Counting My Blessings #13

This upcoming holiday season.

My family got bigger this past June.  God blessed me with such an amazing family and then he double blessed me with more family.  And I get to celebrate the holiday season with my husband, my old family, and my new family.  But, this year, we worked things out to wear husband and I don't have to be apart -- yay!  I hate being apart from him, and if it were any other year I'd suck it up and we'd go our separate ways to spend time with our families, but it's our first holiday season together as a married couple.  

Getting together with good friends.

I have this very dear friend that I rarely see because we are both so busy.  I was blessed to have our paths cross on Friday and we were able to go get lunch together.  It was hands down the highlight of my week.

The weather.

Though I feel awful saying this, but fortunately we were not impacted by Sandy.  I know millions of people were and my heart and prayers go out to them.  Georgia was supposed to get rains and wind, but we just got the wind.  I am blessed that Georgia did not get hit because now so many Georgia residents are flying up to the northeast to lend their services.  That makes me proud of my fellow Georgians.  If I weren't in nursing school, if I were already a registered nurse, I would head up there myself and see what I can do.  Until I have that ability, I'm helping in the way I can, by collecting donations.

To the charitable readers who have already donated money to #SupportFromSandy.

I know this may seem like a "plug," but it's a good cause.  I'd love for us all to get together to help make an impact.  Some of the people donated are even from the northeast!  How beautiful!  I'm also adding to my donation pool 50% of my proceeds from advertising.  And with the coupon code NOVEMBER you get 20% off.  Think about it.  =)

That today is Sunday.

Though to many this is the last day of "fun," "relaxation," "etc," but that's only extra incentive to precious these moments you have with whomever you are spending your time with today -- even if it's just yourself.  Me time is incredibly important!

Counting My Blessings #13

This upcoming holiday season.

My family got bigger this past June.  God blessed me with such an amazing family and then he double blessed me with more family.  And I get to celebrate the holiday season with my husband, my old family, and my new family.  But, this year, we worked things out to wear husband and I don't have to be apart -- yay!  I hate being apart from him, and if it were any other year I'd suck it up and we'd go our separate ways to spend time with our families, but it's our first holiday season together as a married couple.  

Getting together with good friends.

I have this very dear friend that I rarely see because we are both so busy.  I was blessed to have our paths cross on Friday and we were able to go get lunch together.  It was hands down the highlight of my week.

The weather.

Though I feel awful saying this, but fortunately we were not impacted by Sandy.  I know millions of people were and my heart and prayers go out to them.  Georgia was supposed to get rains and wind, but we just got the wind.  I am blessed that Georgia did not get hit because now so many Georgia residents are flying up to the northeast to lend their services.  That makes me proud of my fellow Georgians.  If I weren't in nursing school, if I were already a registered nurse, I would head up there myself and see what I can do.  Until I have that ability, I'm helping in the way I can, by collecting donations.

To the charitable readers who have already donated money to #SupportFromSandy.

I know this may seem like a "plug," but it's a good cause.  I'd love for us all to get together to help make an impact.  Some of the people donated are even from the northeast!  How beautiful!  I'm also adding to my donation pool 50% of my proceeds from advertising.  And with the coupon code NOVEMBER you get 20% off.  Think about it.  =)

That today is Sunday.

Though to many this is the last day of "fun," "relaxation," "etc," but that's only extra incentive to precious these moments you have with whomever you are spending your time with today -- even if it's just yourself.  Me time is incredibly important!

Four Years

Four years ago today was the first time I laid my eyes on my husband. You know that whole love at first site thing? Well I don't know how I feel about that, but I do remember totally wanting to befriend this kid. Remember I was anti-boyfriends at this time? I just was loving the fact that he was a foreigner and that I knew his country of origin well!

Anyways, there we were, a bunch of college students together for a weekend for a Campus Catholics retreat in the north Georgia mountains. My friendly, outgoing self told him that we should be partners in a card game against two other people that I can't remember or picture their faces for the life of me. The subsequent conversations and memories from that weekend (both with and without him) were amazing.

A little over a month later we would go on our first date after much back and forth about whether we should pursue a relationship or not.  And now, this man is my husband. My very best friend, the absolute smartest person I know, and whom I semi-jokingly call the "most interesting man in the world."

God is good.

I love you, husband.

Always, M.

