books and a film, and they had all of them!
4. I'm thankful that I went for a parkrun this weekend and was able to finish it. It was 5k and I really wasn't feeling it when my alarm went off that morning, but I showed up and finished the run (with a few walking breaks) and felt so proud of myself!
5. I'm thankful that I got a lot of rest yesterday after a busy week.
@Sophie in Denmark, Love, Love, LOVE libraries!
@Sophie in Denmark, Congrats on completing your 5K park run!
@Cheryl, Thank you!
@Sophie in Denmark, Libraries really are the best. Our local library is closing and it makes me so sad. Our city has decided to break from the county and I'm sure they will build a beautiful new library but I have very fond memories of this one.
What a beautiful lunch spot!
I am also shocked that some people consider $1k+ a 'normal' car payment. We haven't had a monthly car payment in almost 30y. Yes, our vehicles are older, yes, they have imperfections, but I think most people underestimate the feeling of freedom that comes with no car payment. Insurance is lower when your car is older and can drop to liability only if you own it. Taxes are lower. I live in MO. We pay yearly tax on all personal property but it's based on book value. We pay sales tax on vehicles purchased, based on sale price. Both are far lower when you fully purchase a used vehicle. If they need tires or a repair, that's our expense, it's not on TOP of a monthly payment. My ride has dings, but gets me where I need to be just fine. lol
As always, love your beautiful pictures!
I'm thankful for:
- energy and strength to help sand my mother-in-law's floors
- the nice orbital sander
- comfy bed
- ice cream
- ice coffee
- learning more and more how to not worry about things I can't change.
Congratulations to Sonia to going on to a four year school! I hope she finds it worthwhile and interesting! I bet the house they rent will look gorgeous given Sonia's stylish and creative ways!
I'm thankful I was able to help someone by giving them a bunch of Legos my boys don't use anymore. On the way to drop them off, we visited the animal shelter and played with cats and kittens- such a treat! So thankful for cats.
You know that house will be decorated thoroughly, top to bottom. 😉
I ADORE all your moss photos! The textures and colors are just so lovely and appealing. Out here in Colorado it is much drier so we don't have quite as vibrant an array of mosses, so I really enjoy seeing the ones in your area.
I *had* a $0 per month car payment . . . until another driver slammed into me and totalled my (would have lasted another 15 years) car. And I was forced to buy a car. It can happen; fortunately I had been putting money away in anticipation of possible major repairs - NOT replacement 🙁 - so I did have a down payment. Now I have a monthly car payment but I am doubling what I pay every month so that I can have $0 payments sooner.
And I am very thankful to be able to do that!
- I'm thankful that we are part of the $0/month in car payment club. I saved for years so I could pay cash for my new car last year.
- I'm thankful that even though DH is home on disability, he still has the energy most days to help with cooking and cleaning.
- I'm thankful the majority of the trees that were damaged by the tornado have been cut down, including the one that the tree guy deemed so dangerous he called it the widow maker.
- I'm thankful I am able to work from home tomorrow. It's always a nice break to not have to get ready for work and just go straight to my desk.
- I'm thankful that our daughter calls me almost every afternoon after she picks up the baby from daycare.
In that case my identity would be a booklover, an afternoon tea lover, an animal lover, a chocolate lover, an autumn lover, and of course my siblings, spouse, and my extended family lover. And that's just a few of my favorite things!
This week I am thankful for:
1. The baby spider plant a friend gave me to start at home. Love folks who like to share plants!
2. The sale at a local bookstore that allowed me to get a book I've been wanting for much less. Love a good local bookstore!
3. The person who shared their hojicha tea bags at work. Love generous folks and trying new teas!
4. The person who gave up their seat on the bus so I could sit since my balance is poor. Love kind folks!
5. That snow peas are in season. Love a tasty vegetable!
We are finally getting rain, which also cools us some, so I will join in the thanks for the effects of rain. The mosses in the pictures are so pretty.
