Thankful Thursday | polarizing toast
(see below for the toast issue)
This week, I am thankful:
for a clinical bag from a sweet reader
A blog reader messaged me letting me know she had a clinical bag that she no longer needed, and she offered to mail it to me. Yay!
So sweet of her.
Chiquita approved of both the box and the bag. 😉
that I went to the board of nursing in person
If you saw my Instagram stories yesterday you already know this: I've been trying to get a license to get a student nursing job, but the process has been a little hiccup-y.
And the board of nursing does not answer phone calls, respond to phone messages, or respond to emails.
Soooo, I hauled myself there yesterday, in person, and I think the issue is resolved. Yay!
I am very thankful I made the trip in person because who knows how long my application would have been stuck otherwise.
for "we'll call you back" systems
I had to call the IRS yesterday to get an address to send a form to, and I was so happy that they have one of those systems that will call you back when it's your turn in line!
That's miles better than sitting on hold, especially when the wait is forecast to be 30-60 minutes.
that I finally was able to make a state tax payment
My state has a new website for making business tax payments, and it has been so glitchy that I have not been able to make any payments the last few times I've tried.
But yesterday, it worked! Woohoo!!!
(Did you notice how many un-fun tasks I did yesterday? I was very ready to be done with government systems by the time I went to bed. Ha.)
that we're almost down to three weeks of school left
Today's the very last lecture of the semester!
And then here's what's between me and summer break:
- 5 exams
- 2 group presentations
- 1 solo presentation
- 1 clinical day
There's also a third-semester orientation, and a mandatory convocation (a graduation for the fourth-semester students), but I'm not even counting those because all I have to do is show up!
for a reliable car
Yesterday as I was making the drive to the nursing board, I thought, once again, about how grateful I am to have reliable transportation.
My minivan doesn't earn me any cool points, but it does get me from point A to point B, always.
for peanut butter toast
This has probably been on one of my lists before. 😉
Some people think this is impossibly gross, but Lisey and I both love it: toasted whole grain bread (this would not at ALL be the same on white bread), spread with peanut butter, with sliced cold butter on top of the peanut butter.
It makes a lovely mid-afternoon snack, in my opinion.
for cute cats
They make us laugh every day.
And they're both very good snuggle cats.
The cats are both clearly very much at ease in your house and life - it is such fun to get to know their habits and preferences don't you think?
This week I am grateful
For having a solid relationship with my cousins, with whom I am in regular touch regarding the increasing need for care for an aging family member.
For not having any food allergies or intolerances. We have lactose, soy, gluten and latex (kiwi too!) allergy/intolerance in our circle of family and friends. Not fun, and at times also tricky.
For finding it fun to cook, most of the time, and enjoying the investigation into alternatives for ingredients (thanks all for all the discussions on the WWS/WWA posts - I always learn such a lot there!)
For warmer weather on the horizon. It has been very cold in the past weeks and I regretted taking my winter coat to the attic. Also I am so much looking forward to more time in our garden. But sunny days are ahead.
I am thankful that I am good with difficult kids. It has been a week where all my teacher tricks have had to come out of the bag so to speak, but I'm at least grateful that I have them and they work.
I’m very thankful for a beautiful labor and delivery of my fifth baby this week. The nursing staff was absolutely amazing and so supportive during my time there. Kristin, I think you would make a wonderful L&D nurse!
@Megan, congratulations!
@Megan,
How wonderful! Welcome, baby! I hope you have an uneventful recovery!
@Megan,
Congratulations! 😀
@Megan, Congratulations!
@Megan, Yay, new baby! Congrats!
@Megan, Congratulations!
@Megan, Love the babies! Big congrats to you and your family.
Yay!!!! Congrats!
@Megan, congratulations on your new little one!
@Megan, Oh yay!! Congratulations!!
@Megan, congratulations and best wishes!
@Megan,
That's wonderful news! Congratulations!
@Megan, congratulations and best wishes!
@Megan, congratulations-what wondeful news!
@Megan, congratulations! We just had our fifth In January and I also thought of Kristin when in mother baby. She would do a great job in any of the baby fields!
Hooray for 5th babies! They just get sweeter and sweeter, but I don’t think my body can handle any more. How did people used to have 8-12 kids? No wonder women didn’t live long.
I would be delighted to work in postpartum or labor and delivery. We shall see if I can land one of those jobs!
I have never heard of putting butter on top of the butter, but I do love peanut butter on toast. Especially with honey, which in our house is known as "Baca Toast" in honor of my dad (called Baca by his grandkids), who eats this almost every morning.
Thankfuls:
--That the middle son had a good track meet yesterday. He actually placed in his heats, which hasn't happened yet this season for him as a 6th grader running against 7th and 8th graders. I'm glad he had a good meet because it was the last one; it was over two hours away; and there were a LOT of teams there, so it didn't end until late and he didn't get home until midnight. But he still felt it was worth it.
--That my husband is able to stay up to pick up kids in situations like this. I get up really early, but also go to bed really early. So I do early-morning stuff, and he does late-night stuff. It works nicely.
--For a slight lessening in panic in the one child who has not really been doing well emotionally at the end of this school year. It's been a rough couple of weeks, but the end is in sight. We only have three weeks left, too.
--For a school staff and environment that really does try to help our kids. I had to talk to all of the above child's teachers and they were all very understanding about him having to stop doing everything except the essentials to finish out the year.
--We also had a school pep rally to cheer all the kids on who are doing state testing this week and next week. No one likes testing, but it's a requirement, and at least we try to get the kids relaxed about it with games and dancing and (literal) cheers.
@kristin @ going country, Oh, I forgot the biggest thankful for today! Our sheep shearer called last night to let us know he could come shear our sheep today. He's got to be at least 75 years old, so every year he still does this is a huge blessing to us. We can shear the sheep, and we have done it, but it's incredibly hard work, and a LOT slower than when he does it. So, so thankful he's coming and we can get this done. My boys are thankful, too, because they get to get out of school early to help. Good thing we have agricultural excuse codes for absences at our school. 🙂
@kristin @ going country, When we had sheep, I was in awe of how fast the shearer worked and how hard it was. And we had miniature sheep, the Babydoll Southdowns, so less obstreperousness to handle. How your 75 year old guy can do it, I cannot imagine.
@kristin @ going country, my friends who used to have a small llama herd also relied heavily on their shearer--and he wasn't getting any younger, either. I fear that shearing livestock such as sheep and camelids is becoming a lost art.
@A. Marie, It's another thing that is now often reliant on workers from other countries--for shearers, that's places like Uruguay, Peru, New Zealand. My middle son has said for years that he wants to learn, though, and there is a shearing school in New Mexico, so maybe we'll add one to the labor pool. 🙂
@Lindsey, He told us that last year the week after he was here, he had a mini stroke, but he's fine now. Methinks he's the type that will die in the saddle, so to speak. That's the way it is with so many of these guys (and gals) who have lived very physically active lives--farmers, ranchers, etc.
