501. catching up with Cherry Stucky after long months of busyness.
502. dinner in Power & Light with Becky and Shawn
503. meeting Titus McCabe and seeing his smiley grin light up a room
504. the conkle twins and Brooke..reunited again
505. a saturday shopping trip with becky and rachel and laughing until we cried in the dressing room. Good thing we had the place to ourselves
506. showing the girls my apartment so they can visualize what I call home
507. fresh flowers on my table on the last day of school with a card
508. being introduced to Ravi Zaccharias. What an amazing man with incredible stories
509. spending time with KC friends
510. great conversations over coffee
511. introducing Sanna and Aunt Carolyn to Fiorelli Jackstack BBQ....yum!
512. messages on forgiveness
513. the song Blessings by Laura Story
514. late night talks with Heather Schilling
515. the grandma trip 2011
516. hearing grandma tell me how she fell in love with grandpa and how God had to change her heart so she was open to the idea of going to Africa with him....so beautiful! I hope my love story will be equally as amazing some day.
517. laughing with grandma until we cried518. a beautiful Minnesota sunset
519. seeing Larry's old cars that he's rebuilt. What an amazing gift to be able to reassemble something from its shell. My brain certainly is NOT wired that way. They were so beautiful!
520. grandma's beautiful flowers on her deck
521. air conditioners to take the humidity out of the air
522. breakfast out with grandma and mom...one of my favorite things to do is go out for breakfast. I never do it so it's a special treat!
523. an outlet mall with great deals
524. Emmanuel God with us, and we remember you through you body and your blood. Emmanuel, you gave your life, our hearts cry thank you for your sacrifice.
525. bleeding heart flowers...so intricately designed
527. psalm 103:1-2 Let all that I am praise the LORD; with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name. Let all that I am praise the LORD; may I never forget the good things he does for me.
528. geraniums in full bloom
529. an entire load of laundry that is just pink...can you tell I love the color?
530. looking through old pictures of me and my dad and remembering all the good memories we've made. My dad is the BEST!
531. that happy, content feeling deep inside
532. getting to help with the Middle East Adventure. 3 years and counting...I love this night!
533. a rainy summer day perfect for curling up with a good book
534. an email from the library notifying me that my Karen Kingsbury book is in....I can't wait to get lost in that book.
535. the Jesus Calling devotional book..always perfect for what I'm struggling with that day.
536. slowing down enough to see God's creativeness all around me
537. hard work that makes me sweat
538. therapy that pushes me farther than I thought I could go
539. a bargain deal while shopping
540. shopping with Rita
541. meeting a man from the Middle East who has been forced to leave his people but yet has a burden for them
542. seeing my dad's passion for reaching the people of the ME
543. that feeling you have when you crawl into bed after a day of hard work and stretch out knowing you can finally rest...such peace
544. spending time with extended family
545. being ok with me
546. ice cold water on a hot and humid day
547. real hummus made by the Holy Land Cafe
548. seeing Rita pushing a walmart cart through the store (since they don't have those in Cyprus) with only a tube of lipstick in it.
549. dinner leftovers with mom
550. turning off the alarm at 9 and sleeping til 10 a.m. (for those who know me..typically sleeping til 8 is sleeping "late" for me)
551. a pedicure with a flower on my toe..now I'm really ready for the beach
552. picking up and securing a copy of the latest Karen Kingsbury book. I can't wait to dive in!
553. my sore throat isn't in my head..just a pesky bronchial infection. 554. Zpack to the rescue!!!
555. wimbledon & beach volleyball to watch since I don't feel up to par
556. remembering that a week ago today I was walking on the pier in Naples
557. naps
558. sorting through my books and finding a hand written note from a long lost friend
589.
595. a random rainy July day and being able to stay inside and enjoy it
596. making progress with physical therapy and having full range of motion back in my foot.
597. the smell of chlorine as I walk into my gym/community center
598. Using a new machine during physical therapy and wishing they had one at the gym. Guess what... I walked in tonight and there is one almost identical to it there now. IT's almost like God got it "just for me" and is encouraging me to jump back on the work out band wagon now that my foot is healing. I couldn't stop smiling the entire time I was working out!!!!! Thanks God!
599. sweating like crazy during a workout...makes me feel so productive!
600. a purposeful conversation with the checkout lady at the library
601. watching a fearless little boy jump into the pool repeatedly
602. fun summer colors at target on display
603. mocha coconut frappucino...hello deliciousness!
604. being complimented
605. a Saturday morning conversation with Heidi Medlong
606. husbands who watch the fussy baby so that "the girls" can chat...so selfless! Thanks Jake!
607. filling the "love tank" so I can be ready for August 17th.
608. meandering through the school supply section at Target
609. finding new supplies..this years find: Mini composition notebooks...which just may turn into a class set for their gratitude list
610. sore muscles
611. remembering to finally pick up coffee
612. when your heart feels healed and whole
613. practicing letting God "all the way in"
614. friends gathering for Theater in the Park 2011..It's gonna be a scorcher!
615. excitement over being able to serve at church
616. finally decorating the walls in my bedroom and loving the outcome
617. Be Still and Know that I am God
618. tan lines...LOVE 'em!