1. I'm thankful my daughter continues to loan me her car, since mine is still being worked on, sigh. I'm thankful she has people willing to give her a ride to and from work each day. It's an 8-mile drive each way to her work, so this isn't something they can do in just 10 minutes or so.
2. I'm thankful the generator I ordered came in early and that the teen granddaughter and her tall, strong boyfriend got it out of the back of my daughter's car (SUV) for me. It was really heavy. I am three-fourths of the way to being ready for a hurricane now.
3. I'm thankful that my bosses have the interns go to Costco to pick up supplies such as toilet paper, paper towel, soft drinks, and snacks, instead of me, the admin person. The interns get paid for their time plus mileage, so they don't mind going. Costco is 20 minutes from our office and I drive enough as it is, with my commute, plus, I hate those enormous shopping carts in Costco and now, in some Walmarts! I'm 5'2" and I always feel like a toddler pushing them around.
4. I'm thankful that my car insurance went up just a little bit, not a whole lot.
5. I'm thankful that putting the huge assassin bug in my tiny blackberry patch has noticeably reduced the pests on the plants.
@JD, glad you decided to get a generator, an investment that will pay for itself when not having to replace food & being able to stay somewhat comfortable if needed when power goes out.
My dad is also considering getting a built in generator (like mine) since they lost power for over week during Hurricane last year. His small portable generator was good for few days until gas ran out & no fuel in Florida for some time. Luckily a natural gas line is being put in on his road which is easier than getting a propane tank installed & maintained.
A generator in Florida is such a good investment!
Enjoyed my walk about even though I got thoroughly lost. I needed to make a zoom call so I stopped at chipotle and got a kids taco meal and found a booth and zoomed and ate. Then when I tried my way again they had people holding direction signs so I continued my zoom and walk and eventually made my destination. All who wander are not lost well maybe. These hokas my kids got have totally changed how I walk so at least my feet were not hurting. Good job.
@Tiana, I'm very interested to hear about the Hokas. I have terrible feet, bunion and very high arches. I have to wear othotics, and since the hokas have a removable insole I can put in my orthotics, plus they have a wider toebox (I checked them out in store). I'm leaning towards giving these a try. It's good to hear from you that your feet were not hurting in the Hokas. Much thanks.
@Linda in Canada, I did hurt all over my body for 3 weeks adjusting to the new shoes. The model I have feels almost like a balance board and my body had to build muscles to hold me in place. I don’t know if all their shoes do that.
I was on a cruise and I heard a woman griping at the front desk there was nothing to do! On a cruise. Where all they offer is activities.
100% on the car payment thing. In our many years together, we have never had anything other than (sometimes... not-glamorous) vehicles that were bought for cash. There has been a fair amount of privilege involved in this, as is so often the case in life, unfairly, but it's meant our cars have never, ever been new, nowhere near and rather beaten up in some cases, BUT so far, we've been very lucky and had very, very few age-related car troubles.
For us, it's a tool to get where we're going, safely, comfortably and as economically as is feasible. Everything else is gravy.
I completely agree. When I have a really hard part of my day, I like to talk about it once with someone I trust, and then I don't want to talk about it anymore. Thinking about what went badly just makes me more annoyed or upset! I want to move on and not talk about it anymore. Some people in my life love to talk and talk and TALK about what went wrong in their day and I just find it exhausting.
Lucky you for half day Jury duty. It was most likely just initial first day related & then nothing happened where you were needed. I find it interesting that you could take your phone/laptop or any electronics into the court building let alone the court room area. In our area(s) you/general public can't take any electronics let alone what you did into court building. I always wondered the reasoning around this & assumed it was common for other court buildings.
This week Thankful for the sunshine & warm up into 80* & 90* weather for few days, which I did turn on air for short time but mostly used 1 fan, ceiling fans & keeping house shut up/closed curtains on windows & doors.