@kristin @ going country, I'm always slightly awed at their strength. I used to be pretty strong (for a chick, I guess) and I thought I could easily overpower a sheep. Nope. Then I had to help my friend put medicine in the eye of one of his alpaca. Nope, they're pretty strong too, but I did manage to subdue him enough to squirt the meds in.
I like peanut butter on buttered white toast. I’ve never heard of slices of cold butter on top but it does sound intriguing — I’m going to try it! I also like grilled peanut butter sandwiches. That’s a tasty switch from grilled cheese.
@Shirley, grilled peanut butter and banana sandwiches are a favorite at my house! One of my 13 year-old son's favorite snacks before practice 🙂
@NumberCruncher, a la Elvis. I'm a bit of a purist. Bread can be toasted or un-toasted with PB and banana. The riper the banana the better.
@kristen @going country - being opposite of the better half can be a big boon. I am the night owl, better half is not. I about gag eating a banana that has no brown spots on the peel (and refuse to touch one when the peel has even a hint of green). A single brown spot about does in the better half. A couple does what works for the couple, screw those that think otherwise.
Thankful for a warm house as last few days have been warm but windy & nights cool--especially last night at 28* right now. (Yes I remember winter not long ago, I'm just tired of cold).
Thankful for teen slow progress. Worried as teen has not consumed had much in liquids/food, which is normal but it really seems like a tiny bit compared to normal. But glad teen eating & drinking some.
Thankful for the rescue dogs as they have been so attentive to teen being home & not normal. One rescue dog (teen favorite though loves all) lets me know if something needs attention with teen. And of course, is always close by to teen who they love.
Thankful for the sunshine. 🙂 Always.
Thankful for-
Stores who have Click and Pull services.
For mostly blue skies this week.
For free dirt.
For my dog groomer, they leave them out (not crated) while they rotate them between services and he comes home looking so handsome and so tired.
For my robotic vacuum.
Mmm, peanut butter toast. Looks delicious.
What have you thought about your OB clinical? Has it confirmed a desire to work there? I have to say, I don't think clinicals are a very accurate representation of what it would be like to work in each unit, but it's certainly better than only learning about it in class/from a textbook.
Thankful...
That the 3 year old will eventually get out of this super whiny, everything is difficult, phase. I realize this is actually a complaint disguised as a thankful.. haha. It has been a trying few weeks with her.
That my husband comes home this afternoon from being out of town.
That we've had some delightfully moderate temperatures this week, and sun! Pretty soon it will be hot, so I'm going to enjoy the 60's while we have it.
For the increasing green, flowers, our raspberry bushes leafing out, a sign of things to come!
For hot, yummy coffee.
Well, it's hard to say because I have been assigned to a very rural hospital, with a typically low patient census. Sooo....it's been more boring than exciting.
But I think in a busier unit, I would really enjoy it!
@JP,
Maybe the 3 year old is readying for a growth spurt? Behavior is communication, so in her own toddler way, she's expressing her need. I'd feed her more and get to go to sleep earlier. ( it works for teens, why not a threenager?)
When I first saw that toast picture come up, I thought those were slivers of cheese! I’m very relieved it’s butter! I’ve never heard of having butter on peanut butter toast, but having a mother from Wisconsin, we grew up with butter on just about everything else. Pats of cold butter on rolls and cold butter spread on white bread for butter sandwiches were both common in my household. Everything else seemed to contain melted butter (like buttered noodles).
@JenRR,
That sounds like paradise to me! Butter makes everything better.
@JenRR, peanut butter and cheese are great together!! Think of the orange peanut butter cracker sandwiches with cheese crackers. If I am really hungry I will absolutely eat a peanut butter and cheese sandwich. (Hunger needed only since it's quite high cal, not to get it down!) I also love a pb butter sando, but with more cold butter than FG uses for sure 🙂
@JenRR,
When I was a kid, we'd spread butter on a slice of bread (usually white bread), and then sprinkle sugar on the butter layer. It doesn't sound that appealing now, as an adult, but we thought it was a great snack back then!
@Rachel, omg peanut butter cheese crackers are my guilty pleasure (closely followed by corn chips and "cheese" from a small can). Better half is het on "variety" - I am not. While the PB on crackers was okay, the other flavor was edible but in the don't buy it again category.
Jelly, honey, or bananas - butter is meh.
Love cat snuggles. My first thankful Thursday would be the kitty we adopted in October. He is very snuggly, but not at night when he wants to play, so we have to kick him out of our room. But sit in the recliner with the TV and a blanket and he's good to go.
Thankful that hubs and I were able to concoct dinner every night this week and not resort to going out. This Saturday is his birthday which will be the only exception.
Thankful that all the credit cards are paid off. I think this could be only the 2nd or 3rd time in our 41 years together that we have all our credit cards paid off. Now to keep it that way so I can someday retire (23 months!)
Thankful that it is spring, everything is blooming and turning green around here. I have been taking my allergy meds because, yes, everything is green! And the rain has finally stopped for a few days so everything is green!
Thankful for all the different people on this page who act with kindness towards one another.
@Maureen, congrats on the credit card payoff! Well done, & very exciting. It will set you up well for your upcoming retirement!
@Maureen, At first I imagined your cat in the recliner, watching TV with a warm blanket on his body.
Thankful that my doctor was able to spare the time this morning to sort out not just my questions this morning but also to check in on my son’s case notes - we’re waiting for the slow wheels of hospital bureaucracy to assign him a new paediatrician after the one we were first assigned decided that my son’s case was too complicated and needed a more experienced clinical team. In the long run it will be a good thing, but in the short term we have been waiting for this since early November!
Even better, by the time I came out of the doctor’s office, the nurse was ready and waiting to do the routine exam that I’ve been putting off…and my body decided to cooperate, meaning that what is usually a 20 minute ordeal was over in less than five minutes. And now I also feel virtuous for helping the nurse get back on track with her appointment schedule because mine was over so quickly.
Also thankful for some good weather and a sound night’s sleep - not something that’s guaranteed with a wriggly toddler in bed next to you!
I'm mainly thankful that this @#$%!! bronchitis is abating, though slowly.
I'm also moderately thankful that we're having one more frosty snap, since this keeps me from regretting too much that I've lost so much gardening time to the bronchitis. I can now be glad that I haven't had the chance to be rash and do anything I shouldn't have done.
And, as always, I'm thankful for the birds. White-throated sparrows (with their calls of "Old Sam Peabody" or "Oh sweet Canada," depending on which side of the border you live on) are moving through like a strong wind.
@A. Marie, glad you are starting to feel better. Bronchitis is miserable.
Woohooo for some bronchitis improvement!
@A. Marie, Glad to hear you are well and were able to put your bronchitis to use as an excuse not to garden.
Kristen, week by week your growing happiness is clear and evident, and my heart is so very happy for you.
