Treasures and Blessings

I discovered some golden nuggets over this holiday weekend:

1. We had a brief rain storm today, and while I missed being outside in it, I DID get to see the gorgeous DOUBLE rainbow that was the result of the storm.
2. My daughter made homemade chocolate chip cookies while I sat on the couch enjoying my Colts win another close game.
3. Trader Joe's prepared side dishes made my Thanksgiving feast easy to prepare, and they were absolutely delicious, too. I had dinner prepared and on the table in 20 minutes! Oh, the smoked honey-glazed turkey breast from the Honeybaked Ham store helped, too....*grin*
4. Hubby and I had a long overdue discussion about some things we've been putting aside, and I came out of the conversation with a very peaceful heart.
5. My son FINALLY finished his long-term project - whew!
6. I did not worry about having the Christmas tree up, decorations up, or cards written and addressed. And I didn't care that I hadn't done it yet, either.
7. I did not do one bit of Christmas gift shopping.
8. I did very little cooking after Thanksgiving day.
9. My daughter and husband did most of the laundry.
10. My stress level was non-existent most the entire weekend.

So, I'm fairly certain I have lots of things for which I am grateful. How about you?

Ruby Tuesday and Other Assorted Nonsense

The photo above was taken at my kids' school on Friday, November 6th. The gentleman wearing this shirt proudly told me that he was at the school's Veterans Day celebration at the request of his granddaughter. The granddaughter wanted her grandfather to be thanked and recognized for his service in the US Marine Corps.

Semper Fi.

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Speaking of school, I'm wondering why if I haven't been a student now for xx years, why am I stressing over incomplete homework assignments? Yeah, I know, the responsibility should lie with my son, but as bright as that kid is, he sure is obstinate about doing the actual work. Sigh. I just wish all of his assignments and tests could be turned in verbally; he'd be a straight A student!

It's difficult to comprehend how quickly time has been flying. We're facing Thanksgiving in just a few days, and soon thereafter it will be Christmas. When the kids go back to school in January, we're halfway to my daughter completing her final year in grade school. She and I are both having trouble contemplating the thought of high school next year.

A few weeks ago, I was asked specifically by our school principal to proofread and edit some important documents, one that will set the tone for our school's direction for the next few years, and one that is an application for a special recognition for our school. In the midst of all that, I've had friends who have suffered with health ailments, the possible loss of homes, the death of a parent, and other less tragic but still difficult challenges.

I found myself feeling a bit overwhelmed emotionally, but I stiffened my back and weathered on. Then came a comment on a very old post, one that accused me of only wanting people to feel sorry for me and that "sooooooo many people know the real truth about the kind of person you are."

Really?

Do I seem pathetic to some? Do I really appear to want sympathy from all? Hmmm....let's take stock of my life:

1. I have been happily married for over 18 years to a highly intelligent, loyal, funny, and trustworthy man who is a fabulous father to our kids.
2. I have two healthy, extremely bright, affectionate, and compassionate children.
3. I am educated and have ample opportunities for personal growth.
4. My health is stable.
5. I live in a very comfortable home in a safe community.
6. I have fantastic friends who love me, trust me, laugh with me, and give me strength.
7. I have sisters who drive me nuts but who love me nonetheless and would be by my side if I needed them.
8. I have an outstanding relationship with my mother-in-law and father-in-law.
9. I am a perfect creation and daughter of God.

What more could I want?

Never Forget...

...what they've done for us.

Never forget their sacrifice.

Dona Nobis Pacem

Peace is...embracing the goodness in oneself...and in each other.

Bear with me for posting this repeat from November 2007; this is for Mimi:

Are You Ready?

BlogBlast for Peace is coming up on November 5th! Is your peace globe ready to fly?

It's NOT?!?!

Go HERE to get your globe template. Share your message of peace.

And while you're at it, send some peaceful, warm thoughts to Mimi as she continues to grieve on the loss of her beloved daddy.

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Sorry I haven't been around much. I'm having a minor health issue, and it's really kicking my butt. I'm resting up, but I'll be posting on November 5th, and I hope to make blog rounds even sooner.