Thankful Thursday | from California
I've been skiing at Lake Tahoe the last few days, and I'm flying back tonight.
So, this will probably be a skiing-themed thankfulness post!
This week, I am thankful:
for a body healthy enough to ski
Sometimes when I am flying down the mountain at 50+ miles per hour, I think about how many things in my body have to be working right for me to do this.
For example, I'm adjusting to the terrain, adjusting to the conditions, watching out for other skiers/boarders, and balancing, to name just a few things.
And so much of it happens without a lot of conscious thought on my part, which is kind of amazing.
for no schoolwork to do
Last year on this trip, I took an anatomy and physiology exam in the Las Vegas airport, with the slot machines jingling in the background.
But this year, I have noooo tests to do at all! And no studying! Woohoo!
I might not be able to come skiing for the next few years because of nursing school, so I'm grateful I could squeeze a trip in this year.
for safety
I am not a reckless skier, but sometimes when I am zooming down the mountain, I think, "Hmmm, it would really hurt if I fell right now."
So I am always grateful when I get to the end of a ski trip without hurting myself.
Full disclosure: I did fall down in the parking lot. Ha. There was a sheet of ice I did not see and, well, ski boots have zero traction. So down I went.
But I did not sustain any serious injuries, thank goodness. Imagine the embarrassment of coming home from a ski trip with a parking lot injury!
that we all wear helmets now
I've probably said this before, but: when I was a kid, almost no one wore helmets on the slopes.
But now almost everyone wears a helmet. I really like this development not only because it's safer but also because helmets are wonderful to wear.
They keep your ears warm, they protect your forehead from sunburn, they provide a nice seal around your goggles...lots to love!
for a break from being the responsible one
A nice thing about going on a trip with my parents is that I am responsible for very little. I basically just have to buy my plane ticket and lift ticket and that's it!
My mom kindly plans and cooks the meals (although we do help with prep and cleanup), and my parents reserve the condo and rent the cars.
for the privilege of learning how to ski
My parents took us skiing when I was a kid, so I feel very comfortable on a pair of skis.
Since skiing isn't the cheapest sport in the world, I feel grateful to have had the opportunity to learn. It's not something to take for granted!
for lots of snow
Lake Tahoe has gotten a respectable amount of snow this year, so the skiing conditions were really good.
Good conditions make skiing so much more fun. And safe!
for...learning I don't like the front row of a plane
On my first flight, I saw an empty seat in the front row, I said, "Ooh." and I sat down.
But then I learned that you have to put all of your stuff in the overhead bins, even your small carryon. And that's annoying if you have stuff you wanted to access during the flight.
Also, there's no tray table, which makes drinks a little difficult.
I unthinkingly ordered both water and cranberry juice, so then I was sitting there with both hands occupied by beverages, unable to read my book.
Whoops.
So, now I have learned to stick with my usual strategy: walk to the back of the plane until I locate a window seat.
That's what I did for my second leg, and I was especially grateful for the tray table!
(I fly Southwest, which does not offer assigned seating.)
for sunny weather
We only had one day of clouds, so yay! Skiing is way easier when it's sunny; the sun makes it so you can see variances in the snow, whereas clouds make everything look flat.
Skiing in flat light is more treacherous and also not as fun.
for the joy of going home
I'll get to sleep in my own bed! Be in my regular time zone! See my girls!
Glad you had a great time skiing! I have only skied once and it was cross-country skiing a long time ago and really liked it. Nowadays my knee and back injuries won't let me ski, so I am content enjoy a good book by the fire and watch the snow through the window.
This week I am thankful for:
1. Accomplishing a major goal at work. Feels good to get it done!
2. The warmer days, it's been nice to air out my home before it gets cold again.
3. The delicious chocolate bar with roasted almonds and sea salt my husband got me for Valentine's Day. You can keep your overpriced Valentine's restaurant menus and fancy boxes of candy, I'd rather have one really good bar of chocolate. (Although I do like flowers, but places rip you off for that too just because of what day it is. Hmph!)
4. The freebie I was sent when I ordered my shampoo bars. It's a full-sized unscented body butter stick, perfect for my sensitive skin.
5. The sunshine today, brightening my mood.
@AnnieH, my husband and I are a thousand years old. Our love gift is now a double sized Mounds bar which we share. We buy one on special occasions, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. It's just the right amount.
I decided years ago that some of those giant heart boxes have a poor quality candy in them. Also, neither one of us (especially me) do not know when to stop eating.
@Anne, I agree, most of those boxes are not worth it. Although I wouldn't say no to a box of Russell Stover caramels and nuts, it's not high-end fancy chocolate, but still pretty darn good.
We shared our bar too, it said three servings, but we "splurged" and split it in two. We do the same on Halloween, I buy the candies neither of us cares for just for the trick-or-treaters and one bar of something we both like to share while we watch "It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown."
this week I'm thankful for:
1. Warmer weather. Feels almost like I can put this nightmare winter behind me.
2. An understanding office. I've been out of work for a month with illness and everyone is urging me to take as much time as I need.
3. Enough money to keep this ridiculous household of mine lurching along.
4. The sound of the ocean.
annoyed about:
1. weak, weak, weak and I can't stop sleeping. 18-20 hours a day.
@Rose, I had a miserable case of mono many years ago which resulted in me being off work for 3 months and working a modified schedule for several months after that to accommodate my fatigue--all to say, it sucked and I understand how miserable you are. I'm sorry you are dealing with this.
@Rose,
Ugh, feeling so weak and tired is awful, I'm sorry you're dealing with that. I had influenza over Thanksgiving, which absolutely flattened me at the time. My less-than-understanding work situation required me to return to work long before I was physically ready, and months later, I'm still dealing with lingering fatigue. I hope you start feeling better.
On behalf of my Southwest family (retired pilot dad, active pilot brother, and both an aunt and an uncle who were flight attendants), I thank you for your business. 🙂
A storm-themed thankful list this week . . .
--SNOOOOOOW YAY! We badly needed any kind of precipitation, and we got about 5 inches of snow yesterday. This should give the pastures a start, anyway, although we still need a lot more for the ranchers to have peace of mind. If such a thing is possible for ranchers.
--That the only thing injured when our school bus slid backward five feet on a driveway yesterday (eek) was a fencepost and a bumper. The fencepost was apparently destined for replacement anyway, and the bumper can be hammered back into shape pretty easily. Given that this house usually has cattle right in the driveway, I'm glad it was just a fencepost we hit and not a cow.