Thankful.for the ability to see current video feed in different areas. Yesterday the Canadian wildfire smoke was so thick at Mackinaw bridge that you could not see the bridge or even the cables while driving across the bridge with headlights on. That's a long 5 miles of scary you can't see on bridge or in water under/by the bridge. With No lighthouse near bridge & No lights on pillars of base of bridge the freighters barely saw the buoys in the water. This Canadian wildfire smoke has been crazy this season already.
Thankful for the (mostly) slow soaking rain yesterday & last night. No storms, No tornadoes & No wind during night.
Thankful for overflowing rain barrels.
Thankful for the weather predicted to be mid to upper 70* instead of 50*.
Thankful that teen graduation was not as difficult as I expected. Though I had to fight back the tears when the graduation march started. Seeing teen & all friends, especially the ones teen grew up with since Kindergarten was such a proud moment. 🙂 I had to cheer for each & every one of them.
Teen proudly hung up graduation cap & high honors cords in room on display.
Thankful we learned that teen had to reapply to college for Fall semester (even though was already a student because of dual enrollment) for financial aid & FASFA. Luckily the process was not new & quickly applied & got what was needed to apply again. Dual enrollment information should be automatically connected & FASFA updated (fingers crossed). Then we can get Michigan free college tuition for high school graduates applied so teen can sign up for (more) classes. 🙂
Thankful that the generator service people finally came to do yearly maintenance service. Generator running for 4 days straight when needed serviced beforehand made me nervous, especially since I was on top of list for service for a month before finally getting to us.
Thankful always for rescue dogs who are just so happy & full of love.
Thankful for Kristen & her blog where we call all learn & share with each other. And Thankful Kristen has allowed us to share in her journey. 🙂
We have smoke from the Canadian wildfires down here too, although obviously not as bad as in Canada!
@Regina,
I understand the graduation tears. I recently attended a 40th birthday party for one of my son's best friends. The boys became friends when they were just 4 years old and played on the same soccer team. The years pass quickly!
@Regina, one more Thankful to add.
Thankful my dad made it through all his treatments! Today was his last radiation treatment & he got a certificate of completion & rang the bell on his way out. 🙂 After 10 weeks of radiation & 3+ months of Chemo he still has all his hair & his sense of humor. Next step is checking to see if it worked.
@Regina, positive thoughts from my end on the chemo and radiation working!
Re the smoke: I am in Southern Ontario, and the smoke has not been too bad, if at all. Though on Tuesday when I was driving back from the northeast of Ontario, heading west, the sun has an aura of an orange glow around it, it was like a halo.
When you talked about petting moss, I did a google search for the term. There is anecdotal information about the pleasurers of that, including a moss petting zoo. How tactile and peaceful!
That is a zoo built for me. 😉
I am so grateful for my recovery from my hip surgeryh.All is going well.I can get into the swimming pool again next week! YAY!
Grateful for my loving spouse and grown son.They have been helpful and kind when I have been the most vulnerable,this past year.
Grateful that I have good Medicare Advantage insurance. I am seeing what is being billed, and paid, and I just have to say it takes my breath away, and I am blessed to have insurance.I pray someday America insures her people.No one should have to go bankrupt due to an illness.
Grateful for beautiful blue skies,singing birds, white puffy clouds,every single morning, here in my Arizona desert. People do not realize how many gorgeous flowering plants and bushes we have here..and this is their time of year.. before the true heat sets in everything is wildly colorful.I love mornings!!
Thankful I can walk with ease again. I will never ever take it for granted,again, and my morning walks are a PRIVILEGE!!
Your photos are beautiful..I can’t help a little envy when I see you like on the ocean and can be by the water daily.I grew up at the Jersey shore, and miss water.. but I love Arizona,too.We have a cold raging river, the Salt, so we go out there for oiur swims, but your state/neighborhood looks quite awesome!!
And, PS: Yes, we are LOVE. Hate is a very destructive energy.
I wonder how many readers have read James Clear's book, Atomic Habits. I think it maybe time for me to pull this book out and read it again.
