Thankful Thursday | impossibly beautiful
This week, I am thankful:
for some lovely sunrises and sunsets
It's been low-humidity weather here this week, so I've been making a point to watch some sunrises and sunsets at local parks.
The days are getting a bit shorter now, which means it's more feasible to catch a sunrise these days.
Isn't this just impossibly beautiful??
Also, I have to add that these lower-humidity days feel like such a gift in August. A couple of my walks this week started in dry 66-degree weather, and that made for a happy me!
that today feels better to me
Today is August 15th.
I got married on August 15th, 1997.
When this date rolled around in 2022, the year I'd left my marriage, I drove to a trail to walk and instead I found myself sobbing in my car for an hour first.
(I remember this because I mentioned it in an Instagram reel that day.)
I knew I'd made the right decision, but still, I was filled with sadness over all the hurt I'd endured. My marriage was not remotely what I had expected when I walked down the aisle and the date had just brutally reminded me of that fact.
In 2023, my dominant emotion on this date was anger, partly at the role cultural forces play in my marriage*, and partly because I was still not divorced! And I didn't have a lot of hope that a completion date was even on the horizon.
*Sexist, misogynist systems that keep women in harmful marriages will probably always make me angry.
This year, 2024, I feel more at peace. My divorce is done! I am freeeeeee!
I still cry sad, hurt tears sometimes because there is still more to process and grieve. But there's less than before.
I still am angry sometimes as I work through the hurts. But there are fewer left to process now, and the anger moves out more quickly these days.
In 2022, the hurt felt sharp. Today, it feels more muted, like it has faded in the sunlight.
And probably every year, it'll fade more.
that I can renew car registrations online
Zoe's car registration and mine both come due at the end of this month, and while I don't love paying for this, I do love that I can do it online! We used to mail these in, and I like the ease of doing it online.
It took me maybe ten minutes to get both Zoe's and mine renewed. Easy peasy! And now I just gotta wait for the new papers to come in the mail.
(Happily, I renewed ours promptly, so there are no worries about the registrations expiring before the stickers and papers get here.)
that I have a Toyota and a Honda
I know nothing is ever guaranteed with cars, but my Sienna and Zoe's Civic buy me as much car peace of mind as you can hope for!
for all the learning I have done at my job
When I think back to where I was when I started in June, I am amazed at all I have learned.
I have become so much more competent at bladder scans, EKGs, blood sugar tests, vital signs, catheter-related tasks, documentation, and even blood draws, among other things.
I was so nervous to do my first blood draw (and I still do need a lot more practice), but mostly I have been having success on my first try with patients.
I don't know exactly how much all of this is going to carry over into this semester, but at a bare minimum, I'm going to feel more at home when I walk into clinicals this semester.
that I'm still not grossed out at work
Let me tell you, I have seen some things (!!!!!) and still, I've been fine.
(However, I could probably gross a lot of you out with my stories, if that didn't violate HIPAA rules!)
Some people's first PCT job helps them decide nursing is not the right field, but my experience has been the opposite.
for how happy Lisey's cat makes her
And for how happy it makes me to see pictures of her cute self. 😉
that I've been making good progress on my before-school to-do list
I'm faithfully practicing my head-to-toe assessment, getting tasks done around the house, eating my freezer down, and more. Yay me!
The deadline of the first day of school is a very helpful motivator.
for all the trees in my neighborhood
I took a little stroll after dinner the other evening and this one street always reminds me of the type of road that leads to a state park...it's just so green all over!
for tomatoes + cottage cheese
I am forever indebted to the reader who suggest this combo. Tomatoes, cottage cheese, lots of freshly ground black pepper, and fresh basil = a 10/10 combo.
It's a little like a riff on a Caprese salad, except with a lot of protein.
for the joy of freshly ground black pepper
I know it's simple and basic, but freshly ground black pepper is so so good.
The stores near me only seem to sell peppercorns in disposable grinders, so I order this big container.
It's mainly just me using the pepper, and still, I go through that big container in a timely manner. 😉
I have this slightly bougie pepper mill, which I bought in 2012. Even though it's expensive, I would guess it's paid for itself when compared to buying peppercorns in disposable pepper mills.
If you want a cheaper option, Sonia has this one and she says it works well!
We have the same pepper grinder as Sonia and have bought the exact same bulk peppercorns as you! 🙂 We like the corresponding salt grinder with coarse salt too.
-Thankful that things are coming together for the pending school year. Five different schools between me and our three teens, lol. Lots to do, but so far so good.
-Thankful for a healthy body and mind to live life - walks, working out / sports, chores, work, etc.
-Thankful for ice cream. It gets its own line item this week.
-Thankful for modern conveniences. We went to a history museum recently, and I am feeling grateful for how far we've come as a society in this area. Yay for plumbing, electricity, digital communication, reliable transportation, and AC!
-For seasonal produce like fresh peaches, watermelon, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and corn.
So glad to hear that 2024 is going well, Kristen! You really are rocking nursing school!!
@PD, She really is, isn’t she? I’d be very happy to have her as my nurse.
@WilliamB, no kidding! Kind, practical, skilled, patient, personable. . . a perfect nurse.
@WilliamB,
Same!! I wish Kristen lived in my area, and could work at the same hospital where I work. We have many dedicated, talented, wonderful nurses, but we need more like Kristen!
@Liz B.,
I just re-read what I wrote.....to clarify, Kristen is all of those things I mentioned (dedicated, talented, wonderful), and so much more - caring, compassionate, all the things Central Calif. Artist Jana mentioned, too. I would be thrilled if she worked in the same hospital where I work.
The sunrise is stunning, love your picture as always. We have had some gorgeous evening skies in the past months, some breathtakingly red with Sahara sand and some amazingly lit up from below due to [I forgot the physical law behind it, but I was impressed with the result all the same]. I missed this week's meteorites and aurora borealis though, I was too tired to stay up, and then ended up sleeping fitfully anyway.
I imagine 15/8 will be a calmer day for you as you are in control of your life again. Hurt and anger burn all the more if you cannot fully control the outcome of your actions. Did you plan a getaway again, or is your home your getaway this year?
This week's thankfuls:
Lower humidity and temperatures towards the end of the week
A good night's sleep as a result
Quite some rain yesterday - garden revived, also helpful in cleaning our wooden outdoor furniture: rain opens the fibres to the soft soap, so far less scrubbbing
Our remaining cat is doing well without her comrade, she seems quite herself fortunately
Son will be cooking a few nights, such a treat and I have more time for chores after work. (Not yet done with my summer list)
Looking forward to a weekend with no obligations
It is my lunch break now and I have tomatoes and cottage cheese. Will take a leaf from your book and prepare a salad!
Kristen, although this is still a bittersweet day for you, I'm glad it's less painful. And you've accomplished so much in these past few years to be proud of, as I'm sure the Commentariat will agree.
Some big thankfuls this week for me:
(1) DH's ashes arrived safely from the medical school on Tuesday afternoon. On the one hand, it felt really odd to be signing a registered mail receipt for what's left of him. On the other hand, I'm greatly relieved that they're here.
