890-893

890. an hour workout encouraged by tamm-every time is a chance to catch up on our friendship, as well as burn off some crusty fat. we also laugh a lot too and that's always fun.

891. shiny bright vibrant alive smokin' hot soup with my husband..it was so good i took a nap for the next hour and a half. :)

892. Bengal Spice and Country Peach tea by Celestial seasoning. yum!

893. kettle corn popped corn

894. quality time/lunch/shopping time with sh, it is rare these days, but what a delight when we carve time to do it!

895. the good Father continues to teach and mold and refine- i am thankful and humbled, hard as it is, that He still continues to invest in me, to make His path known in my life, and be so faithful and attentive-small and insignificant as i am. He has been teaching me to keep my eyes focused on Him and Him alone, find joy and fullfilment in Him alone, and to not worry who or what is to the left or the right of me, leave my fears and insecurities at the door and to press into my Lord and Saviour. May He be praised.

896. heated seats in the van.

897. financial stability for the moment. all and all of anything and everything belongs first and formost to the Lord, He can give and both take away, but for now, we are so content and thankful for His generous provision.

884-889

884 days like these where M and I are peacefilled, hand in hand, in agreeance on, well, everything, talking TENDERLY to each other, being small soft and sweet, intentionally grooming the other for love and goodwill. 885 i feel overwhelmed often with love for people but today I am thankful for this tiny little puppy that lays at my feet keeping them warm, so quick to lick my face and so excited, always, to see me. I adore her. 886 comfort of this little home. warmth. 887. I feel wealthy and I am thankful for that, because I want to feel wealthy even when I dont have much. and I do feel wealthy. 888. this verse that resonates in my heart and my ears... "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.... seek first the kingdom and all these things will be added until you." 889. the ability to perhaps train up young and new stylists.

883

883 chapter entitled "twenty-five" in bittersweet, by shauna niequist

868-882

868. that God made Himself small and came to dwell among us as a person. 869. that God brings light to the darkness. 870. and that He says to me if you take on My light, I will take on your darkness. 871. a home that works so well to host gatherings with family and friends. 872. material gifts that are not needed or deserved but still nice. 873. my very own kitchen aid mixer. 874. hope 875. the healing to get over some of my insecurities 876. confidence in who God made me to be 877. kindness. 878. time spent this week and today with him. 879. a really good nap. 880. three beautiful daughters who bring joy every day 881. a hike through the woods to explore. 882. an abundance of God's love and mercy showered on me this season.

858-867

858 all [18] of us together for christmas eve 859 tradition. every december 24. 860 lunch of red, green, white. this year: creamy tortellini casserole with broccoli, red+green jellos with cranberries, salami wrapped pickles, sun-dried tomato focaccia, caprese salad 861 carice 862 kids and wrapping paper: natalie's all-consuming smile and micah and johnny's overwhelmed gladness for new playthings 863 ross' new job[s] - contentment and excitement, though he didn't put words to it, i could hear it 864 she said it wasn't a big deal, but that cozy gray blanket, twin size, reminds me how my dear friend loves me so well 865 rocking baby b to sleep, all smiles and boppy 866 when a man offers to start my car 867 worship together, christmas eve night, candles + family + we're small while He is exalted

851.-857

851. three of the tiniest wooden spice bowls for bengali mama's kitchen. gifted by one who has take the time to know me over time, pursue me well in purity, just outside my first love, he never tops or tries to compete in any way, yet he is there, consistent with words, thoughtful gifts, and acts that let me know i am loved.

852. her, tiny tiny elf, her knee high socks black boots shoved up against my brown knees. we only grow, share, and the commonality between us only grows. she listens to me as i am learning how to navigate friendships, and i listen to her as she learns how to do the same. so glad he found her and so glad i found her too..

853. a sturdy, yet delicate tiny sky blue tea pot, perched on the back burner of my stove top. reminds me of them and their thoughtfulness.

854. liv is doing better. no fever, back to scooting her fat belly across the carpet and cooing and screeching just as loud as ever.

855. 4 wrapped gifts so proud and tall, all in a row. i hope my friends like them. 

856. Great Lakes Red by Leelanau Cellars. one of my favorite tasting wines, humbly priced as it may be.

857. tried out a new soup today. a spinach and sausage butternut squash ravioli soup. it turned out really well and it got me excited that i hit it-you know when you know? our guests were so encouraging and vocal about it, i felt so special that it turned out and i can't wait to make it again tomorrow. it affirms me and encourages me as a home cook that i am continuing to grow and get better and able to draw from my experience and knowledge about tastes and textures and flavors that should go together..i still have so much [always have] far to go, but i am thankful i am steps ahead of the beginning of my cooking endeavors..

836-850

836 that our chelsea is back to listing with us <3 <3 <3 837 chewy salted dark chocolate caramels just camped there on the countertop 838 a quiet sleepover with 2 well-trained pups 839 aspen's lovely eyes: one brown, one blue 840 another beautiful westside home, kept and decorated by 2 beautiful hearts 841 that give time and energy and selflessness to yet 2 more young ones with no home and no one to care for them, but for now 842 an hour at the gym with that friend who tells me over and over again that i am capable 843 salty and garlicky, even greasy and starchy, but much too tasty to surrender before it was all gone 844 the spanish language - must. learn. 845 just up the road, homemade breakfast and tea and time and honesty and forgiveness 846 cozies with sick baby, alluding some of the discomfort that she carries in that little body 847 that christmas gathering at that new home where that gorgeous friend is just as hospitable as ever 848 giant bowl of red + green fruit, topped with juicy jewel pomegranate seeds 849 a perfect gift, noticed without pressure or obligation, lifted from the shelf to the cash register to the car, waiting for those sparkly eyes and smiles and squeals 850 smooth matte gold earrings - all-time favorites - rediscovered

827-835

827.  indian food so generously brought over by dear friend PP. teaches me humility to step aside in my own kitchen to let him at it, and to offer his own wonderful gifts of good eats. i am thankful. 

828. that husband of mine...he continues day after day, to pursue, edify, and harvest me. he is purposeful with the word of encouragement and affirmation-all the nooks and crannies that are darkened with fear and insecurity, he makes a bee line for those dusty places and sweeps out the cobwebs and build up and flings open the shades shedding vibrant light life and freshened air. i am forever thankful for how the Lord waters me through the gift of being this man's wife. He thoughtfully serves me and cares for me in both weakness and strength. 