I am thankful that we were able to go out in the boat with family last Saturday. It was a perfect day. I love being on the water. I love the sunshine on a not too hot day. I love how peacefully I sleep after a day outdoors.
I am thankful that the new flower bed that I dug on the side of the house this spring is starting to fill in. I love to see this burst of color when looking out my window. Of course, I love flowers. For some reason too, the wild bunnies love this spot, and I love the wild bunnies.
I am thankful for the tropical rains that we have had this week. After an exceptionally dry spring, they were desperately needed. I love that the rains have kept temperatures down and supplied my garden with water. To be honest, I'm not that crazy about the mosquitoes that sometimes come after the rain.
I am thankful that I am finally getting back in to the habit of going to the gym. I was in very good shape for someone my age prior to Covid. Once i was out of shape and even older, it made it very hard to get back into shape. Everything hurts! I am thankful that I have easy access to a YMCA. I'm thankful that I am still healthy enough and strong enough to push my body a little. I love that I'm feeling stronger and healthier. I really live that my clothes fit better!
Wishing everyone peace, good health, and prosperity. I hope all of us are surrounded by things we love today.
I read it!
@Kristen, it is a great book. I think that you must live much like James Clear.. You are so incredibly productive and efficient.
I should revisit it! I read it so long ago but I remember liking it...maybe because he and I think similarly. Ha.
Frustratingly I feel like my BS meter is like a Toyota Camry that just keeps running. Sometimes I admit it's a bit disheartening to look at new movies, TV shows etc. and just say "Man, this is a lot of trite, you know that?" If you've seen the episode of South Park where Stan suddenly doesn't like the music that his friends do, then you can understand what I mean. Like Stan experienced, it's frustrating when people think you're doing it on purpose.
Also, as someone who has had no car payment since 2010 or so, I can't imagine a life with one again. Right now the average car payment is $750 a month and while I *could* technically afford that, I already save more than that every month. But in the end, what would I gain but a shinier car? I'm happy that I can get from A to B. I know people who have super unreliable transportation but thankfully, I'm not one of them.
But in general, I am loving the no payment life. I mean, yeah I have to pay my taxes and utility bills and pay for food but I have no debt and haven't for years now. I'm in no hurry to ever take out a loan again unless I move and need to buy a new house or something.
oh my friends today's thankful list is one for the books for me & my family.
1. Our first embryo transfer was a success and I am officially 4w 6d pregnant with our second child. This is a child that we have been praying and trying for over the last 8.5 years and it is with deep joy that I give God all the glory for this sweet little life that we will have the honor to parent on this side of Heaven.
2. For my husband. my friends hormones are seriously no joke. I was never someone who really had a filter and the presence of elevated estrogen and progesterone in my system is like keeping a matchbook next to a keg of dynamite. He has been so patient, quiet and kind and I could have never gone through this without him.
3. For my son who cried tears of joy with us and is excited beyond words to be a big brother. This is just the sweetest season.
4. For the support from so many friends and family around us that have lifted us up with prayer, laughter, encouragement and joy. Community is such a gift.
5. For all of the nurses, phlebotomists, ultrasound techs and our Doctor who have cared for me so well, listened, cared and rallied for us. Heroes in scrubs.
@Angie, I wish you and your family the best of luck with the pregnancy!
@Angie, Congrats on your pregnancy! I also suffered from secondary infertility and it’s so hard, both mentally and physically. When I found out I was pregnant with my daughter, I immediately broke down in overwhelming happy tears (not a typical thing for me). I hope early next year, you are enjoying holding this beautiful healthy baby in your arms.
Ohhhh my goodness!! YAYYYYYY! Congrats on your pregnancy!!
@Angie, congratulations on your baby!! Praying you have a safe and healthy pregnancy and baby.
@Angie, Congratulations and wish you a healthy pregnancy season!
@Angie, Congratulations!
@Angie,
Congratulations on your very exciting news! Prayers that all goes well. My bff had two beautiful children via embryo transfer, and they are now smart, funny, beautiful young adults.