--For an early release from school yesterday so we could get kids home before the worst of the storm made the roads too dangerous. It still counted as a day of school, so we don't have to make it up, but I got home at 1 p.m. from work.
--That my children actually played without fighting all afternoon, which allowed me to take to my bed to read for like two hours while the storm raged. Miraculous. I love hibernating in bed with a book like a (literate) bear.
--For a two-hour delay this morning from school. I mean, my kids still woke up ten minutes after their usual wake-up time (OF COURSE), but at least I can delay the rush of getting them out the door by two hours. 🙂
--For the propane delivery we got just a few days ago. It took almost two weeks for the truck to get here. It was not a good feeling to be getting low on both propane and firewood with bad weather coming. I wish we had more firewood, and it was not fun to write that check, but at least I can run the furnace now without worry.
@kristin @ going country, my boys and I were part of the SWA fiasco over the holidays and I will continue to fly with SWA in the future. The pilots and crews have always been amazing - I remember my boys getting wings when they were little from the flight crew, the flight attendants wearing Christmas pajamas on a holiday flight, etc. The weather and poor leadership hit at once making a perfect storm but no need to penalize the flight and ground crews for that!
We received 50k miles for the trouble so that works out to 5 round trip flights for me to go see my mom if I plan it right so all is good.
@Kim, Yeah, that was unfortunate. I appreciate your noting that it's really not the crews and the people on the ground who are to blame for that. They just get the fallout in the form of some really shockingly rude people. As I noted to my husband: Every airline has to deal with major screw-ups and angry passengers. It's how they respond to that that really determines what kind of company they are. Southwest has a history of really good customer service, and I know they try to make it right when things go wrong. Which is more than I can say for other airlines we've flown.
I am grateful for package and some delivery service tracking. I cannot tell you how helpful it is especially as delivery persons don't always follow instructions to come to my apartment for the delivery and I can monitor via emails or texts.
For those very few, alas, retail stores, venues and the like who are truly wheelchair accessible both in entrance/exits and restroom facilities.
For public transportation. Cabs and car services are very expensive in the major city that I live in.
For my home health aide. My life would be intolerable without her help. I am grateful for her terrific "can do" attitude and strong work ethic.
I am grateful for medical personnel who take the time to treat us patients like humans. They introduce themselves, always; look at you when speaking; and start by asking "how are you" and "what can I help you with today?" They are few and far between.
I am grateful for truly helpful Customer Service reps who begin by asking: How can I assist you today? and mean it and then go on to actually solve your problem.
I am grateful that we have several food (supermarket and restaurant) delivery services.
I am grateful that some people recognize and understand that some of us will have to continue to wear masks due to health risks. I am grateful to organizations who still ask you to mask up in environments that are crowded with little to no ventilation.
I am grateful that I live in a city where diversity is the norm. I love meeting and interacting with people from all over the world.
I am grateful to anyone who works to ensure that our country remains a true democracy, whether they are in or out of the government.
I am grateful that we have a free press and that we have the ability, if we wish to fact check, to access many different and valid sources.
I am grateful that both my education, professional training and career provided me with the tools to learn how to evaluate information and sources.
I am grateful for the people I meet and know who have honored me by sharing their life stories.
I am grateful that I have WiFi access.
I am grateful for the kindness, compassion and good manners of the many people I encounter when I am out and about.
I am grateful that I am able to continue to live in my apartment in the city I have called home for some 50 years. May I continue to be able to do so.
I am grateful that some people still enjoy chatting on the phone and do not rely on text messages for actual connection and communication.
I am grateful for blogs like this because they are an inspiration in terms of how to live our lives as good people and good citizens. I am grateful that Kristin is so honest and forthright in her sharing. It is, I'm sure, helping many folks as they face similar challenges in their own life.
I am grateful for those who post various various animal photos on twitter. Everyone needs something to lighten their day.
@Irena, Ever since my mom's been in a wheelchair (stroke), I have been shocked by the way she's treated by so many people. It's bad enough that the elderly are infantilized anyway, but people in wheelchairs even more so. (My mother says, "Flowers are great. Do not EVER send me balloons or stuffed animals. I'm not seven years old any more.")
You have a great attitude.
@Irena, as a health care worker myself I agree with you and implement this in my practice with ALL my patients . Even if they are in.a comatose state I will take the time to introduce myself and explain what I'll be doing before touching them. And I protect their dignity, always. It baffles me to see colleagues enter a room without a smile and a salutation. It's just common decency to me: "smile, hello, my name and title is, I'm coming for... , is this ok with you?". This take about 30 seconds.
@Irena,
You make more than a few very good points.
@Irena, Thank you very much for your comments about a free press! I am a retired newspaper reporter and, like most other media professionals, have weathered more than my fair share of insults from the public. Most people do not understand our role. We are, indeed, some of the people who work to ensure our country remains a democracy. We do this by being a watchdog to government -- both parties, both sides -- and this can be a very thankless role. Ditto, businesses and organizations of all kinds. We're not here to give "publicity," but to provide a true picture of what's going on in your community, country or the world. Kudos to you for fact-checking all the articles you read in print or online, or see/hear on broadcasts. I always greatly appreciated people checking up on my reporting because as a direct result, I was often commended for my accuracy.
@Isa, 30 seconds and empathy. Everybody's got the 30 seconds. The empathy? Not so much. Good for you, and especially good for your patients.
@Rose, I am kind of chuckling about the stuffed animals because my grandmother collected teddy bears and up until the very end of her life she still loved them! She was a tough old bird, but melted when she saw a teddy with, as she put it, "a cute face". She had so many when she passed away, it was bonkers.
@Irena, I struggle with this exercise and love your list. Many apply to me as well but I take them for granted. Great job!
@Isa,
Yes! I'm a hospital dietitian, and I always introduce myself and tell my patients why I'm there. I have held patient's hands when they've needed it, listen attentively when they tell me their stories, and offered them respect and dignity no matter what. While I still wear a mask in patient areas, my smile is behind the mask, and I try to bring a smile to my patient's faces if at all possible. (Example: today, a patient told me she loves diet Coke, and requested two cans - the small cans - sent with each meal. I told her I was a Diet Pepsi fan myself, but that we could still be friends. 🙂 ) Kind of silly, maybe, but it's stressful enough being in the hospital - why not make it a friendly and positive encounter?
