Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday # 22! This week I’m thankful to be on spring break. I’ve been enjoying a quiet week at home. I think this is the best spring break I’ve had in years—not because I’ve done anything exciting or memorable, but because I feel rejuvenated just being domestic, without juggling my other typical commitments. [Does it have anything to do with the fact that this is the first spring break in several years that I haven’t had graduate coursework? ;-) ] I’m thankful for the relaxed productivity I’ve had this week. It’s been so nice to have the extra time to tackle big “To Do List” tasks, such as. . .

1. organizing, sorting, altering, and purging my clothes.
2. deep-cleaning around the house.
3. spreading mulch around the front- and backyard.
4. cooking and recipe searching.
5. planning art projects for the summer camp I’ll be teaching.

It’s been a wonderfully satisfying week for me so far. Thank you, Lord, for spring break!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #21! This past weekend I drove to Ohio to visit one of my old roommates, Evangeline. What a fun weekend we had together!

Vange and I, ready for another day of adventures together!

1. I'm thankful for nice driving weather. (Several times I canceled the trip because of the snowy road conditions. Finally, after months of trying to get together, we found a date that worked! Hooray!)

2. I'm thankful to live within an easy driving distance from Evangeline. (That is, when I don't get lost! Which brings me to #3 . . .). It's a quaint drive between my home and hers, that weaves through the villages and farmland.

The peaceful view from Vange's front yard.

Hyacinth blooming in Vange's front yard

3. I'm thankful to have a cell phone and family members to call, to help me figure out my way, when I find myself on the wrong highway. And I'm thankful for family members who point out that I'm on the wrong highway!

3. I'm thankful for girlfriends--both old and new. It was delightful to hang out with Vange and her mom at home on Friday night, shop with her sister-in-law and nephew on Saturday afternoon, scrapbook with her friends on Saturday afternoon, and run into another old friend of mine at church on Sunday!

Mom's Diner, downtown Archbold, OH! Photo courtesy of Evangeline Rupp

Girlfriends! Photo courtesy of Kari Ernst

4. I'm thankful for Saturdays, to shop, eat out, and scrapbook together.

5. I'm thankful for the haircut that Vange gave me. I like my new look. =)

What a special weekend! I am so blessed!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #20! Here in Midland, the weather has been a delightful preview of summer. I've been savoring every moment outdoors I possibly can. This week I've been enjoying . . .

1. bike riding to the Nature Center almost every day.
2. lounging and reading a novel in a sunny corner of our backyard (and getting an early start on my tan this year!).
3. jogging for the first time this season.
4. wearing flip-flops for the first time this season.
5. taking pictures of the first flowers of spring.

Thank you, Lord, for such beautiful weather this week!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #19! Last week I neglected to post—not because there was nothing to list, but because I just didn't take the time or devote the energy. Hmmm, Kristina. God's goodness is so abundant in your life. Don't let life's daily demands or your own discontent distract you from the life-giving discipline of recounting His goodness. . .

Last weekend my brother Peter and I drove to Indianapolis for an Alumni weekend at Verity. What a special weekend we had with lots of old friends! It was a time of celebrating traditions, rekindling friendships, and making new memories.  There are so many things to be thankful for . . .

1. Safe travels. On Friday as we were driving to Indy, there were multiple tornado systems tearing through the Midwest. We drove through some heavy rain and lots of strong winds. Then, on Sunday as we were driving home, we hit snow showers with treacherous road conditions, including miles of black ice. At one point our vehicle skidded out of control on the highway, as Peter maneuvered to avoid a collision. Every safe trip is a blessing, but when the conditions are dangerous, I become all the more aware of God's protection. =)

2. Singing with friends. One of the alumni, who directed the Verity chorale when he was a student, organized an alumni choir. Most of us had sung together in the chorale, and rehearsing again last weekend was Déjà vu, in such a fun way. =) 

Verity alumni choir, photo courtesy of Micah Williams

photo courtesy of Micah Williams

Peter and I also enjoyed joining two of our friends in a string quartet.
Photo courtesy of Micah Williams.

3. Friends who are living for God. How special it was to reunite with old friends and see how each of us are loving the Lord and seeking to live for Him, all over the world and in in all sorts of vocations.

4. Renewing fond memories. It was fun to recall our mutual Verity experiences in light of God's faithfulness.

5. The chance to affirm and continue special relationships in my life.

My friend Kristina Blum and me.
Not only do we share the same name,
we discovered that we also share the same shoe size!
She let me borrow her darling white heels to complete my outfit
for the alumni concert. How fun is that?!!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #18! One of my highlights of this past week was the Mother-Daughter Valentine Tea, which I posted about on Saturday. There are many behind-the-scenes things I'm thankful for about the party, including . . .