My Five Thankful Things:
1. The abundance of nearby places to hike, and people to hike them with. Yesterday, I hiked in a beautiful coastal canyon replete with spring wildflowers, and gorgeous ocean views. I met up with five other folk, and we just had a wonderful time chatting in between 'ews' and 'ahs' about the beautiful scenery.
2. Smoked salmon. I bought a couple of cans of Smoked Silver salmon in Alaska last summer, and last night I used the first one in a smoked salmon and sundried tomato pasta with a lemon and white wine sauce. It was incredible.
3. That my Germany-based DD and SIL are returning to the states to live next month, along with my young granddaughters. Tickets have already been purchased for them to all fly here for a visit in July, when the beach should be hopping. My oldest granddaughter has asked to stay on for another week on her own, primarily so that she can take surfing lessons, and we are thrilled to accommodate. 🙂
4. That my mother is doing really well in her new 55+ community and home. She seems to be making new friends by the day, and she and I attended a tribute band concert together over the weekend, and had an absolute blast.
5. Local live venues. We saw a performance of Sondheim's Sweeney Todd, went to above tribute concert, and heard another tribute band at a nearby golf course, all over the weekend, and all at very little cost - the tribute band at the golf course was free, the performance of Sweeney Todd was part of a $15 a show season ticket package, and the tribute band at the 55+ community was a modest $25. So much fun for a relatively modest outlay!
@Tamara R,
I think seeing tribute bands is so much fun! Hubs and I have made a point of seeing BritFloyd (an internationally known Pink Floyd tribute band) for the past three years. Less frugal than the concerts you went to, but always a treat.
I have never seen Sweeney Todd, but I can say that "Len" (Cariou), who played the lead role in the original Broadway play, has shown up in the NYT crossword more than once. 🙂
@Liz B., Sondheim's productions really vary broadly from basic 'funny' like Something Happened On The Way To The Forum, to grim as in "Assassins." Think first half of his Into The Woods cs the second half. I'd place Sweeney Todd into the grim category, but it is incredibly smart and well done, so we weren't put off by the grim. Not for children though, for sure.
And since I was too young and broke to see my favorite bands the first time around, I am likewise having a blast seeing the tribute bands for my favs at this point in my life.
@Liz B., I've met Roger Waters a few times at Hamptons parties; at one of them he performed an acoustic set about six feet away from me. He's actually super nice in person.
@Rose,
Color me envious. He's such a talented man. I'm glad to hear he's a nice guy, as I really dislike finding out that singers/musicians/anyone I admire is a jerk.....that's so disappointing. Hubs, son and I watched his live televised "This is not a Drill" concert last year, and that *did not* disappoint. 🙂
@Liz B., I recommend Hairball if they come to your area.
Thankful:
My knee is slowly getting better! Exercises and ice. And patience.
My yard is so green this spring. All perennials made it through the winter! Spring green is so vibrant.
The big full moon is over. Teacher. IYKYK
My dad is holding steady.
My military son’s military move is over and nothing was broken this time!
Love the clinical bag!!!!
@Stephanie,
As a night nurse in geriatrics, full moon applies. However, I am thankful that our souls slept peacefully the two nights I got to work. IYKYK.
@Chrissy, as a caretaker for an elderly loved one with dementia, I can say that full moons seem to make the sundowning more profound. I almost pulled my hair out a few times this week.
@Chrissy and Stephanie,
Retired news reporter here. I've never met an ER nurse or a cop who didn't believe in the full moon. Not ever.
I often think if Clark wasn't only a year old he could be related to Shelley; they both have the same white blaze and the same sort of eyebrows!
Woof, it has been a week, as the very Kind Commentariat has seen.* But I can find plenty to be thankful for, and if anyone has a weak stomach about medical things, feel free to scroll on by:
I'm thankful that my son got transferred to the main campus of the hospital, where he is getting exponentially better care. (While the cynical side of me feels that's because they know the first surgery and aftercare were botched, and are afraid of a lawsuit, I am still grateful that they are taking his wellbeing seriously.)
I'm thankful he finally got a medicine that is helping with the intractable hiccups he developed when his body started building up with fluid from the surgical leak and his digestive system started backing up. He literally was having nonstop, every-second hiccups that made it impossible for him to sleep, along with triggering endless vomiting.
I'm thankful my husband has a flexible work schedule so we can take turns being with him at the hospital. Yes, he is 24 years old (Today is his birthday!), but IME having a family member there at all times really helps and we always know what's going on.
I am thankful that he was able to take a good solid nap yesterday (with the help of Dilaudid)--again, he hasn't hardly slept since this started back on the 16th.
I am thankful for considerate doctors and kind nurses who aren't batting an eyelash at his family being there. The last hospital we were at, the staff seemed to be annoyed that we were there, saying sarcastic things about it being a party, and calling my husband "Pops".
I am thankful for our other boys: my second oldest has been at the hospital nonstop with his older brother, staying the night so we can get home and catch some sleep; my third is being helpful around the house and making dinner tonight, and my youngest switched rooms with his brother so that after the first surgery he could have the quietest room with the closest bathroom. And he did it without a fuss, even though he hates change.
For our family's faith. When my oldest was heading back for his second surgery, to correct the problem caused by the first surgery, he was told there was a possibility of an ostomy. He turned to me and said, "Whatever happens, I'll be fine. I can ask God to take that off the table, it doesn't hurt to ask, but His will be done."
For small successes on the road to recovery: His bladder and kidneys are waking up and doing their job. His heart rate is slowly coming down (it was as high as 144 while resting, but yesterday it went down into the 110s while he was sleeping and then only went back up to 122 while awake. Obviously it goes higher when he tries to move and such, but it is improving.)
Sorry about that asterisk: I was considering explaining the surgery/issue, but realized it's not for the squeamish as it involves a lot of the digestive system! Then I forgot to take the asterisk out.
@Karen A., So glad your son is getting the care he needs now. Wishing him a speedy recovery from the second surgery.
@Karen A., I'm so glad to hear he's doing better and fie on the previous staff.
@Karen A., SO HAPPY TO HEAR ABOUT YOUR SON! It sounds like the first doctor(s) & hospital could use some much needed improvements, including respect towards visitors/families. Glad you were able to get your son to another hospital quickly & they were able to fix the problem(s). 🙂
@Karen A., the behavior of the staff at the first part of this medical nightmare was appalling! I hope your sweet son finally heals well now that he's in much better hands.
@Karen A., To put a young man through what he had to endure and humiliate him and his family on top of that is just unconscionable. My heart goes out to him and you all.
Super thrilled to hear of his improvement! And that he’s in a decent hospital now.
@Karen A., I join everyone else in being glad that your son is doing better at the second hospital (and that your entire family is pitching in so beautifully). And, frankly, I wouldn't rule out a lawsuit at the first hospital if I were you--and I'm not usually the litigious type.
