Thankful Thursday | for a social cat
This week, I am thankful:
for the joy our cat brings to us
She's such a social cat, so she is always hanging out wherever we are. And this makes my girls very happy. 🙂
that tomorrow's high is only in the 60s
I know I might get some hate for this one from the summer-lovers 😉 but oooh, I am so excited about a day where maybe I will want to wear long sleeves or throw on a hoodie.
Speaking of hoodies: I keep noticing that many of the young students on campus show up and walk to and from class wearing big ol' hoodies, even when the temperatures outside are in the upper 80s.
Perhaps it's because I was born in the 1900s (!) but this behavior confuses me.
86 is hot! Parking lots on an 86-degree day are even hotter. And cars that have been sitting in the parking lot are positively oven-like after class.
I feel sweaty just looking at these hoodie-clad kids.
But soon enough, the weather will be chillier, I will be able to wear a hoodie without getting sweaty, and I will be cheerful about that!
for the bars on my walking trails
Since I don't have my own chin-up bar anymore, it's nice that there are some outdoor bars on the trail where I walk.
They're obviously good for chin-ups but also for hanging leg raises.
that my first microbiology exam will be over after today
I always feel not-that-great before a first exam; it's hard to know what to expect when it's a new professor.
After the first big test, then I have a much better idea of how to study and how to prepare.
I have done a respectable amount of studying, I've done tons of Quizlet review sessions, I did the study guide worksheet, I watched the review lecture, and I reviewed the PowerPoints...so hopefully that will be sufficient.
My brain is stuffed full of information about microbes. 😉
that my developmental psych tests are going to be open note/open book
My science class tests are most definitely not open note (!!!), so I was delighted to hear that at least my psych exams are going to be a non-challenge. Whew.
for friends in all my classes
Ok, well, I haven't really made any friends in my one online class.
But I have made friends with the people around me in all my in-person classes. And that always makes class more fun!
This is one of the many reasons I massively prefer in-person learning for college classes. Online is not for me.
for my rental home
Man, I know I keep putting this on my list, but that's because I keep feeling thankful for my rental.
When I think back to when I first moved here, I remember that at first, it felt like a strange place to be.
But now, a little over four months after the move, it really does feel like a happy place to come home to.
Funny enough, it seems like I have lived here way longer than four months! I had to count the months out on my fingers a few times, just to be sure I had it right.
Thankful that my bout with Covid is subsiding. My isolation set up worked well and the support from my husband was phenomenal-still waiting to see if he gets it though
Thankful for being vaccinated-this is nothing to fool around with
Thankful for a job with paid sick leave.
Thankful for library books and back porches to read from in the sunshine
Surprisingly, I’m thankful for tea—not coffee—-hot lemon ginger tea is my little life boat - three times a day it shows up on my door step and makes me feel better—who would believe that as I always sign off with ….
Coffee—someday I will have a cup again and remember why I am so grateful for it!
Yay for waving goodbye to your Covid case. And I am so happy for you that your husband has been fantastic through this.
Thankful that my oldest sister is home from the hospital after surgery. Both her physical and mental health can be shaky, so I'm glad that everything is going well so far.
Thankful that my own annual Medicare wellness exam went smoothly. My BP did come in a bit high--but it still may have been lower than my doctor's, who confided that she's not happy in her current practice (for good reasons) and wants to make a change. If she does, I'll probably follow her to the new practice.
Thankful for 21st-century video technology, which enabled me to watch the parts of the Queen's committal service I had to miss because of the appointment.
So glad your sister is doing well!
@A. Marie,
So happy your sister is doing well under the circumstances!
I did not watch the services all day, but limited myself to some short videos. My OCD was pleasantly tickled by the minute preparations and the overall choreography of the event. My favourite royal? Princess Anne. Most impressive moment? Hmm. I think the breaking of the staff. Most "relatable" moment? The staff lined up at Buckingham Palace. When my mother passed away and we drove her from her care home to her birthplace to be buried, the staff lined up to greet the coffin. It touched me, those people who had had such intimate care of her. Seeing the BP staff lined up outside, reminded me of that.
Falling temperatures! Being a firm member of the hot-flash-crew, I'm so glad that autumn has arrived!
Our kitties who are loving and exceptional at fur-therapy 🙂
A fun weekend event to enjoy that's totally worth the drive! https://www.celticfest.org/
My family's good (knock on wood) health.
All adult offspring fully employed! 🙂
A comfortable house with a paid off mortgage.
@Beth, I hope your hot flashes don’t last too long. I had mine for 13 years then after enjoying a few cooler years, I was diagnosed with breast cancer After the surgeries and radiation, I’m on an aramatase blocker that has brought the hot flashes back in a terrible way. Drinking lots of water and getting regular exercise seems to help. And , like you, I welcome the cooler temps of Autumn.
I am very thankful this week for good health, physically and mentally, and for a close relationship with at least one of my siblings. My other sibling has been struggling with mental issues since early adulthood and now has physical problems too. I feel that our lives have evolved too differently to relate to each other well, and it saddens me.
I am also thankful for colleagues who offer help if I am struggling with tasks, who offer moral and practical support or just a well-timed joke.
I am grateful for my job, point blank. Aside from the financial security, there have been times when I struggled emotionally and when I thought - at least I have a normal life 8 hours a day.
And ofcourse the usual small things that always make happy: sunny morning swims, hot coffees, purring cats, clothes that are drying in the sun, chats with friends and family.
I noticed the hoodie/long sleeve/jacket thing recently, too. I don't get it either, and I 'm usually colder than most of those around me.
*This week I'm thankful that my son's not having troubles with this classes as college. I had some concerns about whether or not my homeschooling had prepared him well enough, but so far he's had all A's!