620. baked salmon with parsley...my mouth waters just thinking about it
621. El Roi...the God who sees
622. Reading this and realizing I'm "right on track".
"Waiting on God isn't about the suspension of meaning and purpose. It's part of the meaning and purpose that God has brought into my life. Waiting on God isn't to be viewed as an obstruction in the way of the plan. Waiting is an essential part of the plan. For the child of God, waiting isn't simply about what I'll receive at the end of my wait. No, waiting is much more purposeful, efficient, and practical than that. Waiting is fundamentally about what I'll become as I wait. God is using the wait to do in and through me exactly what He's promised. Through the wait He's changing me. By means of the wait He's altering the fabric of my thoughts and desires. Through the wait He's causing me to see and experience new things about Him and His kingdom. And all of this sharpens me, enabling me to be a more useful tool in His redemptive hands"
623. getting back into a hard core workout routine
624. looking forward to going to the gym and having the energy for it
625. brainstorm sessions with my mom
626. a magnum bar treat on a hot summer day after braving Walmart for groceries. People were rather grouchy today so I thought I deserved a sweet treat since I kept a smile pasted on my face. It was pure deliciousness!
627. getting to watch shows on the gym tv's while working out since I don't have cable at home.
628. quiet music to end the day
629. finishing a book and starting another one
630. summer rainstorms
631. finding and looking over notes that I took when Ravi Zaccharias spoke and remembering the good times
632. the soothing sounds of a running dishwasher. I'm so thankful I have something that cleans my dishes so I don't have to...what a treat!
633. lightning that lights up the sky
634. rain that watered my flowers and kept them alive since I forgot to water them today
635. remembering to gather the beach towels that were drying on my deck before the rainstorm hit
636. remembering the time I got stranded on my balcony during a severe thunderstorm and had to be rescued...I'm thankful I was inside for this one tonight!
646. grace
647. honest conversations about matters of the heart and boundaries
648. making mom's fruit cup frozen salad
649. an email from my sister...I miss her!
650. getting to see the part of the soccer game on tv tonight that I missed on Sunday
651. a good report from my physical therapist and scheduling only 2 more sessions!
652. sunshine that you can feel sting your skin when you step into it's brightness
653. target runs and finding awesome school supplies stuff in their $ bins
654. Audrey Assad music... I'm on a kick!
655. Wednesday night small group...what a great group of people
656. knowing that our times of quietness and "nothingness" are valuable times for God to show us who He is
657. sharing stories, laughing, and more stories....shhhhh! don't worry I won't share your secret!
658. a dishwasher to throw all my dishes in at the end of a great evening
659. happy hour at Houlihans with girls from work
660. talking over cocktails about who God is, Jesus, and all things faith related... I LOVE IT!
661. spending time with Amy Kralik after losing touch for a few months.
662. coffee at Starbucks..hmmm...wonder what I should try today? I'll keep you posted.
663. christian bookstores that carry books that help answer the questions of faith to give to inquiring friends
664. knowing my friends are praying for divine interactions for me
665. finishing the book Heaven is for Real. If you haven't picked up a copy I suggest you put your name on the waiting list as your local library..it is amazing! I finished it in 1 day!
666. old hymns sung by Selah
667. baptisms at church and hearing people boldy and confidantly declare their faith before us
668. lunch with friends after church to celebrate Kathleen and her upcoming move
669. watching the womens world cup soccer final with Dad in his man cave. USA lost to Japan in shootouts and I was so bummed! You should've heard my yelling at the t.v. cheering them on to victory! It certainly wasn't because I wasn't cheering!
670. harmony in the song It is Well...absolutely beautiful!
671. catching up with Susan on the phone and hearing about the "screamer" band she went to hear. I don't think I'd have said yes to that proposal..HA!
672. nailing down a pool date with Megan G.
673. being able to go to the bathroom when I "NEED" to. This seems silly but I'm completely enjoying this super simple luxury that most people take for granted. In about 4 weeks these small, simple joys will be taken away and I'll be back to a serious school schedule.
674. a kind waiter who has a good sense of humor makes a meal so much more enjoyable.
675. ibuprofen, biofreeze and ice to ease sore muscles
676. Though the path is difficult and the scenery dull at the moment, there are sparkling surprises just around the bed. Stay on th epath I have selected for you. It is truly the path of life. ~Jesus Calling on July 14)
677. babies snuggling
678. how can you not laugh and smile when a baby grins and smiles right at you...it absolutely melts my heart
679. being trusted enough to watch a friends baby
680. reading before bed to calm my mind...God's got it figured out and sometimes I just need a smack in the face to remember that.
681. reading over my gratitude list again and smiling over all that I've learned and how my heart has begun to notice the simple gestures that create lasting moments of gratitude.
681. walking into an air conditioned building after being outside for a while on these brutally hot summer days. It's refreshing and oh so enjoyable.
682. the feeling you get when the sun stings your skin when you walk outside after being indoors in the cold air conditioning. I can't help but throw my arms out beside me and relish the moment....it sometimes even calls for a twirl expressing my supreme happiness.