1. A sunny and unusually warm Saturday before the party. Mom, Peter, and I decided to take advantage of the unseasonably mild weather, to rearrange our porch furniture, ahead of time. Moving tables and chairs from inside to outside and from outside to inside was so much easier, not having to deal with snow or frigid temperatures.

2. Peter's help hanging streamers. We had some good quality brother-sister time listening to music and talking while we decorated the porch together. =)

3. The fine china I've inherited. I feel very privileged to have inherited my grandmother's lovely set of china, as well as a set from another godly mentor. It's my honor to carry on their legacy of hospitality.

4. The supermarket deli and bakery. What a relief to have the freedom to purchase chicken salad and scones already made! With all the things I'm currently juggling in life, I knew it would not be realistic for me to try to make all the refreshments from scratch. So, I planned my menu based on what was available pre-made. The supermarket deli and bakery saved me a lot of time and a lot of stress preparing for the party.  =)

5. My family's cheerful support of my idea and all their assistance in making the party a special occasion for everyone who came.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #17! I hope everyone had as happy a Valentine's Day on Tuesday as I did. In fact, that's what I'm especially thankful for this week.

1. I'm thankful that I can choose happiness. It's all too natural as a single to bemoan singleness anytime of the year, and all the more during the Valentine season. But choosing to embrace where God has me in life right now--choosing to live fully where He has me--I find so much to enjoy in this holiday.
2. I'm thankful to celebrate the festive occasion with my third graders. What fun! Our class party was an exuberant, time celebrating friendship and God's love. How could I help but chuckle receiving all the cheesy, cartoon-y valentines from the kiddos?!
3. I'm thankful to be part of a loving nuclear family. How special that together we can celebrate God's love and faithfulness--everyday.
4. I'm thankful for the lovely candlelight Valentine's Dinner we enjoyed as a family. Originally, we were looking forward to going out to eat, but at the last minute Peter found out he had to work late. So, we decided to get Chinese take-out instead. The parents of one of Mom's piano students who own a Chinese restaurant, graciously treated us to our dinner. Their spontaneous gift made our holiday meal all that more special.
5. I'm thankful that this evening after dinner I had a chance to work on preparations for my upcoming Mother-Daughter Valentine tea party. Over the years I've found that directing my focus off my single self, by preparing something special for others is one of the best defenses against depression on a day that many grumble as "Single Awareness Day."

Wow, so many blessings and so many happy memories from my 2012 Valentine's Day. I've always loved celebrating Valentine's Day, but I think this year's was one of my all-time favorites!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #16! In keeping with this week's Spirit Week and Homecoming at Calvary Baptist Academy (CBA), where I work as a teacher's assistant, I've decided to list a few things for which I'm thankful about CBA. . . .

My "School Colors Day"
costume from Spirit Week.
Go Calvary Kings!

1. I'm thankful to be part of a Biblically-solid, vibrant church that is discipling the next generation for Christ.

2. From textbooks to playground equipment, I'm thankful for all the material resources and facilities that God has provided for the CBA ministry to thrive.

3. I'm thankful to spend my days in an environment where we can freely talk about Jesus.

4. I'm thankful for my 3rd graders, who warm my heart.

5. I'm thankful to be working with an excellent teacher in 3rd grade. Being Mrs. D's assistant in her class this year is a wonderful hands-on learning experience.

I feel so privileged to have my job!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #15! Last weekend my family and I had the privilege of going back to Toledo, Ohio, where we used to live, to attend the wedding of one of our good friends from high school. There are  many things to be thankful for, such as . . .

1. The day off school on Friday. I needed that catch-up day before going out of town for the weekend. What ideal timing between my work schedule and the wedding!

2. Audio books and iTunes to listen to in the van.

3. The hospitality of dear friends.

4. Catching up with a number old friends. How blessed we are to have long-time friends who care about us, pray for us, and laugh with us!

5. Safety on the road. We had clear weather driving on Friday night but hit some slippery, snowy road conditions on our way home Sunday evening.

What a special weekend!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #14! Today I'm celebrating my passing score on the Human/Cultural Geography DSST exam, which I took last night. I'm thankful . . .

1.  that there are exams that award college credit. It's a lot faster and cheaper to get college credit this way than by enrolling in a traditional course.

2. for free study materials I found at the public library and online. I saved a lot of money not having to buy textbooks!