Four Years

Four years ago today was the first time I laid my eyes on my husband. You know that whole love at first site thing? Well I don't know how I feel about that, but I do remember totally wanting to befriend this kid. Remember I was anti-boyfriends at this time? I just was loving the fact that he was a foreigner and that I knew his country of origin well!

Anyways, there we were, a bunch of college students together for a weekend for a Campus Catholics retreat in the north Georgia mountains. My friendly, outgoing self told him that we should be partners in a card game against two other people that I can't remember or picture their faces for the life of me. The subsequent conversations and memories from that weekend (both with and without him) were amazing.

A little over a month later we would go on our first date after much back and forth about whether we should pursue a relationship or not.  And now, this man is my husband. My very best friend, the absolute smartest person I know, and whom I semi-jokingly call the "most interesting man in the world."

God is good.

I love you, husband.

Always, M.

CMB #12

For vacations.

D and I spent ten days in paradise.  We got back Monday, we both had to resume work, and then we had Wednesday off.  Three day work week?  Sounds good to me!  I know he especially needs it.  I kind of "set" my own schedule.  He actually has a place to be ten-twelve hours a day.  Going on our honeymoon was a much needed break for him and I'm so glad he had that opportunity and enjoyed it.  We all need vacations.  Both for our physical and mental health!

For my parents.

Though we were on vacation for ten days, we still had three little critters to worry about.  My parents took care of them (I say three, but two are cats and are so low maintenance it's really just 1.5 critters to take care of).  Thank you both!  I know Shelby loves Samy (one of their dogs) that I there is no way she didn't have a ball of a time.

For Andrea, Casey, Elizabeth, Melissa, Megan, and Kristen.

If not for them, I would have stressed trying to find something to schedule, or would have had a blank blog.  Plus, you wouldn't be able to meet six lovely ladies.  I've known/followed some of these ladies for awhile, while others are relatively new on my radar.  They each are in different levels of their relationships: multiple anniversaries down versus just one, some have kids, others don't, some stay at home, some have 9 to 5 jobs (or 7a-7p!).  Regardless, I think they each had something valuable to share with you (and me!) and I hope you all enjoyed meeting them!  For a recap, click here.

For Duncan.

Marrying me can't be easy.  But he did it.  He's put up with a lot: 2011, nursing school, wedding planning, etc.  Three and a half years together and he's still here.  He should get a medal.  The last year or so has been brutal for me, much less on our relationship.  I know it's going to be another rough year or so, but I think we are finally figuring out how to make it work for us.

CMB #12

For vacations.

D and I spent ten days in paradise.  We got back Monday, we both had to resume work, and then we had Wednesday off.  Three day work week?  Sounds good to me!  I know he especially needs it.  I kind of "set" my own schedule.  He actually has a place to be ten-twelve hours a day.  Going on our honeymoon was a much needed break for him and I'm so glad he had that opportunity and enjoyed it.  We all need vacations.  Both for our physical and mental health!

For my parents.

Though we were on vacation for ten days, we still had three little critters to worry about.  My parents took care of them (I say three, but two are cats and are so low maintenance it's really just 1.5 critters to take care of).  Thank you both!  I know Shelby loves Samy (one of their dogs) that I there is no way she didn't have a ball of a time.

For Andrea, Casey, Elizabeth, Melissa, Megan, and Kristen.

If not for them, I would have stressed trying to find something to schedule, or would have had a blank blog.  Plus, you wouldn't be able to meet six lovely ladies.  I've known/followed some of these ladies for awhile, while others are relatively new on my radar.  They each are in different levels of their relationships: multiple anniversaries down versus just one, some have kids, others don't, some stay at home, some have 9 to 5 jobs (or 7a-7p!).  Regardless, I think they each had something valuable to share with you (and me!) and I hope you all enjoyed meeting them!  For a recap, click here.

For Duncan.

Marrying me can't be easy.  But he did it.  He's put up with a lot: 2011, nursing school, wedding planning, etc.  Three and a half years together and he's still here.  He should get a medal.  The last year or so has been brutal for me, much less on our relationship.  I know it's going to be another rough year or so, but I think we are finally figuring out how to make it work for us.

CMB: #11

On-the-go powder packets for water.