683. seeing a little boy get his very first library card. The look of awe and excitement that filled his big brown eyes was priceless.
684. a meaningful conversation with the lady at the libary circulation desk as she checked out my books. We discussed how the character in my book got stuck wallowing in a past bad decision and how I wanted the author to move it along a little faster. She agreed with me and we talked about how we do that in real life too.
685. having several friends try and get together with me at the same time on a Monday makes me feel loved and connected.
687. being tired when it's time to go to bed
688. Psalm 5:3 In the morning You hear my voice, O Lord; in the morning I prepare [a prayer, a sacrifice] for You and watch and wait [for You to speak to my heart].
689. breakfast at First Watch with small group girls to say farewell to Kathleen and a happy birthday to Amanda.
690. friends to empathize and help talk you through
691. walking in to a dark apartment and curling up on the couch for a mid morning nap just because I can
692. waking up early
693. doctors who are trained and are passionate about what they do
694. air conditioning on these hot days
695. an ethnic food adventure with Chad, Lynelle and Kyria Melton. Tonight we hit up a local Jordanian restaraunt. Yep, it was a hole in the wall but those typically are the best. Plastic table cloth, int'l food store next door, and food served on early 90's patterned corelle ware...LOVED IT!
696. muscles and joints that allow me to walk and ride the bike at the gym to improve my health...body, soul and spirit
697. a fighting spirit to believe truth about who I am
698. a baby's smile that always melts my heart and makes me smile back
699. good time of sharing in small groups during small group breakout time
700. It's in the little things and in the lonely places that we prove ourselves capable of the big things. If you want to be a person with a large vision, you must cultivate the habit of doing the little things well. That's when God puts iron in your bones! When God develops our inner qualities, He's never in a hurry. When God develops character, He works on it throughout a lifetime. He's not in a rush. http://www.crosswalk.com/devotionals/day-by-day/ )
701. three hundred more sightings of grace and gratitude in everyday moments
702. quiet piano music on pandora..and evenings of relaxation and rest
703. making a new recipe for small group and someone asking for the recipe
704. realizing that making food for people and having them in your home is a labor of love
705. hearing a friend talk about her heartache after her boyfriend broke up with her and remembering that place...and then thinking about how far I've come and how difficult the climb was then but how level the surface is now....the hope washes the hurt away.
706. introducing peanut butter gravy to my small group
707. coversation centered around the Bible
708. discussing "loving your enemies" with small group friends and realizing we all struggle with this....a relief to know I'm not the only flawed one who struggles to give grace in return for the hurt.
709. prayer that HE hears...whether spoken or silently uttered
710. smiles from baby david that melt my heart and bring down all walls around my heart
711. an amazing foot and calf massage at therapy today after a gentle reprimand for doing too much too soon
712. a reminder to think about how God is transforming me instead of what I'm accomplishing.
713. Lord, let my walk today be slow. What am I in such a hurry for? Slow me. Still me. Remind me that it's not how fast I go. But what I see. And I want to see glimpses of You.
714. being infused with extravagant gratitude
715. rain showers on the 7 day weather forecast.
716. a friend calling to check on me because she knew I was upset yesterday
717. extra shampoo and conditioner in the closet so I didn't have to make an extra trip to the store
718. Ravi Zacharias' book about his life: From East to West
719. taking communion at church and focusing all on God
720. sitting in a restaraunt with a group of friends and running into people from my GMU life...the clashing of worlds and the cameraderie of timeless friendship.
721. sunday afternoon naps
722. spontaneous trips to the neighborhood pool with Paul, Amanda and baby David
723. holding baby David in the water and getting him to kick and smile
724. unplanned dinner out with friends
725. quiet piano music to end the day
726. sending a note of encouragement instantly through email and knowing it'll be received
727. a sermon on the end times and realizing all of this "stuff" is going to happen because there is HOPE...a future eternity with the savior.
728. a rainy saturday morning
729. helping friends move
730. knee joints that hold up after running up and down stairs for a few hrs
731. bottles of water on a humid morning
732. a fresh haircut and color
733. a new study on Hebrews during sunday school and seeing our teachers enthusiasm and excitement for teaching
734. my house being a mess and not stressing about it
735. finally remembering to buy dish soap at the store after several failed trips to remember
736. remembering my time in Alaska last summer and the laughter around the circle after hearing "15 lbs away from my love" by Erin.
737. redemption...given to me...a selfish, prideful, broken, hurt woman.
738. I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit.
739. desiring audacious eyes to see beauty
740. The power of finding beauty in the humblest things makes home happy and life lovely. ~ Louisa May Alcott~
741. time spent with my mama putting up bulletin boards in my classroom..it's become a tradition.
742. trying a new place for Sunday lunch with small group friends: Ginger Sue's in Liberty, MO...tasty treats await you! I have to go back and try their coffee because I hear it's great too!
743. shopping with Susan
744. being at a good place to pull over when the hail started pounding my car
745. seat belts that made me feel secure when the wind was blowing my car from side to side causing me to get really scared
746. new music by the group Gungor
747. splitting a chipotle burrito
748. forcing myself to think outside the box
749. a day of dr's appointments and good results
750. the weatherman forcasting a day of mid 70's & rain in August...can't wait!