(2) And the arrival of the ashes was preceded by two events that made me look up to the skies: (a) I saw the biggest shooting star I've EVER seen at 1:40 am Tuesday (as part of the Perseid meteor shower); and (b) I saw and heard a Merlin (the small falcon, not the Cornell Lab bird ID app--and a "life list" bird for me!) in midmorning. I refuse to believe that these were coincidences.
(3) Finally, JASNA BFF is here for a long weekend, to include our Triple Birthday Celebration tomorrow with our JASNA Panera friend. BFF and I have known each other for 15 years now, ever since we were assigned as roommates on the JASNA tour of England in 2009, and we've gone through a lot of life's ups and downs in parallel since then. I feel deeply fortunate to have made such a close friend relatively late in life.
@A. Marie, How cool about the star and bird! I agree, not coincidences. Happy, Happy Happy Birthday (one for each of you!) Enjoy your celebration.
@A. Marie, not coincidences at all. Two of my birding friends who died both had an abiding love of crows, and whenever I am missing them most, a pair of crows will show up. It never fails to amaze me and ease my heart.
@A. Marie,
DH's great-niece told me, upon hearing of his death, to be sure and watch for the signs. She lost her grandmother, who was DH's sister, and her mother, who was DH's niece, within 18 months of each other. She said she still sees little signs now and then. It sounds like you are off to a good start! I'm so pleased for you!
I love all corvids. My sister has a raven stalking her backyard most days.
I've seen a Merlin falcon once. It was stalking my backyard feeder.
@A. Marie, Your #2 is powerful and, yes, of course, he is watching over you.
@Erika JS, Our mom loved her wind chimes. When my sisters and I would be chatting on our parents' patio, the chimes would start up at certain talking points. We were shocked every time.
@A. Marie,
The universe and life are mysteries, but love lasts forever. May DH rest in peace and remain always in your heart.
@A. Marie,
I concur on the meteor and bird! How cool!
Enjoy your birthday celebrations, how fortunate to share with friends!
As one season comes to a close with the delivery of d.h., make room for
reflection and beauty.
@A. Marie,
So cool about both the Merlin and the shooting star! I am a firm believer that there are no coincidences, and that these were signs from your DH.
One of my BFFs, who is a birder and photographer like I am, is lovingly reminded of her deceased adopted daughter (who passed away of cancer at age 16 many years ago) whenever she sees a mourning dove. She admired one of my photos of a mourning dove several years ago, so I had a photo gift made for her.
Another birder/photographer friend had a dear friend pass away several years ago, and told me there were two bald eagles soaring overhead during the friend's memorial service. Not a coincidence.
@A. Marie, You remark number 2 is so uplifting and beautiful.
@A. Marie, #2 is very heartwarming.
I thought I was the reader who got you started on the cottage cheese, tomatoes, and lots of black pepper combo until you said "basil." LOL. Now I have something good to try out too!
I have the same pepper grinder as Sonia and we love it. Highly recommend.
Lisey's kitty kat is darling. Love the pic!
@Kim S., I thought I was? *sniffle*
@Rose, :)!
I am grateful for this turn in the weather. It was a very tough summer weatherwise, with many changes having to be made because of it.
I am grateful for every woman, ever, who has had the courage to leave a marriage. Society, families and friends often, consciously or not, put a lot of pressure on women to "stay in the marriage for X reason" When you determine that a situation is not healthy for you on any level, you need to allow yourself to move on. Life is too short to stay in circumstances that tear you apart.
I am grateful to hear that Kristin is processing her divorce, and realizing how it changes over time.
One of the hardest lessons in life is that things, and relationships, do not always last. For many reasons, helpful and not so much. I have lost friends of many decades along the way, people it was hard to imagine NOT being in my life, especially given many many happy years. BUT...times change, circumstances change and people change.
We thank the universe for whatever good we had; try not to dwell in the past.
People say that if you aren't married that you can't imagine how it must be to be divorced. Well, we can albeit through long-term friendships that were often deeper, more meaningful and longer lasting than several marriages we know of.
Loss is loss. Change is painful.
Ironically, I have been inspired by the stories of women who left unhappy marriages (or who were left from what they thought were happy marriages). If people can start out with so much love and end up in such very different circumstances, and a woman can leave and survive...well, we can also better understand how deep friendships begin and end and accept and move on and through.
Kristen, your sharing has been truly inspiring and I am so happy for you as you move through in your new life. Who knows what lies ahead? But you have committed to a new life and I do believe that no matter what happens in the future on the dating front, career, etc., you are so much better off. And I applaud the example you have set for your girls. Life doesn't always work out as we planned or hoped, but it's what we do afterwards that matters. And you have set a great example.
FYI: Had to laugh when you shared about the grossness of some situations. Yep. That's life but I think anyone who has taken care of children or those who are ill, well, they know it's a part of life.
I remember being examined by my then gastroenterologist (terrific doc with a fabulous sense of humor). I was embarrassed and she was like: Oh, I've got kids and dogs and I've seen it all. It's good to find out early on if someone is not able to deal with these things because as a nurse, they WILL be a part of your life unless one becomes an office nurse or someone who works for an insurance company but is not hands on with patients. It's not for everyone and there is no shame in that. There are many ways to be a good nurse. (I can think of many things that nurses could do to improve the quality of healthcare that does not include the messier aspects of patient care.)
LOVE the pix you share. You are a good photographer.
@Irena, I really appreciate your comments especially about losing friends.
I am married but before that I had a best friend who I loved dearly and we had a falling out. I mourned her for years. Today I am wondering where and how she is.
@Irena, Thank you for your insights. I recently had a falling out with a friend I've known since we met in high school...34 years. It was so painful, but I've come to realize that we have both changed much in the course of our lives, that we were no longer good at supporting each other. The friendship had come to an end. It was better to just acknowledge it rather than let it limp along, pretending things were as they always had been.
@Irena,
I, too, appreciate your comments about friendships. As a kid and a teenager, I rather innocently assumed all friendships would last forever, and wow, what a soul crushing experience it was when I found that wasn't true. Someone told me, and this was a big game changer for me, is the saying "Friends come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime". I'm fortunate and appreciative of the lifers I have in my life.
@Irena, I always loved the imagery of life being a train and you never know where the people who are traveling with you at the start will get off or who else will get on. For that matter, you don't know when you will get off, so make the most of it and if someone leaves appreciate what they gave you while they were around. (And when someone offends me, I imagine myself shoving them off the train, while it is still moving.)
Lindsey, you always make me laugh!
@Lindsey,
Hahaha! Like, "Get the f off my train!"
@Lindsey, Kinda reminds me of "Doctor Terror's House of Horror," a 60s British horror movie that scared me a lot as a kid. Strangers meet on a train and one by one tell their terrifying stories. At the end (spoiler alert), the people get off the train to a deserted station. A newspaper blows past indicating they all died in a train accident. One of the other passengers is revealed to be Death himself, who walks away into the darkness with the others following.
Well, that's cheery! But it's a fun creepy movie.
@Rose,
Now I've gotta see that movie!
-i am thankful for nice work colleagues who bring in cake
-thankful for Hello Fresh subscription which is making our dinners more exciting
-thankful that my kid was accepted to a better high school than the one originally slotted for
1. I am thankful for reading glasses and modern eye care. I need readers for small print and they are cheap and easy to buy. I know when my cataracts are large enough to warrant surgery modern eye care will make it "the surgery you want to have".