829. the other week i had to be single* mom of three and by His grace and His ability in me, it was a peaceful and successful week and the peace that only He can give was present in a very tangible way. I could physically, emotionally, and spiritually feel it. the kids were so helpful and sensitive to what we were all up against-navigating without dad, and responded so appropriately and so well. i am so proud of them, and even a little bit of myself that i was capable and equipped to make it through the week.

830. the next week did not go so well, but that is not to say at all the God did not come through for me. because he so did. And i am also thankful for bits of joy and saving grace amidst chaos and trials of overwhelmness. [i know that's not a word, but so what.] the couple who is heavy with child, picking up their quiet evening to drive all the way out to my van, failed with a flat tire, and remove it, patch it up, replace it-all in the rain, and drive it all the way back to my house, good as new. the dear 1 of my 6 best friends, lindsey, who also, gathered her relaxing afternoon and drove out to rescue me and my littles stranded at the gas station and bring us all the way home, not even a question or a hesitation. 

831. my 6 best friends. all for different wonderful reasons, for length, for tenderness, for pursual, for consistency, for commonality, for taking the time to give as much as receive, for thoughtfulness, for wisdom, for beauty and love-all these they all possess these qualities so well, and I am overjoyed and thankful that God would choose to gift me with such intimate friends. cece, m&m, habibT, inditwinsie, jeanniebaby, caseypeanutbutter, and stephy...i love these women so much. 

832. tams introduced me to the tiniest most delightful puerto rican restaurant and i am in. love.

833. tamm and i got to hang out all week and it was so fun. i love her and am so thankful at how our friendship has only deepened over time. 

834. surprise visit from james and lex at the christmas party!! 

835. little pockets of reconciliation.

826

WHAT THE HECK
you guys I am so thankful for you!!! you have been so faithful to thank the LORD!!! this is so cool!! until tamm told me recently you were still doing this I had NO IDEA!


Also, I'm making a point to blog again, I just miss it, I miss reading up on your blogs and I miss this... and so now I hopefully will be joining you in your writing adventure of gratitude..


also I made a new one with my new last name :) chelsmichalwrites.blogspot.com... love you all.

825

825 this guy. dad. turned 70 years old last week.

818-824

818 wild bird swarm over 131 and 196 interchange 819 dull sunset over grand rapids cityscape 820 church steeples peeking over the concrete buffers - st. adalbert's basilica and...that other one 821 rush hour patience 822 trees silhouetted against winter sky, pieces fading to smaller and softer 823 lindsey's steadfastness in the chaos 824 this car. paid. mine. gratitude today for its consistency. and my malibu speaks my love language.

811-817

811. that words are most important to me, better than dessert, warm blankets, and peanut butter combined. I am learning that words given to me in encouragement and meant for uplifting are so life giving to me and i cherish them as choicest morsels. I am thankful that i have discovered this as i grow into myself and learn how to love, that i can love others in this way too, knowing that is is a gift to others as well.

812. that he, whom i hold in highest regard, a place of honor and respect, he is a teacher and a shepherd, he knows what a gentle answer is as well as a firm and loving admonishment. him, who i adore from afar in the purest way, took the time to respond to a little sheep like me, showing a true character of a shepherd, tending to even the littlest of sheep. 

813. this special gift of peace that only could be given by the Father as i mother three kiddos alone for 4 days. anxiety and short temper rises up in me when he has to leave, and i dread the days he is way from me and them. but this time, no anger lingered. no fear or clenching resentment. only peace. only grace. only a sweet delicate love for my littles and a cherished time that i get to be with them. thankful that they have been helpful and obedient and this time that i parent and do life alone, is in fact not walked alone, but He breathes in and out with me, and keeps me company.

814. my son's mind. how brilliant it is! so thankful for a boy that loves to learn, explore, create, build, so aware, and his heart shines just as bright. it is tender, thoughtful, kind, and quick to serve.

815. she, who takes the time out of her family life, out of teaching and grading papers and putting rubes to sleep, drops it all to come sit with me and drink tea and speak of dreams, laughter, and lovely things.

816. teeny tiny little 3 year old norah bunsies and teeny blue undies to hold them. 

817. the lip color Thalia by NYX. a dreamy, dewey romantic matte color, and it feels pretty to wear it.

801-810

801 bedtime cuddles with little e. this girl, who i've known for only 2 1/2 years, has so much of my affection that it scares me. it pains me when she's hurt or scared or sad that she doesn't get to hug mommy before she goes to sleep. i worry that she'll grow up and go off to college and that she'll forget who jesus is. i cherish the way that she puts her little hand on my arm, mirroring my own hand on her back. and she drifts off to sleep. and i see one small keyhole, how i've learned, how i'm learning, to love the way Love Himself does. 802 the 6-year-old birthday party up the street, the one that i discovered at the last possible minute that we were attending tonight. this flexible way of life, also learned, that i embrace [almost always] as yet another adventure 803 birthday pizza [paradise pizza] for dinner, unexpected, but my favorite food is always always a welcome treat 804 reem. always remembers what's going on in my life. always asks. always cares and offers some word of approval. 805 a lynn afternoon. i get hungry, craving these times when i learn a little more of her story and she mine. and this friendship came from out of the blue, but orchestrated most definitely, because she knows my language, hears my heart, and speaks always to the untruth that i believe. i walk back to my car empowered, i believe in me because i believe God. He holds it all together. He knows what He's doing. 806 that joyful tyler friend. though you didn't leave a note, its the thought, so thank you. 807 my j. so tender tonight, glued to my side while we find a chair and a plate. 808 andrea. new friend. mother-to-be. 20. i don't know her well but i think i like her. and this summer i'll know her more, also that new face, personality, potential that is hers to cultivate. God, here i am, send me. 809 wet pants. oh my, okay. how much did you pee? a little or a lot? oh, a lot. so much pee, she responds back to me, i don't have any left. these small moments where tone and eyes say more than any of the words could. 810 borrowed pants and dora the explorer undies.