*I'm thankful that it's cooling down.
*I'm thankful I have an acupuncture appointment and a physical therapy appointment today. I'm getting quite impatient with this facial paralysis thing, and I'm willing to try both if it means the recovery speeds up even a little bit.
*I'm thankful for the watermelons we're eating from our garden and for the pretty pumpkins on our front porch (which are also from our garden).
*I'm thankful that the pattern I'm using to make my daughter's dress for a wedding is quite simple. I'm about halfway finished with the dress, and so far no problems.
*I'm thankful for a daughter who is maturing and thoughtful.
*I'm thankful for a daughter who said she would make muffins for breakfast while I shower.
For friends:
For the friend who changed her schedule so she could supervise the caterers while I'm at my mother's funeral.
For the friend who bought all the flowers so I didn't have to.
For the friends who helped me sort through my parents' place to get rid of the excess and took the donations to Goodwill.
For the friend who sent me a DoorDash gift certificate so I didn't have to cook.
For the coworkers who did the same.
@WilliamB,
I'm so sorry for your loss. I am glad you feel supported and loved right now.
@WilliamB, I'm so sorry for the loss of your mother.
@WilliamB,
Sorry for the loss of your mother, wishing you strength and comfort
@WilliamB, Sorry for your loss, and what great friends you have to help you during this time.
@WilliamB, I’m so sorry for your loss but so thankful you have so many good folks supporting you.
@WilliamB, my sympathies on your mother's passing. I know this has been coming for a while now, but that never makes it a bit easier when it finally does happen.
@WilliamB,
I'm so sorry, and I'll echo A. Marie's comments - expecting it still doesn't make it easier. I'm glad you have people around you helping you through this.
@WilliamB,
Please accept my condolences for the loss of your dear mother. I wish you comfort in the days of your grieving. I, too, am thankful for such thoughtful friends.
@WilliamB, I'm really sorry for your loss. My prayers are for you during this stressful time.
@WilliamB, sending sympathy. And I am also thankful for your friends.
@WilliamB, Condolences on your mother's passing. It must be such a hard time for you. I hope it becomes a bit easier each day.
@WilliamB, I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm glad you have a wonderful support system to help you navigate this difficult time.
Much love to you and yours as you navigate this tough time. I'm so glad you have support around you!
@WilliamB, I am glad so many were able to care for you during this time of great sadness. So sorry for your loss.
@WilliamB,
I am so sorry for the loss of your mother.
I lost my mom 3 years ago and having such supportive friends and coworkers was so helpful. Meant more to me than I could ever say.
@WilliamB, I’m so sorry for your loss. Wishing you love, peace and strength during this difficult time.
@WilliamB, I am so sorry for your loss.
@WilliamB, I'm sorry for your loss. I'm thankful you are surrounding by kind people.
@WilliamB, I am sorry about your mother's death. I hope your friends continue to lift you up with their support.
@WilliamB,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Having supportive and helpful people around you makes such a big difference, and I'm glad they have taken some of the load off for you.
@WilliamB,
Friends truly are a gift. I'm sorry for the loss of your mother.
@WilliamB, my heart is with you.
I am thankful for a co-worker who gave me a Dunkin donuts gift card with the message "you were SO right!" While I am not a big donut eater, I feel like I want to get her message printed on a t-shirt! Haha! It's so nice to be acknowledged.
I am also thankful for the cooler weather coming. Fall is my favorite!
As for the hoodies, I see the trend a lot at my school too. I teach 4th and 5th grade. I think it is a security thing. Lots of my students are still struggling post-pandemic and wearing the hoodie makes them feel like they are invisible or protected.
First of all- I thought, “How fun! A walking trail with bars: a completely outdoorsy way to have a pub crawl.” Not what you meant 🙂
And I’ve read that hoodies for teens serve the same purpose as weighted blankets- just a layer of comfort & a way to hide any body esteem issues away from other people. But yeah, way too hot for me. Now my thankfuls:
1. My adult daughter- I am so glad she moved back home to finish her degree. Her presence is such a joy for me
2. Cooler mornings & sleeping with the windows open
3. Finding a yoga studio that I like, along with a great group of women to play pickleball with once a week.
4. And along with #3- good health. I have friends who already are having joint complaints & mobility issues in their 50’s. I am grateful everyday for ease of moment. I do not take that for granted.
5. My 13 y.o black lab/pit bull rescue. He is my heart. I tell people, “I serve at the pleasure of Buddy.”
@Diane, I've read the same thing about kids wearing sweatshirts in summer. As somebody who has struggled with body image issues since childhood, I have always hated wearing just a t shirt in summer, and generally layer a long-sleeved button down over it. I'm fine with wearing shorts, though. So I completely get the desire to wear sweatshirts in summer! It's why I love fall and winter so very very much!
@Diane, I never heard of the "body issues and that's why they wear hoodies", but now I understand for some folks. But there are a lot of kids in FL who wear them year-round, outside, in the heat with the hoods on. I don't get that at all.
@Maureen, we were with our 22 year old grandson in Hawaii in July and he wore his black hoodie everywhere. I asked himif he was hot and he said, "I'm used to it." He has had major emotional issues, but I guess the hoodie thing must be generational.
@Diane, I thought first of a walking trail with granola bars. haha. There are trails around me that back up to properties where folks wire baskets of treats to the back of their fences for those using the trails. Granola bars for humans and dog biscuits for the pups.
The companionship of a furry friend is priceless.
It has been a difficult year so this exercise is so welcome.
Today, I am most thankful that the car accident that I was involved in only left me shaken and no one was hurt.
I am thankful that my husband and I celebrated our 37th wedding anniversary.