@Karen A., I think my mom would make exceptions for a cute teddy! In fact she used to make the cutest teddy bears ever; I still have mine, along with clothing for them. Eventually we both made teddy bears, clothes, and doll bedding to raffle off for charities. I got to indulge my inner child by making a bridal gown and a veil for a teddy bear but tell myself it was all for charity.
(Once--and this shows what kind of a person Mom was--a little girl didn't win the overly elaborate doll bed we'd made (quilt, lace shams, etc) and she burst into tears. She got her father's name and number and made her an identical set for free.)
@Rose, Your mom sounds like a wonderful lady. And I bet my grandmother would have wanted to win one of her bears!
@Isa, THank you for doing these small but important things with your patients. I was in the hospital once and had an aide walk in, whip back the covers and then my gown and tell me she was going to give me a sponge bath. She seemed baffled when I pulled down the nightgown, pulled up the covers and told her to get out and not come back until she could treat me with respect. Apparently that was never, because she never came back. I also wrote a letter of complaint about her, although I doubt those do any good these days. It is humiliating enough being helpless, without being treated disrespectfully.
@Irena, Fantastic list, Irena!
@Liz B., fellow dietitian here. Tough job. Happy that you can help in that way. I have to catch myself to be patient even though I’m feel like I’m saying the same thing all day (some days:).
Thankful for a lot of different things, I suppose.
* That my wife and I were able to have a weekend together and that my family could watch our daughter. She doesn't get a lot of time away from us outside of school so this was nice.
* For being able to go to Costco without said child in tow. You know, I love my daughter more than life itself but it's so much easier at Costco without her.
* For the eclair my wife got me for Valentine's Day. I'm not a huge sweets person and it was nice that she got me that. I appreciated it a lot.
* For having someone reach out to me to see how my wife and I were doing after the loss in December. It was nice to not feel ... forgotten.
@Battra92, I am glad you have people who continue to check on you after your loss in December. So many people are fearful of reaching out thinking that they will remind you of the loss, but you know that the loss is always there and having people acknowledge your pain can be comforting.
@Battra92, I love my kids too but a trip to costco or target or the grocery store is a whole different world with them vs. without them.
And I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. Sometimes people can't find the right words so though they are not said, you and your story are most likely not forgotten.
I have a metal bar and seven screws in my wrist from where I fell in an icy parking lot at the very end of a ski trip 22 years ago!
I'm having a tough time this week with two situations unrelated to DH--and yesterday's visit to DH didn't exactly lift my spirits either. So I'll try to stay mindfully in the present.
I'm thankful for the mild weather we're having this week, which has actually permitted me to get out and do a bit of garden clearance. (I'm not insane enough to start planting anything yet, even if we did hit a record high temp of 69 F yesterday!)
I'm thankful as always for the Bestest Neighbors, JASNA BFF, and Grad School BFF, with all of whom I have discussed the two tough situations--as well as for Betty the cat, who always seems to know when I'm in a dark mood.
And I'm thankful for a body and a mind that still function reasonably well in my late 60s.
@A. Marie, sorry to hear that life looks a bit grim right now. I’m thankful today for you. I always look forward to your comments. Your unique sense of humor and your ability to see the bright side of life truly make MY day brighter. Thank you.
@A. Marie,
I hope things brighten for you. I'm so glad you have good friends and neighbors!
@A. Marie, I'm sending much loving-kindness your way. I'm glad that you have some shoulders to lean on and ears to listen to you when life gets tougher, and kitty love is the best medicine sometimes!
@AnnieH, @JD, and @Leslie--thank you all, my dears. Your kind messages have brightened the day for me.
@A. Marie,
I'm late to the party, but I'm also glad you have loving friends and neighbors to help you through this difficult time. Hoping for brighter days ahead.
Sending love to you, friend! I hope things turn around a bit for you.
@A. Marie, Hope the coming week is a better one for you!
@A. Marie, I'm sorry it's been a hard week. I'm glad it wasn't so bad that you couldn't find thankfuls. (Or is that thanksful?)
OK, I take back the Cut Direct, A. Marie! Come over for some tea and seedcake.
I used to go skiing in PA with some of my family when I was in elementary school, but I haven't been in many years. It's great that your family has been able to keep doing it! Although I was fairly fearless as a child skier, the thought of going down a steep hill right now is kind of terrifying.
This week I'm thankful that my father-in-law had 2 successful procedures to insert stents. And we're all really thankful that one of my sisters-in-law was able to be there every day during this hospitalization.
I'm thankful for the WiFi we can borrow from our library. With our drastically increasing utility costs, internet is one thing we don't pay for at home.
I'm thankful that I can see the end of the tunnel for traveling to SC for my dad's estate. Two or maybe 3 more trips, and then I'm done! And I'm hopeful that it will all be done (traveling, that is) by the end of March.
I'm also thankful that some things are going better than expected for the estate!
I'm thankful that I got to join my small group for a fun get together in person last weekend. We meet online weekly, but we have occasional outings where we can talk and have fun in person.
I am thankful for modern transportation: planes, trains, and automobiles. What a difference they have made in how we live our lives, especially automobiles almost every day.
I am thankful for historical fiction. I love how much you can learn from it while enjoying a story. Also for non-fiction as well as everyday fiction.
I am thankful for April weather in February. It is unnerving in the long run but pleasant day-to-day.
I am thankful for casual friends as well as more serious friendships. I went to lunch yesterday with two guys I use to see briefly most weeks while volunteering.
I am thankful that my SIL recovered from her bout of pneumonia. It took a long time to diagnose and I'm thankful her nights of trying to sleep on the couch are over.
We are leaving for Tahoe on Sunday, so this was super fun to read. 🙂 So glad you had a great trip! We are really looking forward to the conditions - lots of snow. I'm also similarly thankful for no injuries, whenever I successfully complete a ski trip.
1) For a fun JV soccer season, for my son. He had a great time playing on a super competitive team (in a very challenging league), and got a lot of leadership experience as the captain.
2) It was my birthday, and my husband bought me a very thoughtful gift. The gift itself is lovely, but I really appreciate how hard he tries, and how much thought he gave to picking something out.
3) For my son, who was born 17 years ago, making us first time parents. It's been a wild ride, to say the least! So grateful for the experience of motherhood.