792-800

792 a memory, walking into that bathroom stall - the time i woke in the corner of the floor unsure of how i ended up there 793 that brown, brimmed hat that was likely one of the factors that guarded me from any head injuries 794 the gym at cu. a perfect alternative to offer all necessary space and all possible respect to my friend 795 those qualities: honesty, integrity, deep dependence on our good and faithful Father 796 time: healing 797 helplessness, mine, and it being the very thing that exalts our Stone of Help as long as i am willing to keep eyes upward 798 jennie's wood-burning furnace 799 bittersweet, book by one of my favorite favorites, captures all the words that go unsaid and puts them into images of her own, lettered with neatness and mess simultaneously but overall, beauty 800 writers - friends - who walk before us, offer wise counsel, promise that God will see you through this too

781-791

781 God's power to change leper's spots and melt the heart of stone 782 true friends who take time to listen and care about my heart 783 prayer and its power 784 my mom and how she takes care of my girls every Wednesday and loves it 785 encouraging texts and notes sent my way 786 sufficency in God 787 peace that passes all understanding and guards my heart and mind 788 hope of eternity with God 789 knowing this life is a mist and gaining an eternal perspective 790 cuddling with Leena every night 791 God's faithfulness 

771-780

771. Man, our teachershepherd, speaks the truth of God in such a way that my eyes and heart are open and i am fed the most delicious meat. 
772. that he teaches that which makes my heart sing, a spirit of neediness and dependency on Jesus, a life not glamorized or filled with luxury, but marked by suffering and brokenness. 
723. thankful that finances, affirmation, beauty, don't really matter in the kingdom of God. they are all gifts and just that, not be abused or brought to idol status that then replace God. 
724. cheddar cheese and wheat thins, a familiar snack that still tickles my taste buds. 
725. the delight of my children as they decorate the tree with daddy, all the twinkling lights, they hold the shimmery balls so with fragility and wonder.  
726, the shining gold star on top. 
727. rearranging our living room to bring a little change and refresh our love for our small humble home. it is still so cozy and warm, i am so content to call greenfield my home.
 728, two french braids down the back and twisted into a huge pile of bun. 
729. the teeniest tiniest cutest most perfect baby potatoes you have ever seen-surprised to me by tammy-she knows me so well and shares delight in finding joy in the small, she seeks them out for me and i am so loved by her. 
730. we don't have a fireplace so we bring up a fireplace up on netflix and fills the screen and crackles and jumps like a real fire and i love the glow* it brings to our living room. 

759-770

759 rachael's offer to buy my westsider cafe lunch this afternoon 760 the overly friendly stranger who did buy my lunch 761 my lunch. breakfast burrito. and hot salsa. 762 leftovers. 763 time with rachael, rare these days, but we're honest with each other, and time together is iron sharpening iron. 764 molly. straightforward, one of my favorite qualities about her. also, neighbor, and friend for 7 years now. 765 tiniest mist droplets on car windshield. there's beauty there when i shift my perspective. 766 morning sermon on the upsidedown kingdom of God, preached by a man whose life illustrates those same luke 6 qualities of weakness, need, humility. 767 teeny tiny potatoes. trader joes. and jana, whose response to such a gift makes it always worthwhile 768 a seat with jana and natey. 769 a church that cares for single people well and is learning how to do even better. 770 sharing orange pens.

747-758

747 a new home 748 a laundry room next to my bedroom 749 a fireplace with a crackling fire in my house 750 learning to make a full thanksgiving meal 751 eating sweet potato casserole, mashed potatoes, and stuffing 752 rollerskating 753 family to help me move 754 a new yellow rug 755 wreaths hung on the outside doors 756 December beginning tomorrow 757 wisdom and insight and live from my friend and mentor 758 that God heals and rebuilds and redeems

737-746

737 the shift from novice to advanced - on the track to competency, proficiency, and expertise 738 fall apples, photographed 739 these married friends in my life - compassionate listeners and wise teachers 740 just a little bit of boldness. because freedom says that i am confident. 741 gentle and obedient little norah + her teeny tiny camera 742 olive's cheesy ham post-nap smiles 743 swirling leaves in the parking lot 744 a rapid response, encouragement to keep walking 745 salty lentil soup gift and her gratitude for our common language 746 strong&kind honey mustard protein bars *found this list from a couple weeks ago, but they are still gifts all the same!

730- 736

730 morning reading. with fafe. me colossians, she, the secret garden. the secret garden? really? she's 8. i read that last year. i am proud of this girl. 731 christmas card crafting 732 with christmas music and cinnamon spice tea 733 that conversation with katie elizabeth, friend for 13 years. wise + patient with me. 734 a text message later to encourage me from her husband's perspective too. loved. 735 time in the evening with chelsea + bri + the catratdog. 736 this job, selling flags. finding how much my heart loves to help people.

723-729

723. mashed potatoes, roasted garlic, cranberries and cream cheese with a hint of horseradish, corn, rolls, white meat, marteneli's..this meal was complete with all the classics...

724. older brother was able to make his way around the Great Lakes in his new BMW to rare family gathering. Got friday off so he was able to make it.

725. big sister, strong and confident, keeps us in comunity, opening her small home in order to gather us all together, always stocked with fun drinks and tasty eats. She teaches me a high quality of hospitality.

726. the woman i admire from afar. I read she is a new wife, mother of 6, still serving others, and learning a life of unselfishness and tenderness. I read and read and love her more the more i learn about her. I am reminded to never stop praying for her.

727.  endless patience from spouse, and i mean endless. you just can't find that in every man. it is truly a gift. I spilled 3 different liquids three days in  row [coffee, coke, and beer] on the couch that HE spent time scrubbing clean and restoring luster too, and he responded with frusteration kept in check, and quietness even though we all know he could have said plenty..

728. a hair brush. my hair, now that it's quite long, knots up ALL the time, and i have nests built in all over my head, and if i didn't have a brush to tackle the tangles, i would have to go bald.

729. tiny contact case that travels with me, gifted from my thoughtful mother in law. tiny little gifts like this that are so me make me feel so loved and pursued and cared for.