I try to drink water as much as I can, but it's never been one of those preferred drinks (like most people, right?).  I'm a lover of juice: mango, peach, apple, grapefruit, cranberry, etc and teas and lemonades.  And if you combine fruits, I'm just as likely to crave a class.  The only soda I have in my refrigerator for myself is Ginger Ale.  Some weeks that goes faster than others, and it's always great for when I feel nauseous or something.  So, anyways, when I picked up some low-cal packets in order to persuade myself to drink more water, I was instantly hooked.  Now, all I drink is water.  I barely touch anything else!  My favorite flavor is by-far the iced peach tea flavor, but I also like the subtle lemon tea flavor.  I'm hesitant to get a lemonade flavor because my GI system (upper, not lower!) doesn't take well to it's acidity, but for about $1 for a box of about ten (depending on where you are shopping), I might as well try it, right!

DIY projects that are already 80% done for you.

I know that sounds weird, but there is one major wedding project that I wanted to tackle and be 100% DIY, but I just couldn't figure out the magic combination that will have the right message: "Hi, Amy (and Duncan) made me with love from scratch, but don't I also look flippin' awesome?!"  So, I decided, instead of pulling out my hair, I would succumb to something that's already mostly made and all I have to do is put on the finishing touches.  It's not 100% unique, but it still will have 100% of Duncan and myself reflected in it.  I'll talk more on what project I'm talking about later. 

Michael's.

This is both a blessing and a curse.  One trip to Michael's never lasts less than an hour (okay, I was really strong-willed one day and went in, saw they didn't have what I needed, and walked straight out, but that is a 1/100,000 occurrence).  I get so inspired by everything that I find (and there is a lot to find, especially when you are looking carefully).  Their great prices (for the most part), is also a major problem for me.  So, why is this even a blessing?  Because I walked in last week, and discovered some amazing finds for the wedding (and one for the home).  Yeehaw!  (Yes, I just did that.)

McDonald's.

A weird one, I know.  But, if it wasn't for McDonald's over-advertising their fish McBites, I would have completely forgotten that, since it's Lent, I'm not supposed to have meat on Fridays.  The realization went like this: 

Duncan (as we're going through the drivethrough in an attempt to 

get a quick breakfast since we were running late to meet his parents) : 

those new fish mcbites look awful.

Amy : they really do.  I guess their fish sandwich wasn't enough....

oh! DUNCAN!  Do you know why they are advertising that?!?!!!

It's because of LENT!  Oh, my!  I forgot we can't eat meat on Fridays!!!!!!  

Okay, lame flashback, but, you get the point....

Happy Sunday!!

CMB: #11

On-the-go powder packets for water.

I try to drink water as much as I can, but it's never been one of those preferred drinks (like most people, right?).  I'm a lover of juice: mango, peach, apple, grapefruit, cranberry, etc and teas and lemonades.  And if you combine fruits, I'm just as likely to crave a class.  The only soda I have in my refrigerator for myself is Ginger Ale.  Some weeks that goes faster than others, and it's always great for when I feel nauseous or something.  So, anyways, when I picked up some low-cal packets in order to persuade myself to drink more water, I was instantly hooked.  Now, all I drink is water.  I barely touch anything else!  My favorite flavor is by-far the iced peach tea flavor, but I also like the subtle lemon tea flavor.  I'm hesitant to get a lemonade flavor because my GI system (upper, not lower!) doesn't take well to it's acidity, but for about $1 for a box of about ten (depending on where you are shopping), I might as well try it, right!

DIY projects that are already 80% done for you.

I know that sounds weird, but there is one major wedding project that I wanted to tackle and be 100% DIY, but I just couldn't figure out the magic combination that will have the right message: "Hi, Amy (and Duncan) made me with love from scratch, but don't I also look flippin' awesome?!"  So, I decided, instead of pulling out my hair, I would succumb to something that's already mostly made and all I have to do is put on the finishing touches.  It's not 100% unique, but it still will have 100% of Duncan and myself reflected in it.  I'll talk more on what project I'm talking about later. 

Michael's.

This is both a blessing and a curse.  One trip to Michael's never lasts less than an hour (okay, I was really strong-willed one day and went in, saw they didn't have what I needed, and walked straight out, but that is a 1/100,000 occurrence).  I get so inspired by everything that I find (and there is a lot to find, especially when you are looking carefully).  Their great prices (for the most part), is also a major problem for me.  So, why is this even a blessing?  Because I walked in last week, and discovered some amazing finds for the wedding (and one for the home).  Yeehaw!  (Yes, I just did that.)

McDonald's.