I am thankful for the wonderful weather this week. Temps in the 80s instead of the 90s has been such a welcome relief.
I am thankful for a healthy body. At age almost 66 I have never had a major health issue.
I am thankful for times with friends this week.
I am thankful my grandkitties have really warmed up to me over the years. One fell asleep in my lap the other day and the other shows me love as best he can. I am thankful that DD lives near us.
@K D, yes you are correct cataract surgery is the one you want. Very little recovery and a whole lot of reward. No glasses for me. And when I had my driver's license renewal they took off the restrictions after my eye test.
@K D, I wear mono vision contacts to don't need readers - Until now. My cataracts are not bad enough (and I am not old enough at 64) to warrant surgery so I have had to start wearing readers. What a pain. But when the time comes, I will get mono vision lenses like my sister. No readers for her. Yay.
Kristen, I'm so happy for you. To have suffered and struggled and come out the other side is no small thing.
This week I am very very thankful that I passed the TEAS test on my first try! I'm also very thankful for the kind proctor who was patient with me when the system didn't recognize my password and I had to walk all the way back to the parking garage to get my cell phone (in my zeal to do Everything Right I had just left it in the car) so I could access my email and recover my ATI account...
By then I was so frazzled I was sure I was going to do badly. But I had studied like a beast, and practiced math until it came out of my ears. I ended up getting a much better score than I expected (94.1% on the math!!), so I have more confidence in my ability to do well in the nursing program.
I'm thankful for a very supportive DH, who patiently talked me through Punnett squares and unit conversions. And for years of homeschooling my kids which, I suspect, sharpened my math skills a bit.
Like Kristen I'm thankful for the beautiful sunsets and sunrises we've been having; our house faces west and our evening walks bring us back around to the west so we get to see the gorgeous colors. This has been, heat-wise, the nicest August I can remember.
For DS#1's healing. After getting unceremoniously laid off from his contracting work while he was ill, he's decided to go back to school as well, to get a master's in cybersecurity, and is working on scholarship applications. I'm glad he's forging ahead and making plans; it's a good sign.
@Karen A.,
Congratulations on your fabulous test results! Woot! Woot! Woot!
@Karen A., Congratulations! And it sounds like you had/have quite a wonderful team rooting for you.
I am so happy you feel better about this date!
I would be way too grossed out to ever be a nurse haha!
My thankful list:
1. I am thankful that my stamina has built up. When I started going running I could hardly run for a minute, and a few days ago I ran for twenty minutes without stopping!
2. I am thankful for a fun evening last night. I had dinner with a friend and went to see Twisters (which reminded me of how much I never, ever want to travel to a tornado-risk area!)
3. I am thankful that I can work from home.
4. I am thankful to live near a beach.
5. I am thankful that I am able to help tourists on the subway when they get confused about the system!
Whenever possible, I go running as soon as it gets light, so I often see the sunrise. Here on the limitless high plains, it really is an awe-inspiring sight. Not that it makes my runs fun, but it's a bright spot. No pun intended. 🙂
--That x-rays showed nothing really wrong with my son's always painful knees. As suspected, the problem is really that he grew too fast in a year when he didn't walk (or even get out of bed . . .) a lot because of his foot surgeries. So if he strengthens the muscles around his knees, that should help. He was really afraid he would have to have knee surgery, and I took him for the x-rays mostly to allay that fear.
--That we have Medicaid insurance that pays for all his medical care. We're still not big doctor people, but I am so grateful that when I really feel its needed, I can take my kids without fearing the financial repercussions.
--That we have access to the school weight room for him to use to do the strengthening exercises. He has P.E. last period, and my husband can go in and work with him in the weight room.
--For our very small school that will allow things like my husband going in (he's already a bus driver, so no worries about background checks or whatever) to do this for our son.
--For the flexible schedules that allow my husband to do that, and for me to drive 200 miles for medical appointments when necessary.
--That today is the last day of our first week of school. And especially that we still have a four-day week. The first week is always exhausting. Hauling my kids out of bed on a Friday as well might actually have been impossible.
I could never handle medical anything. First sight of blood and I am outta there...
Thankful for-
My co-workers training netted a lot of us free lunches this week.
For my puzzle club peeps. They are so funny!
Always thnkful for my vet. He refills my puppers meds without office calls.
For our picture perfect Michigan weather week. Not humid but hot.
For being able to walk several miles on Sunday with hardly any pain. My dog was super tired afterwards but he is a great walking partner. Our community has a long walking trail that received a grant to extend it down the street from where I live. I can't wait for it to be put in. 🙂
Thankful to read that you are on the mend. I know you know that it will take time, but as you said, you are beginning to feel better on this date. I saw it with my sister in how she processed it, and I see it with you -- you will be doing great things with your future. And I am glad that you are working between semesters to find out if that's what you really want to do. Experience is the best thing for a profession.
I am thankful that we did have a great vacation last week even though we were stuck in a house for 3 days straight because of tropical storm Debby. It did not make for the greatest vacation, but we were together.
Also thankful for the cooler nights and that we can sleep with the windows open and feel the coolness of the night. Our favorite way to sleep. In fact, my husband had to wear a jacket in the AM 2 days because it was so cool when he went for his walk.
Thankful that Springsteen day has finally arrived in Pittsburgh. He cancelled last year's show because of his health, and 11 months later it is finally here. I am so pumped for tonight!!!
And thankful that a girlfriend invited me scrapbooking this weekend. And that my boss agreed to my altered schedule for the week, so I only have to work half day tomorrow and can head to the weekend. I know I will have fun because I will know 4 of the 10 ladies there and we always have fun together. I also get to meet some new folks and I get to do more work on my scrapbook from a trip 5 years ago. I have already planned my next book, so I want to finish this one by the end of the year (I have a lot of pictures to scrap!)
Your openness and bravery in speaking about your marriage is sure to help other women. Your message is so timely as current political forces threaten women in general. I, for one, don't want to return to the lives my mother and grandmother were forced to live. I appreciate the freedoms women have today and don't want to see them lost. I hope younger women in particular do not take for granted the opportunities, rights and privileges that they have because only a generation or two separates them from a time when women's lives were far more restricted.
@Bobi, Amen to this!
It's good to see how much happier you are these days!
I am so glad that you are getting in experience as a PCT. I think it's crucial to experience what it means to work in a medical field first-hand prior to getting a degree.
Anyway .... we were on vacation last week, and our son was able to join us for part of it, and the time together having fun as a family is huge on my thankfulness list. The weather was mostly gorgeous, we saw areas of Michigan where we haven't been before (and they were stunning! Pictured Rocks, for anyone wondering), we didn't get *too* wet when our tent leaked AND the campground we were at had washers and dryers, so I was able to dry us out (mostly). I'm not thankful that my husband and I are currently sick, but I AM thankful that at least it didn't happen while we were traveling.
@Kris, if you go that way again you should stay at the Federal Park (Rustic & cheap) Campgrounds (across from tiny casino in Christmas--huge Santa out front of shop next to casino down road few minutes from layndry mat just past Picture Rocks). We camped there many many times over the years when passing through there (& only visited Picture Rocks few times). Got great pictures when we walked to top of Picture Rocks overlook (had just put in new safer area).