I’m happy that fall has arrived in Florida. Temperatures are now on the 80’s and the humidity is beginning to subside.
Wishing everyone peace and good health.
@Bee, I'm glad you're ok after the car accident! Even a minor one is a shock to the system. And happy anniversary : )
@Bee, thank goodness that the car accident left you no worse than "shaken." (I was glad to be only "shaken" when I was in the accident 2 years ago that totaled our Prius.) Hope you're over the aftereffects shortly and can get the car repaired (if possible) soon.
@Bee,
That's good news that you weren't hurt!
How are you in the 80's? We've been in the 90's all week on this side - I want to wail, "That's not fair!" Good for you to have 80's, though, and I hope it reaches 80's (or lower!) here, as they claim it will.
@JD, Suz, A. Marie
Thank you for all your kind words.
I’ve been driving for over 40 years and this is my first accident. I have never even had a ticket. It was shocking…
JD,
Our temperatures are significantly cooler on the coast. It is often up to 5 degrees cooler on the beach side than it is on the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway most of the time. The sea breeze off the Atlantic keeps down temperatures. Of course, it quite breezy and tropical this time of year. I’m watching the weather every day hoping that hurricane season will be uneventful.
Had a laugh when I read about the kids in hoodie 😀
I reside in Dubai, UAE, where the temperature goes up to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees F) and even in that heat my teenage son hangs out in his oversized hoodie! Same with his friends too. What is with these kids?? Had thought that the kids here miss fall and the cooler weather hence the preference for hoodies but I guess I was wrong! Seems like a trend everywhere 🙂
@Priyanka, Fashion speaks its own language. Nothing to do with weather!
I'm thankful that Kristen is settling into a new normal that works well for her.
I'm thankful for learning about the trend in hoodie wearing in hot weather and the "weighted blanket"/comfort theory as to why. I spend the summer in shorts and sleeveless shirts. When cold weather arrives I will be bundled up.
I'm thankful it wasn't raining this morning and we got a walk in early.
I'm thankful for modern plumbing. Toilets, and showers, and all manner of plumbing.
I'm thankful for cooler days, even the hotter days are not so hot (if that makes any sense at all).
I'm thankful for friends and relatives. What would life be like without them?
I'm thankful I can go to bed at night when I am tired, even if it is barely 9:00.
I'm thankful my daughter and I will visit family this weekend while my husband will hold down the fort at home. There is less prep work in going away when the house will not be empty.
I'm thankful for general good health and the ability to take steps that will hopefully help to maintain that: exercise, healthy food, time for sleep. I know that is a privilege.
I'm so glad you're loving your rental, Kristen. All that effort you put into making it comfortable and homey is so worth it.
This week I'm thankful for the hospice staff caring for my father. The first week in particular he fought against them, but the transition is now getting easier. I'm just amazed at how patient and caring they are. I lost it a time or two, and they comforted and helped me as well.
I'm thankful for the calls that I get after every visit the hospice nurse and chaplain have with dad. It's nice to get updates after every visit, and I also can rest in the fact that they've got him.
I'm thankful that my husband and I were able to visit dad this past weekend. He's doing better than he was a month ago, but still a far cry from how well he was doing a few months ago.
I'm thankful for a small group through my church. I just joined a group of women who are also grieving losses. Last week was my first time as part of the group, but already I'm comforted by the support of the group leader. It's been years since I was in a small group, and I think this is going to be really good for me, especially as my dad is on a decline.
I'm so thankful that my husband and I were able to move cities. I really love where we are now, and our rental is great, too. I'm still getting our place furnished, but already it feels more like home than the last place we lived (and we were there for almost 2 years).
@Brooke, It's great that you've found support as you work through what's going on with your dad.
@Brooke,
Sending you virtual hugs. I’m glad you are blessed with kindness and support.
@Brooke, hugs to you. It's hard to have a parent in hospice. I'm glad you are feeling supported by so many different people.
@Kris @Karen A. @Bee
Thank you ❤️
One more thought on the hoodies, in addition to the other great ideas already shared... Our kids wear them to school too, and I questioned it as they left the house. But it turns out that certain parts of the school building are *freezing* due to overzealous AC. On back to school night, I wished I had brought a cozy hoodie too! 🙂
Funny, we've been in our rental about five months, and it seems like we've been here longer!
I am thankful for the COOLER WEATHER. So happy to look at the weeklong forecast and not see 80-degree temps forecast.
At the same time, thankful for our smaller house that is easier to cool and keep comfortable. I foresee it will be easier to heat in the winter, as well.
Thankful for improving health in family members.
Thankful for my green migraine-friendly lightbulbs, which I think are helping my brain! I haven't had a true migraine in over a month now. A few barometric pressure headaches, but nothing debilitating. And thankful for a family and husband that doesn't mind green lights around the house; my youngest said it's fun because it looks like Halloween. 🙂
I’m thankful …
- My medication change has me feeling so much better! I had been feeling constantly tired and unmotivated to the point where simple things like taking a shower felt like a huge chore. I thought it was lingering depression from my mother’s death last year, but a simple med change has me feeling “normal” again. I obviously still miss my mom, but I’m sure she’d been happy that I’m able to function again.
- That my stomach ailments have mostly subsided. The same doctor that changed my meds also put me on probiotics. They’ve worked wonders. I’m no longer stuck at home after meals waiting for everything to digest.
- That my family is still able to absorb the inflated costs of groceries. Those grocery costs are painful, but would be much much worse if we had to choose between food and other very necessary things.
- For fall weather. Two days ago, it was 96F. Today the high is only 69! I love it. I want it to stay feeling like fall as long as possible.
- My fall garden is starting to produce. It’s my first year doing a fall garden and last night I harvested my first lettuce from the new planting. I hope to extend the season as long as possible with fabric covers.