3. for a testing center that administers DSST exams. I had to call numerous places to find one!

4. for Dad, who graciously drove the round-trip to Lansing for me, and treated me to a shopping spree and dinner on our way home to celebrate.

5. that I'm one step closer to finishing my Master's degree and teacher certification.

God is faithful!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #13!

My current facebook status reads, "The more frustrated I feel, the more grateful I must choose to be." In light of that wisdom, I have decided for today's Thankful Thursday post to list reasons I am grateful for my car. Lately, I've been only too aware of its quirks that irritate me. Earlier today when I was ranting to my brother about my car's latest idiosyncrasy, he convicted me that complaining or contentment is my choice. Since it's not in my budget anytime soon to replace it, I should be better about enjoying what I do have. Even though it's definitely not my dream car, when I stop to think about it, there are a lot of things about it for which I have to be grateful. . . .

1. Most importantly, it is a reliable vehicle. It gets me where I need to go.
2. I like the exterior color--a nice royal navy blue.
3. It has a comfortable interior. I'm especially glad the heat and defroster both work.
4. It has a spacious trunk.
5. It has low mileage, considering its age.

Thank you, Lord, for this vehicle that You have provided for me.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #12! No big news this week, but lots of daily blessings for which to be thankful, including . . .

1. Easy listening music to study by.
2. Paychecks.
3. My immune system, which is keeping me healthy so far this winter.
4. A good start to my Biology lab class.
5. Free online study resources for the Geography exam I'm preparing for.

Life is good, because God is good! "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning" (James 1:17).

2012 in 2012!

“His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness...” (2 Peter 1:3-4). Scripture repeatedly declares that God freely gives us good gifts. (See Psalm 36:8; Psalm 68:19; John 1:16; Romans 8:32; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:2-4.) Inspired by Ann Voskamp’s beautiful, best-selling book, One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, I've decided to go for 2012 in 2012! Throughout the year I will be keeping a journal of the gifts God brings in my life. A number of these gifts I look forward to posting in my weekly "Thankful Thursdays." Others will be shared only as far as my family's kitchen table, and some I'm sure will be just between God and me. I want to live this year, moment by moment, basking in His fullness; and I want to look back on this year, remembering His goodness. Here's to thanking. Trusting. Hoping. Celebrating. Living.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #11 and my first Thankful Thursday in the new year! Today I've decided to jot down five every-day things that I'm thankful my dad does for our family. As I've been living at home again, I'm the daily recipient of his thoughtfulness and serving. Here are just a few examples . . .

1) Every morning Dad gets up before any of us have to leave the house, to scrape the frost off the windshields of our vehicles. Depending on who has to leave first and whose car is blocked in by the others, he moves the cars out of the way, so that we each can leave without hassle.

2) Dad keeps all of our cars filled with gas. He also makes sure all of our vehicles stay in good repair.

3) Dad does all of our family grocery shopping.

4) Dad prepares meals for us when Mom and I are too busy to do it (which is more often than not).

5) Dad keeps our family finances, as well as my own personal finances, in order.

I am thankful to be living at home with a father who daily demonstrates his love and commitment to our family.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #10! This week I am thankful...

(1) to be on Christmas break. Phew, I've really needed this time away from studies to rest and recharge.

(2) for a nice Christmas celebration with my family this past weekend.

(3) for the many thoughtful Christmas gifts I received from my third graders. I was overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity to me. How special they made me feel.

(4) for parents who help me make wise decisions.

(5) for my brother's willingness to share his scrumptious Girl Scout Thin Mint cookies any time I ask. ;-)

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #9! This week I am thankful...

(1) to be on Christmas break! Cheers for the chance to catch up on some much-needed rest!

(2) for gift bags from the Dollar Store. They make all my gift-wrapping a lot easier and faster.

(3) for family movie nights.

(4) for gift cards—convenient to give and fun to receive.

(5) for laughter.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #8! This week I am thankful...

(1) that I've completed another semester of graduate studies! Now I can start getting ready for Christmas...

(2) for my brother's computer savvy. He came to my rescue again this week with my final project for my graduate course.

(3) for a cozy family room at home. Just this week Peter bought himself a flat-screen TV and rearranged our family room. It's a much nicer set-up now. He likes it primarily for watching football and playing his PS3, but the rest of us get to benefit too. =) The other night as a family we enjoyed watching The Nutcracker broadcast live from Lincoln Center, New York City.