A weird one, I know.  But, if it wasn't for McDonald's over-advertising their fish McBites, I would have completely forgotten that, since it's Lent, I'm not supposed to have meat on Fridays.  The realization went like this: 

Duncan (as we're going through the drivethrough in an attempt to 

get a quick breakfast since we were running late to meet his parents) : 

those new fish mcbites look awful.

Amy : they really do.  I guess their fish sandwich wasn't enough....

oh! DUNCAN!  Do you know why they are advertising that?!?!!!

It's because of LENT!  Oh, my!  I forgot we can't eat meat on Fridays!!!!!!  

Okay, lame flashback, but, you get the point....

Happy Sunday!!

CMB #10 :

Bananas with peanut butter.

Oh, how I have been craving this sweet, healthy snack lately.  I'm so grateful to have found a healthy snack to eat when I am either hungry or just kind of in the mood to munch on something.  Hey, just become I'm dieting doesn't mean I don't eat!

My semester schedule.

It is so much less stressful than last semester.  I feel like I can breathe!  And sleep.  I missed sleep last semester.  I am so glad I can now sleep.  Oh, nursing school....

It. Is. Spring. Break.

This is incredibly important for the following blessing entry.  

Closing in on less than 4 months...

Since we got engaged, it just hasn't felt real.  Woah, boy, it does now.  Bridesmaids are talking wedding showers and bachelorette weekend, Duncan has his tux, we picked out my wedding ring and are deciding on Duncan's wedding ring, the honeymoon is 100% booked, and invitations part I (international) are supposed to be mailed out this week and they aren't even made yet............... (don't ask me why I have procrastinated this badly...........), BUT at least it feels real, right?  I don't know if this is a blessing or not.  Oh yeah, it's a blessing that it's almost here and over with.  I think we are both just counting down the days to when we are able to be lazy beach bums on one of Hawaii's many beautiful beaches.

The pups.

It was a huge decision to get Shelby.  One Duncan and I spent almost an hour debating.  He said she would be my responsibility because he doesn't have the time right now in his life (remember, he spends about 60 hours and five days a week either commuting or working).  I said, time is all I have.  Well, she is the cutest little thing.  She's way too smart for her own good, but you can't help but love her little face when she looks up at you eagerly.  Duncan is so glad that we got her, too.  I am so happy that was a good decision, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to have three amazing animals (p.s. Liam is still the best snuggler in the entire world).

The weather.

I never realized how much I actually like spring weather until the other day.  I got in my car, rolled down my windows, turned up the window, and just relaxed as I was driving home.  I felt happy and was so excited to have a girls night.  I wanted to get home and go for a run (I had to get groceries instead... but did end up going running another day).  Who knew sunny, relatively warm weather actually had a positive effect on mood?

CMB #10 :

Bananas with peanut butter.

Oh, how I have been craving this sweet, healthy snack lately.  I'm so grateful to have found a healthy snack to eat when I am either hungry or just kind of in the mood to munch on something.  Hey, just become I'm dieting doesn't mean I don't eat!

My semester schedule.

It is so much less stressful than last semester.  I feel like I can breathe!  And sleep.  I missed sleep last semester.  I am so glad I can now sleep.  Oh, nursing school....

It. Is. Spring. Break.

This is incredibly important for the following blessing entry.  

Closing in on less than 4 months...

Since we got engaged, it just hasn't felt real.  Woah, boy, it does now.  Bridesmaids are talking wedding showers and bachelorette weekend, Duncan has his tux, we picked out my wedding ring and are deciding on Duncan's wedding ring, the honeymoon is 100% booked, and invitations part I (international) are supposed to be mailed out this week and they aren't even made yet............... (don't ask me why I have procrastinated this badly...........), BUT at least it feels real, right?  I don't know if this is a blessing or not.  Oh yeah, it's a blessing that it's almost here and over with.  I think we are both just counting down the days to when we are able to be lazy beach bums on one of Hawaii's many beautiful beaches.

The pups.

It was a huge decision to get Shelby.  One Duncan and I spent almost an hour debating.  He said she would be my responsibility because he doesn't have the time right now in his life (remember, he spends about 60 hours and five days a week either commuting or working).  I said, time is all I have.  Well, she is the cutest little thing.  She's way too smart for her own good, but you can't help but love her little face when she looks up at you eagerly.  Duncan is so glad that we got her, too.  I am so happy that was a good decision, and I am blessed to have the opportunity to have three amazing animals (p.s. Liam is still the best snuggler in the entire world).