ETA - I’ve also noticed the sweatshirt hoodie thing with the kids at my son’s middle school. I thought maybe it was due to the AC being too cold in the building, but my son told me this week that the AC was broken.
@JenRR,
I am curious about the probiotics you are on. My daughter has had digestive issues since her gallbladder surgery 5 years ago! I wonder if this may help her. Is it a prescription or over the counter product?
@JenRR, I don't want to be nosey, but what type of medicine did you stop taking? I am on a beta blocker and feel like you did. Hope you don't mind my asking!
@Barbara, Mine are over the counter from Target. I take the Up and Up Extra Care Probiotic Supplement. My doctor suggested I find one with a high live cells count plus a wide variety of probiotic strains.
@Gretchen, No problem. I was taking meds to help with anxiety. My new meds are mood stabilizers. I hope you find a way to feel better!
@JenRR,
Thank you!
@JenRR,
Thanks, Jen! You are sweet to answer. I have never heard of mood stabilizers, but they sound wonderful!!!
Thankful my hip shot is helping with walking. So far so good.
Dad seems more comfortable in the assisted facility. We had issues with his elderly care due to lack of communication that I hope has been resolved. Thankful we found a place we are comfortable with.
My brother and I are taking over his care from my sister who needs a break. My brother is easy to deal with and has a logical brain.
So thankful my boss has been so helpful and nice about missing time to help with dad. She even said if I need to take more time off I could. Very thankful not to feel the pressure of missing work. My last boss when hubs was in ICU said "you are still coming into work right?". She was a total nut job.
Thankful for the cooler weather today, we have a little yard work to do and it is easier when it's not 85 and humid. Lows of 39 tonight, not ready for that!
@Mar, I'm glad that you and your siblings are able to work cooperatively on your dad's care. You wouldn't believe the stories I read on the alzconnected.org caregiver forums about families that can't do this.
@A. Marie,
When my MIL had dementia, my husband’s family was very difficult. They did not mean to be, but they are extremely emotional by nature. The child my MIL designated to be her POA was in denial, overwhelmed by life and lived 2000 miles away. Things did not go well.
So often people put the oldest child in the position of decision-maker. It’s much better to assign these jobs by ability even if it means looking outside of the immediate family. Also, as you have often said, it’s important to put a plan in place ahead of time.
Above all, I’m so thankful our grandson has arrived… healthy, strong and beautiful! His mom and dad ( our son) are doing well. I’m also thankful they don’t live too far away from us. We’ll be able to visit often. Yay!
I’m thankful for the autumn temps and that leaves will be colorfully changing soon. Also thankful my husband has a leaf-blower backpack that makes clearing leaves from our yard so much easier for him.
I’m thankful for recently finding two new recipes that my family loves. Baking and cooking are creative outlets for me so I’m always happy to add a new recipe from time to time. My joy multiplies when family members enjoy the new fare.
I’m thankful for a recent offer of a job that I hadn’t applied for. I may not actually get the job but it’s a reminder to me that God can open a door of opportunity when we least expect it. It’s hard to explain but this has boosted my faith a bit.
I continue to be thankful for good health, our old cars that drive well, appliances that are reliable, our sweet pup Wally, coffee, good books and my dear husband and sweet daughter. Did I mention being thankful for our new grandson?! And thankful for our son and his wife!
@Martha,
Congrats on your grandson. New life remains a miracle-
@Martha,
Congratulations!
Yay for a grandson!!
@Martha, Congratulations on the new family member!
@Martha, congratulations to you and your family! A blessing indeed.
Before my thankfulness, when we lived in FLORIDA, the kids were always wearing BLACK hoodies outside -- even in the summer. I could understand carrying it with you because some places had the AC on super high, but they wore them - hoods and all!
Since most people at the beginning are thankful for family, we are getting ready for a nephew's wedding and are all looking forward to it. (Well maybe not the father of the groom because he left our sister at 1 point and doesn't understand that it is not his day.) But our family is smart enough to know that the celebration is for the bride and groom and will keep it that way. It will be nice to be with all my siblings, being dressed up, well-behaved and celebrating something.
I am thankful for the cool air, but that also means winter is coming and I'm just not looking forward to really cold weather. First winter in WV after spending the last 8 in Florida will be a shocker. And they are predicting a wetter than normal January.
But I am thankful that there is money in the bank to buy new tires that I need for my car. With WV having so many hilly, curvy roads, good tires are a must.
Thankful for the school my granddaughter is going to. She spent kindergarten in 1 school and it didn't really help with her development issues, so she was transferred to a different school and after 2 weeks, I can already see a difference. And now I get the "good" answer when I ask how school was. I know she misses the friends she made tho.
Thankful for the food in the freezer/refrig because there are nights I don't want to cook. Have to start restocking tho!
Social, cuddly cats are the best!
This week I'm thankful:
That our diabetic kitty's insulin/glucose finally seems to be leveling out. It has been a long process, so it's nice that he's finally getting to a good number.
That our dog seems to be recovered from his pancreatitis.
For our awesome vet's offices. We've seen them a lot lately, and they're always wonderful.
For the mild weather we're having. I hate the cold and hubby hates the heat, so the in-betweens are the only times we're both happy to be outside.
For lots of local parks to go walk in to enjoy the weather we both like.
For our awesome neighbors. They dropped off a beautiful potted mum for us on Sunday, just because. It seems like they're always doing something nice for us.
Kristen, you sound happy, and it seems to be growing by the week, and, well, that makes me happy!