@Angie, incredible! I'm so happy for you & your family.
1. Thankful for my sweet Snuggles dog. Whoever heard of a Rottweiler named Snuggles? The pound workers named him, because he loves to snuggle with everyone he meets. Yesterday was the one-month anniversary of his coming home with me and he's just been an absolute sweetheart....except when I leave and come back to find the carpet chewed up.
2. Thankful that Snuggles is complying with crate training. My friend came over and helped me put together the cage I bought at Walmart. (An animal rescue group had said they'd give me one, but never did.) I had to leave the house twice, and both times ol' Snug went into the crate OK. I don't think he likes it, and I'm sad I have to resort to this, but it saves my carpet.
3. A fenced backyard for Snuggles to run and play in. I don't leave him out there when I'm gone bc I did that with a previous dog, who dug out and got run over and killed.
4. Drinking coffee on the patio each morning when I'm watching Snuggles run and play.
5. That my car trouble was "only" a battery. It "only" cost me $400-something, plus the $92 towing fee. (Insurance will reimburse.) But, hey, it could've been worse. And I'm back on the road again.
6. Coworkers who were nice enough to provide transportation to/from the store. And our pastor took me from church to the store last Sunday after services.
@Fru-gal Lisa,
I was shocked at the price of car batteries. They have tripled! Even quadrupled.
On another note, my rescue pup used to get nervous when I left. I suppose that it was a combination of abandonment issues and boredom. To relieve her anxiety, I would give her a non-rawhide bone to chew whenever I left. Once she knew that this was her home, the chewing subsided. I'm sure Snuggles will soon settle in. He sound like a great dog!
@Fru-gal Lisa, the battery replacement sounds way high to me. Is there large disposal fee for the old battery?
• My grandma will be moving into assisted living next week. It’s been a roller coaster past few weeks for my dad while he is navigating care for his parents and her move will be helpful for my dad AND a big help for grandma. I’ve had some good chats with grandma about moving and she’s very positive about it. Hopefully a move for grandpa isn’t far behind! The plan is to have them in the same location, but grandpa has different needs at this moment in time.
• Our home projects will be wrapping up this week. They’ve been lingering for months longer than they should have so it will be nice to see them complete.
• Audiobooks! We’ve been putting on a lot of miles between family and sports not to mention that traffic is picking up so I am thankful to have something to listen to during all those hours in the car.
• The wildfire smoke finally cleared out. The smoke makes for beautiful sunsets, but is not great for breathing and restricted some activities.
• My son showed good sportsmanship during a contentious game last week. He helped another team’s player up when he took a rough hit and did the “you ok?” back pat – proud mama moment.
• Snuggles with my pups! No matter what my day brings me I know I can look forward a good snuggle session.
-Grateful that my baby is graduating from high school today!
-And, that he's going to be attending a college he's super excited about in a few months
-That my parents are healthy enough (and, awesome, of course) to join us for his graduation
-DH & I are doing a mini getaway in a week! 2025 has been... a year with a lot of change and challenges, and while we take time for our marriage, time away from all of our commitments and promising not to talk about anything heavy & just having some laughs together - this is essential!
-That I got paid for the first 5 classes I taught.
Yay for a getaway in the midst of a tough year for you guys!
Enjoy graduation today. 🙂
I’m thankful I went ahead and got bloodwork done for my son. It’s a bit of searching for a silver lining, at the moment. One number came back very high and my son now has an appointment for a CT scan. In checking in about his lack of growth, we got the optional blood tests that showed us something else was wrong. We would have not had any idea what was going on otherwise, so I’m grateful we now know this other issue needs to be looked into.
Good job, mama! And I hope whatever the issue, it's a type that is solvable.