I also recommend Glass bottom shipwreck tour boats (down a few boat slips from Picture Rock boats), which is still great when foggy or raining. Much cheaper & goes right by Picture Rocks also.
Oh, Kristen, you were such a lovely bride! May the painful memories fade in time. You're starting a whole new life for yourself, and you're doing great! Three cheers for strong women!
My thankfuls:
1. For the nice people in my life. Two of my former coworkers were in the news, and they were such nice, polite and low-key people. They were very kind and never made any sarcastic remarks and never said anything to put another person down. They were, and are, a very sweet couple and I am lucky to have worked with them.
2. Yesterday was the first day of school. Today I am substitute teaching. I have every Thursday and Friday booked throughout the month, and also this coming Monday. That makes 9 subbie jobs for August and September, a fairly good start. Hope to have more in the coming days.
3. For the giant oaks in my front yard. Cool shade is always a plus!
4. The new Keurig machine --it makes coffee in record time.
5. My elderly dog. She has a tumor on her jaw but does not seem to be in any pain. She flops down and sleeps in my room, or by my computer, just to keep me company. When she can't go outdoors due to the triple-digit heat, she exercises by walking in the den and kitchen; the two doors between them make it easy for her to walk laps. I think she's about 15 or 16 y.o. now. She's the best item I ever got free, from Craigslist.
I forgot to mention that I'm happy that today isn't so fraught for you. I always treat myself hugely on that day.
While unpacking a very old box of papers and stuff from the storage unit, I found a framed picture from my wedding. My daughter glanced at it and said, "Mom, you were so pretty!" My son said, "The key word there being 'was.'" Under that was a framed photo of my son as a toddler, so I said, "You were so cute. Past tense, of course." My kids make me laugh every single day.
@Fru-gal Lisa, #5 - I guess it's true. The best things in life ARE free!
Thankful:
For finding such good helpers this year. I've made real progress with my house and yard. Note: don't get two puppies if you like to keep your house neat. Sigh!
That the two puppies make me laugh and are super affectionate in different ways. Yesterday they had a fight to the death over possession of a postage stamp sized piece of plain cardboard.
That my latest project, a sample PR website/blog/weekly newsletter, is just about finished. The coding was driving me nuts over the weekend but I finally figured it out.
I'm dreaming less about BFF, which always make me feel very sad and anxious when I wake up. I always have vivid dreams.
Last evening I took a picture off our front deck of the ocean and explained to people that the deck was shbby chic since I haven't felt like painting it in the past couple of years. Oy I hate painting decks. FB friends found it amusing.
This morning, org lady and I were opening boxes and going through them. I looked up and saw her open to open a decent sized cardboard box. I said, "Don't open that! That's all that's left of my best friend!" That would make BFF laugh hard.
I also found a composition by my daughter, aged seven. "I went on a trip to New Orleans to see my aunt. They have a huge lake there and I liked the aquarium..." Wish I had unearthed that before BFF died. sigh.
I'm glad to hear you are managing today like a champ.
I'm jealous to hear you have drier weather and some mornings in the 60's. I am waking up to 77-78 F and steamed up windows each and every blasted morning. Too much rain with Debby, and not a single drop since Debby, so no afternoon showers to break the heat, at least temporarily. Heat advisory after heat advisory has been issued.
But this is thankful Thursday, so let me list some:
1. I'm thankful that my air conditioning units are working well, with no issues. Really, really, super thankful.
2. I'm thankful for a good first week of school for the grandkids, including the new kindergarten girl and the new VPK (pre-kindergarten) boy.
3. I'm thankful that my sister is coming for another visit.
4. I'm thankful we had a "lunch and learn" yesterday at work and I was invited to join in, so free lunch for me, too!
5. I'm thankful for the expressions on my little grandson's face that so closely resemble DH's. He'll probably look more like his own dad as he grows, but for now, it's a sweet reminder of DH.
A nurse I know said you have to be at least a little bit crazy in order to get into the medical field because of how disgusting it can get. I personally dropped out of a First Aid and CPR class on the very first day because I was about ready to pass out as it was way too overwhelming. My mom (who just let her first aid and CPR cert lapse in her 60s) was pretty upset with me at the time and basically called me a wimp but whatever.
Per the Honda/Toyota comment, I would agree with this but also don't discount Mazdas and Subarus either. They are all good cars depending on what you want. In fact, I'd love to import one of the older Japanese vans from the 90s. It'd be more of a toy than anything else.
I'm thankful that there are other people willing to do medical stuff so that I don't have to.
I'm also thankful for a break in the rain we had. I am sad that the summer is just about over, though.
@Battra92,
Am I thankful for this? You got me started on Japanese pencils. 🙂
@JD, Japanese stationery is so good! It's not that I hate American stuff but yeah, it's good.
What're your favorite pencils?
@Battra92, I love Tombow drawing pencils, and wouldn't dream of driving anything except a Toyota or Honda. Interesting to think that you would consider my '96 Accord to be "a toy". 😎
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, No, I'm talking about Japanese kei-vans not American model Hondas. They are right hand drive and can't be driven on highways because they don't get fast enough. They are cute, though.
@Battra92, I agree about being sad summer is almost over. I keep saying probably another 4 weeks at best (in Michigan) then 1-2 weeks of fall then the other stuff (too soon).
@Battra92, My oldest son had the same reaction when watching films in a First Aid training course during his stint in Civil Air Patrol. (He actually did pass out for a bit.) He said he's found it supremely ironic that he, the most squeamish of the family, had to undergo so much medical stuff including an open wound. There were times he'd peer down at it and say, "Whoops, why did I look???" Meanwhile I was taking pictures to monitor the progress. Everyone has different tolerance levels for body stuff!
@Battra92,
I don’t know yet! I just started and have a Kuyuyo ( sp ?) and another one that I don’t remember the name right now. I am itching to try them ALL. That wouldn’t be frugal. And of course, erasers, papers, more fountain pens…. I have two Sailors but there are so many more tempting me.
Your hard work on two major fronts is inspiring. The demanding road to personal safety and freedom plus feeling more comfy at work, even through gross situations plus complicated ones, are both huge.
You’ve inspired me to get through my own situations. Admittedly less than those you had to endure (and still have to in august in that day) they are nonetheless biggish for me. And I will work harder to make them happen. Both are on the health front.
Thanks for this blog, Kristen.
I forgot to mention that I’m happy that today isn’t so fraught for you. I always treat myself hugely on that day.
While unpacking a very old box of papers and stuff from the storage unit, I found a framed picture from my wedding. My daughter glanced at it and said, “Mom, you were so pretty!” My son said, “The key word there being ‘was.'” Under that was a framed photo of my son as a toddler, so I said, “You were so cute. Past tense, of course.” My kids make me laugh every single day.
@Rose, and then you share the laughter with us! Thank you. 😎
Kristen, I am thankful that hard-earned healing and happiness now are with you.