Five Thankful Things:
- That my young granddaughters, who are currently living in Europe as a military family, are still so excited each week when we all FaceTime together. We've most recently been sending them videos of some of the sea critters we've been encountering during our coastal RV trip, and it's been fun to chat about the videos with them. Of particular interest was a video we took of a clam actively burying itself into the sand. We all loved that one!
- My spacious kitchen at home. After weeks of preparing meals in my teeny tiny RV kitchen, I am looking forward to having access to so much space in which to cook once we return home.
- Fall sunsets. They are so beautiful at this time of year.
- Wild blackberries. We've been hiking and walking daily, and have come upon several ripe and bursting wild blackberry bushes, and they are just so delicious!
- Nature. We have seen so many amazing things on this trio due to the miles and miles we've walked, close to 150 all together. All that time outdoors has afforded some amazing sightings, including the clam encounter I mentioned above. Of course, some of nature is rather earthy (lol), but then so is life at times!
This week, I`m thankful for:
* having found good partners for group projects at school (at least I think....)
* having a part-time job that pays well
* My puppy is no longer coughing! I was afraid of a tracheal problem but looks like it was only kennel cough (it took 2 rounds of antibiotics). Also thankful that she's now trained and loose in the house
* Having 2 laptops, because *someone* (who? we will never know (....kids)) dropped mine and now it's not connecting to WIFI anymore (I'll get it fixed, hopefully). I can at least use the ancient one in the meantime
* Having all tested negative to Covid (me, kids, hubby) after spending the week-end with multiple people that have since tested positive
I'm also intrigued (is that the term?) with my university colleagues. I'm 40 (ok.... almost 42!) they are about 20 years old. When I was 20 I dressed well, applied make-up, wore high heels, etc. Them : big hoodies, oversized jogging pants, fminimal makeup/fresh face, sneakers,etc. I LOVE it. I love that this generation does not feel like they have to look a certain way (as long as they clean up for placements/work, ahah). The girl sitting next to me yesterday had pyjama pants on.....
Contrary to you, I have not made friends there, but I'm ok with that. I mean, I'm not being rude to them, but I'm very reserved/introverted, so I go to my classes and then I read during lunch break, then class, then home. They are 20, no responsabilities appart from a part time job and school maybe. I'm 40, with all that comes with. I cannot relate to them, they probably cannot relate to m, so I don't know what we would be talking about, so I'm not trying. (I do have younger friends in their 20`s and 30`s but we live similar lives). So, yeah, interesting to see the different perspectives! (and good for you for being so open and friendly, I just miss that self-confidence... and interest I guess).
@Isa, Haven't college students usually dressed like slobs? Back in the mid 80s when I went, I wore pajama pants all the time. Never any makeup. (In fact I met my future husband wearing pajama pants and a black cotton sweater.) My BFF showed up in Ivy League preppy clothes but by the second week was slobbing it around with me in band T shirts and army surplus pants.
I'm 44 and I am almost always the oldest person by far in all my classes. But I still like to chat with my classmates, at least about the course material or about other classes they are taking. It's not like we hang out outside of class, but we are friendly in class, and I like that.
@Kristen, I’m (ahem) elderly by some standards (not mine) at 79. In the two years in the before times I took three classes at university. I found the perspectives of the 18-20 somethings so interesting and apparently they enjoyed mine. I still keep in touch with several of those students. Sometimes four or five gather at my house for supper. Just for fun. I’m so encouraged by these young men and women. They are smart, curious and fun to be with. I plan to take some more classes. We exchange our different experiences and we are all enriched.
Oh, that is so fun that you hung out with them outside of class!
@Rose, aha, you might be right! Maybe it was just me and my high heels. I did tone it down by the second semester.
@Kristen, Yeah, I get that. I was implying more like going out for a drink after class type of thing. I talk to them too, but it stays minimal. That said, you are a social butterfly while I suck at it 😉
I'm a summer lover. Don't go, summer!
The kids wearing hoodies 365 days a year do so because they're insecure and a hoodie is like a security blanket. My daughter, who hates her beautiful hair, sigh, wears a knit cap 365 days a year.
Today I am thankful for a major scoop for my job, got my decluttering mojo back, and for ibuprofen. This week has been mega stressful and my fibromyalgia flares up badly.
I read your "for the bars on my walking trails" thinking that you were stopping by for a cocktail while you were out for a walk, not using the chin up bar. hahaha
Thankful that our dog is finally getting over her kennel cough. It was a rough week for our baby
Thankful that I could work from home one day while the dog was sick so I could could her medication
Thankful that a cold front is moving in today and Friday's high is only 79
Thankful my boss found a new project for me that aligns more with what I want to do
Thankful for the refund check from our insurance company. We sold a house and the home owner's insurance did not get canceled. They worked with us and refunded over $700!
Ha, well, I don't like alcohol so chin-up bars are better for me!
@Beverly, i thought the same thing about bars. Maybe that says something about my own alcohol intake haha.
It's been a hard week as my daughter adopted an emotional rescue dog, but she's stressed out now about the commitment. I'm thankful I've have telework option so could help her schedule as she adjusts her own schedule and he is better acclimated. I am sad summer is ending, but the beautiful fall days are a joy.
Thankful Thursday: Crazy Upcoming Weekend Edition
--That the school play will be over tomorrow. Our school has the Missoula Children's Theater come every year. They show up and teach all the kids, K-12, a musical in five days, which they perform on Friday. It's nice for the kids who like it, but it seems like that's a minority of them. My boys do not, so it's always a challenging week for me. Doubly so since I have to supervise rehearsals, which means dealing with the teenage boys (and some girls, and some younger kids . . .) who are REALLY not happy about singing and dancing on a stage.
--For generally well-behaved and respectful kids at school. They're usually so nice about everything that when I do see the odd bad attitude--which I am seeing more this week--it's kind of shocking. I appreciate that it's still an anomaly.