4) My family is not close by (two states away), but they work hard to stay in touch, celebrate the boys milestones, etc. I feel so lucky that we are close.
5) For free lunches at work. After 15 years of lunch packing, it's just really nice to be able to walk to the cafe & get a salad. Also, salads that someone else makes (or, preps ingredients for, in this case), are universally better than those I make at home.
@Hawaii Planner,
About salads made by someone else being tastier, my sister and I have always said the same thing.
Airline seats that don’t have a tray table in front of them sometimes have them tucked in the seat’s armrest – but I completely agree with the frustration of not having a place to stow your items close by.
This week I’m thankful for:
All the sunny days! The snow is still around but sun in February is such a treat!
How walkable the neighborhood is around my office. I go into the office twice a week and I usually go on an afternoon walk with a few coworkers.
How quickly I can pick up the house. I work better when my space is neat and working from home three days a week I need a neat space to focus. I stay on top of the mess enough that I’m able to neaten things up in about 15 minutes (not including my son’s room).
I have a little window in my living room that looks out to tree beside our house. All winter long bird visit the tree and I just love watching them hop in the branches.
The beautiful flowers my husband gifted me for Valentine’s Day. They were delivered early (Feb 9th) but two years ago they were delivered frozen so early is better than frozen! I carry them around the house with me – they are in my office during the day and in the family room in the evenings.
@Geneva, I thought of the armrest tray table too! I sat in the front once and was perplexed until I saw the man next to me pull his tray table out of the arm rest! It wasn't on Southwest, though, so I'm not sure they have the same.
This week I am thankful:
*that we were able to see the play my son was in. Our traveling situation wasn't ideal (we left a few people home to take care of things, go to appointments), but it worked.
*for coffee. I caught on later in life, but I like it so much.
*that my facial therapy place was okay (i. e. didn't charge a penalty) with me canceling my appointment tomorrow since two of our household woke up feeling under the weather (and I'm feeling like I'm fighting a nebulous something, too).
*for the kind people at the church where my son attends while at college. We attended there last Sunday, and several people (who were not college students) approached us and knew my son by his name. One person even said, "Oh, you must have come to see the play. We went last night. He did such a good job." College is a tough place, but it makes me feel better as a momma that there are people who care about my son when he is so far away from home.
*for my mother-in-law. She is a wonderful woman. I love her.
*for the upcoming facial therapy. It was hard to hear, "We think we can help you get to about 75% recovered," when I wanted to hear, "I think you're going to recover completely," but I feel confident that I have found people who actually know how to help.
*for kinesio tape, I think. My physical therapist recommended this for my face, but until we returned home, I didn't use it. Yesterday, I did, and I was surprised that my facial muscles seemed so relaxed after I removed the tape.
*that my son still has one hive alive.
*that we are homeschooling. I love it.
@Jody S., Didn't realize you could tape on your face, that's good to know; my foot loves it.
@Bobi, I am usually overly-sensitive to skin things, so the therapist recommended that I put milk of magnesia on my skin first, let it dry, and then put the tape. And I guess there's a specific way to put the tape on....I start at the corner of my mouth first. This is all new to me.(I'm also careful when I pull it off because the skin is so tender on the face.)
The snow looks lovely, but I'm glad I don't have to drive in snow anymore.
Today I am thankful:
1. That my sister in another part of the state is going to be able to take a break from caregiving and spend a long weekend with me. We will do all the silly, simple things we love to do, and she can decompress. I know that need all too well.
2. For the uplifting and gorgeous sight of a lone bald eagle soaring over the roadway as I drove to work. It floated against the backdrop of the light blue early morning sky and scattered silver clouds edged with pink. I had to smile and be thankful that my long work commute affords me amazing views like this. I see so many birds on my drives, but this was special.
3. That my daughter's BFF is flying literally all the way across the country to visit her brother and his family, and my daughter. She and my daughter have been best friends since they immediately latched onto one another when one was 18 months old and the other 12 months old at day care, 36 years ago. It's a blessing that they've been able to maintain their friendship through numerous moves and life changes.
4. For my kids and grandkids. Always.
5. For the guest speakers at church these last few weeks. Three are from Africa, two from US inner-city missions. One of the speakers had been one of the Lost Boys. What a blessing to hear them!
@JD, I'm so glad about your #1. I wish you an excellent weekend with your sister, full of silly, simple things!
Thankful that we arrived home safely from our driving trip to Florida. We did not want to fly because we wanted to bring our bicycles.
Thankful that we were able to get in a lot of bike riding this past week, but not as much as we thought. But it still felt great to be back on the bike and get miles in and not be overwhelmed or hurting the next day.
Thankful that my husband's MD appt in Florida went great. He really likes this MD and the reason we went to Florida and added in some sunshine. The MD walked him out to the reception desk and then even came over to talk to me! So friendly and informative!
Thankful that my mammogram has no changes from the previous year. Great News!
Thankful that our dog is at peace now and no longer hurting. We had an unfortunate turn of events that lead our 2 dogs going to a dog sitter instead of a dog sitter coming to the house. Our 12 year old dog doesn't do well with change and as great as the dog sitter was, she knew something wasn't right. When we got home, we took him to the vet we really like and she said it was lymphoma and there was nothing that could be done. Even our extended family is hurting over this, but it definitely was for the best for him. He had a great life and was loved by everyone. And he certainly is missed by all. And losing a pet really does STINK!
@Maureen, sorry for the loss of your beloved pup! Will give our dog extra belly rubs today in memory of your sweet one's passing.
@Maureen, I lost a cat over 20 years ago to lymphoma in the same sudden-and-awful manner. My heart goes out to you.
@Maureen, losing a pet is awful, and especially when it's that sudden.
@Maureen, my condolences to you and your family on losing your wonderful dog. They leave such a big hole in everyone's hearts.
@Maureen,
Sorry about your dear pup going to his reward. We know exactly how you feel even though it’s been a while. So hard. Best wishes to you and your family.
Sounds like a nice trip! You're lucky to have good relationships with your siblings and both your parents around, enjoy it to the fullest 🙂
My 5 this week:
* To have a good family doctor. Just having a family doctor is amazing since many people around me don't have access to one.
* To have the privilege of working part-time and still make a decent salary
* For Zenni Optical. I ordered 20 pairs of glasses (yes, 20...) and all of them came without problems. Best part is that my private insurance covers part of the cost so each pair ended up costing me 7$. Zenni is very cheap ($) to start with. I discovered it here on your blog, so I'm thankful for that too!