751. my air conditioner actually kicking off and the steady whirr of just the fan running
752. waking up feeling rested before my alarm even goes off
753. laughing is like an instant vacation...some days I escape on these mini trips more often than I actually work.
754. Fear is the holy ground; it holds the possibility of transformation.
755. an email from my sister to start my day...I miss her!
756. surprises
757. driving by Quick Trip and seeing 4 mail trucks parked in a line and four mailmen sitting under the shade tree eating their lunches...friends gathered to share a bit, perhaps laugh, and share stories.
758. dark clouds crowding out sunshine
759. the neighbor kids squeals of delight as they play outside
760. organizing my reading binder for the new school year
761. admitting my fears and surrendering them to the one who hears and knows and has a plan
762. a new table arrangement that makes me smile every time I see it
763. coffee and reading...sitting still and being at rest
764. talking to Kiersten after her 1st day of first grade and hearing her say, "Miss Brooke, it was so awesome. I loved it!"
765. friends who can sense my emotion by the inflection in my voice and are sympathetic and say what I need to hear.
766. sunshine and cooler temps
767. gas being $3.39 a gallon and feeling like I got a good deal
768. walking into church and feeling like I belong'
769. a quiet Sunday afternoon...laundry, cleaning, a nap
770. the sound of my blinds clinking together because of a gently breeze
771. spending one last lunch with Boi
772. playing Wii in Target for endless minutes
773. asking Boi where he wants to eat and him responding with "the rice place"...Chipotle here we come!
774. eating outside & watching the little bird waiting for a dropped rice kernel
775. the routine of our time together...it's comfortable and feels so normal
776. smiles and silly self portraits
777. not saying goodbye but saying "see you later"
778. my heart breaking because I know I've invested and loved with the best of me
779. a dream that maybe I will see Boi in his village some day
780. fat free french vanilla creamer
781. a 2 hour conversation with Heather S. hashing lifes problems and victories... now that's a good friend!
782. being able to talk about the person who's hurt you the most and not feel anger, hatred, or wish some not so nice events on them.
783. being open with friends
784. getting my car serviced, oil changed & tires aired up before school starts so I don't have to mess with it for a while
785. a friendly doctor who puts your mind at ease
786. almost being finished with my journal and being able to create a new one
787. picking out a new scent for my classroom so that it smells warm and inviting instead of like smelly 9 year old bodies after recess
788. knowing I have 2 more days to stay up late and sleep in
789. feeling more stable after 2 days of weepy, sad emotions
790. susan's current profile picture that makes me smile and giggle every single time I see it! I can't help but think, "Holy Botox!"
791. labeling classroom objects with fun colored sharpie's
792. walking into my parents house and getting to talk to my sister on the phone
793. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. Hebrews 4:16
794. talking with new friends at church
795. watching a movie with friends on a sunday night to help motivate the teacher in me... can't go wrong with Freedom Writers!
808. being asked questions and knowing I won't be judged for my answer
809. hearing the lake water lap against the shore line in a perfect steady rhythm
810. watching the ripples on the water
843. watching silvery raindrops splashing against the pavement
844. sidewalk musicians blending their voices with their guitars
845. a captivating conversation
846. huddling under an umbrella in an attempt to stay dry
847. being 1 of 50,000 people to stand in line to see the Kauffmen Performing Arts Center...such sleek lines and exquisite beauty
848. Crepes at Chez Elle with fun artwork and decor
849. a giant jar of Nutella
850. a cord that now allows me to listen to my ipod in the car...thanks friend!
851. trying to "sneak" into the venue through the musicians door but being caught...hooray for out of the ordinary adventures
852. rest
853. a hot shower that washes away germs and stress from the day
854. a late night conversation with a college roommate
855. being told by a student on a Friday afternoon that they will miss me over the weekend
856. a heart breaking and weeping at the loss of a life....gratitude for the interaction I was blessed to have had with Peggy. Her vibrant life will be missed!
857. knowing that after death we see Jesus
858. celebrating Judith's life at her memorial service
859. reading that forgiveness is a step that can't be skipped if you truly desire life change and letting the words wash over me and realizing what needs to be done.
860. being in my jammies on a friday night by 8:30 and in for the night after a long week of work
861. deciphering the English being spoken through a thick African accent
862. taking my students to the Kauffmen Center and being given the first two rows as our seats...awesome and so well behaved.
862. comments from students who've never been downtown: Wow, it looks just like New York City.
863. scrubbing ketchup out of a students white linen shirt so his mom wouldn't know he snuck it out of his closet and wore it to the symphony even though she told him not to. "Mission Accomplished!" Miss Wiens to the rescue.
864. Choosing to replace my negative self thoughts with positive ones today
865. a new cd from the library that brings calmness and peace on the drive to work each morning
866. friends staying with me...Thanks for visiting Ruthie, Jonas, Mikko & Amaia!