--That my oldest son has a home football game Friday, and will be playing a position he's excited about. This is the first home football game for the JV, and I am very thankful not to be driving four (or more) hours roundtrip to watch him play.
--That my parents had randomly decided to come this weekend, and so will be here for both the play and the game. This means my dad can wait until the game is over and then bring my son to the play, as the rest of us will probably have to leave a bit before the game is over so we can be sure to be at the play on time.
--For the little store in the other village that opened a couple of years ago and reliably has milk, cream, and Daisy brand cottage cheese and sour cream. Good dairy ten minutes away makes me feel so much happier. 🙂
@kristin @ going country, Daisy brand cottage cheese has completely ruined all other cottage cheese for me and my husband.
Cooler weather! I'm right there with you! The official arrival of autumn. My family. Time with my niece. My cat.
@Kris, I'm starting to get excited to see another Michigan fall!! It's coming!!
Kristen, I work at a university, and we get lots of complaints that the air conditioning in the student rooms isn't working right. The problem is that they're all wearing hoodies in 90 degree weather in their rooms! And they're walking around on campus like that. Being an old person, I am not willing to suffer for fashion any longer and dress for the weather. 😀
A big yes on a loving cat. One of my cats is a love bug and we kiss and hug on him all the time. He really is like a furry grandchild. The other was an adult feral when we began incorporating her into our home. She lets us pet her, if we are slow and quiet, but that's all. No sitting next to us or on our laps.
Some of this could be in the "Silver Linings " Thanksgiving post, but not all of it!
1. I'm thankful that 37 years ago this very day, my second daughter burst into the world after only two pushes, because she never could stand to wait around, even back then. She's a funny, loving, smart and accomplished Type-A extrovert, and my husband and I are grateful to be her parents.
2. I'm grateful that although my DH has yet another UTI, because he now lives in a skilled nursing facility, he can be treated where he is with IV antibiotics, rather than get hauled to a hospital for treatment. Changing locations confuses him some, and I usually have to argue with the hospital doctors about him while he's there. They usually put him down as a Type II diabetic instead of Type I, which changes his treatment, and not for the better, and they often send back changes in his medications when he is discharged a few days later that contradict the carefully thought out protocol his long-term physicians have prescribed.
As a side note - Kristen, there is a huge need for nurses in gerontology, should you be interested.
3. I'm thankful because, although my county raised the upper limit they can charge non-city residents on our annual trash disposal fee to almost $300, they are only raising the fee itself to $170 this year, up from $140. Please note, they do not haul away non-city residents' trash and do not provide trash cans, recycling containers or bags. The nearest-to-me solid waste disposal site is 8 minutes away by car, and most of the site employees are elderly, some with partial disabilities, so that I unload trash bags, yard waste, heavy scrap and large items all by myself. But - at least I'm not paying $300 a year to do it!
4. I'm thankful that even though we've had 90's all week and may get close to 100F today, there is hope that it will cool off a bit after that. Not as cool as Kristen is seeing, but 80's sound good after this week.
And I see people wearing hoodies in the summer here in Florida! How do they not pass out from the heat?
5. I'm thankful that the older relatives who made the 800+ mile trip last week got home safely last night after driving straight through again.
If I lived in Florida, I would most definitely not be wearing a hoodie!
Having a washer and dryer in my house! There always seems to be a load in the washer everyday (clothes, sheets, towels, dog items) and I couldn’t imagine having to hold off until I could devote hours to the laundromat to such a passive chore.
Leftovers. We’re still trying to figure out our new schedules for fall and it’s nice to have a meal already made in the fridge to fall back on when timing doesn’t work out like we think it should.
My husband’s positivity for other people. I love when he comes home and shares when one of his employees or clients has a “win” that day. He’s so happy to see people doing well that you would think it’s his “win” as well.
My son seems to like middle school! He’s able to see friends that went to other elementary schools, friends from his soccer team, and he proudly told me he’s spending time with a student who recently moved from Russia and doesn’t speak much English. He’s also excited for the schoolwork (so far) and the extracurricular opportunities that are open for him. We’re three weeks in and he’s thriving!
Cooler weather. I’m more into sweaters and boots than shorts and flip flops (unless I’m on vacation). I’m so happy every time I check the weather and I see 50s and 60s. It’s nice enough to spend time outside and enjoy the sun but I’m not going to sweat just by being outside!
Oh yes, I love, love, love having my own washer and dryer.
@Geneva, after years of having to use laundromats and apartment building laundry rooms, I do not take having my own for granted. I seriously think how lucky I am every single time I use them.
1. Today's high...91. Tomorrow's high...77! Fall has arrived and I am SO very ready for things to cool down.
2. I am so thankful for the change in the light outside. I love the summers but the cooling of autumn is a blessed relief. There is a notable shift in the late afternoons and it reminds me that a sweet season is ahead for us.
3. Dysfunctional families are seriously no fun folks. I am thankful for the years of therapy I have had to be able to process it all in a more healthy way & the wisdom in having learned how to create healthy boundaries.
4. Pumpkin candles burning. Fresh clean sheets on our bed. Coffee brewing. Seeing deer grazing in the early evening hours.
5. A large rock hit my windshield this week while driving - I am thankful for the rock having hit the bottom of my windshield...if it had been a few inches higher it might have actually come through the glass and hit me which is scary when you are on a highway going 70 miles per hour. Also thankful for insurance.
Teacher here. The hoodies are like a weighted blanket for these young adults. Especially since the pandemic.
I also find it odd that many of my students wear hoodies on blistering hot days but to each his own. There are even articles and studies about it if you wanna take a deep dive.
Hope your test went well!