711-722

711 david asked me if i wanted to ride with him to sara's for thanksgiving. these small things capture. my. heart. 712 those 20 minutes to rockford, priceless, with the boy man who i love more and more 713 the pride i feel when my brother describes his work, the motivation he feels now - when i knew the boy 4 years ago who feared the unknown ahead, with no drive, and now - passion, pride, and planning for the future. my next sister-in-law is one lucky girl. 714 a meticulous tablecloth drawing, addi illustrating and describing 6 of us in her own words, with her own extravagant imagination 715 piled on the brand new corner couch with all the boys and the kids coming and going, climbing and laughing 716 watching football on thanksgiving, house full, joy full 717 natalie's little baby smile in that pink/orange/maroon-striped dress 718 wiggles. as sara + addi have exclusively been calling him 719 addie. with an e. because i remember my tami phase in 5th grade. 720 sleepover with my girl. this 8-year-old (really?) who has become one of my favorite buddies. and the dialogue, real thoughts from a little lady, nail polish, banana ice cream, movies 721 peanut asking for a 3rd movie when she just barely made it through the 2nd 722 the coming-together of that meal this afternoon. 1 dish each, each thanksgiving staple accounted for, colorful + satisfied plates

701-710

701. the shift from novice to advanced - on the track to competency, proficiency, and expertise 702. fall apples, photographed 703. these married friends in my life - compassionate listeners and wise teachers 704. just a little bit of boldness. because freedom says that i am confident. 705. gentle and obedient little norah + her teeny tiny camera 706. olive's cheesy ham post-nap smiles 707. swirling leaves in the parking lot 708. a rapid response, encouragement to keep walking 709. salty lentil soup gift and her gratitude for our common language 710. strong&kind honey mustard protein bars

684-700

684 piercing sun through clouds over lincoln, il 685 cloud layers reminding me of rippled sand as the tide pulls back from the shore 686 eyes to see brothers and sisters in worship this morning 687 humble leadership and community at crosspoint church 688 like we never missed a beat, like we haven't gone 3 years without seeing each other, like israel was just yesterday - a quick weekend visit to see my dear friend 689 the world's best hospitality offered to me through gifts, meals, time, depth of thoughtfulness and selflessness 690 the gift of watching a husband who is attentive to his wife, servant, patient, communicator. shawn, i'm thankful that you are the man to walk through life with my katie. thank you for loving her so well. 691 faithfulness of a wife who is steadfast at the side of a man, diagnosed with dimentia at age 57. happy 58 tomorrow. 692 eggs with garlic powder 693 teal shutters and front door. matches the friend i've known for all these years 694 sharing youtube videos and laughing until we couldn't. joy gift. 695 finishing each other's sentences 696 the generous mention of a visit to grand rapids, and architecture 697 sweet baby girl, who has a name, though it isn't public yet, but i may have squeezed it out... 698 g. + r. + 3 babies. beautiful babies. 699 2142. that home. that peacefulness. another one of many long conversations stuffed predictably into the kitchen space 700 e's date with m this weekend. oh jesus, please guide and direct the next steps

671-683

671. 3 tiny pink candles, so lovingly thought of to poke a delicious flour less chocolate torte for a birthday celebration with my closest friends.

672. that my friends took the time to give me time and generously lavish me with a fun evening together and they took the effort to plan and pursue me. I am so honored.

673. I cam home last night and my husband had unloaded the brimming dishwasher, reloaded it with the day's dishes, swiped down the counters and even cleaned the kitchen table as well. What a surprise and so thankful for a spouse that is willing to tackle those things when i don't get to them, and quietly serves me in this way, with no expectation or search of a reward.

674. my daughter non stop sings and sings and sings. I love it.

675. my son learns and follows his dad's example. he made my bed, cleaned the entire living room, and started on the dishes because he thought i would really like it and wanted to do something nice for me. I am amazed at that 5 year old boy.

676. lindsey and i reconciled what little discord we had and I am so thankful for her friendship and wisdom. 

678. some new makeup goodies i received for my birthday. Makeup is fun and enjoyable to me, i love learning about it and it makes me feel pretty when i wear it.

679. I am losing weight and drinking more water. small steps, but I am thankful for them. Rome was not built in a day. 

680. i don't mind winter as much now that i don't have to drive in it nearly as much. I love being cozied inside, the earth covered in crystal white, and sounds muffled.

681. reading books to my kids. they sit still on my lap and as i read i am always overcome with love and thankfulness for these two brown eyed gifts.

682. deli turkey, slices of italian cheese, mayo on hearty bread.

683. long curly hair. 

665- 670

665 rediscovered boots, from ramallah. i recently noticed them, realizing that i haven't worn them in over a year, but i thought i'd try them one last time before sending them to goodwill. and to my surprise, they're perfect, in every way, and the memories of there will still stay alive here. 666 smooth wood under socked feet and a few fantastic beats 667 a couple dozen texts exchanged with my sweet friend today, that sense of connectedness, to friends who love unconditionally, to our Jesus who holds all things together, that connectedness that has provided for such contentment that has brought me to 29 + joy 668 a gift of being entrusted with someone's home, pets, children. to-my-knees gratitude that people would invite me into their lives in this way 669 anticipation of the summer when little j+e will have 40 hours of my time each week 670 the dazzle of the snow in the trees this morning as i crept around the turns in the road, thankful that i could take delight in it

657-664

657 a gentle call back to the fruit of the Spirit *Jesus, help me to rest in You with these obvious in my life: love. joy. peace. patience. kindness. goodness. faithfulness. gentleness. self-control. 658 "private session" option on spotify?! oh joy. now i can listen to whatever i want. suckers. 659 a quiet week to myself. this has been restful, with space for thinking, for goals, for dreams, for challenges from that still small voice that i've forgotten to listen to lately. 660 running (or walking) pants at sale price 661 angela. such sweet, gentle, humble conversation about Bible translation and the Church and travel. 662 a visit to redemption city, small but thriving church plant, sister to our own, just a few miles south 663 emily's netflix. a small, but treasured opportunity to watch a little bit of tv again. 664 hot green tea lemonade

643-656

643. tiny baby succulent plant
644. eggplant purple heated fleece blanket
645. a surprise visit bearing the gift of pho, a huge bowl of hot asian soup that heats your insides and is the perfect remedy to a sicki like me.
646. Hunter Green Welly Boots, all the way from the United Kingdom
647. a surprise gift from my son, eager to pull out the present from his back pack after school-he had been waiting all day to give it to me, two tiny easels with two tiny canvases to match.
648. a gold bracelet from my daughter norah.
649. breakfast with Chelsea, and though it still be early in the morning, dessert too.
650. all the thoughtful cards, texts, phone calls, and instagram messages, so many gifts in ONE day!
651. hot tea with tamm, hot soup, and her gentleness and laughter that fills my house with peace.
652. the pursual of my husband, he did so well and i could not have felt more special and loved.
653. tiny grapefruit scented candle
654. my brown sister, taking time out of her day, to drop a collection of tiny gifts at my door, to be of a constant encouragement to me.
655. a newly installed red cantina light in my kitchen, surprised again by sweet husband.
656. thankful for a good night's sleep, which is rarer than diamonds over here, so i cherish sleep when i get it.

639-643.