Also, your son's response to the possibility of an ostomy--especially at his age-- impresses me greatly. In another spiritual tradition altogether (Buddhism), this might be called "radical acceptance"--and I've practiced this a few times, especially re: DH. Whether we call it "radical acceptance" or "His will be done," I think it's the same principle.
@Regina, The crazy thing is, it's the same hospital, just a different campus. Originally we took him to the campus that is closest to us, since time seemed of the essence, and then when his recovery was clearly NOT going well, we took him back there, because, well, that's where it happened. The smaller campus medical staff did a scan and said they thought he had an abscess that needed draining, and they claimed to not have the equipment to do that (they probably don't), so they transferred him to the main campus downtown. I much prefer the main campus; it's where three of our kids were born and I've had two surgeries there and mostly good experiences.
A further update: My husband texted me that DS got up out of bed and made a bedside commode visit (TMI, sorry, but it's progress) and sat in a chair for a while. Still concerned about his heart rate but remaining hopeful.
I'm so glad he's doing better now. Here's hoping for steady improvements from here on out.
@Karen A.,
Great news that your son is on the road to recovery.
I honestly don't understand this " mean girls"attitude in healthcare,this is the 3rd instance I've heard of and 1 of them was from my NP!
@A. Marie, I love "thy will be done" or radical acceptance or what my old life coach would say, "It's all working out perfectly." As an extremely independent control freak, the idea of just letting things happen instead of making things happen was new to me until my 50s. At the hardest parts of my life, "thy will be done" and "All shall be well and all shall be well and all manner of things shall be well" worked as mantras for me. (The latter is from the anchorite Julian of Norwich.)
@Karen A., Your son's ability to cope with the possibility of an ostomy is pretty darn impressive! Glad he is doing better. A pox on the staff being disrespectful to your husband calling him Pops.
@Karen A., I join the Commentariat in gladness for your son's improvement. And let me tell you, I never left my Mom unattended by me or someone taking turns even as much as 25 years ago. Nurses should appreciate the bedside attention, because family members can provide a lot of help. It pays to have a second set of eyes. I cried buckets after my niece left me alone post hysterectomy (I'm single) when I started arousing after the anesthesia. It was a blessing that the phlebotomist came in and prayed with me. And as a nurse, I can read into the TMI d/t the nature of the situation. So good he's able to be up even a little!
@Karen A.,
So GLAD to read about your son's transfer to a new hospital, and his progress! Hooray!! The staff at that first hospital needs some major training in customer service. Pops?? Are you kidding me?!? Only, *only* if your husband told them to address him that way! Grrr!
@Liz B.,
And continued good wishes for your son's speedy recovery!
@Liz B., Yes, my husband literally told the doctor his name and the doctor was, "Okay, Pops!" (and no, this was not a young whippersnapper of a resident. In fact, the young whippersnapper of a resident on DS's case is very polite, respectful, and even brought DS a plant and a balloon for his birthday today!)
@Karen A.,
That's so WRONG. The whippersnapper resident showed way more class (and so nice to bring your son a birthday gift!
Peanut butter toast was my go to breakfast during one pregnancy- a very satisfying snack. (No butter for me, though.)
Thankful that husband us recovering from his accident. One fractured rib and elbow later, he's doing better.
That my son does track, even though
he's not very fast, because he enjoys it and likes hanging out with kids from different school.
That there are only 2 weeks left in my semester- this term has been a slog.
I'm so thankful that, on Tuesday, I completed the last estate form to close out my biological father's estate. This comes after nearly 4 years of losing parents and then dealing with the aftermath. Phew. In less than a month, I should have all the checks written and bank accounts closed and I can finally, finally move on with my life. It feels like freedom!
@Brooke, Congratulations on nearing the end of dealing with the estate. I have been dealing with Mom's for over 2 years so I understand what a pain that can be.
I love hot buttered toast with peanut butter over the butter. But I don't think I'd like chunks of cold butter. I could be wrong though. I do enjoy butter. 😉
@Tammy, Me, too. This was, plus cranberry juice over ice, was my preferred snack while in labor.
When I was a kid I always ate peanut butter and butter instead of peanut butter and jelly.
@Big City Ann, My mom used to eat peanut butter and Miracle Whip sandwiches. With lettuce. It was not bad, honestly.
@Big City Ann, I hated PB&J as a kid, and still do, but I liked peanut butter and butter, but my mother insisted I not make them as they are too fatty. Sigh.
@Rose, I should probably point out that this just made me hide the butter when I made peanut butter sandwiches. Of course I didn't actually listen to my mother.
@Karen A., my dad loves that combo! I had never heard of someone else eating it.... is your mom from the mid-west? My dad grew up in Ohio and says this was a fairly common sandwich.
@Cheryl 90, Yep, NW Ohio!
@Karen A., PB and mayo (I will deem Miracle Whip mayo in this case) is most excellent. PB and mayo is a southern thing - mayo was part of food commodities back in the day. It and fried bologna and mayo sandwiches are my go to comfort foods. PB and mayo are at the bottom of my food pyramid. Along with red meat, potatoes, and ketchup. Now I'm hungry.
I am thankful for a toddler who may be considering the possibility of beginning to sleep through the night. Sleep is not his jam and I very much miss it! But last night I fell asleep while putting him to bed, woke up in the morning, and realized he didn’t wake up once. It was glorious.
@Myndie from California, congratulations on reaching this milestone 🙂 May you have many more nights of sleep.
Butter on top of peanut butter toast? Definitely something I will have to try! I am very familiar with melted butter between the peanut butter and the bread -- it's my guilty pleasure.
Gratitude is running high this week:
1. I am very thankful for this blog and the good habits Kristen and all of you readers (help me, A. Marie, for the correct term here) encourage.
2. My husband and I babysat three very energetic grandchildren so our son and his wife could visit the city of his next duty station (Army) and I was a bit (ok, a lot) anxious while preparing for this venture. We are old and they are not timid children who ask for instructions. Well, it went swimmingly! The kids are so delightful, even when being naughty, which of course happens from time to time. One child is very focused so he was very sure to let us know that breakfast had to be started by 6:53 (not 7:00) and shoes and socks are to be on by 7:23 (not 7:30). So helpful. Of course we rewarded them with things like ice cream and a trip to Red Robin so everyone was happy.
3. The weather has been beautiful for the past few days - Carolina blue skies and lots of sunshine. And the bugs are not out for the summer yet so it's been nice spending lots of time outdoors.
4. I'd love to post a picture here of our grand-kitty, who is also a snuggle cat. She has charmed even my husband who has until now been a... oh how I hate to say it... cat hater. He is enjoying cuddle time with her, something I never thought I'd see in my lifetime.
5. Looney Tunes cartoons on a portable hard drive. The grandkids watch them after showers and before bedtime. I had forgotten how hilarious the Roadrunner, Bugs Bunny and all the rest are. The four year old laughed so hard he fell off the sofa. No injury thankfully. We did have to threaten to cut them off if they sang "Kill The Wabbit" during church.