867. a weekend to revive the soul
868. a night at home after a week of nights out
869. a chill in the air
870. dried fall leaves crunching under foot
871. a unseasonably warm afternoon
872. a sermon about grief and how it affects our futures
873. finding a kindred spirit in an older wiser woman at church. Thanks Janet Lohnes!
874. getting all the laundry done and put away
875. the smell of dryer sheets and warm heat
876. clean underwear
877. being "ok" with not being ok with change
878. realizing just how often I wear a mask and present myself to others as if everything is alright when inside I don't feel alright
879. speaking my mind and being me
880. a sermon that speaks to the exact place I'm at in life
881. adding some peppermint hot chocolate powder to my coffee...Who says church is "boring"
882. quiet moments at Smithville Lake
883. Brian & Angie Lomas who always accept me for my realness, quirks and attitude...
884. conquering parts of p90x yoga
885. a computer that doesn't keep giving me the blue screen of death
886. a long sunday afternoon chat with my sis
887. trees that are "stuck" in their color change...half green/half orange. oddly beautiful
888. a good accent
889. being repeatedly thanked by a parent for teaching their child everyday
890. hope for now, hope for the future
891. remembering that Jesus is in every moment of my day
892. talking to parents about their childs academic progress
893. seeing a child take pride in their work as they show their parents their tracking binders
894. the smile that consumes a child's face when they hear you compliment their work
895. a twinkle in the eye and a smile on the face of a kid you've worked so hard to connect with
896. another year of conferences "in the books"
897. getting to work early even though it's going to be a long day of conferences
898. getting everything crossed off my "to do" list for the day
899. a brisk north wind making it feel life Fall again
900. meeting a variety of our English Language Learner parents during conference night
901. 100 more grateful moments to record before 1,000
902. the quiet hum of the refridgerator after a crazy day of work
903. a dinner invite from friends..can't wait to hang with Jordan & Anna West on Thursday
904. the anticipation of a long overdue haircut and color...goodbye roots!
905. watching a video about the starving families in refugee camps in Ethiopia and feeling like I'm not doing enough and then going to work and helping buy a lunch for a student who doesn't have food at home. and somehow realizing the work I'm doing is "making a difference".
906. making healthy food choices
907. a compliment from a coworker
908. reading a book for fun in the middle of the week
909. crawling back into bed after an early morning airport run
910. having family close by to check in on when they are under the weather
911. memorably father/daughter dinners
912. sinus medication that relieves the pressure in my head
913. the loud ticking of the clock at my parents house..it's strangely soothing
914. cinnamon bun coffee creamer
915. wearing flannel pajama pants and a long sleeved waffle knit shirt to bed...so comfy and cozy
916. piling on more blankets on my bed and burrowing deep inside
917. the song "It Is Well" running continuously through my head as I go through my day
918. helping friends clean their apartment knowing laughter and smiles will ensue
919. posting pics of my beginnings in France and reliving the adventure..technically I don't remember it since I was just an infant but I do love hearing the stories from my parents and friends and never tire of it. I feel as if I remember it. :) The stories are priceless..especially if the Corby's are involved!
920. seeing people raking their brilliant fall colored leaves
921. seeing the pile of leaves in my parents front yard that my mom raked but didn't quite get into the bag
922. a long hard rain
923. sunshine on my recess duty day
924. sufficient patience and grace to get my through my days with 21 nine year olds.
925. a pesky cold that makes me even more grateful for the good days of health
926. Nyquil that helps me sleep and not cough quite so much
927. not having to be on a schedule
928. First Friday's in the art district with friends
929. remaking a memory at 1st Friday's that was not the greatest and turning it into another great memory at long last!
930. watching a man get a woman's phone number from across the way....It really was rather comical. I wish you could've seen it too
931. looking at cool art and being inspired...feeding my inner artist
932. conversations with my Dad
933. only 33 more days til my sister comes home
934. wearing my red pea coat that I snagged for a mere $20 at the end of last season
935. getting to wear flip flops 1 more time before it gets too cold
936. setting my coffee pot the night before so it's brewing while I'm in the shower in the morning
937. students who beg for more time to read to themselves quietly
938. energy for the day when I'm feeling under the weather
939. rain drops hitting glass window pains and creating it's own type of art
940. starbucks on a dreary afternoon with a "bestie"
941. having a good enough friend that can ask "are you loving life right now?" and getting an honest answer in return
942. long sleeves, flannel pajama pants and warm slippers
943. classical music
945. laughter over lunch with students
946. days that seem to fly by
947. curling up with a good book
948. refusing to excuse my fears and inadequacies as an excuse for being stuck but instead choosing to respond to how He directs me
949. putting myself in situations that move me out of my comfort zone
950. art
951. my sister being home
952. shopping with my sister and mom before Christmas
953. standing around the christmas tree in a group hug and singing as a family...we don't sing as a family so this was comical & memorable all in one!
954. laughing so hard until tears are rolling down my face
955. my dad being his usual funny self
956. sitting around the christmas tree at night and listening to French christmas carols
957. my dad bringing me coffee in bed early in the morning
958. being able to serve on the hospitality team at my church for the Christmas Eve service
959. finding the "perfect gift" for a friend
960. getting to go see The Story and hearing beautiful music.