639. welp, i completely fell off my high horse healthy band wagon. of course i would fail. but thank you Jesus for second chances and the ability to make better choices. still eating cookie dough..but with less butter..:)

640. this morning i did not go to church [due to depression and laziness] BUT, i did have a peaecful morning with just my youngest daughter. we took a bath together and scrubbed our outsides, and i think i really needed that, to clear off the grease. we listened to josh garells and i slathered a turmeric honey mask on my face and it never felt so good. 

641. the patience of my husband. i am failing in all sorts of ways as the home maker of the house and i am not doing my job [at all] and my husband remains patient and willing to understand and wait on me. he serves quietly, probes gently, and continues to wait and encourage. 

642. norah sings sings sings all the time and i love it. I am so thankful for her little voice singing on the toilet, singing to soothe her baby sister, singing in the morning before she gets out of bed, singing from the back seat...she is such a gift.

643. i guess its my birthday this tuesday so i am thankful to make it to another year. i AM thankful. 

632.-638

632. I started a phone fast today and i think i love it. I have decided that i am not allowed to have my phone anywhere near me and it can only be settled in one place. Remember when phones used to be on a dock, plugged into the wall? that's the idea i am going for. I am only allowed to check it once, but otherwise, it is only to be used for ingoing and outgoing PHONE calls. that's it. I am so thankful that i have the desire to cut the hold it has on me, let alone do something about it. All praise to Him. And you know what? Starting last night and into today, it's been awesome. I have opened the physical Word of God already more than i normally would have being distracted by that blasted phone.  I have re established a tiny humble reconciliation to my heavenly Father, and He has been so present already. I am floored. I am so excited to see what He does this month and anticipate great things outside of that tiny glowing screen that is making me go blind.

633. I used up the last bit of apple cider that came in a beautiful large glass jug and lid and i am recycling it into my new water jug! Presentation has always been a soft spot for me, and seeing that glistening jug with crystal clear ice cold agua makes me want to reach for it and throw back glug after glug. My goal is one jug a day. Thankful for the chance to revisit the ability to be proactive about my health.

634. speaking of health, i am so thankful to be practicing the fruit of self control in my food habits. November is the month of beginnings, i guess! :) i started small, like my wise friend Tamm suggested and i am cutting out soda at home. i did surprise myself and ordered water when i was at qdoba yesterday, but i like it that i chose to start somewhere. Thank you Jesus for helping me. I also am going to do my best to increase my fruit and veggie intake and make better choices all around.

635. the sermon Rod shared yesterday. wow. What a powerful reminder to again, head to the lowest ground, be the lowliest in spirit, be poor in heart, and be completely in need of Jesus. I love sermons like this. I love them. I always want to learn, to be teachable, be moldeable, and be humbled in every way so that it might make Christ shine all the more brilliantly.

636. thankful to see fruit in my daughter Norah. fruit of gentleness, kindness, and even thoughtfulness and a willingness to serve. Her older brother needed a chair, but did not feel like going all the way upstairs to get the chair. he said he was too lazy. Norah said in her tiny chipmunk voice, "Ben, i'll go get it for you!" And then, she said, "here, take my chair. i will go upstairs and get the chair and i'll use that one." my heart was a puddle.

637. the nail polish color Wooden Shoe Like to Know. i found it! and i'm wearing it. Love the fall color.

638.  grilled onions

621-631.

621. amidst the chaos and dark season that hovers around us and next to us, inside our tiny unit, there is His perfect peace and shalom. He guards us and we are thankful. 622. the carbon steel wok I found at world market for 15 bucks. 623. scriptures that speak of Hope and helping. dwelling on these and so thankful our Father is not silent in this area. 624. my son took his little sister up to her room, assisted her in getting her "nigh night" that was up high, took her up stairs, tucked her in and sang her a song before her nap all of his own accord. My heart swells at my son's thoughtfulness and tenderness. 625. meetings with leadership only reveal an unexpected respect for my husband and his character. His opinion matters to men and women we hold in esteem and we are so thankful and humbled that they would return the honor. 626. The thought/talk/dream/counsel conserning England only fuels and awakens, no doors closed clearly yet. yay..627. just the simple delight of getting to know my son's teacher, where there might have been intimidation and uncertainty at first, now there is a warmth and commadori whinch brings me relief. 628. business is heavy and full. it is abundant and plentiful. thankful thankful thankful. We would not have been able to say the same 5 years ago. 629. naan bread. 630. Asian soup spoons 631.  false eye lashes. a little bit of flair for 2 bucks😉

617-620

617 meeting baby m, who looks just like her sister, and who sleeps. only sleeps, all the time, who came over 2 weeks late, and now is treasured.

618 a little time and conversation with baby m's mom. wisdom and joy and focus and humor. and all my respect.

619 westside neighborhood. breezy nights, cool, but still warm. color drifting to the ground in front of me as i make my way.

620 to the cemetery to run, walk, to come home satisfied with tiredness.

611-616

611 a few unexpected hours this afternoon 612 this friend, sister, her steadfast promise because she trusts His promises 613 more stories of God's grace, more pictures of His sacrificial love for His Bride 614 little e's wit, questions, cause for rolling laughter each time 615 jennie, her listening ear and wise words for 10+ years 616 this phone, still working, though barely, but still working

605-610

605 laughter and conversation 606 em's fuzzy-collared coat, lent so freely 607 westside walks, God accompanied, encouragement spoken 608 that bluest blue sky of a crisp michigan autumn 609 those rainbow-painted leaves, just weeks from littering the ground, my eyes drawn back to them over and again 610 the unknown, which works unashamedly to develop that trust between child and Father

595-604

595 gas under $3 596 piercing sun in my eyes 597 that sun, vitamin d, natural mood elevator 598 precious morning with one of the 6, enlightenment + joy 599 new faithfulness learned while reading through the nt with the youth group 600 transformational nature of God's words on paper 601 dance beats from the 90's lol 602 leader retreat 2014 603 kayaks on sun-spotted lake 604 autumn leaf tones

591-594

591. a job. a gift. i couldn't be more thankful for his kind and immediate request...so, can you start tomorrow?

592.  and for pay that is more than i asked, and more than the other interview would give.

593. newness. learning curve. a change in goals and challenges.

594.  an empty back seat. i certainly love having little carseats there, but again, it's the reminder that change. is. good.

586-590

586. ah, the sound of his steady breathing in the spot next to me, i am so thankful every time he comes back to me after long hours of work and sweat, i always miss him. he is home for the moment.