*yoga- it’s my therapy, my exercise, & my church
* these new puppies of mine- now 1 yr & the other is 6mos. A whole lot of work, but they melt my heart
*adult refresher swimming lessons! I’m nearly 60, but I want a cardiovascular exercise when it’s too hot to run. I’m super fearful, but I keep going
*my front porch. I live in an 1840’s farmhouse & my porch is dreamy
*my kids, my friends- I really have a good life & I’m grateful
I've never participated in one of your Thankful posts - it has always been enough to read about what makes you happy - that gives me a lift! But here goes:
*I am thankful that the last kid is the easiest kid. The first two were a struggle, but the last one left at home is mature and responsible, not to mention funny and talented (as all my kids have been in some way or another!)
*That my new boss sees the work I do and shows her appreciation. That goes a long way.
*That we met with a financial planner yesterday and made a plan for retirement that makes me hopeful for the future.
*That the hardest part of house painting is behind me. I've painted most of the woodwork and the largest rooms, now we have three bedrooms left to tackle. Easy peasy!
*That I have re-discovered reading. As a librarian you'd think I never stopped, but life happened and I got out of the practice. I have a stack of books on my table and I'm carving out time each day to read.
YAY!!! I'm so glad you joined us today. 🙂
I'm getting back into reading too, now that I'm done with nursing school.
I love the smell of fresh sweet hay stacked in the barn.
All of my owl nesting boxes are occupied (they are the best critter gitters)
Every 12 ft surrounding the garden & orchard, there are nesting boxes with swallows, western blue birds and warblers and nut hatches. They are fun to watch.
Neighbor with race horses delivered a small dump truck of barn leaving to super charge my compost.
Just 20 miles from us is a natural rain forest with mosses so lush. We often take visitors there for day hikes.
I had a car loan once in 1988, I hated it and paid it off a year later. In my family, we bulk buy trucks and suvs. My daily driver is a 1964 pick up, but my town truck is my dad's fancy truck.
I love seeing your pics of the beautiful green mosses, Kristen!
I'm also thankful for a paid-off vehicle. My 2012 Honda Pilot holds our family of 5, including 3 teens + my husband, who are all over 6 ft tall!
Gratitude as well for:
*friends to meet up with for hiking dates. I've been working on getting back to at least 3 hikes per week ( in addition to my neighborhood walks), and having friends to meet is what makes this goal achievable.
*that as of today, all of our kids are done with middle school. Phew! Now we'll have 2 freshmen and a sophomore.
*that my kids all ride their bikes to school, and that we have 3 high schools within a 3-mile radius
*many fun local activities to look forward to this summer.
*that the Pacific Ocean is a mere 30 mins from our home. I'm reminded of this today, as one of our sons starts his month-long lifeguard camp at the beach on Monday. It's a haul, but everytime I drive along Highway 1, I feel so much gratitude for living here, especially after growing up landlocked. 🙂
*free plants for my garden. I wanted to plant some winter squash, but 2 of the garden stores I visited + Lowe's were out of those particular seeds (who knew they'd be so popular!). I quiered the local gardening FB group asking to trade some scarlet runner bean seeds for winter squash seeds and ended up receiving 2 butternut squash starts, 1 delicata start, and a cucumber start. I was overwhelmed by generosity!
*and lastly, by the ability to thank the folks who have helped shepard our sons through middle school at yesterday's 8th grade promotion ceremony. I may have shed a tear or two. 🙂
Yes to no car payments! I'd rather have the luxury of no car payment than driving around a money pit!
Tell me what water do you live near? I feel like it is northern VA but maybe not?
This is the Chesapeake Bay, but also there are a lotta rivers and creeks here too so you'll see that water in my pics as well.
I needed this today - to see the beauty in the photos and to be reminded to be thankful.
Focusing on the positive can become a habit just like focusing on the negative. I do think most people have times though when they need to complain but are probably looking for understanding and support for deep feelings, concerns, pain or stress they don’t feel able to articulate.