6. This stage of life. I am close to my 66th year here on earth, a thing the 20-something me thought would be horrible. Let me tell you, it is anything but horrible! Challenging at times, yes, and there's not much pleasure looking in the mirror, but oh so much joy! Just to name a few: old friends; new friends; communication technology making the world smaller; availability of food, shelter & clothing; and a perspective on life that was lacking in my younger years. I am becoming more aware of when to keep my mouth shut vs. when to speak up boldly, how to not invent problems that don't yet exist, and how to not look back on the past with regret. There are a lot of crazy things in the world right now and I have a temptation to dwell on them. But there have always been crazy new things to worry about, we just have a new version of crazy here in 2024. So hang in there, lovely friends!
@Elaine N, One of my favorite memories is going with my dear friend to see Looney Tunes on a big screen at Radio City with a live orchestra. Kill the Wabbit, indeed. Children today are missing out with their anodyne kids' shows.
The commentariat is what you're looking for, I think. 🙂
@Kristen, yes. Or the Very Kind Commentariat, as Karen A. has dubbed us today.
@Elaine N, I love how you expressed your thoughts in #6. I'm closing in on my 65th. Your visit with your grandkids sounds delightful!
Thankful, first and foremost today, Kristen, for this exercise. It never fails to remind me of all the good in my life that might otherwise be overlooked among the bad pieces.
Question: what is a clinical bag?
Thankful for an especially lovely visit week with DS1 and our granddaughter that included a day-of-treats (ala Katy at The NCA) special celebration for her upcoming birthday.
Thankful for a generally optimistic attitude that always prevails when the rough stuff happens. And for this community that shares their stories that run the gamut of the human condition. It’s always uplifting to read these comments.
Basically it's a bag with lots and lots of pockets, designed to carry everything you need for a clinical shift at a hospital!
A good day!
1. I had a two month break from clinical work, because I had a research project to work on. I really needed the rest, and I'm glad to have had it. Back to clinical work on Monday!
2. I was working on a draft version of the dress I'm making for my belated wedding-reception out of inexpensive fabric I've had for many years. I am SO GRATEFUL that I made myself do that, because I made a critical measurement error when cutting the skirt--better discover it now than later!
3. I was on my own with my daughter yesterday from daycare pickup to bedtime. That rarely happens; usually I'm the one working late. It was so nice to be together.
4. I'm grateful that wider-leg jeans are back in style!! So comfortable. I hear rumblings among Gen Z that the low-rise bootcut (with a statement belt, perhaps) may come back, but that's their mistake to make--I lived through the 00's! I'm not going back!
5. This morning, my mom forwarded me a letter from some Israeli family friends with whom we'd lost touch. I knew their children as little kids and worried about them. I am a little teary and glad to know that they are safe; as they said in their letter: these days, that's a lot. My family also remains safe, so far. We try to focus on that, in the face of everything else.
@Meira@meirathebear, dunno if you know this, but the initial mock up is called a muslin (usually made of muslin) or a toile.
@Meira@meirathebear, I'm so glad to hear your family and friends are safe.
@Cheryl 90, I second those sentiments to Meira@meirathebear.
I have had a rough week and I am so grateful for my two kitties.Their purrs and soft fur are a comfort when the going gets tough,as well as their antics!
I am determined to turn around this mood ,today.I have a volunteer training at a thrift shop run by our local hospice, and I have been looking forward to it all month so I can get started with regular volunteer shifts.
I also have an art session in my home studio planned.
ALWAYS grateful for your posts.Yesterdays’ post about piano music makes me want to study/play piano again.I was quite good up to my 30’s.. then.. life… many moves..no more piano.I may get one again! I loved show tunes and classical. Will make a note of the books you recommend!
I used to share a daily gratitude with two different friends by text, but after over a year we just stopped doing it. Not that we had nothing to be grateful for, mind you. So I'm grateful for this weekly exercise/reminder.
I'm glad it's going to be cooler (<90) the rest of the week. I have a few outdoor things to take care of.
I'm glad my therapist is back after some time off. After just one appointment, I'm getting things done that I've been putting off. She keeps me accountable, if nothing else. And she helps me look at things in a different way.
I'm grateful for my snugglecat.
I'm glad my mom is healthy. We started having a weekly phone call. I'm not sure how long ago; it might be close to a year. We had been exchanging letters, so that has slowed down, but if we miss a week for some reason, I take that as an opportunity to write her a quick note. It has to be quick because letters take 3-4 days to travel across the country and I'd like my letter to get to her before the next phone call.
I'm glad I've been able to get some work done lately. I was feeling sluggish and spending a lot of time in bed, but deadlines are looming. My brain feels less foggy suddenly, so I can do some work.
Thankful for being flexible with plans. There was a time in my life that when the plans of something changed I came unglued. It's so much easier to roll with the flow.
Thankful for my plants and flowers. Many remain alive even with general neglect. My weeping fig tree is sadly one sided because the part next to the east window is flourishing and the part out into the room is not. It is on the list to be trimmed, turned and more potting soil added to the pot. I have had it since it was a foot tall. And it was one of the first plants I purchased out of college in 1975. It is now 7ft tall with a caliper of two inches. I have several outdoor midspring flowers coming into bloom. The English bluebells are quite pretty.
Grateful to be planning our MG Club Master Gardener Plant Sale. It is one of our most noticeable events in the community. I have worked the last two years at making it also an educational opportunity about our local Extension offerings and include other important educational group efforts (i.e. Home Grown National Park) to raise awareness of our need to include native plantings to support pollinators. Our ecosystem requires balance. It also requires finesse to work with some who would rather the endeavor be "utilitarian" rather than "eye catching" and cutesy. Marketing is in my skillset.
Thankful for Chai Latte. Eases me into my mornings. (That and this sweet group.)
Thankful for Miss Molly. I am impressed with her ability to come in sometimes with a few minutes of exhilaration after being out. This past week I had to take a picture of her position on the double bed for fb. I had awakened next to the edge while she was smack dab in the middle
@Chrissy, I have one more week of lecture and then a study session before taking the Master Gardener test. I'm a bit nervous, it's so much information. Am always glad to hear from an already certified and active Master Gardener!
Thankful for
My puppies. https://ibb.co/TgfQhdx
Rescue Pup is so smart and reminds me a lot of my first and favorite dog, who I got in 1985. And New Pup is so pretty and adorable, he makes everyone's heart melt. I'm also thankful that my two older dogs are getting used to having two new puppies arrive inside of a month.
The homey feeling I get when the dishwasher is running and I can hear the washer and dryer going too. I'm sensitive to noise but I like these, as well as the sounds of landscapers mowing. Did I mention the spring peepers? They get so loud this time of year.
My feral kitties. While decreased in number, they still meow to greet me every morning.
My vintage copper sailfish weathervane. I don't know why but the fish looks very cheerful. https://ibb.co/93H98qV I use it as an garden ornament rather than a weathervane.