Although it's August and supposed to be hot, we also had some low-humidity days that have made things pleasant. One breezy evening I spent a couple of hours outside cleaning up the garden, which has rewarded us with a bumper crop of cherry tomatoes and Cubanale sweet peppers. The low humidity also agrees with my arthritis. So three thankful for good weather. Always thankful for my sweet family and our gang of rescued dogs and cats.
"Sexist, misogynist systems that keep women in harmful marriages will probably always make me angry." this really resonates with me. While this doesn't apply to me (still happily married after 37 years), it infuriates me that society expects women to stay in harmful marriages, especially when they say it's "for the kids". As a kid my parents had a volatile marriage, and my life was so much better when they split up. Okay, off my soapbox and on to thankful things.
I'm thankful for my new blackout curtains. I might even get to sleep beyond sunrise on the weekend now.
I'm thankful that my 2010 Pilot is back to work after having repairs done earlier in the week.
I'm thankful that our house has had many showings this week. I'm sad that everyone is so afraid of the cracked, sinking driveway that they won't make any offers. Hopefully someone can look past that and see what a great house for a family it is.
I'm thankful for the lower-than-normal temperatures and humidity levels this week. It was a joy to be able to go outside in August and not immediately start sweating.
I'm thankful that I could take off work yesterday and keep our grandson who has an ear infection. And while I'm not glad he's sick, I'm glad he wasn't at daycare this week because babies in his class have Fifth disease, which is highly contagious. Poor buddy doesn't need to get sick yet again.
@Beverly, Even after divorce women are still expected to sacrifice themselves. "The kids are what's most important now," etc. No one gets too angry when divorced men badmouth their exes, because hey, she's a crazy bitch. But woe betide women who badmouth their exes: what if the children hear???? Lovely double standards.
@Rose, absolutely!!! 100%
I was told more than once that I "just need to focus on my kids" and it was made very clear to me that time with friends that didn't include my kids or dating was seen as "selfish".
Basically I was made to feel like I had zero autonomy or self-worth as a person outside of being a mom. PLUS as a woman I found it harder to hang out with other couples, they don't know what to do with a single female friend....yet many of my newly separated or divorced single male friends had the opposite experience. They are invited over for family dinners and all sorts of things to make sure they are fed properly/not alone now that they are on their own LOL
It's always the "crazy ex wives" hahaha. It's amazing how so many people, even women don't see through that. That is until they become the latest "crazy ex wife/girlfriend" for that same guy!
@NumberCruncher, Thanks. Speaking of divorce and losing friends, i was astonished that a very close friend of mine chose to side with my ex, as three months after he left, I was "too negative." DARN! I'm so sorry I wasn't all songbirds and cream pies after my husband of several decades dumped us! Also, she "had it worse" when her second husband dumped her to focus on his hobbies, mostly crack smoking. No one could have done more for her after that than I did, including flying her and kids to my place for holidays and even rewriting a piece for hers that was published by Salon. She still refers to herself as a writer even though she's never had anything published that wasn't at least 60 percent me. Some people have no moral fiber.
https://www.salon.com/2010/09/22/guide_to_surviving_single_motherhood/
@NumberCruncher, A friend told me after her last relationship with a married man ended, which she doesn't tell me about while it's going on because she knows I'd kick her butt, that her affair partner said that his marriage was already over, blah blah blah the usual cliches, and I burst out laughing. "Uh....that's what they all say. And women are always stupid and desperate enough to fall for it." My ex's mistress said that to various people about my marriage. Weird how she knew it and I didn't.
@Rose/Kelli, great article.
Black pepper is my favorite of all the spices. Plus if you get in a total bind you could make tea. lol.
Grateful for you NOT grossing us out with your stories 😉
Even more grateful for your inspiring growth & perspective; I've shared your blog with a friend who is currently despairing of ever seeing the end of her marriage, and you give her hope dxo
@Shelagh, I have also shared the blog with a friend who is in the midst of walking this road.
Life has been beyond busy lately, but I wanted to stop in to do the thankfuls. Thankfuls are necessary when things feel overwhelming.
This week I'm thankful:
*that our neighbor called to tell us that their grapes were abundant and would we like to come pick some? We said yes. We've been working on processing them since then. (Tonight is the jelly-making.)
*that my father is able to drive my son back to college (a two day drive). That my driver's permit son can go with them and get the rest of his required driving hours on the way.
*that college son #2 has received enough grants and scholarships to have extra money to help pay for the gas he will use driving back and forth 4 days a week.
*for my coffee this morning.
*for a love of learning.
@Jody S, yeah for extra scholarships!
Your photos are beautiful. I have always loved the sunrise and sunset. Each feels like a celebration of the day. I feel like each day is a gift and I am thankful that I’ve been given today.
I am thankful that this was an ordinary week. Nothing needed to be repaired. None of my family or friends was sick or injured. I was not busy preparing for a trip I wouldn’t take. There wasn’t a threatening hurricane in the Atlantic basin. There wasn’t any drama at all. Every day just melted into the next. After weeks of absolute craziness, I am grateful for these peaceful days.
I am thankful that many of the issues that came to the forefront over the last 6 weeks are resolving themselves. Refunds from my ill-fated trip have been given. My daughter is healing. My son and his family overcame the Covid virus and are once again busy and active. My house is at a comfortable temperature. DH has a few week between work projects and is resting as well as paying attention to house chores. I am grateful life is moving along.
Wishing everyone peace, good health and prosperity. Kristen, I am so happy for you. You are building a beautiful new life for yourself.
@Bee, I love your list. I sometimes feel that we underestimate the loveliness of an ordinary, drama-less week.
@Erika JS, I will never underestimate this; I crave this!
@Bee, yes as I get older it seems to me I can handle less stress. So I have become very grateful for low key quiet days/weeks.
If I see stress coming I will turn the opposite way if it is something I don't have to deal with directly.
@Bee,
Uneventful weeks are vastly underrated.
@JNL, @Erika JS, @ Jody, @Karen - My DH often says, “Boring is good,” and sometimes it really, really is!
Thankful that we were not hit too hard with the rain last week. Other areas had it much worse.
Thankful for the beautiful weather we've had since the remnants of Debby moved on- low humidity, low 80's! I even had the air conditioning off for a whole day which is rare this time of year
Thankful for delicious fresh corn and peaches we got this week, most of which will be preserved for winter
Thankful for a productive meeting last night at our church, dealing with some difficult issues
I'm so happy the day is getting easier for you. And, those are some gorgeous sunrises!
Today I'm grateful for:
1) The flexibility to volunteer at DS17's school, particularly because this will likely be my last opportunity. I got to see all of his friends & soak in the start of senior year.
2) That DS17 is excited for senior year. He is ready to go back, and excited about starting his final year.
3) That I have schedule flexibility to see my mom next weekend. She's struggling with care giving for her sister, and having me visit will give her a needed respite.
4) That DS18 has been training for a relay. He took a friend's spot, and has never been much of a runner (although, played soccer for 11 years). He's consistently getting out & running, & I love that he's putting in some effort ahead of the race. His original plan was to wing it. 😉
5) That DH has (mostly) patiently listened to my thoughts about work & jobs & flexibility & family. We also play rummy most nights, and chat while we play. It's something we started during COVID, and I love it.