The weather.

I never realized how much I actually like spring weather until the other day.  I got in my car, rolled down my windows, turned up the window, and just relaxed as I was driving home.  I felt happy and was so excited to have a girls night.  I wanted to get home and go for a run (I had to get groceries instead... but did end up going running another day).  Who knew sunny, relatively warm weather actually had a positive effect on mood?

CMB: #9

God's Patience.

Because He knows my heart, my timing, my thoughts.  He knows me well enough to be patient because sometimes it takes me a little bit longer for things to "click."

My mom's safe arrival home from an overseas trip.

The Smith's.

For being so supportive of Duncan and I.  His sister is so excited for us, too!  And for loving on the sweet Shelby, because I bring her with us when we go to visit with them (since it's about 1.5 hours away).

My Bridesmaids.

They are so adorable and supportive.  They are even excited for me even though it still does not feel real for me yet.

School.

In this economy, I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to be getting an education that I will be proud of and one that I will love.

Duncan.

I know I CMB him a lot, but I am so proud of him.  We went to have marriage preparation with a Deacon at our lovely Church.  He truly amazed me.  I'm usually the talker, but he was so in to it and he walked away saying that he values this opportunity that we have.

What are some of the blessings in your life today?

CMB: #9

God's Patience.

Because He knows my heart, my timing, my thoughts.  He knows me well enough to be patient because sometimes it takes me a little bit longer for things to "click."

My mom's safe arrival home from an overseas trip.

The Smith's.

For being so supportive of Duncan and I.  His sister is so excited for us, too!  And for loving on the sweet Shelby, because I bring her with us when we go to visit with them (since it's about 1.5 hours away).

My Bridesmaids.

They are so adorable and supportive.  They are even excited for me even though it still does not feel real for me yet.

School.

In this economy, I feel very blessed to have the opportunity to be getting an education that I will be proud of and one that I will love.

Duncan.

I know I CMB him a lot, but I am so proud of him.  We went to have marriage preparation with a Deacon at our lovely Church.  He truly amazed me.  I'm usually the talker, but he was so in to it and he walked away saying that he values this opportunity that we have.

What are some of the blessings in your life today?

CMB : #8

Since it's Christmas & a Sunday, I thought a CMB post was fitting.

This Christmas and every other day of the year, I am grateful for God's wonderful gifts to me: 

my family, Duncan, my friends, providing me an education, understanding my passions and helping me make them fruitful, having a roof over my head and food in the fridge, the strange Atlanta weather, my health, my metaphorical heart (that is passionate, empathetic, and joyful), my metaphorical brains (that is filled with the constant desire to learn and evolve), having a whole bunch of canvases ready to be painted on, my sweet little furrbabies who bring such a smile to my face, and my faith that keeps me going on days when my heart and brain sometimes can't.

So, many of you might have seen/read about Duncan.  

I normally am not very mushy gushy (on here or in public... or even with him, haha!), but I thought I would share a little bit about him.  He is, after all, the love of my life.  

Dunx is my best friend, my cheerleader, my Mr. Fix-It, my sous chef, my traveling buddy, my partner-in-crime, my little engineer, my handsome future husband, and often my better half who continues to build me up but also keep me grounded.  He is the smartest man that I know, he keeps me laughing, and has such a big, empathetic heart (though it may be a little impatient sometimes!).  The boy has just as many dreams as I do and it warms my heart listening to him talking for what can seem like hours sometimes about them.  He loves his family more than I've ever seen from another male and is so amazing with the furbabies.  And, after my immediate family, he is God's best gift to me.  I am just so excited what God has in store for his future and I am so blessed to be a part of it.

Us a few hours before he proposed.

--

Lastly (but certainly not least in any way!), since today is the day in which we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I did feel like it was necessary to do a little dedication to Him (I normally prefer not to on this blog since religion and faith is a personal choice).  

I came to know Him and welcome Him in to my heart when I was a Junior in high school.  I wasn't going down the best path and often found myself empty.  I had been in two serious relationships and got to the point where my relationship with them was all that I knew how to be.  Eventually, I learned that I couldn't love another until I loved myself.  It was then, that I made the slow journey and developed the most important relationship in my life (of course He comes first, in spite of my overwhelming love of Duncan, my family, and my friends).  He has provided me with so many gifts, blessings, and graces and I know He is always watching over me, protecting me, and guiding me (even though sometimes, I fail to trust and I am hesitant).  With all that said, I wouldn't be who I am today with out His love and my relationship with Him.  He was patient and knew that I needed to go down the path I did in order to genuinely go down His path for me.  It is Him that has brought me to where I am now and I am so grateful and so blessed. It is even on my darkest days (which have been relatively frequent the past couple of months) that I am still confident in my future and in His plan for me.