961. Francesca Batitstelli's song "Be Born In Me"
962. staying up late and sleeping in
963. daily walks with my sister
964. our traditional Christmas Eve fondue supper...simply the BEST!
965. rockin Christmas music
966. enlightening friends with the Mariah Carey christmas album...their lives will forever be changed! :)
967. staring at the christmas tree ornaments and remembering the memories of when we got them
968. a new yoga mat and dvd..can't wait to try it out!
969. text messages from friends wishing me a Merry Christmas!
970. good health on my christmas break
971. a spontaneous christmas eve breakfast with family friends
972. unexpected gifts at christmas such as a tire gage
973. dark chocolate covered cherries with rum
974. breakfast & coffee with dad by the christmas tree waiting for everyone else to get up
975. warm temps and NO SNOW for Christmas.... I'm a happy girl!
976. christmas shopping with my dad and him only lasting 45 minutes before he needed a starbucks break....priceless!
977. dressing up cute for christmas
978. a new black scarf that's over the top and makes me feel so put together
979. a cheesy lifetime Christmas movie marathon with my mama and sister
980. Jesus, the perfect gift behind all the wrapping...here to save me. Happy Birthday Jesus!
981. a christmas balloon for my sister who absolutely loves ballons.... .99 cents well spent!
982. my mom's knack of decorating and making her home look so beautiful and inviting
983. a surprise voicemail from our friend Tantie Hauwa in Mali giving Christmas greetings... my heart swells just hearing her voice. We love you Taunto & Tauntie!
984. peace... in my family, in my life, in my job, in my heart
985. hope that 2011 will end well and 2012 will start with peace, love and joy
986. yummy christmas goodies
987. "Hallelujahs" are the language of heaven, and they can become the language of your heart. A life of praise and thankfulness becomes a life filled with miracles. Instead of trying to be in control, you focus on Me and what I am doing. This is the power of praise: centering your entire being in Me. This is how I created you to live, for I made you in My own image. Enjoy abundant life by overflowing with praise and thankfulness.
988. a washed car with rainx applied
989. finding out a new resident has been moved into our sponso apartment at Hillcrest
990. 10 more thankfuls til I hit 1,000...what a journey
991. getting woke up with coffee and peppernuts by my entire family
992. excercise
993. warm winter days that feel more like Spring
994. the sound of a flock of geese as they dance across the horizon
995. a beautiful sunset to remind me who is in control
996. my mom and sister helping me take down Christmas stuff and cleaning my house
997. old family friends gathering and laughing over a homemade meal
998. cell phones that make communicating with people so much easier and more convenient
999. affirmation from friends and family
1,000. I did it...1,000 things listed that I'm grateful for....what a journey this has been. My eyes are forever changed as I look for simple, every day events as gifts from God. I want my life to continue flowing with abundant, overflowing, never ceasing praise & thankfulness. 2012..here I come!
811. an orange sliver of a moon dangling in the sky for all to admire
812. adventures at the river market with Anna West & Susan
812. adventures at the river market with Anna West & Susan
813. that feeling you have when you're in the middle of sweating and being grimy knowing a hot shower and good smelling shower gel await you at the end of it all
814. an ice pack on the ankle numbing away the acheyness
815. being content with down time
816. “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” Isaiah 48:17
817. Today I will laugh! and I will create a culture of Joy!
818. Today I will transfigure all things into beauty, and I will refuse to see anything else!
818. Today I will transfigure all things into beauty, and I will refuse to see anything else!
819. light dancing shadows in my apartment
820. 10 hours of sleep
821. shutting my alarm off knowing I can roll over and go back to sleep for another hour or two.
822. out for breakfast with mom and dad and Donna
823. a waffle with warm peanut butter drizzled over fresh banana's....deliciousness!!!
824. the cheery yellow Kate's Kitchen mug warm in my hands
825. a thin long sleeved purple shirt on a crisp morning
826. being able to open my sliding glass door and cooling off my living room
827. sitting on my balcony grading papers
828. copying music to my itunes library
829. catching up with Heidi Medlong on the phone and finding out she's expecting baby #2. Congratulations Medlong family!
830. getting papers graded that have been sitting in my school bag
831. standing next to a tall oak tree and feeling short
832. hearing students say at the end of the day, "Wow, this day went by fast. 4th grade is way more fun than 3rd grade"
833. knowing that students are learning AND having fun. Makes my heart soar and beat a little stronger.
834. getting to read with all 21 of my students in 1 day. wow...what a task!
835. sleeping in long sleeves
836. seeing my student who spent a lot of mornings in 3rd grade crying greet me with a smile instead of tears. Mission Accomplished!
837. knowing I will get to spend a few quiet moments in prayer tonight with friends after a busy, somewhat stressful day
838. a fellow coworker coming into my classroom while my kids were at recess to find a "calm" spot to chill on her break. We sat mostly in silence...her relaxing me grading papers. I'm glad my room has the feeling of calm and peace. She will never know how much her seeking my room out was such a "high compliment" to my heart.