587. backed up morning, barely made it out of bed, but so glad I made it to C's birthday breakfast and then to church. The sermon was riveting and arrows of conviction drove straight through my heart and i won't take them out. so thankful so so so thankful for a kind and good shepherd that leads and teaches with wisdom and humility.

588. speaking of conviction, i am thankful the Holy Spirit continues to quietly speak, gently nudge, softly press. I have been abusive with my body. I have not cared for it and treated it as the temple that it is. I am convicted to stop with the poisons, stop the toxic intake, and begin again to seek self control and make wiser choices to better care for the tiny temple. [well, in this case the fatty temple.]

589.  for some epic romantic $#*! that's about to change two lives this week. they have no. i. dea.

590. thankful as crazy as it sounds, my monthly is back and with it, some semblance of normal feeling again.  a woman. not a pregnant one. my youngest is sleeping through the night, my middle is mostly potty trained, and my oldest is in school, so yeah, i like this loosely based bit of structure going on. it is good.

578-585

578 a little free time for pinning new meals on pinterest 579 sunburn! on one of the last days of september 580 some unexpected income and time with some of my not-so-littles 581 the human voice: the greatest instrument 582 art prizin 583 pink fingernails 584 an empty backseat 585 interviews scheduled

566-572

566 - joy, it is finding that the two of you are still faithful.
567 such incredible people that I call friends, family, community, eternal friendships, people that encourage me to keep going... Im going to make it I think
568 long days of work which are taxing but I'm so thankful to have legs and lungs and toes all of my toes and hands to work and make people feel beautiful
569 the husband that stretches himself across the couch in the new house
570 dishes done by my husband tonight and a house picked up and tidied
571 almost 30 years of life
572 a brother who is 32 happy birthday

573-577

573. those antioxidants in a comforting mug of green tea
574. rain and clouds and cool air. because i know it is necessary, and i will choose to be thankful for it
575. endurance to run
576. gym access, free of charge: alumni perks
577. little conversations here and there... and the respect builds

565

565. my husband's soft heart. Always in tune to the Spirit. met with a wise Brit the other day...good godly conversation, even dreams and talks of our family heading to England...as crazy as it all sounds , so thankful for a husband that is willing to say "yes, where You go I go", rather than, "no, that's not an option.."

556-564

556 that slightest bit of motivation to run
557 david's home within walking distance
558 new coat of gray outlining the front door and the back
559 cell phone upgrade
560 a keyboard to catch my tumbling sentences
561 crunchy veggies. it's true what they say: keep good food in the fridge and you'll eat good food
562 a class to audit: biblical hermeneutics
563 godly men who teach us to study God's Word because they love it so
564 homework

555

Neil is visiting this week + preaching this morning. So much anticipation, gratitude.

537-554

537 20 hours in the car, by myself
538 priceless few days with matthew + lisa + boys
539 sam's words, appreciation for my brothers in Christ
540 coconut macaroons from the global market
541 miles and miles with those clouds
542 cotton-from-a-distance trees forever lining the asphalt
543 chana masala
544 bethlehem baptist church
545 hymns, liturgy, passion + unity
546 yellow-brick safety
547 pastor john, still so present in that community, the humility and God-honoring life that he's modeled for decades
548 minneapolis adventures with an old friend
549 bikes to rent, right there on the sidewalks
550 stone arch bridge
551 nelson's child size ice cream cone (st. paul)
552 the minnehaha falls + hiking
553 emily, my faithful one, home
554 oakley james <3

529-536

529. i found a brand new bra, one that lifts, supports, and well, makes me feel pretty for my husband, along with two pairs of fun undies at VS because my mother in law gave me a few coupons and using those i was able to keep it under 30 bucks. unheard of. 

530. thankful that every once in awhile people surprise you by giving you the benefit of the doubt.

531. that my 2nd oldest has finally [mostly] mastered the art of potty training and wearing big girl underwear. so proud of her and so thankful it finally clicked after weeks of frustration and supersized diapers filled with buckies. no thank you.

532. thankful for the tremendous gift of our trip to CA. lots of sun and warmth. grilled food. pool time and adult drinks. ample amount of family time. room to explore. no sickness this time. grateful for the gifts in abundance.

533. breezy lacy curtains that will bring plushness and intimacy to our bedroom. thankful that we have resources to change it up every so often and for the ability to create a safe haven for my husband and me.

534. thankful for His kindness. for it truly does lead us to repentance. i have witnessed/experienced this firsthand.

535. that we paid off all our credit card debt-wahoo!!! and we made a dent into our 20 thousand dollar school loans-we are now down to 7 grand...relief relief. thankful for His provision+my husband's hard work.

536. my little Liv. she is beautiful and cheerful. she brings me so much joy and makes my motherhood of now 3 feel so complete and content.

529

bioluminescence - jamaica's luminous lagoon

where the fresh water from the martha brae river meets the salt-water ocean, one of 3 places in the world where phosphorous-filled waters glow blue on contact, due to microscopic organisms called dinoflagellates. phenomenal and awe-inspiring.

526-528

526 reading daniel and the lions den with damion at new vision 527 hugs + cuddles from jessica and princess - pray for all 30 of these children, that God would restore their families so they can go home 528 safety in travel, all 4 flights and a dozen+ mountain bus rides

512-525

512 joseph and alice, their selfless love for the people of jamaica 513 insight - pray for the family unit in jamaica, for marriages, for men and women to cling to jesus 514 fruits and vegetables and freshness 515 blue-green, salty, warm caribbean water 516 snorkeling, the north jamaican reef 517 sea creatures, anemone, urchins, crabs, sting rays, eels, and those blue fish 518 souvenirs 519 culture - food, language, dress, music 520 the women who faithfully love the hard-to-love at new vision children's home 521 God's gracious and humbling hand - self-assessment, smallness, dependence 522 psalms, challenge, all 150. 523 broken moments, tears, His gentle voice 524 concrete benches overlooking the manchester countryside 525 robustly colored sunsets over the sea

501-511

501. thankful that Tammy is faithful to this blog and continues with the posts of thankfulness. teaches me to not forget:)

502. For meetings with young seedlings, young in the faith, but eager for SONshine and Water and growth. Thankful to see progress and life burst among dry dirt. Praise Jesus.

503. for unconditional love. truly unconditional. if i was loved otherwise, I'd be long since without it, I am so undeserving, in every sense of the word. I am so thankful to be loved fully.