I’m thankful that
- we were able to attend a niece’s destination wedding and that it was so clear the couple are great together
- a neighbor kindly dog sat for us the days we were gone and our pooch was so clearly happy to spend time at her house
- our son and DIL will ask us for help when they have challenges with their own and the 2 granddaughters busy schedules or simply need some time together without kids
- that the same son and DIL provide us with support and help as well as inviting us to spend time together
- and since I am doing laundry right now, I’m thankful for having a washer and dryer right in our house as that hasn’t always been the case at other times in my life.
Yup! See the P.S. at the bottom of the post. Balance is the key.
I love your photos,Kristen!
I’m thankful my husband and daughter and I got to go strawberry picking with our son, our daughter in law and our grandson this past Tuesday. So much fun and the berries were delicious. My husband made strawberry milkshakes when we returned home. So good!
Thankful we get some more time with our grandson during the next two upcoming Sundays. He is 2 1/2 years and delightful.
Thankful our lawn is looking really good these days and that my husband is loving keeping it in good order.
Thankful for good neighbors, good friends, opportunities to help lots of folks lately ( and glad for health and means to do the helping).
Thankful for breakfast with a friend this morning, followed by a walk/hike at a newly renovated nature area near me. While I was there, I tried out my newly installed Merlin app--yes, I'm dipping my toes in the bird-watching waters--it's so fun to have bird calls identified! Will I remember them? Unlikely. But I'm still enjoying using it.
Thankful for both rain and sunshine this week. For my peonies, which are starting to bloom. For ongoing health and employment. For my family and friends.
@Kris, use the “life list” function on the app. I get such a kick out of catching a new bird song. Today’s new one was a red tailed hawk. It feels like such a gift!!!
Nice! I've never been selected for jury duty but I was briefly designated as a second alternate on a case where a mother was being charged with murdering her children. I was a SAHM of kids around the same age and couldn't get out of there fast enough when I was dismissed before the trial began. I was not ready to be part of a case like that!
I'm thankful for my husband who so quickly jumps to help my parents when they need help. He's so kind and caring for them. I'm so lucky for that.
That my job has been pretty chill lately. I did have to work 5 hours on a Saturday but it's a small price to pay for a really great job.
That a few things I listed for sale were sold and that a work colleague was able to use some of my daughters' outgrown clothes. Clearing clutter feels so good!
That my kiddos are getting older and more self sufficient. This week they put away their laundry, baked a cake and frosted it with homemade frosting, made dinner twice and lunch once. They're also emptying the dishwasher, helping me declutter and are now responsible for clearing and cleaning the dining table. I go easy on them during the busy-ness of the school year but I feel like summer is a good time to learn some basic life skills.
For an unusual bit of rain yesterday and this morning. We don't usually get rain in June in our area so it's kind of nice. It's also unusual that I'm saying it's kind of nice because I am 100% a sunshine kinda girl!
Also a sunshine girl but we really did need the rain we've gotten, so I managed to be thankful for it, despite the cloudy skies!
I am thankful again that one of my church families has taken me under their wing for the summer. They are in the plant nursery industry, but the wife and one of the teenage sons wants to learn from my plant knowledge of natives and medicinal plants. The teenage son loves to mow what yard I have and makes it seem so effortless. He had it done in less than an hour while it takes me a good two. During that time I was able to weed one of the flower beds and cut down a non-native bush. The bad thing is I did it on an "empty tank". I had not slept or rested from work the night before and today, I can hardly move.
The dad/husband came specifically to work on a non-working "new" lawn mower I'd gotten several years ago. Less than a year after I got it, it wouldn't stay running. My sister gave me hers and I never revisited the problem. The one she gave me has been a workhorse, and I'm thankful it has run so efficiently and for her gifting it to me.
When I did get home from work yesterday morning, the raindrops were so delicately balanced on the grass blades like ...that I took a picture and posted it on fb. I am thankful their beauty lingers in my mind.
I am thankful for the birds. I have quite a selection. A pair of doves, a pair of cardinals, some fun, raucous black birds, Carolina wrens, a downy woodpecker, a flicker, a hummingbird visits the flowers at my water feature. A robin came close to me, picking up bits of chopped (mowed) bugs, and chirping as if to say "Thanks, I appreciate it." I told her/him "You're welcome, thank you."