Here's a breakfast that will keep you full! It's not easily transported (for me anyways, I like my hash brown potatoes crispy). It's a famous breakfast on Weight Watchers. Half cup of cottage cheese (your choice on % fat) covered with 1 or 2 over easy eggs (or however you like them) half cup air fried (or however you cook them) hash brown potatoes, 1-2 slices either center cut bacon or turkey bacon. If you have french onion dip, a teaspoon on top of the cottage cheese THEN eggs it amazing 🙂
I have found that celebrating my former anniversary for what it gave me has made that day a little easier every year. I like to get myself a little treat each year (a fancy coffee, a new book, something only I like) because if I hadn’t married my former spouse I wouldn’t have my son. That date is going to stand out to me, so I have claimed it for my own!
This week I am so thankful:
My best friend from college reached out to see if my husband would be willing to officiate her wedding! She’s been with her love for years and they finally decided the time was right. I feel so touched that she thought of my husband for this loving task.
I was finally able to register my son for a referee training course. He completed the coursework (without me asking), attended his in-person training, and is now certified. He’s so excited to have a job in a sport he LOVES. The in-person trainings are few and far between so we’ve been waiting months for this one to open.
I love my job and I love the people I work with. I was working from home for about two weeks so I was excited to go into the office to see my co-workers this week. I 100% consider them my friends.
Yesterday my husband sent me a text letting me know that my son had been texting with him all day (jokes and video game chatter) and that he’s so excited that my son wants this relationship with him.
The cardinals that visit our deck frequently. My grandma always said that cardinals are loved ones coming back to visit you. I don’t really believe that, but she believed it so hard that every time I see a cardinal I think of her, so I guess she is right in the end.
@Geneva, I like your idea about your anniversary. I think this could apply to any number of important days tinged with sadness (birthdays of deceased loved ones, etc.).
What beautiful sunrise/sunset pictures! I'm jealous that you have access to such beauty so close to you. 😉
Thankful that I found an outside storm door at Habitat RE store for reasonable price since didn't see another free one by side of road. Now need to get that door & new back door (had for 1 year) put up before snow. One more storm door to go to find.
Thankful allergy meds & soft Kleenex with lotion. It's just the beginning of that time of year for me. 🙁
Thankful for rescue dogs, even though they got through fence to chase a squirel up a tree in neighbors yard.
Thankful for teen, who ran across yard & jumped/cleared the fence to run after rescue dog who chased squirrel.
Thankful for good credit. I've always had good credit from paying bills & loans on time but good credit has been a lifesaver for me being able to get loans & credit cards easily after my life changed. And increased amounts given without asking which has helped in some less than ideal situations/times.
Thankful for my teen caving (somewhat) when I ask if going to do Senior year activities that don't interfere with college classes. I was worried that teen might not do Senior year things because of college classes but teen has agreed to doing more as time allows. 🙂 I'm hoping teen makes lots of good Senior year memories while still going to college classes (which has always been the goal).
Thankful for mechanic who does house calls. 🙂 And is much cheaper than downtown shop mechanics.
Thankful for my family (in Florida) did not have major damage from storm Debbey & that they are safe. Unfortunately my aunt's Yorkie died from anxiety/stress contributed by the storm which has been an ongoing situation. We are sad of her loss & will miss Tiffany who absolutely loved teen when we visited.
Thankful for Kristen who has provided this site for all of us to learn & share on.
And thankful for all of you who share your experiences, knowledge & wisdom with each of us.
Have a great weekend!
@Regina,
Always thankful for Rescue Pup. Truly one of life’s joys
My blood boils every time I hear women should stay in a marriage no matter what. A certain person who stated people changed their spouses like underwear is full of a matter that can gross one out. So back to work since this post-menopausal woman has no grand kids for whom to provide child care. But wait, that certain person had PMG (post-menopausal granny) babysitting while his wife worked?? What - isn't that a trad wife violation?? Hypocrisy at its best.
@Selena, Amen!
I am thankful for:
- My new therapist pointing out that I may have weaponized gratitude exercises, making myself feel better rather than worse. Oops.
- Realizing that I had fallen into a funk over the summer (for Reasons). I realized when I found joy in a small new-house thing, and then realized I hadn't found joy in that for a while. Realizations for the win, I guess?
- How comfortable I feel in the local yarn store's craft group. And that the shop owner had an idea that meant I didn't need to take a long flight without knitting. And that the group is both men and women. And having a local yarn store; they're increasingly rare.
- How well plants grow in my new house. My desk's pot of philodendrons and spider plants thrives so well that I have to trim it frequently.
- My new big desk. Having space to spread out, and everything I need permanently located near me, and knowing where everything is because I don't need to constantly put it away and take it out again, means I'm on top of incoming paperwork. To my relief and pleasure. So nice not to have it looming over me all the time.
- Being able to hire someone to deal with ... mumblety-mumble ... sized backlog of insurance paperwork. Y'all know how this is the bane of my existence and in recent years it had gotten worse (pandemic, mother's fatal cancer, moving, etc). This is what I'm doing with some of the room I have in my finances and boy, has it been worth it so far!
@WilliamB, Did I read that right? I am confused. Weaponized gratitude excercises? Are you not supposed to feel better for gratitude excercises? You are supposed to feel worse?
@Regina,
Maybe if he felt better the therapist would be out of a job? Dunno...
@Regina, @Becca;
Any technique can be misunderstood or applied wrong, including gratitude.
The things that might be happening is
1) my feeling I should be happier/less in a funk/more grateful because X is true. So trying to be grateful for something - when done the wrong way - makes me feel worse instead; and
2) by feeling I should be doing better, I’m devaluing my negatives and undermining my ability to recognize and deal with them. And also undermining my ability to validate my own reactions.
So my gratitude/thankful list should be things I’m really grateful for (such as my big desk to spread out on) and things I ~think~ I should be grateful for but that don’t actually make the list (that certain things aren’t even worse).
That makes a lot of sense. It's like I always say...there's room for both. Acknowledge the good things, yes, but also acknowledge that some things just SUCK.
I'm glad your therapist helped you have a breakthrough about it, and I hope the new way of thinking is helpful for you.
@WilliamB, Be honest with yourself. Don't list things you think you should be grateful for but aren't. There's also no point in making yourself feel bad because you have clean running water and someone in the Third World doesn't.
I struggle myself. I hate when people are thankful for their healthy bodies because it reminds me how much it goddamn sucks never ever to feel well. I try to smack myself silly and remember that other people don't have my blessings, such as two puppies ripping up a roll of paper towels in my kitchen--HEY STOP THAT
@Rose, that was a nice chuckle you gave me. Puppies are cute as all get-out and there's a reason my dogs are all -adult- rescues.
August 15 is my niece's/goddaughter's birthday, so just happy memories for me. And this is also Napoleon's, Sir Walter Scott's, and Julia Child's Birthday. And the day the Panama Canal first opened. And the day India (in 1947) and Congo (in 1960) gained their independence from the UK and France, respectively. And the day Woodstock began (in 1969) and the day US involvement in Vietnam ended (in 1973), thanks to the Case-Church Amendment. The world just keeps on turning ...