Well, enough of my thoughts!  I just had to have these two dedications today.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

CMB : #8

Since it's Christmas & a Sunday, I thought a CMB post was fitting.

This Christmas and every other day of the year, I am grateful for God's wonderful gifts to me: 

my family, Duncan, my friends, providing me an education, understanding my passions and helping me make them fruitful, having a roof over my head and food in the fridge, the strange Atlanta weather, my health, my metaphorical heart (that is passionate, empathetic, and joyful), my metaphorical brains (that is filled with the constant desire to learn and evolve), having a whole bunch of canvases ready to be painted on, my sweet little furrbabies who bring such a smile to my face, and my faith that keeps me going on days when my heart and brain sometimes can't.

So, many of you might have seen/read about Duncan.  

I normally am not very mushy gushy (on here or in public... or even with him, haha!), but I thought I would share a little bit about him.  He is, after all, the love of my life.  

Dunx is my best friend, my cheerleader, my Mr. Fix-It, my sous chef, my traveling buddy, my partner-in-crime, my little engineer, my handsome future husband, and often my better half who continues to build me up but also keep me grounded.  He is the smartest man that I know, he keeps me laughing, and has such a big, empathetic heart (though it may be a little impatient sometimes!).  The boy has just as many dreams as I do and it warms my heart listening to him talking for what can seem like hours sometimes about them.  He loves his family more than I've ever seen from another male and is so amazing with the furbabies.  And, after my immediate family, he is God's best gift to me.  I am just so excited what God has in store for his future and I am so blessed to be a part of it.

Us a few hours before he proposed.

--

Lastly (but certainly not least in any way!), since today is the day in which we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I did feel like it was necessary to do a little dedication to Him (I normally prefer not to on this blog since religion and faith is a personal choice).  

I came to know Him and welcome Him in to my heart when I was a Junior in high school.  I wasn't going down the best path and often found myself empty.  I had been in two serious relationships and got to the point where my relationship with them was all that I knew how to be.  Eventually, I learned that I couldn't love another until I loved myself.  It was then, that I made the slow journey and developed the most important relationship in my life (of course He comes first, in spite of my overwhelming love of Duncan, my family, and my friends).  He has provided me with so many gifts, blessings, and graces and I know He is always watching over me, protecting me, and guiding me (even though sometimes, I fail to trust and I am hesitant).  With all that said, I wouldn't be who I am today with out His love and my relationship with Him.  He was patient and knew that I needed to go down the path I did in order to genuinely go down His path for me.  It is Him that has brought me to where I am now and I am so grateful and so blessed. It is even on my darkest days (which have been relatively frequent the past couple of months) that I am still confident in my future and in His plan for me.

Well, enough of my thoughts!  I just had to have these two dedications today.

Have a very Merry Christmas!

CMB: #7

It's been a long time since I've had a CMB post.  There's been a lot going on in the past month or so.  It hasn't been easy and I've noticed my motivation has dropped to almost nonexistent and my exhaustion has increased exponentially.  As I start trying to make necessary changes to help get myself back on track albeit all the distractions, and inspired by the upcoming holiday, I decided I should really be counting my blessings instead of focusing on the negatives -- and man, this is a long one today!

My family.

I consider them a constant blessing from God.  Families aren't perfect, but He gave me the family that I needed and I often find myself overlooking how important a supportive, present, dedicated family can be.  They are part of my Heaven on earth.

My friends.

With all that has been going on, I've definitely been neglecting some friends.  I've been so focused on school and everything else, that I can't believe it's already the middle of November!  However, it's so refreshing that they understand I've been MIA and that they love me and support my decisions--and that I need to hang out with them soon!

Sleep.

Man, oh man how I love my sleep.  I'm so exhausted some days that I just want to go cuddle up and nap.  And, though it sometimes doesn't help, sometimes it's all I need.

My future.

There are days where it's impossible to fathom what the future might hold, but I'm still an optimist deep down.  My struggles now are just preparing me for whatever His plan is for me, and that can be pretty powerful inspiration some days.