I am thankful that with the exception of one afternoon, it has been cool enough just to run ceiling fans and depend on cross ventilation to cool the house. I don't have the AC in the window yet.
Thankful for the reminder to reshape my thinking from negative to positive.
I am always thankful for so many things. Dh is a gem and he was a great help when the kids were young. Heck, he's just a big kid himself.
Kids that were good, didn't get into trouble and got good grades in school all the way to their Masters.
Living our frugal life for 33 years. For Amy D. who taught me how to be frugal. For my 15 year old Honda CRV (Blue Steel after Zoolander's new look) that's paid off and still rolling. Our other car a Nissan Altima is still chugging along at 11 years old.
Being thankful for the things I have and I really want for nothing. I guess you get to a certain age and nothing seems to be a must have.
An attitude of gratitude!
I had a rough moth of May! However, things are looking up:
I had the opportunity to see Mean Girls , the musical this past weekend. It was what I needed.
The electrician showed up, and got the job done. It came in under budget. He will be coming back to do more work in the near future!
My partner brought me a dozen roses yesterday.
I now have a family Dr/clinic to go to! I had a random conversation with a stranger, and poof, I'm in!
I had a great appointment yesterday with my naturopathic doctor.
And as always, I'm grateful for Kristen and this community! Thank you for being so kind and generous with your time, thoughts and wisdom.
$1200 a month for a car payment?!?! Holy moly, that's more than my mortgage. I'm grateful to have a $0 monthly car payment on my paid-off car.
I'm grateful for the pet stroller I bought for $40 off FB Marketplace. It means I can take at least one of my cats for a walk every day. They love going out (and could ride as long as I'm willing to walk), and it is a reason for me getting out of the house and walking. Plus, I love the double-takes people make when they realize there's a cat in the stroller. "Is that a CAT?" It's spurred many conversations along the way, I get my steps in, and the indoor cats get to go outside and see the world in a safe way. Win-win-win.
I'm grateful for the warm weather and low humidity that have allowed me to turn off the heat (but not yet need the AC) and open the windows. Open windows are my favorite (and the cats, too).
I'm grateful for the availability of fresh produce. I've gradually increased my focus on protein and fiber in my diet, and having a variety of fresh produce makes it so easy to select foods that are significantly better for me than other options that I used to choose. Not everyone has access to or can afford fresh produce, but I'm in a period in my life where I can and never take it for granted.
I'm grateful for my well-honed ability to identify a Plan B or even Plans C, D, and E when Plan A doesn't pan out. Being able to pivot to another method, idea, or way to do something has been incredibly valuable in my life and really helps me to get from one point to the next. Recently, an expensive medication I depend upon and have taken for over a year was removed from formulary coverage with my insurance company (which should be illegal, yet here we are). However, I found another way to access it that doesn't break the bank, and I had enough time to get my FSA set up to fund it for the coming year.
Is the rehabbing of the table complete? I miss your redecorating posts
1 - HO insurance went up a whopping $28 this year - this includes some septic back-up coverage as basement is not finished
2 - no vehicle payments, no mortgage payments
3 - best cat ever doing well so far - expect the likely not-good biopsy report tomorrow
4 - our five person team is now two (and the person other than me is 10+ years older and has health issues). We're interviewing to replace two (third is on LTD so not sure when that slot is officially "open"). Not going to be easy but to our CEOs chagrin, I get to be selfish. Long story short, she called an employee's question re: AI replacing him/her "selfish". I did not, if you don't look out for yourself, who will? I am retirement eligible (meaning no money left on the table). I've been doing double duty since 2020. Kinda nice to be "the queen".
5 - Tis strawberry season - not enough rain/heat for asparagus but we had a bumper morel harvest from a most unexpected place. Got almost 3 inches of rain, dad got almost 4 inches and he's 10 miles away. I'll be picking in the morning. If you can't squat, you can't pick strawberries.