@JDinNM, History major here says the Congo was a possession of Belguim, not France. The Congo Free State, owned entirely by Belgian king Leopold, commited some of the worst human rights outrages in history.
Kristen, your thankfuls are immense in number and depth. One of the things I appreciate about you is your ability to think things through thoroughly (how's that for serious alliteration??) and your willingness to share those thoughts.
My overriding thankfulness today is that I drove home in one day from Oregon, 13 hours, staggering and stupid tired at the end, but HOME SAFE!!
Plus I am so thankful for my family in Oregon and the beauty of that state. (WHY do I continue to live in California's fly-over country?? Deep roots, community, the cabin.)
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, THIRTEEN HOURS in one day? The most we've done is nine in one day. That's amazing. Glad you made it home safely!
@Karen A., thanks, it was amazingly stupid. The last time I did that 13 hour drive in one day was on June 21 and heading north so I had daylight the entire distance. That wasn't nearly as difficult. I learned.
That bottle of black pepper would make a nice gift for your brother's birthday 🙂
@K T, Exactly! I'm thinking there's a genetic component at work here....
P.S. Why is the term "bougie" suddenly so prevalent? It keeps popping up in my life. I think it is a disparaging term used when confessing to spending a lot of money on either a luxury or something trivial. I'm guessing it comes from bourgeois, which originally meant "middle-class" and through Marxist theory, it morphed into "dirty capitalist".
So, as a middle-class anti-Marxist capitalist, I think I will ban this from my vocabulary (not that I know how to pronounce it anyway).
I think of it as saying “fancy” in a teasing or lighthearted way.
@Kristen, got it, thanks! But how is it pronounced??
When you google it, “boozhee” comes up, but really the g is pronounced like you would in bourgeois. I don’t know quite how to spell that in letters. Ha.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, I really dislike it, which is why I got annoyed by people calling the Hamptons bougie the other day.
@Central Calif. Artist Jana, whether it’s an insult or a neutral description seems to depends on the generation of the person saying it. It’s an insult coming from GenX and older Millennials but a neutral description coming from younger Millenials and GenZ. Or so I’m informed by a conversation between members of each.
Happy freedom-versary! I'm celebrating freedom with you today. Thank you for sharing your grief and healing journey with us.
It makes my heart smile when I hear of your growth in the pct field. It really is a great way to shake out those who should not become nurses. I became a cna when I was a teenager and worked in a rehab center. Not for the faint of heart!
I am sending you a hug for today. I walked away from an engagement after 2 years because as we got closer to the date, the more controlling he got (when he started planning what he could do with my money/retirement acct because my money was his money, I knew - shudder). I met my husband so soon after the break up I was very careful (3 yrs dating), he was a true partner and so practical. He's been gone 3 years and I still feel very married.
You still have to go thru all of the "feels". Peace comes from understanding. You are so good for finding thankful things.
I found my Peugeot Paris grinder set at an estate sale for $10. Oh my word! I even put black pepper in my molasses spice cookies and my cowboy brownies.
This time of year I slice avocado, tomatoes and fresh basil. It is one of my favorite pack lunches. I usually add a boiled egg and an apple that lasts me for the 12+ hr shifts (I'm a rapid response team leader in a large hospital, we rarely work less than 14 hrs. - although the advent of A.I. integration, our post patient notes are so much easier to input).
I am thankful for the cooler weather we have had. It's so nice to have the windows open. It has rained on and off for two-three days now and has prevented me from mowing-not that I'm disappointed.
I am thankful for the day as well, as it is my niece's birthday. I was present at her birth and although we have had some ups and downs, we do enjoy each other. My Sister and our relationship and the trials of her ALS were difficult for us both. Though I do miss my sister, I am thankful the relationship trials and ALS are over.
I am thankful my vehicle is back to having no code symbols and being trustworthy transportation.
Life is too short to not have fresh ground black pepper. Thankful for the pepper grinder recommendations. I have an inexpensive one with ceramic grinder that needs adjusted. So good to have fresh "peppa" on garden fresh tomatoes and buttered corn on the cob!
Like you Kristen, I am not squeamish about the sights of "ooooh" in nursing. I will say that I prefer that in the geriatric field over ER or other emergency situations. I can do what I need to in the field, but I am a mess once my duty is over. Adrenaline, I suppose.
R/t nursing, I am thankful I am not ill (so far). While we live w COVID on a day to day basis in the community, it has reared it's ugly head w two of our residents and three (one is "well" again) of our important staff members. I am constantly amazed that the "rules" change for communicability each time we have it, and that a "mask" will keep us from "getting" or "giving" it.
I am thankful that I scheduled my last payment to one of my two credit cards! It is such a relief. Now on to use the roll-over method to add to my other credit card and car payment! I find this very exciting!
@Chrissy, Geriatric nursing is where I hope to eventually end up. I was thinking of specializing eventually in wound care, but I bet I'd end up doing quite a bit of that in gerontological nursing anyway. And there's quite a need for it, as I understand.
Good for you!! That is one specialty that does not seem to be my calling. I do fine with geriatric patients, but it hasn't had the same pull for me as other types of nursing so far.
Thankful for:
1. that I am able to volunteer at the food bank, which is not only a smooth operation but is run by a team of such kind and cheerful people that it infects everyone. No sourpusses working there---even the volunteers ordered to do community service who come in sullen seem to lighten up and understand that paying back the community for their transgressions gives them a sense of pride.
2. that my garden continues to produce, even though we are in the low 40s at night and usually in the high 50s or low 60s during the day.
3. that we have a couple hours of darkness at night and are losing 8 minutes of daylight a day.
4. keeping a box of the cards and mementoes that the husband has given me over the last 41 years. The other day, determined to get rid of a lot of them, we spent a few hours laughing and remembering the great times we have had together. Also, the sicker I am, the less expressive my husband; he says it is because he has to stay in control to deal with doctors and hospitals, but when you are in intensive care for weeks and keeping coming in and out of consciousness it can feel like he just would be relieved if I finally carted off to the ever after. Reading some of the heart-rending things he wrote to me in cards and notes he left on my hospital table about why he loved me and how he did not know how he would cope if I left, so please keep fighting, was a good reminder that not everyone gushes out what they are feeling.
5. that a friend I worked with years ago is flying in tonight to spend 10 days with us.
I am thankful that you are so much more at peace this year. The selfies that you have posted over the last year have a light in you face that was lacking and it is good to see you thriving. While it is tragic that getting this required going through a divorce, I am glad to see you happier. Selena Gomez has a song "Lose You to Love Me" that can be applicable here.
This week I am thankful for:
1. My parent's retirement- My dad had the unfortunate timing of retiring during the pandemic and had 2 years of regretting his choices bc of sitting at home. But now they are traveling in their RV and living it up on a cruise (which was supposed to be for his retirement 4 years ago and has been postponed 2x).
2. My garden- I know I post about it a lot but going in my backyard and seeing what's growing gives me such joy. Never gets old.
3. Youtube- Since we have bought a major fixer upper, watching DIY youtube videos has become the norm and it is so nice to have a video reference for just about anything on hand.
4. Soft t shirts- Not all shirts are created equal and putting on a super soft shirt after a shower is elite.
5. Local markets- I love living part time where I have an abundance of local markets from every ethnicity. I got ceviche from my local Mexican market one day and gai lan from Ranch 99 the next.