DinGus our kitty is so patient with New Pup, who enthusiastically tries to rip fur off his tail.
@Rose, Oh my God, those eyes! That face!! What a cutie.
@Rose, your pups are very cute!
@Rose, that blue-eyed beagle boy is the cutest thing ever!
@Ruby, Thanks, folks. His name is Jasper. His fur feels like velvet right now.
The older puppy, who's about six months, is Mack. Despite being a stray puppy no one cared about, my vet says he's in perfect health. My dog trainer says, "Mack is THE MAN!"
Jasper also has a perfect golden heart shape on top of his head.
@Rose,
So cute!! Love the sailfish weathervane/garden ornament, too.
@Rose, I have a feral, who another cat loving neighbor will feed/treat when needed. Neighbor has much better shelter than I do but feral tends to use ours more. Still p*sses me off to no end when people dump cats in our area. Neighbor and I do all we can. But there are still some sad times.
I love peanut butter on toast but adding butter to it feels a bit like gilding the lily. Just a bit much. My wife likes butter and peanut butter on English muffins though.
Things I'm thankful for this week:
For the local library. I take my daughter to the library every week and while there are things there I do not like (I do feel my area can be a bit too radical) I do like that we can borrow books, movies and video games for free. It's a nice perk to say the least.
For being able to line dry my laundry again. I'm enjoying the energy savings and the excuse to go out in the sunshine and fresh air. I know I'm not getting rich by doing it but it makes me happy.
That my wife and daughter get to see their friends regularly. My wife got to have a girls' night with some of her friends and my daughter is going to see some of her friends this weekend. My daughter has questioned why Dad never goes out but I'm just happy they get to.
For living in a place where trash isn't a great concern to me. I was watching some videos about how bad the landfill situations are in some countries and how it's common in certain countries to just toss trash on the ground or throw it in the rivers to make it someone else's problem. I'm not saving the planet with my reusable cup but I do my bit.
@Battra92, your description of the butter with peanut butter really made me laugh, but also described my feelings perfectly. Well done. 🙂
Hehe, well, I guess I like gilded lilies. 😉
@Battra92, some of us are just homebodies (count me in). Nothing wrong with that.
I don't usually participate but here it goes!...
I'm thankful that I was able to travel last weekend (6 hours) to pick up my 5 year old grandson and bring him home with me for the week. We stopped 1/2 way and had lunch and played on a playground. That made the 6 hours easier.
His family is traveling today to come for a long weekend and will pick him up.
My Dad's celebration of life will be this weekend. It's stressful getting everything ready but I look forward to seeing friends and family celebrate him. He will be greatly missed.
So thankful that I'm able to enjoy my grandson this week. This is the first time I have had him here by himself.
@CHW, I'm sorry about your dad and glad that you could have your grandson for a week-long visit.
@CHW, condolences. I dread the passing of my Dad. While Mom's passing was a blessing, I don't think Dad's will be. Embrace the good memories and times. That is my plan.
- I'm thankful that I get to enjoy baby snuggles with our grandson who turned 2 months old this week. They live close by, so I get to see him multiple times a week, which is a blessing since he is growing so fast!
- I'm thankful that I have the strength to carry the baby and to get up off the floor while holding him.
- I'm thankful for the sunny weather we've had this week and that the weekend forecast is for sunshine and warmer temperatures.
- I'm thankful that my sister's doctor decided that she doesn't require back surgery at this time.
- I'm thankful that while the project I am working on is ending early, management has assured me that they will find another project for me and that I should not look for another job.
This week I am thankful:
*for the day with my graduating boy (registering for college classes).
*that the dream (that we'd had a Doc McStuffins bandaid tattooed on our youngest daughter's neck when she was a toddler) was just a dream.
*for fun science projects involving M & M's.
*that the end is in sight, and soon I will have only 5 homeschooled students. Will I maybe feel a little less overwhelmed?
*for the pretty photographs my daughter took. She captured a moment of intense concentration as my youngest first started out on the bike without training wheels.
*that a friend's little boy wasn't hurt worse in a trampoline fall. (Surgery wasn't required for the broken arm.)
I also thought that was slivers of white cheddar on your toast. That would be good! I love peanut butter toast with raisins on it or thinly sliced strawberries.
Thankful this week for DH getting in to see his regular doctor, as he's got a respiratory illness going on that's pretty bad. The meds from urgent care helped some, but his coughing could shatter glass. Thankful that I had the togetherness to deal with some annoying household admin stuff, that my beloved old wristwatch arrived back from being mailed off for repairs all shined up and working great, that our wild and crazy rescue pup has not destroyed anything this week, and my tiny container garden is flourishing.
For the peanut butter toast, I haven't tried it & I try not to rule things out before trying them, but it's not high on my list. Peanut butter toast is my go to when I'm getting over being sick & I'm still not up for regular food but I'm ready for something more than crackers.
1) Incredibly grateful that the college decision is done for DS18 & he made such an awesome choice. It's a great school, & I think will be a great fit for him.
2) So, so happy that the college he chose is near my family, which means that not only does he have a lot of support nearby (but, not too close - 90 minutes to 2.5 hours, depending on family member), but also that I will get lots of additional time with my family at various points during the year.
3) Grateful to have such a close relationship with my family. For me, this is a given, but I know it's not for everyone. My sister is my BFF, my mom & I travel together & my dad is an incredible guy. Add on fun aunts, uncles & cousins &I feel so lucky.
4) My mom & I are heading to Sedona on Sunday for a hiking trip that is an early Mother's Day event. So lucky that I get along so well with my mom, and that she is healthy enough to do things like this at 70+. I try not to take any of it for granted.
5) That both my teens are going to prom this year. DS18 has never expressed any interest in these types of activities, but he has a girlfriend at the moment, which has changed a tune a bit. I always want them to try new things, so when they leave high school, they have no regrets about things they didn't do.
Looove Peanut Butter toast on whole grain! But i like butter first (it gets melty), THEN peanut butter! Such a great snack!
The toast looks weird but I'll try it this afternoon because butter and peanut butter are both pretty terrific (and I love peanut butter with cheese).
Migraine meds
Sunshine
Cats
Family
Friends
This past Friday I had to take my HB to emerg: Considering the (bad) state of the Canadian medical system, our experience in emerg was pretty good. We were there for 5.25 hours in total. Thankfuls: his condition was/is treatable with antibiotics (an acute UTI/ kidney infection). The CT scan of his kidneys did not reveal anything bad, no cancer, nothing, so a huge relief. Got an appt with a urologist within 2 days, only it had to be rescheduled to next week, so still pretty quick. And also thankful that parking cost me only $17.00. I was expecting it to be a LOT more expensive.
My forsythia plant is blooming. It was a gift from my father many years ago, so it is a lovely memory of him.
Spring: still quite cool, but at least the chance of snow is no more. This weekend we are expecting to be up above 20C.
I have been enjoying walks around my neighbourhood. This is my favourite walking weather, 5 to 17C; before the heat and humidity of the summer rolls in.