* To have a grocery store close by that does prices matchs. This way I don't have to shop at multiple stores to get the best price
* For private health insurance. Growing up we didn't have it, so everything not covered (I'm in Canada so services like dentist, chiropractor, massage therapy, physical therapy, some vaccines, etc) was to be paid in full. I don't take this for granted.
@Isa, twenty??
Your weather looks super and you look great, Kristen! Nice eyebrows.
This week I am very, very thankful that my DH made it through surgery last Friday and is recuperating seemingly well. The day of and following surgery were terror-filled because the operation took twice as long as expected.
Thankful for hardworking medical personnel including both doctors and the caring nurses.
Thanks for the beautiful scenery shots -- it was almost like taking a mini-vacation just to see them! Glad you had a wonderful time and no serious injury on your parking lot fall. Here are the things I am thankful for:
1. Friends who support me. Valentine's Day is a rather sad time for me, being single and forever unlucky in love. Even sadder, it is the anniversary of my mother's funeral, the only time I've ever received flowers from anyone but her and Grandma. So imagine my delight when I opened the front door and there was a long-stemmed rose along with a care package, with doggy treats for my pet and chocolate candy bars for me! Some friends from church surprised me. And just as nice, IMO, the husband of this couple took my emptied trash cans around to the side of the house for me. (It was garbage pickup day and they were still at the curb.)
2. Being able to get help when my car battery died. My auto insurance has roadside assistance included, so they sent someone to my house to jump the battery. I didn't have to pay anything out of pocket!
3. Two unexpected checks. One was from a friend's consignment store -- I'd taken in a favorite outfit that I can't squeeze into any more, along with some other clothes and knicknacks -- I'm trying to start de-cluttering bit by bit -- hoping they'd sell for Christmas. It took longer than expected but I got a check for some of my merch. And then, in yesterday's mail, I got a check from Wells-Fargo. They got audited and it was discovered I overpaid for some of the closing costs when I refinanced the mortgage. Even though that was years ago, I got a refund.
4. PPO health plans. I had to undergo surgery last fall, and the misadventures/mixups I experienced, caused by inefficient schedulers/hospital staff/doctor's office staff was just outrageous. A horror story, to be sure: It added to my stress and anxiety; if they lose me in the hospital, and don't tell me I have to have labs done weeks in advance of the CT scan, what else is going to go wrong? So I checked, and my (Humana Medicare Advantage) plan is allowing me to go elsewhere for all remaining follow-ups. I will meet my new oncologist next week and am hoping for more accurate record-keeping and better coordination of my care.
5. This blog! I am learning a lot (am looking for a salad spinner at the thrift stores for my wilted lettuce!) and enjoying the online camaraderie. So nice to see what all the other frugalistas out there are doing -- keep up the good work, my fellow frugal girls!
Aww, I love that your friends blessed you on Valentine's Day!
@Fru-gal Lisa,
To your #1: ♥♥♥
@Fru-gal Lisa,
I truly admire your upbeat attitude in the face of difficult stresses. Cheers to your dear friends from the church. It’s good to know of such caring people, I just love stories like that.
I was wondering about your front row comment--I'm glad you clarified that Southwest doesn't have assigned seating. I'm envious of the wonderful snow that you are experiencing--we were supposed to get a nice snowfall today but it looks like the weather pattern has changed and we won't be getting as much snow. Boo. But this is a thankfulness post, so I'll switch gears now.
My niece and I had a lunch date on Tuesday. She's more like a little sister to me so it was nice to connect with her, and we had a good laugh about going out with each other instead of our husbands on Valentine's day.
For my sweet husband who understands that I enjoy getting flowers for Valentine's day.
For the opportunity to meet with our youth pastor (who is also a good friend) to discuss ministry opportunities and frustrations yesterday. I can be candid with him, which I greatly appreciate.
That my son got the summer internship that he wanted. He interviewed earlier this week and called me last night (he usually texts instead of calling) and chatted for half an hour about it, and I loved hearing how excited he was. Sometimes I feel wistful about my kids growing up, but moments like that help me remember that our children are on loan to us for a time and our role is to help them develop into the person that God wants them to be.
On to a harder topic. I know 3 young men who attend MSU and I was busy texting 2 of the moms during the shooting event. One of the guys heard the initial gunshots. I am so grateful that they are safe, but my heart is hurting for the pain that so many are going through.
Today I'm thankful that my youngest's tonsillectomy has gone well. We're currently waiting for him to wake back up.
I've known for 5 years that his tonsils were abnormally large, but the pediatrician kept saying allergies. We saw a PA about 5 months ago, because the pediatrician was off that day, and got a referral to the ENT. We went to that appointment 14 days ago, and I was somehow surprised that it moved so quickly. This morning, his tonsils had been overlapping and pushing on the other.
So thankful that this will no longer be a long term problem, even with the current discomfort thats coming.
The closest I've ever gotten to skiing was going on the toboggan runs at Mount Tom in Connecticut. It was fun, but not as athletic as skiing!
I'm thankful my husband is letting me borrow his new bike; I hadn't riddeke in about 15 years and it's so fun. Much better for my feet than running was! Walking is nice, but I like to go fast. And I'm thankful that I really hadn't forgotten how to ride a bike! (Given that it took me three summers to learn when I was a kid, and then the summer I learned I promptly fell off and got a head injury, it's amazing I still like to bike.)
Thankful for the amazing weather the past couple of days (68 degrees and sunny! in the Great Lakes region!) that made outdoor activities possible. It is going to get colder again, but these little bits of surprise spring are nice.
Thankful that the neighbors with super barky dogs, who usually let them out to bark alll day on a nice day, did NOT do that yesterday, so I could have the windows open all day to get fresh air in the house. Really, that was a miracle.
How could I forget? Thankful for our new laundry unit and having the extra fridge in the house, which makes it so much easier to check on what we have before I make a grocery list. There were times I just dreaded going out in the cold garage to check on what we were storing out there!
I love your ski posts! As someone who has never set foot on skis but has always wanted to, I live vicariously through your trip posts!
This week I am thankful for:
*Unlimited PTO at my new job which allows me to keep a pre-scheduled trip to DC this week despite having started a new job on Monday.