Photography.

I love my hobby, I really do.  It must be somewhat therapeutic for me.  I had some jobs this semester and I love them and I loved editing the resulting pictures.  (Due to client confidentiality, I can't show them to you, but believe me, I had lots of fun!).

Cereal.

I know, I know, another food (but, hey, food's important, right?)  Well, I am on some new medication and one of the side effects is nausea.  The first week on my medication I had so much nausea that all I could manage for dinner was cereal.  I found some good ole' Cocoa Krispies and had maybe 10 bowls in 8 days.  Sometimes, all you need is a good bowl of cereal.  I'm glad I at least had an appetite for that!

Sundays.

Because of our busy schedules, Sundays are the only days Duncan and I have together.  It's nice having a day to catch up.  It stinks that it's Sunday and Duncan has work the next day and I have school the next day so we have to be lame and "retire" early from anything that we do.  But, hey, I'll take it!

Duncan.

Speaking of Sundays, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Duncan, especially since tomorrow is our three year anniversary.  He is my rock.  He is supportive, encouraging, and Mr. Fix-It.  He is a terrific man with a bright future and many beautiful dreams.  He's doing so well in his job, and I just couldn't be more proud of him.

My health.

I've been experiencing some health...issues lately, and sometimes it's nice to be reassured about the positive aspects of my health, as we all should.  

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

CMB: #7

It's been a long time since I've had a CMB post.  There's been a lot going on in the past month or so.  It hasn't been easy and I've noticed my motivation has dropped to almost nonexistent and my exhaustion has increased exponentially.  As I start trying to make necessary changes to help get myself back on track albeit all the distractions, and inspired by the upcoming holiday, I decided I should really be counting my blessings instead of focusing on the negatives -- and man, this is a long one today!

My family.

I consider them a constant blessing from God.  Families aren't perfect, but He gave me the family that I needed and I often find myself overlooking how important a supportive, present, dedicated family can be.  They are part of my Heaven on earth.

My friends.

With all that has been going on, I've definitely been neglecting some friends.  I've been so focused on school and everything else, that I can't believe it's already the middle of November!  However, it's so refreshing that they understand I've been MIA and that they love me and support my decisions--and that I need to hang out with them soon!

Sleep.

Man, oh man how I love my sleep.  I'm so exhausted some days that I just want to go cuddle up and nap.  And, though it sometimes doesn't help, sometimes it's all I need.

My future.

There are days where it's impossible to fathom what the future might hold, but I'm still an optimist deep down.  My struggles now are just preparing me for whatever His plan is for me, and that can be pretty powerful inspiration some days.

Photography.

I love my hobby, I really do.  It must be somewhat therapeutic for me.  I had some jobs this semester and I love them and I loved editing the resulting pictures.  (Due to client confidentiality, I can't show them to you, but believe me, I had lots of fun!).

Cereal.

I know, I know, another food (but, hey, food's important, right?)  Well, I am on some new medication and one of the side effects is nausea.  The first week on my medication I had so much nausea that all I could manage for dinner was cereal.  I found some good ole' Cocoa Krispies and had maybe 10 bowls in 8 days.  Sometimes, all you need is a good bowl of cereal.  I'm glad I at least had an appetite for that!

Sundays.

Because of our busy schedules, Sundays are the only days Duncan and I have together.  It's nice having a day to catch up.  It stinks that it's Sunday and Duncan has work the next day and I have school the next day so we have to be lame and "retire" early from anything that we do.  But, hey, I'll take it!

Duncan.

Speaking of Sundays, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Duncan, especially since tomorrow is our three year anniversary.  He is my rock.  He is supportive, encouraging, and Mr. Fix-It.  He is a terrific man with a bright future and many beautiful dreams.  He's doing so well in his job, and I just couldn't be more proud of him.

My health.

I've been experiencing some health...issues lately, and sometimes it's nice to be reassured about the positive aspects of my health, as we all should.  

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

CMB: #6

My parents.

I didn't have the best day on Friday and was starting to question things.  Sometimes, all you need is your parents to reassure you and give you some positie encouragement.

My hospital rotation.