(4) for precious family memories. This week we decorated our Christmas tree. Hanging all of our special ornaments reminded me of many happy times and memories we've made as a family.

(5) for friends who have helped me network and make contacts as I seek to arrange my upcoming student-teaching placement. I had a fantastic interview this week, and have several other promising leads. PTL!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #7! This week I am especially thankful for . . .

(1) sibling companionship. Peter, you're the best. I have every confidence that you'll make a special young lady very happy someday. In the meantime, I'm glad that I'm the girl who gets to hang out with you all the time. ;-)

(2) comfy boots that keep my legs warm in the winter.

(3) sunshine. We've had sunny days almost all week—a treat for us here in Michigan, where more often than not it's overcast in the winter. 

(4) eyesight.

(5) festive Christmas music.

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #6! This week I am especially thankful for . . .

(1) the long weekend last week. I had a huge assignment due for my graduate course, and I really do not know how I would have gotten it done if I hadn't had the extra days off work, combined with low-key family Thanksgiving celebration plans. I spent most of the weekend studying intensely.

(2) the unusually mild fall weather we enjoyed this year. I was surprised and delighted to get two more family bike rides last weekend, while the weather was in the 50s!

(3) the beauty of freshly-fallen snow on trees. On Tuesday we had our first snow storm of the season. Yesterday I had a lot of fun taking pictures around the neighborhood.

(4) phone dates with dear friends. How life-giving it is to hear the voice of an old friend, across the miles, and to share with each other our laughter, heartaches, questions, milestones and memories.

(5) USB flash drives and ports--what would our lives be without them?!

Thankful Thursday

Happy Thanksgiving!

One of our family Thanksgiving traditions, is the reading of "Five Kernels of Corn" (you can read the poem here), and taking turns sharing five things from the past year for which we are thankful. Recalling God's goodness in our lives throughout the past twelve months is a special ritual. How easy it is to forget all that God has done—yet how important to remember. In keeping with my family annual tradition—as well as my weekly Thankful Thursday posts—here's a brief recap of my past twelve months. I am thankful . . .

(1) for the many wonderful friends, memories, skills, and life lessons I gained during my seven years at Verity Institute. I would not be the person I am today without the input of the Godly peers and mentors with whom I was privileged to live, study, and work beside.

(2) that I moved home in January. This time last year I was at a tough cross-roads, deliberating whether I should stay at Verity or move on. I had several options, each with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages. Moving home wasn't my first choice, but I'm so glad I did. God has showed faithfulness and provision to me very clearly in these past months that I've been home.

(3) for supportive, loving, generous parents. I never intended to be a "boomerang kid," but this season that I'm back at home is such a blessing. We're all enjoying living together under the same roof once again. It's only because of all that my parents do for me that I'm able to keep persevering in my graduate studies. 

(4) that my brother Peter moved home this summer. Peter is definitely my better half. I'm so glad we're together again. He keeps me laughing, and he keeps me in line too. ;-)

(5) for my job as assistant teacher in 3rd grade at CBA. It's a wonderful learning experience for me, while I finish my graduate studies in elementary education. Being around kiddos again makes me happy.

The list could go on. . . "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loads us with benefits" (Psalm 68:19).

Happy Thanksliving!

Thankful Thursday

Today is Thankful Thursday #4! As William Wordsworth puts it: "All that we behold is full of blessings." This week I am especially thanking God for . . .

(1) the Midland Community Center. Since I'm a graduate student and not earning a lot of money this year, I recently applied for and received a scholarship for an annual membership to the MCC! PTL! I joined the MCC, primarily so that I can go lap swimming regularly during the winter months.  I love swimming, but it's been years since I've been in the routine. While swimming my first lap the other day, I couldn't contain an underwater grin--it felt so good to be back in the lap lane again.

(2) Teacher's Editions. As a teacher's aide, I grade stacks and stacks of papers. One of the many advantages of Teacher's Editions is those handy answer keys that are included. What a time saver!

(3) Adobe Photoshop. What an amazing tool for photographers and graphic artists! Lately, it's been one of my main tools for my creative artistic outlets. I would be lost without it.

(4) egg omelet breakfasts. My mom is so kind to faithfully make me an egg omelet and fruit cup for breakfast every morning. Starting the day with a large, protein-rich meal is exactly what I need, to handle the demands of working in an active elementary classroom. =)

(5) brother-sister dates. Peter and I have been having a lot of fun together in our weekly Thursday evening tennis classes. Our first session of classes ended tonight, and the two of us agreed to treat each other to the next series of brother-sister dates at the tennis center. Woohoo!