*For said new job that is both fully remote and challenging (in a fun way). As I type this I am in my bathrobe at my work computer 😉
*For our trip to DC (we leave tonight!) and the free attractions that the city has to offer.
*That my kids are easy travelers. They are both 15 (one biological and one foreign exchange student from Madrid) so they can entertain themselves on the flight and in the condo. I will bring snacks bc they are ALWAYS hungry, but otherwise I can read my own book in peace on the flight.
*That the Chiefs won the Super Bowl. Not so much for the winning part (although that was nice), but for what it does for my town. More people seem to be discovering how cool KC is to live and visit and our city has leveraged this to grow in some really neat ways.
So fun fact about nursing school - typically you will have 1 day of lecture and 1 day of clinical so you do have some free days. Mostly those will be taken up with studying but if you can take a test in the Vegas airport you can study on a plane! I was able to still do short trips with my family during school. It’s not ideal - I had a 2 and 4 yr old when I went through nursing school but it’s doable. I hope you can still make your ski trips while in school!
Oh, that's encouraging to hear!
What could be more embarrassing than a ski trip with a parking lot injury?! Hmmm...How about a potted plant trip that you later claim (jokingly) was a ski accident? One broken ankle, one sprained ankle, surgery, weeks in a wheelchair followed by a pulmonary embolism and trip (Hah!) to the ER and ICU and Cardiac Care and weeks of physical therapy. But everything healed up! except the embarrassment of it all. So I am thankful for our amazingly fast and efficient and kind Fire Department and EMT service, good medical care (in most but not all instances), two sisters who took turns moving in with me for weeks at a time (one flying in from across the country) and an amazing physical therapist who knew when to make me push harder ("Is this as good as you want it to be?!!! IS IT?" "Sniffle. No." And I still have a metal plate and 6 screws in that ankle to remember it all by.
@JDinNM, these thoughts:
(1) Your story about the potted plant trip illustrates the reason I'm deaccessioning all of my heavy ceramic plant pots, and I'm sorry you had such a rough time. Glad you've finally healed up.
(2) Yes, a colorful cover story for a mundane injury is important. Before the scar on my cheek left over from a routine mole removal healed into near invisibility, I went around telling people it was a souvenir of my days on the fencing team at Miss Porter's School.
(3) And, yes, physical therapists are benevolent sadists, as I learned while recovering from my partial knee replacement 10 years ago. Heaven help us if they weren't.
Ohhh, man! That is not a fun and exciting story to tell. lol
@A. Marie, absolutely love the "fencing injury."
@A. Marie, Heh. I always tell my son to tell people that a scar on his chin was from the time he was challenged to a duel at Heidelberg.
@Kristen, all of that happened in the early part of the same year that both of my elderly parents were failing, and I was moving them in and out of nursing homes and assisted living and, in my spare time, selling their car, their house, and disposing of all the excess household furniture and equipment, while trying to keep my business afloat. As you well know, and continue to find out, it's amazing what we can do when we have to.
1. I am grateful for my job. News of many layoffs and people working for companies that don't appreciate and care for their employees is not lost on me and I feel very blessed to work where I do.
2. We are now officially closer to Spring than Winter here in Georgia and I am so ready. I know that rain is a blessing but we have had weeks of rain, my yard is a mud pit, the pups are dying to get outside and be able to play and I am desperate for the sight of something green growing. Come on Spring!
3. For the upcoming 3 day weekend. This is something that is very much needed right now & it will give me a chance to complete a deep clean in my home, attend church, and cook some lovely meals for family. This is my kinda refresh.
4. Time with my husband this weekend.
5. Clear skies at night for the last few days and all.the.stars. Just beautiful and so peaceful to gaze at.
I’m thankful for a new( to us) rosemary infused olive oil. We love dipping hot bread into herb infused olive oil when we have our main dish dinner salads. This particular oil also works well with our roasted vegetables.
I’m thankful for a break this week from social ballroom dancing. As much as we love to dance, we’ve been overdoing it lately and experiencing joint pain. It’s good to pay attention to bodily aches. We’re feeling much better and looking forward to some weekend dancing.
I’m so thankful for the peaceful environment our home provides. Along with that, I’m grateful for the calming effect my dear husband has on me… and how he makes me laugh!
You do a lot of thinking while skiing. My thoughts would probably run along the lines of "don't fall...don't fall" or "why am I doing this?!?!" LOL
Haha, well, I do try hard not to fall!
I forgot you were going to be in my neck of the woods this week!
1. I am so, so, so thankful that my sister and her husband bought a cabin at Sugar Bowl (North Lake Tahoe area) so that we can stay right by the slopes and not have to pay to stay, even though it's only a 1.5-hour drive for us. With little kids, it makes a huge difference in how often we get to ski. And it makes it SO much easier for us to teach our littles to ski, and on top of that my brother-in-law is an expert skier and is willing to spend some time teaching them every time we're there. And we can more easily pack food while we're there, and my kids are able to have the best memories. Since we're basically "locked in" to one resort, we can also buy a season pass and save so much money since day passes have gotten ridiculously expensive as well. And YES! The amount of snow we've had this year is AWESOME! And so many beautiful days when it's not snowing, too.
2. I'm really grateful my husband just got a raise. I'm the primary breadwinner, but we do rely on his paycheck and it's nice to have a little extra when he's able to work full time, and not take as much of a cut when he can't work a full week because of the kids.
3. I'm grateful that I had enough time during my work trip to LA yesterday to tour the Disney Concert Hall. It's a very beautiful and interesting building!
4. I'm grateful that we can afford a meal kit at this time in our family's existence. My kids are young and full of energy and I work full time and I haven't had the energy to do meal planning and shopping like I would prefer. The meal kit is allowing us to have home-cooked meals without worrying about whether we have ingredients on hand, it's delivered to my house so I don't have to find time to go to the store, and it's easier to get my kids involved when everything is pre-measured (although I really, really, really don't appreciate the ridiculous amount of packaging involved).
5. I'm grateful that when I'm not traveling for work, I can work from home. My dog and cats are really grateful for that as well!
Oooh, so wonderful to have lodging right there. SWEET.
There is usually a fold up tray table in the arm rest for the front row.
Man, I didn't see one on this plane! I guess I should have looked more carefully.
Loved the pics!
I am thankful for a trip to a local waterpark with some friends of ours. We had a really fun time, and the kids are the perfect age for playing in the water and doing all the slides.