839. an ice machine at school that helps me "drink away the germs" in the form of ice water
840. tight shoulders that remind me it's time to walk away and destress
841. celebrating my friend Chantal who celebrates 2 years of sobriety today! I couldn't be more proud of all her hard work and discipline. Keep it up girl!
842. trying yoga for the 1st time843. watching silvery raindrops splashing against the pavement
844. sidewalk musicians blending their voices with their guitars
845. a captivating conversation
846. huddling under an umbrella in an attempt to stay dry
847. being 1 of 50,000 people to stand in line to see the Kauffmen Performing Arts Center...such sleek lines and exquisite beauty
848. Crepes at Chez Elle with fun artwork and decor
849. a giant jar of Nutella
850. a cord that now allows me to listen to my ipod in the car...thanks friend!
851. trying to "sneak" into the venue through the musicians door but being caught...hooray for out of the ordinary adventures
852. rest
853. a hot shower that washes away germs and stress from the day
854. a late night conversation with a college roommate
855. being told by a student on a Friday afternoon that they will miss me over the weekend
856. a heart breaking and weeping at the loss of a life....gratitude for the interaction I was blessed to have had with Peggy. Her vibrant life will be missed!
857. knowing that after death we see Jesus
858. celebrating Judith's life at her memorial service
859. reading that forgiveness is a step that can't be skipped if you truly desire life change and letting the words wash over me and realizing what needs to be done.
860. being in my jammies on a friday night by 8:30 and in for the night after a long week of work
861. deciphering the English being spoken through a thick African accent
862. taking my students to the Kauffmen Center and being given the first two rows as our seats...awesome and so well behaved.
862. comments from students who've never been downtown: Wow, it looks just like New York City.
863. scrubbing ketchup out of a students white linen shirt so his mom wouldn't know he snuck it out of his closet and wore it to the symphony even though she told him not to. "Mission Accomplished!" Miss Wiens to the rescue.
864. Choosing to replace my negative self thoughts with positive ones today
865. a new cd from the library that brings calmness and peace on the drive to work each morning
866. friends staying with me...Thanks for visiting Ruthie, Jonas, Mikko & Amaia!
867. a weekend to revive the soul
868. a night at home after a week of nights out
869. a chill in the air
870. dried fall leaves crunching under foot
871. a unseasonably warm afternoon
872. a sermon about grief and how it affects our futures
873. finding a kindred spirit in an older wiser woman at church. Thanks Janet Lohnes!
874. getting all the laundry done and put away
875. the smell of dryer sheets and warm heat
876. clean underwear
877. being "ok" with not being ok with change
878. realizing just how often I wear a mask and present myself to others as if everything is alright when inside I don't feel alright
879. speaking my mind and being me
880. a sermon that speaks to the exact place I'm at in life
881. adding some peppermint hot chocolate powder to my coffee...Who says church is "boring"
882. quiet moments at Smithville Lake
883. Brian & Angie Lomas who always accept me for my realness, quirks and attitude...
884. conquering parts of p90x yoga
885. a computer that doesn't keep giving me the blue screen of death
886. a long sunday afternoon chat with my sis
887. trees that are "stuck" in their color change...half green/half orange. oddly beautiful
888. a good accent
889. being repeatedly thanked by a parent for teaching their child everyday
890. hope for now, hope for the future
891. remembering that Jesus is in every moment of my day
892. talking to parents about their childs academic progress
893. seeing a child take pride in their work as they show their parents their tracking binders
894. the smile that consumes a child's face when they hear you compliment their work
895. a twinkle in the eye and a smile on the face of a kid you've worked so hard to connect with
896. another year of conferences "in the books"
897. getting to work early even though it's going to be a long day of conferences
898. getting everything crossed off my "to do" list for the day
899. a brisk north wind making it feel life Fall again
900. meeting a variety of our English Language Learner parents during conference night
901. 100 more grateful moments to record before 1,000
902. the quiet hum of the refridgerator after a crazy day of work
903. a dinner invite from friends..can't wait to hang with Jordan & Anna West on Thursday
904. the anticipation of a long overdue haircut and color...goodbye roots!
905. watching a video about the starving families in refugee camps in Ethiopia and feeling like I'm not doing enough and then going to work and helping buy a lunch for a student who doesn't have food at home. and somehow realizing the work I'm doing is "making a difference".
906. making healthy food choices
907. a compliment from a coworker
908. reading a book for fun in the middle of the week
909. crawling back into bed after an early morning airport run
910. having family close by to check in on when they are under the weather
911. memorably father/daughter dinners
912. sinus medication that relieves the pressure in my head
913. the loud ticking of the clock at my parents house..it's strangely soothing
914. cinnamon bun coffee creamer
915. wearing flannel pajama pants and a long sleeved waffle knit shirt to bed...so comfy and cozy
916. piling on more blankets on my bed and burrowing deep inside
917. the song "It Is Well" running continuously through my head as I go through my day
918. helping friends clean their apartment knowing laughter and smiles will ensue
919. posting pics of my beginnings in France and reliving the adventure..technically I don't remember it since I was just an infant but I do love hearing the stories from my parents and friends and never tire of it. I feel as if I remember it. :) The stories are priceless..especially if the Corby's are involved!