504. my oldest daughter has the biggest, brightest, most sharpest eyes i have seen. so thankful there is brilliance and mischief in them. Her intelligent and unquenchable thirst for life grows and I watch from the side amazed and frightened all at the same time. 

505.  A brand new spacious sky blue purse. an anniversary gift from my husband. it could not have come at a better time, with my last one growing weak and frayed and on its last..straps.

506. Goodwill.

507. A crisp moscow mule made with the freshest ginger, lime, and mint. A treat, indeed.

508. summer is here. SUMMER IS HERE, HALLELUJAH, CAN I GET AN AMEN.

509. A gracious, slow to anger, humility filled, godly, upright husband who has never given up on me.

510. my sweet baby, Olive. What a little love she is. so sweet, peaceful, and full of smiles and coos for her mama. She is one of my greatest gifts from the Father.

511. My heavenly Father. Oh, Papa. How I love you with the love only capable because of You in me. You are my Rock and my Redeemer. My comfort. My peace. I love you. Thank you for Your incredible, never stopping, undeserving love.

500

testimony. the power of a person's life story to promote vulnerability, change, hope in the hearts and minds of others.
a chance to share my story, what God has done to fuel the hope of His glory + my joy, with the team that's bound for Jamaica in 5 weeks.

*#500!! Woohoo!

493-499

493. sleeping straight through hours of thunder and lightening and wind and rain
494. that little peek of sky that i can see from my bedroom window
495. mini green leaves just starting out
496. screened porch at the farm, extends the living space into the nature space
497. 4 miles with mom
498. roasted broccoli
499. natalie's shrieks of joy over the faithful spin of that ceiling fan

492

mom and dad. 40 years, today. thankful for their faithfulness to each other, to our humble Savior, to 6 kids + 5 grandkids, that they've kept their promise in a world that tells them that they don't have to. happy anniversary mom and dad. so much love for you.

484-491

484. double stuffed oreos and a gallon of milk

485. the tiny voices of my children singing their little hearts out. all the time.

486. the many helpful generous ones that choose to invest in our children and bless us with babysitting and playing with our littles.

487. boiled shredded chicken.

488. quail eggs. they taste creamy and amazing. 

489.  thankful where beauty truly comes from. 

490. that Jesus has given me joy in abundance!! 

491. I realize a lot of the gifts i am thankful for are food related, but i am just so thankful for the ability to taste and enjoy and the variety He provides!!

463-483

463 absence of snow 464 a much-larger-than-expected tax return 465 anticipation of paying off those wheels before the leaves begin to fall 466 job security 467 darkness of the winter months, platform for comparison to now's cloudless blue 468 finally having replaced that hubcap 469 this week that anticipates easter, the best day of the year 470 sunny forecast for resurrection day 471 church family, unchanged, even now with permanent walls 472 clean-scrubbed, white paint-coated floorboards 473 laundry away 474 green tea: alkalinity + detoxification 475 another request for accompaniment 476 thursday nights + luke/acts. eyes fixed on our jesus 477 fuzzy babies, ebony + calico, wide-eyed, full of energy 478 unnecessity of coats 479 new sunglasses, covering half my face 480 weakness, tears, shame, fear, spilt over breakfast 481 clean kitchens, pans, oven-roasting vegetables 482 hunger, physical meets spiritual 483 humble + confident: those who speak out on behalf of same-sex attraction

462

462 papa, as we called him. he would have been 102 if he made it to today. instead we said good bye in october 2001 good bye to a man of conviction and character who lived through the second world war in the northern part of the netherlands on a beautiful farm papa, oma, 4 kids [5 more to come] until the war took it all first, the german soldiers moved into the downstairs, while papa cared for oma, then pregnant with al, and created as much security and consistency as possible for all the littles. the man who steadfastly walked his wife and daughters through the loss of the oldest son, brother, age 8, when he was crushed under the tires of a neighbor's tractor and adri, adopted in for the years of the war from a family that lived in the city once they could no longer provide for her livelihood. papa, who lead his little family to a new land with only a few dollars to start again having left the family farm that had been handed down from grandfather to father to son [the farm that would have belonged to my father next] now, a treasure, the audio recording of papa and oma telling us all about these events how they journeyed through the loss with hope through the fear with confidence and with the pain, by way of joy because our God is faithful. his words, not mine. his words, now mine also. for teaching 9 children and 25 grandchildren, and 40+ great grandchildren perseverance in adversity faithfulness in life's ups and downs. forever grateful.

443-461

443 deer in the yard 444 wild flames in the fireplace 445 wall clocks with hour and minute hands 446 chubby robins, back for spring 447 lingering white tulips over the kitchen sink 448 hand-crafted mug collection 449 instagram conversation about mugs and their names 450 laughter to myself when no one needs to know 451 finding that j's nanny kids live in the same neighborhood as mine 452 the disney princess cupcake game 453 m+m, dancing princesses, paper plates for stones on the living room floor 454 short conversations with s. 455 books books books 456 when they arrive at my door in padded manilla envelopes 457 wesley hill, speaking out in humility on behalf of the hurting 458 cybex. 459 schedule that allows for 60-90 minutes 3x/week 460 that i can still use the gym, free of charge [thank you grace bible college] 461 a little nudge from d. and now i'm aware

433-442

433 cutting into an avocado to find it perfect, soft yellow merging into rich green, and consistency perfect 434 3-year-old self portrait. innocent and proud, and all is peace when little ones create 435 one-way trip through the deep backyard snow to the playground 436 textiles. the way they cozy up a space. 437 the extra patience that i have for the littles when i'm sick 438 the rearranged living room, open floor, feeling of newness in the middle of winter 439 freshly coated hope chest, a happy sunny color to add a little pizzaz to the common space 440 those roomies. sharing a home with them = joy. 441 co-leading this little family of ladies with em. God-appointed teamwork that i could never have dreamed. 442 another tiny pair of eyes, hands, toes...?! i think yes...