I am thankful for a second snow day this year. My older son is at school five days a week, so getting an extra day to just be with him and play in the snow is such a lucky break!
I am thankful for my husband fixing my stand mixer. He ordered the part, took the thing apart, replaced the piece, and put it back together. I am so grateful for him doing that kind of stuff because I am not handy at all.
I am thankful that my son is old enough to read Harry Potter. I absolutely loved the books as a kid and now I get to read them to him and it is such an amazing experience.
I am thankful my sourdough starter is beginning to double. We’ll see if my bread improves any with a more mature starter. So far my two loaves were quite flat (although very tasty when toasted with olive oil and garlic salt and dipped in shakshouka).
I am thankful that I finished a stressful project!
I am thankful for my morning coffee and oatmeal. (I really look forward to that daily oatmeal.)
I am thankful that the days are warming up after a very cold (for Socal) week.
I am thankful for the sycamore tree outside my window and for all the birds who visit the tree.
I am thankful that I was able to attend the community hike and find a great new trail.
Thankful today for a sad thing: our sweet middle dog died in her sleep at home this morning of congestive heart failure. Our youngest dog was bonded to her like glue and got to see and sniff her best friend and realize that she was gone. We had been worried about the effect on the youngest dog, who is emotionally fragile, if they were apart when she died. So this sad event contained a blessing.
@Ruby, we also feel that it’s important for the other dog to be fully aware of their buddy passing. Ours passed at different vets. One who totally understood that the remaining pup would need to see their friend after passing and one who was resistant, but allowed it.
I so understand what you’re saying . Very empathetic of you to know this. I’m very sorry for the loss of your pet.
@Ruby, so sorry to hear of your loss but glad that she died at home so your youngest dog could know that she is gone.
@Ruby, sorry about the loss of your dear dog.
@Ruby, it's so like you to be able to see the blessing in a heartache. My sympathies to you, your family, and your youngest dog.
@A. Marie, we knew this was coming as she was about 18 months into a maybe 24 month prognosis and not doing well. Really the only things we wanted for her was that she not suffer a lot and got to be with her besties, and that happened. She had a few really good days before this sudden, quick decline, and those made some precious memories.
Aww, I'm so sorry to hear of your dog's passing!
@Ruby,
So glad for the blessing of a peaceful death for her, and the good days she had recently. You are such, such, such a wonderful dog mother!
@Ruby,
So sorry about the loss of a beloved pup. What a smart, caring dog mom you are to find this important blessing in the middle of your heartache. Good wishes for your family's healing.
This week I am thankful for:
The folks who support me in my work. Academia for all its wonder can be kind of a cut throat place, at least early in one's career. I am buoyed by the people who attend my talks, the students who ask excellent questions, and the senior scholars who engage my research.
My children's health. One kid had a normal kid virus this week. He is already on the mend. Every night I go to bed thanking God for my kids' health. No matter what has happened that day I sleep soundly because my kids are healthy.
The people I meet. Sometimes I think about how each year I add new folks to my community; new friends I meet through old friends, new colleagues to work with, new folks who join our church or move into the neighborhood. Every year I lose someone I love too. But overall the number of folks who I have known and love increases. They shape me, and I shape them.
With Southwest Airlines record over the past few months, that's another thing to be thankful for--getting there and having time to ski.
In our area of the northeast, we have not had any amount of snow accumulation this year. We have had a lot of rain. This is a warm winter.
I'm thankful for another birthday, which was yesterday. I went out to lunch with my daughters. I asked them out, told them it was my treat--but they paid for it. We have not gone out or away, just the 3 of us, in a very long time.
I'm thankful I finally got past 3 rows of knitting that I took out 2 times and knitted 3 times. I have no idea what I kept doing wrong.
We had another person join our walking group last Monday. And it turned out it was someone I have known for 30+ years--her daughter went to school with my daughter. She plans to come again.
Glad you've enjoyed California!! Tahoe is so pretty, ever been to the coast here? I recommend Santa Cruz. The Boardwalk is a great memory making place. Been going there almost every summer for years, now my hubby and I take the little kiddos too. 🙂
~Gina from California
I have been to the coast, but mostly in southern-mid California. I think maybe Big Sur is the furthest north that I've been to the actual coast.
@Kristen, Big Sur is So nice too!!
this week I’m thankful:
1. That no one on the ground was injured in the Black Hawk crash in our area. Such a horrible tragedy for the families of the crew. Watching the ring doorbell video of it falling from the sky and impacting in the median of the highway was so surreal.
2. That DH loved his Valentine's Day gift. We typically don't celebrate "Hallmark" holidays, but I found a Lego Valentine Lovebirds set and had to get it for my Lego loving man.
3. That I am taking off tomorrow to enjoy a 4-day weekend.
4. That AFS is coming today to fix our cracking and extremely uneven driveway.
5. That the severe storms will not arrive here until after I get home today.
Wow! What a beautiful landscape!! I'm so glad you got to go and be with your family.
This week I'm thankful:
* that my daughter was healthy in time to have her birthday party on Saturday. It turned out to be nice having her home from school on Friday because she was better (completing her 24 hours of being better) and was able to help with party preparations. She and I both enjoyed the time.
* for my first Thursday in a while to have everyone healthy! I brought my son home from school early yesterday with a headache and stomachache and thought that the trend would continue (one child sick 2 Thursdays ago, another sick last Thursday, just one to go...) but after a nap yesterday he was back to normal and never developed a fever. Hooray!!
* for hot coffee for my midday enjoyment.
* for the chance to enjoy little-kid shows with my youngest. The 'show of the day' is often different when her older siblings are home. But I enjoy the time where it's just the two of us and she picks Daniel Tiger or Curious George or VeggieTales.
* for books and a little bit of time to read them here and there.
* for the way other people encourage me. We had a sad library trip this week where we learned that one of our favorite librarians (he always had a joke ready for my kids when we came in and we would try to have one ready to share with him) got a job at a different library. But there were 4 other librarians there that day that we also know well and love and brought smiles to our faces. I was thankful for their kindness and the way they brighten our day.
Happy to hear California weather was kind to you and that you had a good trip!
1. For my husband and kids. I got sick - in a way that hasn't happened maybe ever- and was basically in bed for an entire day and then slow on day 2. They cleaned up after themselves, made their breakfasts, packed their own lunches...being in bed for a day wouldn't have been an option when I was a SAHM with two tinies.