@Stephanie, "Weighted blanket" is a good analogy.
Yet hoodies and shorts with bare legs in the winter? Feeling my age and remembering my childhood home in the Far North.
I am thankful that my husband is back to normal mentally, and that he looks forward to going to physical therapy and occupational therapy.
I am grateful for the staff both at the hospital and the rehab) who coped so well with his delirium, and have patiently dealt with his physical needs for the past 3 1/2 weeks.
I also am thankful for my washer and dryer so I can keep up with the increase in laundry and provide several clean, dry clothing changes daily.
I am thankful for a facility that allowed his dog to visit. That did wonders for his spirits!
I am grateful for the prayers of friends and my church; without them, I would have felt so alone.
Most of all, I am grateful that he is coming home tomorrow!
Yay for the return of the husband!
I was pretty happy about putting on a sweatshirt today, too! Yesterday was 88. Today is 60. I'm ready to be done sweating!
This week I'm thankful:
* for a couple of things the Lord provided at a yard sale this morning. Someone was giving away a free water bath canner and I just got apples yesterday to make applesauce. This is always the time of year that I wish I had 2 and now I finally do!
* that my 4yo was excited to help me clean this morning! It was such a nice feeling.
* for finding a new recipe that I love. It's meatless, uses the air fryer, can travel, and my kids like it. Yay! I've been geeked about this for few days now and love it so much that I made leftovers of it for lunch the last 2 days. (Side story: As my 8yo was eating this meal for dinner in the van on the way to soccer practice Tuesday she referred to eating dinner in the van as "living the good life." Too funny. She's apparently going to be just fine when she gets to middle school and has sports everyday.)
* for my children's teachers. They're amazing.
* for a season where we have enough. There are a couple of things we've offered to do and pay for that are not easy in our budget, but I'm thankful we can swing it.
Thankful for cooler weather! I'm writing this on Thursday, when the weather where I live finally broke, and we have a high today under 70F. It's almost 11am, and still hasn't hit 60F. I love this kind of weather, too.
Thankful that I happened to grab the very last paper map my village had in their office. I'm working on a project with some other folks in the village to put together a request for plowing on local bike trails and publicly-owned sidewalks. I bike and walk a LOT, and some of the trails that are fantastic shortcuts in the summer are just unusable in the winter due to snow, so I'm very invested in this project.
Thankful for people. I participated in a "community cafe" this past Monday, which was organized by some folks who live in my community. It's basically like a networking event, except instead of being business-oriented, it's community-oriented - connecting people who might want to work on civic projects, just want to make friends and find like-minded individuals (I found 2 new walking and biking friends!). It was such a great experience, to get to hear people's stories, meet folks I've never met before (even though we've lived in the same area for years in some cases), and just engage in positive social interactions after the last 2 years.
Can you do a pull up? If so, I'm in awe! I would love to be able to do pull ups and proper push ups, but I think my time has passed me by.
Sadly, no. I need my elastic bands to help me do a full one. But for now, I'm climbing up and doing negatives (you start all the way and slowly lower yourself down). I figure that's better than nothing.
I am so thankful for our windows. We live in a small house and every room (except the bathroom) has windows on two walls. We get such a lovely, cooling cross-breeze every evening.
I am thankful for good coffee. Every morning my cup of fresh ground pour-over coffee is such a treat.
I am thankful for colder weather. It is so nice to sleep under blankets again.
I am thankful for wool socks. The house is in the 60's in the morning and I work from home.
I an thankful that the weight lifting routine my husband designed is helping me slowly regain *some* upper body strength after some bad injuries. So far, the program is challenging and helping me push my limits. (I've lost some range of motion due to a broken humerus 10+ years ago.)
1. Autumn begins tonight! Tomorrow it will be in the lows 60s, love it! I like the sunlight of Summer and wearing sandals, but heat and humidity make me cranky.
2. White chocolate covered cashews, so good!
3. Free books from friends.
4. Pumpkin spice donuts from Dunkin. I'm not a pumpkin spice everything fan, but their donut is really good.
5. An upcoming clothing donation/recycling event near us. We won't have to schlep far and it gives me a push to clear my closet of some unworn items that someone else might be able to use now.
Sometimes I am just so thankful for your reminder to be thankful, Kristen. It's been a sinus headache kind of week plus crazy work and personal relationship challenges are added to the mix - but there is always something to be thankful for.
I've had this type of headache enough to know that it is sinus related and WILL pass and that Excedrin is my best option to make it through the work day.
I'm otherwise healthy!
My husband has surgery coming on October 6 - he has polyps in his sinuses. Didn't know this was a thing until recently. One side is 90% blocked and one is 100% blocked. I asked him to be checked about 3 years ago and while the wait was frustrating, I'm thrilled that he finally did it and will soon breath so much better!
I have great friends that will be honest with me and I with them.
Have a great end of the week everyone!
Cindy
-thankful for the chance to catch up with a friend over coffee. Always easier to schedule these get-togethers once school has started back up.
-thankful for a loving Russian Blue cat. Two words-snuggle bug.
-thankful for the library which allows me to check out books, videos and cookbooks to my heart’s content.
-thankful we have been able to plan college visits on upcoming days when the boys are out of school.
-thankful for charity shops where a bit of creativity lets me piece together outfits that look great and fit the budget!!!
I am having a really rough chemo day so my first instinct was no thankful Thursday for me. But my 'silver lining cloud' brain quickly jumped in and I am most thankful for chemo even if it makes me feel sick, thankful for the time it is keeping me alive to be here for my girls. I'm also thankful for -
My youngest who had a really emotionally challenging summer, settling into grade 11 well and enjoying being one of the strongest players (and mentors) on her varsity school field hockey team.