My SIL is having surgery on Monday for a brain tumour. I am thankful that it is operable: I know another friends' wife who has a brain tumour that is in-operable so that is bad. Keeping a positive outlook after all this doom and gloom.
I am so thankful that I started saving when I was 30 into a 403B. It started out as $100 a month but than varied as I went part time to SAHM then maxed out after 50. This week I took my first withdrawal. To celebrate my son's graduation from college and my retirement after 35 years of teaching, we are going on a expedition trip to Antartica. It is absurdly expensive. However, the three of us are healthy, son has the time, and I have the nest egg so there will never be a better time.
I am grateful I should be able to live quite comfortably on my pension without any further withdrawal from the 403B for ten years while the money continues to work its doubling magic.
I am grateful I have learned ninja frugal skills from all the frugal communities I participate in so that I can enjoy freedom from financial fear. It doesn't mean finances are easy, it just means I have confidence my family will weather whatever comes.
@mary ann, Woo hoo, congratulations on your retirement, your son's graduation, and your very cool trip of a lifetime to Antarctica!
@mary ann, so cool that you're going to Antarctica!
1. For the Ladies conference at my church this past week. Powerful speakers, powerful messages and a beautiful time to connect & build community with so many great ladies. The sigh of relief and thanks in my spirit was palpable.
2. For our furniture that was delivered this week. We have been sleeping on a mattress on the floor now for a few weeks and I can confirm that a mattress in an actual bed is far superior. Plus drawers to put clothes into is an awesome thing.
3. For a body that allows me to continue to do bootcamp workouts and encourage those around me who are in the exact spot I was a year and a half ago. What a blessing to remember to look back and help/encourage/support the next one in line. for trainers that push me to keep on keeping on.
4. For an upcoming vacation to our favorite beaches with our dogs and our kid - just us.
We need the break and I am so looking forward to time away.
5. For finally looking in the mirror and not seeing my former 297lb self but a new body with muscles in smaller clothing still imperfect and miles to go on this journey. Gosh I am so grateful for this.
@Angie, your #5 - here's to good health!
This week I'm thankful:
* that my husband and I got to go away for our anniversary last weekend and that my parents were willing to watch our kids and our dog. We had a wonderful time and I'm glad that we're doing so well together 15 years in.
* for awesome people to serve with in the various ministries I'm part of. Last night was my final Wednesday night for the school year and it's been a pretty solid crew my entire 3 years. I'm thankful for the ways our friendships have deepened and for the kids we were able to serve. For my Monday/Wednesday morning group, I'm really thankful for the way we collaborate and for the different ways God has gifted us.
* for my community around me. This week has been full - some grieving the loss of a friend, some preparing to move, some dealing with unexpected news, some going through new experiences with kids... I'm so thankful that we are not doing any of this alone.
* for the beauty of the trees in spring.
* for parents who have been through things already and the wisdom they share with us who are just starting those phases/issues.
* for grace and forgiveness.
* for the chance to workout! I haven't been able to make my Thursday morning exercise class much in the last month and a half, so I'm really thankful I was able to be back this morning!
Congratulations, Megan for a safe delivery and new baby snuggles!
Kristen - we eat several combos of hard butter toast. Toast, honey, hard butter. Toast, honey, hard butter, peanut butter. Toast peanut butter & sharp cheddar shreds.
When I have a long day, I pack a half sandwich of pbutter & cheese. It will last me hours!
I like that it is stable, fits in my go bag (backpack) and I never tire of it.
When I was in college (80's), my grandpa gave me bulk sharp cheddar cheese and peanut butter once per month. It was his way of supporting me. He lived 3 states away, would drop them off when he had business in my area. Such a fond memory!
This all happened yesterday:
* Installed new driveway gate yesterday. My cousin & his son are awesome!
* Sold my brother's commercial sized log splitter
* Sold my brother's fancy fishing boat
* Sold 3 very nice ocean rod and reels and 4 ocean crab pots
* Finally live trapped a menacing horrible no good cat who's owner refused to get fixed nor keep him at home. He has caused thousands of dollars in vet bills in just a few weeks. We trapped him, put an apple air tag on him, set up various trail cams and drones to find his home. When we confronted his owners they said it was our problem that their cat was sneaking into our homes. They gratefully signed a release for his capture and neuter. So frustrating!
*Our newest cat members are beginning to integrate into the morning routine and make friends (again - one is a litter mate of 3 of our cats).
@Blue Gate Farmgirl,
Sounds pike you had some nice sales! And phooey on those cat owners. So very irresponsible of them.
My kid has asked for butter with peanut butter on toast before and I thought it was weird but it looks like others like it too.
I'm thankful ...
1) That I got to spend time and had fun with my two oldest girls painting.
2) That God has blessed me with artistic abilities and quick reflexes.
3) For eyes to see the start of spring around me and the beauty of this world.
4) For ears to hear the sweet chirping of birds in my backyard.
5) To be able to take walks in the morning around my neighborhood again.
I came here today knowing I could write up my thankful list, and really needing to write it up because I have been kind of down this week. Thank you for providing a space for such an uplifting practice. This week I am thankful:
-that I was contacted this morning by another academic to be on a panel next year. I am applying for a job that, despite the fact that it is a really great opportunity, is not tenure track. It reminded me that I don't have my dream job yet, and that made me sad. (Cue the tiny violins for someone with a great job applying for another great job that she is likely to get but is still sad because it isn't the greatest job she could get. *Eye roll.*) The panel invitation made me feel wanted and important, which is really all I needed.
-that my radiation therapy is scheduled to start on Monday. I was also sad because my new fake boobs aren't as big as I thought I wanted. What a silly thing to be sad about. Here I am surviving breast cancer AND getting to escape a deadly disease with nicer boobs than when I started. Oh, woe is me. *Another eye roll.* I am incredibly grateful to be here, to have boobs that flatter my vanity, and for the fact that I will finish up radiation only one day after the kids get out of school so that we can really enjoy the summer.
-that the foundation on the house we are rehabbing is being completed as I type. This is a contract I signed 18 months ago. It is a complicated job in a rural area with very few tradespeople. I had also finally just reallocated the money I had set aside to finish the job to another renovation we are working on. When it rains it pours. We'll shift some things around and find the money. I am just so happy to get another step done on this property.
-that I am finally back to riding my bike. I love to ride my bike. There is something about zipping around with the wind blowing past me on a very simple machine that makes me feel free. I haven't been mentally or physically able to ride in very long time. Just last week I felt ready to get back to it. I am slow. My a$$ hurts. It was hard. But it was also just so glorious.
@Amanda in VA, I like your eye-rolling attitude. Sometimes I get a bad attitude over the smallest things, and then I get mad at myself for being so ridiculous.
1. PTO – I know that not all jobs come with this perk so I feel thankful each time I can take the time I need, no questions asked.