2. For the sunshine this morning - it's cold (for here anyway) but sunny and clear. Makes the day feel hopeful.
3. To have finally lost 2 pounds. I mean...being sick isn't the best weight loss strategy and it might be temporary due to hydration but I've been bustin' my bottom trying to lose a few for a while now and the scale hasn't budged. I'll take it.
4. For books that are sad but also uplifting. When I find myself crying without meaning to, it's a good reminder that I'm still a human being with feelings.
5. For my body. Really - she keeps showing up for me despite all the rough things I put her through. She might not look like she once did but she's awesome and I really am thankful.
Kristen, I too, just returned home from 6 day ski trip to Park City, Ut. Having once lived here (1980’s/I am 67) I have a local friend who opens his guest room to me….and I buy groceries and cook dinner. I also use my air miles and flew free on Southwest. Used a transportation service to and from Park City (cheaper than renting a car)
Used the free ski town bus service to get to ski area and back to house
And best of all: bought a 5 day EPIC pass back in April/22 that resulted in only paying $80 per day of skiing (at resort it costs$232/day!!!)
Love your post and hope you DO get to ski next season at an EPIC resort and pre buy your passes!
I regretted not buy an Epic Pass! But I didn't know until sort of last minute if I'd be able to go, so oh well. Maybe next year, although nursing school may derail that. We shall see.
@Kristen, my husband buys the EPIC pass and then uses it as a justification for planning more ski trips, including Park City!
I am so thankful you were able to go. That your weather was perfect for skiing and you were with your family. Nothing better than that.
We are having "iffy " weather in our area and I awoke to an ice glaze on surfaces that is slowly melting. I am very thankful that I have days off from my work that coincide with this and can just look at it. I am thankful that there are men in my fellowship that do look out for me when I do have to be out and about. I call them "Scooperman!"
When I awoke, looked at my dog snuggled next to me she was looking back. Was glad for the "little heater" next to me and her affection.
I am grateful that the larders are full and that I may be able to have a baking spree. I did not have the time or desire to do that before Christmas.
I am thankful that I have felt like keeping up with neatness and tidiness. It does make a difference on our frame of mind. I have had a couple of years just keeping "afloat" due to depression related to loss and working amidst COVID.
I’m grateful for -
a family holiday. My DH’s brother and wife generously lend us their lakeside bach ( holiday home) at Lake Tarawera and our family have enjoyed holidays here for over 20 years. I was hesitant about making the journey as cyclone Gabrielle was forecast but we were travelling away from its path and our leave was booked so we came. We are in the midst of a national emergency and it is strange to be on holiday at this time - I am aware of my privilege and donated to relief causes.
sunny days - our summer has been a series of extreme weather events . Just regular sunshine is a blessing.
a beautiful landscape, we overlook the lake and Mt Tarawera.
a healthy body which’s allows me to swim/ kayak/walk.
my kids’ company - two of the children came with us and every night we have played board games and cards, eating snacks and laughing. Although the family deficit of artistic ability means we are never playing Pictionary again!
my love of reading. Books take me to people /places and eras I could never go to . This week I read - Paris Echos by Sebastian Faulks, Wild by Cheryl Strayed, The Magician by Colm Toibin, Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson and Trust by Herman Diaz . I enjoyed all these reads.
A new fridge, a new fridge, a new fridge as a cash purchase! LoL
I think it would definitely be a blessing to have a break from being the responsible one. I hope to have that experience one day.
I’m so happy to hear that you had a safe and wonderful trip.
I'm so glad to see you enjoyng this break with your family! So many wonderful memories.
This weeks list:
1. That my dog's health issue was very curable with a round of antibiotics.
2. That my husband is kind, generous and thoughful all year round AND on Valentine's Day.
3. For my husband's good health report from the doc today
4. For the time I still get to spend with my teenage daughter
5. That I get to spend time with my mother regularly
I am happy I know how to tap dance.
@Tiana, That's lovely. It made me think of Snoopy doing his little happy dance where you can just see how the dance made him happy and his joy made him dance.
I'm thankful...
... For a weekend away in the mountains with two friends. None of us had ever done a weekend away with friends before.
... For an opportunity to coordinate some clothing, toys, and funds for a child just entering foster care.
... For the grace of a neighbor this morning when my boys got into a yelling/crying scenario with each other while shoveling her walk. She separated them most graciously while I got myself over there to clean up the emotional child mess.
... For God's grace after I spent yesterday afternoon yelling at my kids when they had bad attitudes. His mercies are new every morning.
... For new friends helping out with our Spring Break Code-a-thon for Missions planning. This is our twelfth year of holding events and every year has new joys and challenges.
What lovely pictures of a beautiful landscape. Good for you to have a carefree and relaxing trip, Kristen!
This week I am thankful for
-the energy to do necessary decluttering and cleaning in our home
-being able to walk with no pain for an hour (at its worst this was five minutes)
-financial room to cater for all our needs and no small amount of wants
-financial room to support a grown kid who at present is unable to support himself due to health reasons
-more daylight, so more solar powered electricity and less from the net
-having no allergies and liking most (homecooked) foods
-great books to read and great music to listen to
-adjusting to my post-menopausal body and feeling joy because of what it can do, versus what I'd like it to look like. Not watching tv a lot and not having social media is definitely helping.
My To Do list was long, it is shorter now and I am thankful for that.
That it was a quiet week at work.
Work provided lunch several days this week, both thankful and frugal.
That I made it home before the roads froze, we had rain & freezing rain that turned the roads into ice skating rinks.
The above normal temps earlier this week. This has been one of the few winters where I could walk the dogs every day.
We were staying in Tahoe the weekend before you and I was so grateful to be there for a big snow storm. It was awesome and I spent hours in front of the window just watching the snow fall.
There was snow and ice everywhere, but the diciest spot by far was the Heavenly parking lot once the sun went behind the mountain. I’m glad you were okay!
There should be a tray table in the front seats… typically they are located in the arm rests. Sorry no one told you this as I can see how hard it would be to juggle drinks and not have a place for them.
For a week away with my husband...mostly paid for by his employer because my husband was away for work.
For safe travels, we drove through some major cities & missed all the bad weather. It came before or after our travel days but not on the travel days.
That I was able to visit my aunt while my husband worked.
That we were able to spend the weekend with my husband's cousins before coming home.