For my eldest settling into her new job and apartment in Toronto and still being able to talk with her every day. And for dear friends in the city who will be available to her if she runs into any problems.
For our two cats - Beckham and Primrose who also bring us so much joy with their silly and affectionate ways. They are 10 years old now and still act like kittens. Thanks Kristen for reminding me to not take their love for granted!
For easy meals on the menu plan for chemo week. Kristen has taught me a lot here. I have a lovely broccoli and ham quiche to go in the oven tonight and a simple green salad that my 15 yo will make.
I am indeed blessed and I never want to lose sight of that, even when not feeling my best.
@Leann,
I'm thankful you felt well enough to comment today and I hope you feel even better tomorrow!
@Leann, thank you for commenting even when you are struggling. I hope you feel better (less awful?) soon.
I was feeling thankful on your behalf for walking trails with bars, but then you ruined it by saying they’re for exercising and not cocktails!
I’m thankful for my partner, who is loving and supportive, that we’re off to a cabin in the woods to rest in a couple of weeks, that I have corresponded with someone from your comments section who has given me tips on some places I haven’t been before, that I got done a piece of work this morning that I’ve been avoiding, that I just mended a thing from the huge mending pile.
-I'm thankful that the high today is 78'! It's only 73' at 3PM so maybe we won't even get that hot.
-that I only have three more work days before vacation.
-that I can take my dog with me to the lake
-for a clean house & an empty laundry basket....sometimes it just does not get done
1. For a good frost, which killed off my garden. I love gardening, but I am ready to put it away and this year the frosts have arrived late. I am ready for snow.
2. My neighbors, who are really wonderful, helpful and into sharing garden produce, moose meat, salmon, and equipment back and forth.
3. My physician, who listens and finds way to work around my idiocyncracies (like I will not longer do MRIs, having been in one when there was an earthquake tremor. It was a short tremor but once was enough).
4. The pound hound, who comes out and lies down next to me when I have insomnia and go into another room to read.
5. The husband, always the husband.
Im so glad your rental brings you happiness! Its hard enough to move but your situation made it even harder. Having a nice space for you, the girls and kitty is such a blessing! God is so gracious!
I'll be interested to see what you learn about "normal" body temperature in your nursing classes. "Normal" used to be 98.6 F and my body was generally there or 2/10th lower when I wasn't sick or ovulating. Now I'm hearing that 96 is "normal" and I'm always shocked at the low readings on fancy electronic thermometers--mine seems to rage 94 to 96, I don't believe this can possibly be accurate and I long for a good old mercury thermometer to check. I'm still trying to understand if it's the electronic thermometers that are off, or humans are generally having lower body temperatures these days? Perhaps that's why younger people can tolerate sweatshirts on hot days??? As a post-menopausal woman, I'm still wearing short sleeved breathable clothing outside almost year round (it gets in the 50's here during winter days). I'm almost always HOT.
I'm thankful that our horrible "Heat Wave" that gave us temps up to 115 (UGH!) got replaced with cloudy days under 80 degrees. And we even had a little RAIN. We are climbing back into the 80's and 90's, but hopefully we are done with 100+ degree temperatures for the year. (Every year, I wish I could "be excused" from hot weather for the summer ;o)
I love cats too!
I'm thankful for:
-À week overlapping with some friends and close friends of our kids.
- The Bible that gives clear guidance on some heavy stuff we've been dealing recently. Thankful God gives wisdom (James 1)
- Beautiful clouds
-Time swimming with my kids.
Love these lists! Thanks for doing them. I have to say that I read the item about "bars on walking trails" incorrectly and I pictured you stopping off at a pub for a pint or two! Also speaking as a professor (social sciences), I bet you are a good student and I bet your professors really value you. There's nothing like an adult student who does all the work, is responsible, and knows how to study! Good luck on your exam. I'm giving the first exam in all my classes next week and I know my students are anxious.
My professors do seem to usually appreciate my level of dedication. 🙂
Your cheerful spirit is such a grace, thank you Kristen!
This hour I'm thankful for:
1. The call from my teen son's kidney doctor yesterday asking us to consider genetic testing because she thinks he might have the wrong diagnosis. The disease he might have instead is less severe and it's possible he might not be needing a transplant by his 30's. Definitely not jumping the gun to celebrate, but it's very unexpected.
2. We caught an infection earlier than last time for my husband's grandmother, hopefully preventing a hospital stay again. I'm glad we were watching and pushed the nurse to follow through checking on it.
3. My son's laptop was right where he foolishly left it when we realized and not stolen last night. He just spent a lot of hard-earned money on it and we were grateful he didn't have to learn that lesson the hard way.
4. My husband got a sweet bonus at work recognizing his many extra hours on a huge, never-ending project.
5. That my husband listens to me and we make decisions as a team most of the time. Sometimes we disagree and we have to compromise, but being equal partners is a gift. We saw this very vividly this week and it reminded me of what a blessing it is.
6. Bonus, that most days aren't like today. It's been a doozy with mostly first world difficulties that aren't truly dire, but I'm glad to wave it goodbye!
Oooh, I am hoping for you that the better diagnosis is the correct one!
I was on a college campus this week and noticed the same hoodie thing! It was over 80 degrees and I was sweating in just a shirt while kids all around me were bundled up in huge hoodies. So confusing.
The chance to have my great granddaughter over once a week. I love getting to watch her develop.
For my granddaughter she is always willing to come over to help or ring her family for dinner
For the way my family treats me just the same as always. I have become handicapped about 12 years ago. It's getting worse &they just quietly help
My husband ,he truly understands the meaning of in sickness &health
Enough money to afford the higher priced low sodium foods
I love thankful Thursday it really helps me appreciate my life