2. Flowers that last a long time in a vase – I purchased a bouquet of alstroemeria three weeks ago before my in-laws came over for dinner. I specifically purchased these flowers because they seem to last forever. The bouquet is still looking beautiful and makes me smile each day I see it holding on.
3. A capable husband – I’ve seen so many reels of women floored at the state of their house after they come back from a few days away (their houses are total disasters even though their spouse was home and they are expected to clean up the mess they we’re even home to make). I came home from a week away and my house was just as clean as I left it. My laundry was done, there was food in the fridge, and I didn’t have to meal prep anything for my husband to eat while I was away. It seems like a low bar, but I’m thankful.
4. The library!
5. So many sunny days – spring is finally here and the green haze of leaves on trees is just beautiful.
Alstroemeria last SO LONG. Such a bargain of a flower.
*Thankful that both of my daughters received great news this week. The college student received a sizeable grant for next semester, and her older sister got news that her work had created a custom job description for her that also comes with a nice raise. Very happy news for both of them.
*thankful for rain that keeps us from needing to turn on the sprinkler system yet
*for my husband who is fearless in adding new skills in fixing all the things (youtube university is awesome!) to save us money.
*for my dad's recovery after several vertebrae fusions in his next. He's in his late 70's and doesn't heal as easily as he once did. I am so very thankful that we live in an area with such skilled medical care.
*for my amazing boss. He gifted me my favorite sugar-free latte TWICE this week. Work is so much easier when you work with friends!
*grateful, thankful, BLESSED to have another year cancer free. I am at 12 1/2 years with no evidence of disease (NED) I have several friends fighting the big C, and know how incredibly blessed I am.
*thankful for this blog that always adds positivity to my life (even when the post is something hard or sad, the supportive comments make me realize that our world is filled with kind, supportive people! Thank you to all of you who lift and encourage with your comments!)
NOT thankful for roofers that keep promising to come at a certain time and then are late or no-shows for the day. The work is going at a snail's pace. It is making me very crabby.
thankful for:
1. Clobber paws, who now lacks the capacity to do anything about it, is in love with the neighbor's dog. He managed to jump a six foot fence again last night and they just brought him over and said it was no big thing. I still love him though.
2. Teenaged garden boy who has worked for me since he was 12 and is now 18 and still willing to fit us into his new adult life. He is coming today to extend the fence to seven feet tall.
3. My truck, 15 years old and so very reliable even though we let it sit all winter so we only have to insure it during my gardening season.
4. That we have had no rain or snow while the roof is being worked on.
5. The husband, always the husband. That after 40 years he still likes to wake us up about 15 minutes early so we can snuggle and talk before the day starts. Although now Clobber paws and Houndini hear his voice and they jump in the bed, too, so it is a bit squished with a total of 220 pounds of dog joining us.
@Lindsey, your #5 made me absolutely gooey with nostalgia for similar times with my DH. (Although I must admit that we shared the bed with no more than one 50-pound dog at a time!)
@Lindsey, you are a saint. If my better half woke me up 15 minutes early (his time I'd be extremely pissed off, my time just pissed off) would not be a good thing. Rescue #1 cat does wake him up. And like another poster said, a special cat since better half does not complain.
Well done - talk about eating a bunch of frogs!
I'm thankful a recent spate of medical testing is over for me, that we have some fun plans coming up with our young adults kids who still want to hang out with us, that the kids who need gigs are getting some good interviews [cross your fingers!] and that my working week is done in a couple of hours [I'm part time].
I am thankful for teledoc. I have a treatment plan for pink eye without leaving the house. Teledoc has also saved us $105 on Dr co-pays.
I am thankful for my husband who feels that he should be equally involved in the care for our baby. He is always surprised that other men do not feel this way.
rain. California always needs more rain.
a friend who dropped off a new toy for our daughter.
Wow! Shelley looks like she has lost some weight!
She has! She is finally down to a healthier weight for her frame and hopefully that’s gonna keep her healthy as a geriatric Kitty. Here’s hoping!!
-We've had some hard things this week, but I'm thankful that those hard things are showing us areas we need to improve in.
- For sunny walks and beautiful wildflowers.
- For an upcoming trip, I love airtravel!
- For my family, immediate and extended.
- caring teachers who mentor student teachers
- student teachers who work hard
- laps swum
- teen sons who are willing to chat and hug
- choir concerts
Cats - have to sit on everything. The cat from my formative years would sit in a matchbox. If a bit of my butt fits, I must sits.
Better half spreads butter THEN spreads peanut butter. A sin in my book - you don't need both.
I have two cats that were dumps. While both are really good cats, one is the best cat we've ever had. Were they frugal - Hades no. One was a bit of hot mess (anyone - pregnant kitten with other health issues?). The other has what appears to be a lifelong health issue requiring medication that *if* only requires 2x per week, is $50/month. If daily until issue clears up, then every other day for two weeks, do the math. I wouldn't trade either. And despite joining the household at different times, they are the best of buddies. They are like quite comical and I consider them to be frugal because they make me very happy.
I grew up with peanut butter a butter sandwiches. We think it is a Danish thing - bread always gets buttered, no matter what. My mother still eats them that way.
Wow, can't say that I've ever seen toast quite like that before! (I'm initially a little grossed out haha but I could also see how it could be good) You should start some kind of Facebook thread to get people's ideas about all the different ways they prepare toast, and then do a blog post about it. It's interesting to think about it as a quick easy (and frugal!) snack, but I never really get creative at all about it and that would be fun to do.
I’m thankful my daughter wanted to spend time with me yesterday. She had an interesting appointment with an artisan whom she knew I would enjoy meeting. I was happy to tag along.
I’m thankful for the steps my husband and I are taking in downsizing our stuff. It’s not an easy task to figure out what things to keep, repurpose, give away or throw away. But little by little we’re making measurable progress.
As always, I’m thankful for health and strength for my husband and me to be able to do our social ballroom dancing.
The benefits are richly rewarding. We’re in our 7th year now and still learning so much. We’re thankful for our instructor as well. She is very patient with us but so fun and encouraging. We’re really looking forward to the dance outings this weekend!
Oh I love peanut butter with cold butter.
How good are cats?! I currently have one curled up on my chest and it never fails to make me smile.
I love banana bread toasted with butter then peanut butter on top of the butter. Yum!
I am thankful for the book to art club at the library. I loved all the art projects for Still Life by Louise Penny....a puzzle picture of Three Pines, made with 4 different puzzles, pictures made with markers, etc.
I enjoy my volunteering for days for girls making liners and Lutheran World Relief making quilts. Thankful for the time I have to do this.
My husband's diabetes medicine prices have skyrocketed. Thankful we have funds to pay for them. Medicare pays some.
Thankful my husband is a bargain shopper so we get the deals. We have a huge garden and help others.
Peanut butter and butter sandwich was my favorite growing up. I need to have that now I think...I also like my grandpa's favorite, peanut butter and bologna (it's not as gross as it sounds, lol)