920. seeing people raking their brilliant fall colored leaves
921. seeing the pile of leaves in my parents front yard that my mom raked but didn't quite get into the bag
922. a long hard rain
923. sunshine on my recess duty day
924. sufficient patience and grace to get my through my days with 21 nine year olds.
925. a pesky cold that makes me even more grateful for the good days of health
926. Nyquil that helps me sleep and not cough quite so much
927. not having to be on a schedule
928. First Friday's in the art district with friends
929. remaking a memory at 1st Friday's that was not the greatest and turning it into another great memory at long last!
930. watching a man get a woman's phone number from across the way....It really was rather comical. I wish you could've seen it too
931. looking at cool art and being inspired...feeding my inner artist
932. conversations with my Dad
933. only 33 more days til my sister comes home
934. wearing my red pea coat that I snagged for a mere $20 at the end of last season
935. getting to wear flip flops 1 more time before it gets too cold
936. setting my coffee pot the night before so it's brewing while I'm in the shower in the morning
937. students who beg for more time to read to themselves quietly
938. energy for the day when I'm feeling under the weather
939. rain drops hitting glass window pains and creating it's own type of art
940. starbucks on a dreary afternoon with a "bestie"
941. having a good enough friend that can ask "are you loving life right now?" and getting an honest answer in return
942. long sleeves, flannel pajama pants and warm slippers
943. classical music
945. laughter over lunch with students
946. days that seem to fly by
947. curling up with a good book
948. refusing to excuse my fears and inadequacies as an excuse for being stuck but instead choosing to respond to how He directs me
949. putting myself in situations that move me out of my comfort zone
950. art
951. my sister being home
952. shopping with my sister and mom before Christmas
953. standing around the christmas tree in a group hug and singing as a family...we don't sing as a family so this was comical & memorable all in one!
954. laughing so hard until tears are rolling down my face
955. my dad being his usual funny self
956. sitting around the christmas tree at night and listening to French christmas carols
957. my dad bringing me coffee in bed early in the morning
958. being able to serve on the hospitality team at my church for the Christmas Eve service
959. finding the "perfect gift" for a friend
960. getting to go see The Story and hearing beautiful music.
961. Francesca Batitstelli's song "Be Born In Me"
962. staying up late and sleeping in
963. daily walks with my sister
964. our traditional Christmas Eve fondue supper...simply the BEST!
965. rockin Christmas music
966. enlightening friends with the Mariah Carey christmas album...their lives will forever be changed! :)
967. staring at the christmas tree ornaments and remembering the memories of when we got them
968. a new yoga mat and dvd..can't wait to try it out!
969. text messages from friends wishing me a Merry Christmas!
970. good health on my christmas break
971. a spontaneous christmas eve breakfast with family friends
972. unexpected gifts at christmas such as a tire gage
973. dark chocolate covered cherries with rum
974. breakfast & coffee with dad by the christmas tree waiting for everyone else to get up
975. warm temps and NO SNOW for Christmas.... I'm a happy girl!
976. christmas shopping with my dad and him only lasting 45 minutes before he needed a starbucks break....priceless!
977. dressing up cute for christmas
978. a new black scarf that's over the top and makes me feel so put together
979. a cheesy lifetime Christmas movie marathon with my mama and sister
980. Jesus, the perfect gift behind all the wrapping...here to save me. Happy Birthday Jesus!
981. a christmas balloon for my sister who absolutely loves ballons.... .99 cents well spent!
982. my mom's knack of decorating and making her home look so beautiful and inviting
983. a surprise voicemail from our friend Tantie Hauwa in Mali giving Christmas greetings... my heart swells just hearing her voice. We love you Taunto & Tauntie!
984. peace... in my family, in my life, in my job, in my heart
985. hope that 2011 will end well and 2012 will start with peace, love and joy
986. yummy christmas goodies
987. "Hallelujahs" are the language of heaven, and they can become the language of your heart. A life of praise and thankfulness becomes a life filled with miracles. Instead of trying to be in control, you focus on Me and what I am doing. This is the power of praise: centering your entire being in Me. This is how I created you to live, for I made you in My own image. Enjoy abundant life by overflowing with praise and thankfulness.
988. a washed car with rainx applied
989. finding out a new resident has been moved into our sponso apartment at Hillcrest
990. 10 more thankfuls til I hit 1,000...what a journey
991. getting woke up with coffee and peppernuts by my entire family
992. excercise
993. warm winter days that feel more like Spring
994. the sound of a flock of geese as they dance across the horizon
995. a beautiful sunset to remind me who is in control
996. my mom and sister helping me take down Christmas stuff and cleaning my house
997. old family friends gathering and laughing over a homemade meal
998. cell phones that make communicating with people so much easier and more convenient
999. affirmation from friends and family
1,000. I did it...1,000 things listed that I'm grateful for....what a journey this has been. My eyes are forever changed as I look for simple, every day events as gifts from God. I want my life to continue flowing with abundant, overflowing, never ceasing praise & thankfulness. 2012..here I come!