421-432

421 weekend getaway, colorado 422 rented skis, boots, + poles 423 a generous friend who offered lift tickets that i could never afford 424 the same friend, patient and encouraging, coaching me until i could remember how to ski 425 vail. new favorite. 426 gondolas, still a 10-minute ride to the top but without the icy cold winds 427 black suburban, rented, room for all of our gear, and a little extra room for a movie screen 428 eisenhower tunnel 429 off-highway excursion, avoiding 2 hours of traffic en route to breckenridge 430 a flight together, finally 431 spirit airlines. the butt of all jokes. 432 deep conversations amidst so much laughter

411-420

411 evidence of slow progress with a. less cupboard-climbing, fewer time-outs, more smiles 412 the olympics, the years of practice and dedication that funnel into moments on the television 413 beauty of figure skating, passion between long-time skating partners 414 little m. who tells me that she's going to practice hard so she can be in the olympics when she gets bigger 415 the luge. looks so easy, until you learn the intricacy and control that a smooth run requires 416 valentine's day tree, red, purple, pink 417 the fish tanks in meijer's. glowing ones, baby ones, chubby ones 418 these crafty little girls, paper, stickers, pens, valentines, mini mailboxes, all joy. (and a little candy) 419 morning chocolates, caramel + coconut 420 e.'s ultrasound, tiny baby in there, just sleeping and growing

400-410

400. honey chamomile tea

401. double stuffed oreos

402. restoration.  the kind i know and feel in my heart and hearts, the assurance that God is at work, and transforming not one, but two lives simultaneously.

403. tiny little bows found through out the house. a small delightful reminder that i have a beautiful daughter who wears them.

404. norah's tiny fluffy curls that form immediately after she leaves the bathtub.

405. when my children interact with kindness with one another. to overhear them playing well and peacefully brings me so much joy. it a gift because I know it is more rare than current, but prayerfully it will become more common..

406.  the ability to brush and blow dry my hair. i know it seems so small and ridiculous, but the act of fixing my hair after a shower can boost my confidence and fear of being a ratty distraction if my hair and face seem presentable..

407. a gift to belong to the King of Kings, the God of all Gods, all powerful and mighty, and yet, He chooses to lavish love on my tiny soul. I never want to forget the awe or respect that is due to Him. Yes, He is my most intimate friend, but He is a Great Warrior and a Rescuer.

408.  Nathan. I can never thank the Lord enough for this man, my husband. He is ever thoughtful, ever unselfish, so tender and gentle with me, and serves me in every way. He is the hands and feet of Jesus to me, so patient and wise, so quick to meet my needs, and i am so undeserving. I love him so much, and God has given me such a rare and precious gift in his love.

409. brief, but sincere encouragement from the Shepherd at church. to be recognized and honored by our teacher and admonisher, is a gift. we never expect or ask for his eyes or attention, so we are humbled and thankful when he offers it freely.

410.  the faithfulness of true friends who have taken the time to visit me while husband is gone. these friends stand apart from the rest and their love is quiet, yet loud to me.

389-400

389 jenga blocks. because the world and its desires pass away. 

390 6 notes from 6 who have taught me the most about humility and Gospel 

391 tubing faux pas + andy's pictures 

392 a few minutes of broomball 

393 teresa's almond milk 

394 laughing hard with the small group family 

395 worship that friday night, john's leadership 

396 leader meetings + prayer together, common heart for God's action in these young ones 

397 those crazy flakes of crystalized water, intricate detail, each radically distinct 

398 backyard ice rink 

399 late night in allendale, those few seemingly small questions that breathed life here 

400 healthy baby natalie after a few nights over in the hospital with unnamed virus

381-388

381. stove top hot chocolate
382. the many women kindreds that have graced my door,
blessing me with time and love while my thespian spouse practices each evening
383. wisdom and gentleness from those closest to me.
counsil and truth spoken in love
384. lobster ravioli
385. accountability from j to be in the Word. daily.
386. deposits to cover the winter bills.
387. the hands of my husband. they are used to rub out my aching sciatic nerve and weary back each evening, they run through my hair, as well as pull the sheets back to order around us.
388. the love and affection of my children. their kisses and hugs and snuggles and shimmies all are such gifts.

377-380

377. white noise throughout the night
378. brown, party of 4, due june 12
379. dinner, dessert, and conversation that we've missed for a couple of years
380. simone. curly little extrovert. all the wonder in those 2-year-old eyes

371-376

371. natalie grace. january 10. 6lbs. 15oz. sweet, healthy, baby girl. newest niece, treasure.
372. "again, again!" says m, 3. "please sing it again." delight in purest form.
373. pandora radio
374. a satisfying date with the treadmill
375. a nighttime run to walgreens, for soup, gatorade, and ice cream...
376. and for another new baby coming :-)

364-370

364. buckles on boot sides that give a tiny click of greeting with each step
365. bird conversation outside windows in the middle of january
366. words inside quotations, from the faithful who have gone before us
367. moist air
368. listing, counting, naming of gifts
369. soft green walls, whispering spring, easter, right around the corner
370. ends meet.

361-363

361. e. the way she takes up my cause, ready to fight, full with love for me and what i need
362. j. humble challenge, always, for grace and submission.
363. slowness. the need not to rush, accomplish, build a name for myself, just to be small, even sad, yet satisfied.

351-360

351. tips of winter trees, touching blue sky
352. a risk, words from a new friend sent from hundreds of miles
353. a sleepless night, weakness.  prayer, peace
354. painted creamy white floors, scrubbed clean
355. the way mickey mouse chicken nuggets fit the heart-shaped space on the plate, m's discovery
356. little blue eyes and little greens
357. paint thinner, paint, sandpaper, wood stain, the colors, smells, sounds of forward progress
358. lunch with i. hearing the exotic dreams and fearless wonder from a young woman who shows me what could be
359. the men working across the street, always ready for conversation, often a bright spot on an otherwise icy and dreary day
360. a working computer, 26 letter keys that gladly absorb the overflow of my heart

334-350

334. cozy thursday nights at 1314
335. molly, rachie, emily elizabeth
336. these nights when gospel seeps out lips and hearts reveal need of the one hope
337. quiet coffee shop, cars whirring outside windows while quiet thoughts do so inside
338. a new journal, christmas gift, for guarding the best words
339. book hangover: inability to start a new book because i'm still caught in the world of the previous
340. 714. cleanest house in the neighborhood. homey. and warm. and no doubt that i'm loved there.
341. smithy basement, all to myself, the rose bowl, freedom to yell and cheer and complain, then sweet victory.
342. brand new green-letter sweatshirt. coziest 3 days in a row ever.
343. roller shade, jerry installed effortlessly, blocks the light so well that i sleep way too long
344. my own space in this home, things in place just as i like them
345. cloudless sky, though the forecast spoke otherwise
346. red toe nails
347. a new years eve wedding
348. vitale's pizza. best in grand rapids, no contest
349. this sovereignty study + all the wrestling that must accompany
350. being able to see evidence of the grace that i'm learning, so much more abundant than just a few years ago