I used to have that pepper grinder and I loved it. And then it broke. And so I bought another one and it broke 6 months later. I can't justify by it again but I miss it everyday. I bought another one that works okay but man I miss that one.
Whoa, what happened to it? How did it break?
I am glad this anniversary was easier than last year‘s and also 2022!
It is a little discouraging for me since I’m only about seven weeks into my divorce process and knowing that yours only recently was completed and you’re still so emotional at times about it makes me a little depressed.
I am so thankful for my children and their support of me through all of this
I am so thankful for my wonderful group of friends who , without a plan, seem to take regular turns checking in on me and encouraging me and scheduling things with me to keep me busy
The cooler weather has been wonderful for sleeping and exercising in the morning and has had a big effect on my electric bill.
My hydrangeas are exceptional this year and I think because of the cooler weather they’ve already started to turn to the mauvey pink of late summer
I will never tire of summer tomatoes! I eat a minimum of one large one a day either on a sandwich or chopped up into cottage cheese like you. My addition to that is a little bit of Olive Garden dressing. Yum!
My therapist has been a real lifesaver and I’m very grateful for her wisdom and keeping my negative inner voice in check
@Vallie D, Just as every marriage is unique, everyone's post divorce experiences are too. Don't get too downhearted--the whole thing is terrible but you don't know and shouldn't worry too much about how you will feel eventually. Good thoughts and GET A GOOD LAWYER.
Aww, Vallie. If you want more reassurance than I can give publicly, just shoot me an email.
What I will say publicly is this: the divorce itself is not what I am still processing. The divorce wasn't super duper fun or anything, but the marriage is what gave me a pile of stuff to process through.
And I will also say this: Every single day since I left my marriage has been better than being in my marriage. Have I finished healing yet? Nah. But my life has improved by leaps and bounds already, and I anticipate that will continue.
Sending love!
@Rose, thank you. You’re right of course and I think I have a good lawyer, so I guess I’ll just have to wait this out and let it unfold
@Vallie D, Also, just look at Kristen’s smile in every photo! That smile even comes through in her words more and more.
Speaking of Sonia, haven’t heard much about her recently! Would love to hear how she’s doing.
She's good! She finished her two-year degree and now she's taking a gap year to work and save money before transferring to a four year university. 🙂
@Kristen, glad to hear she’s doing well!
My cat is Piper´s counterpart: big cat, small box. I once saw him do a limbo-type thing with his legs stretched. Hope he always gets out of any place he yogas into!
When I read about your separation, divorce later, I was shocked because I was not surprised at all. Usually I would say things like may you all be safe and happier on the other side, but I had to mute myself because I was just thinking: finally.
I have so much to be thankful for this week!
After lots of blunders, poor communication, a persistent physical therapist, help from friends and a dedicated van driver who came in on her day off, we got hubby home from rehab and into the house!
Thankful for friends who understood far better than I how exhausting this higher level of care would be, and have provided meals this week. I had things in the freezer and pantry to cook, but I was definitely suffering from decision fatigue.
Thankful for the variety they bring, too! We've had homemade bread; raspberries, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes from gardens, deli food from a place we've never tried; a most scrumptious butternut squash souffle; frozen dinners left from the men's conference at the church last weekend; and homemade chicken pot pie and peanut butter pie. (not grateful that my clothes are tighter, but that's not THEIR fault!)
Thankful for home PT and OT. They have done very accurate evals of his current physical and mental status, and have set some realistic goals and steps to get there.
Thankful for the squirrels and blue jays who compete for the peanuts I throw out for them. I've put some on the handrails, and the jays are getting bolder about landing and picking them up rather than picking them up in flight. It's so entertaining to watch all the little feathered beings at the feeders and the birdbath.
Thankful that sunrises are a little later, so when I get up now, it's before the sunrise, and sometimes I get to watch the sky turn.
Thankful that school has started again, because it means the neighborhood kids are coming by, having to raise funds for their various programs and sports. They all know I'm good to buy whatever they are selling, so it's fun to visit with them for a few minutes. And if it's something I really won't use, I just donate some bucks. And the dog gets some more pets, which makes her little butt wiggle.
Thankful for devotional podcasts that make it easy to focus during reduced alone time.
Yay for good medical help for you guys!!
I am thankful that tomorrow is Friday! It has been a long first week of school, and I really need the weekend to regroup!
* You make me reflect on my past and current marriage. And I am grateful to not still be with my ex. He was not a bad person, but we didn't "connect" in many ways. I really connect with my current husband (14 years anniversary yesterday!) and we now (after many hard years) are in a really great place in our relationship.
* Being able to pick up extra shifts at work when needed. Or choose to stick to my regular schedule of 3 days/week.
* The people I work with. Patients and colleagues. I work with seniors affected with dementia and cognitive behaviors/mental health issues, and I enjoy this population. I'm very protective of my patients, and I love working with seniors. And I have nice colleagues in my rehab team (I work in physical and occupational therapy)
* The ability to read and write. In French and English (second language).
* My weight loss so far (63 pounds). I'm feeling SOOOO much better, physically and mentally. I would like to lose another 20-40 pounds but, hey, if it does not happen it won't be the end of the world.
I am late on this but I am posting anyone to be faithful to the weekly exercise.
For the safe, uncomplicated birth of my great niece and her sweet parents who allowed me to come and hold her, Pray over her and gaze at her precious little face.
For rejuvenating sleep last night after being awake for 24+ hours to go and see my great niece.
For a husband who took on all the chores of the evening yesterday cause my bedtime was 5PM.
For a new workout routine that is not painful but energizing and healing in so many ways.
For therapy. It teaches me, changes me, encourages me and never fails to put more tools on my belt that help me deal with life. Not ashamed to admit the need for it and proud of myself for the work I am putting into it so that I can grow and be the best version of myself. Not everyone's life is a Norman Rockwell painting 😉
I’m so thankful that my husband is healthy and strong. We had a scare last Tuesday morning when he awakened to a racing heart with heartbeat at 180 and pressure in his chest. His dr brought him in for evaluation. EKG was normal (and heart rate had gone back to normal after ten minutes of the high rate at home). But Dr says it was a reaction to a cortisone shot my husband had received in his knee the day before all this happened. He’s wearing a heart monitor just to be sure nothing else is going on but we’re so relieved that all seems well.
I’m thankful for a good Dr checkup with my oncologist this morning.
I’m thankful for slightly cooler temps today, a good walk with my husband and the great aroma of potatoes baking for our dinner tonight.
Hi Kristen,
I’ve followed you on and off over the years but even when I hadn’t touched base for a long time, I found that when I did, it felt like connecting with family. I am so impressed with the way you have soldiered through some rough times and have come out of it, tho’ battle-scarred, victorious. Well-done!
I am going to try the cottage-cheese-tomato salad. It looks yummy.
I think you may be the frugality queen instead of the frugal girl. I think a person who needs a frugal solution to an economic problem would be wise to ask themselves: “WwKD?” What would Kristen do?
Keep up the great work and best of luck with the upcoming school year. I am sure you will knock it out of the park!