I am learning so much this rotation.  It was a blessing in disguise and I love it.  It really validates my passion for nursing.  What did I do this week?  I spent two glorious shifts in the OR.  What did I see?  Well, many people would rather not know what I saw, except my nursing friends.  So, I will spare you all details.  Let's just say, information is so much clearer when you're face-to-face with what you're learning... versus reading a book about how one of the most amazing processes on the planet functions.  Yes, the human body is amazing.

Walmart.

I was in need of organization in my life, particularly in my kitchen.  So, I hopped over to Walmart (where else does a college student go in order to purchase cheap supplies?).  I got great deals on organization products and I already feel so much better about my kitchen (I strongly dislike disorganization).  Expect before & after pictures this week.

Girls days.

My bad day on Friday was made better by my Saturday.  Spending a day with some good friends, doing spontaneous things (we literally hopped from activity to the next off random whims), and just being brought back to reality.  Expect recap on Tuesday.

CMB: #6

My parents.

I didn't have the best day on Friday and was starting to question things.  Sometimes, all you need is your parents to reassure you and give you some positie encouragement.

My hospital rotation.

I am learning so much this rotation.  It was a blessing in disguise and I love it.  It really validates my passion for nursing.  What did I do this week?  I spent two glorious shifts in the OR.  What did I see?  Well, many people would rather not know what I saw, except my nursing friends.  So, I will spare you all details.  Let's just say, information is so much clearer when you're face-to-face with what you're learning... versus reading a book about how one of the most amazing processes on the planet functions.  Yes, the human body is amazing.

Walmart.

I was in need of organization in my life, particularly in my kitchen.  So, I hopped over to Walmart (where else does a college student go in order to purchase cheap supplies?).  I got great deals on organization products and I already feel so much better about my kitchen (I strongly dislike disorganization).  Expect before & after pictures this week.

Girls days.

My bad day on Friday was made better by my Saturday.  Spending a day with some good friends, doing spontaneous things (we literally hopped from activity to the next off random whims), and just being brought back to reality.  Expect recap on Tuesday.

CMB #5

This mini-vacation I have this upcoming week.

I know, I know, only two weeks in to school and I'm already needing a vacation.  Well, it's because I'm already behind!  It was a little rough getting this semester started and I'm looking forward to sitting down and completing what's on my checklist.  Yay for checklists!

My friends.

I spent a few nights with Sharelle last week and I thoroughly enjoyed our time together.  We even had great girl talk and I appreciate how much she cares for me.  We all went to first GSU game of the season! I know it might not be anything compared to a UGA game, but man, we are proud!  We won 41-7 and we had amazing seats, my friends.  Then, a few of my other friends just light up my day whenever I talk to them.  I had the opportunity to see some of them last weekend at Gabriel Iglesias, which was by far the funniest night of my life.  

Duncan, of course.

This week because he went out of town and drove through four different states for work in three days for auditing.  Man, he was exhausted, but he did it and he said he learned a lot.  He put up with a minor freak-out I had on Thursday due to a power outage knocking out a long assignment I was doing, and still managed to surprise me with a pair of Jessica Simpson pumps that I loved but refused to get because they were over my price range for shoes (to be fair, I refuse to buy shoes that are over $30--the few exceptions are for nursing shoes, maybe sneakers, and a to.die.for pair of boots).  Now, I need a reason to wear these babies, any suggestions??  Thank you, Duncan.

Therapy.

For those of you who don't know or missed the post, I did start therapy in July.  I believe it was my June resolution.  Apparently many nursing students take advantage of GSU's already-paid-for-through-ridiculously-high-fees counseling services.  I love my counselor.  It's sort of weird sometimes because I'll say something then procede to explain why I've already figured it out and accepted it.  But it's nice having someone who remains 100% objective to listen to me and offer helpful, constructive advice.  And no, she doesn't simply just say "And how does that make you feel?" I feel like I'm making slow, but positive steps, especially when trying to cope with all the stress going on.

(source)

CMB #5

This mini-vacation I have this upcoming week.

I know, I know, only two weeks in to school and I'm already needing a vacation.  Well, it's because I'm already behind!  It was a little rough getting this semester started and I'm looking forward to sitting down and completing what's on my checklist.  Yay for checklists!

My friends.

I spent a few nights with Sharelle last week and I thoroughly enjoyed our time together.  We even had great girl talk and I appreciate how much she cares for me.  We all went to first GSU game of the season! I know it might not be anything compared to a UGA game, but man, we are proud!  We won 41-7 and we had amazing seats, my friends.  Then, a few of my other friends just light up my day whenever I talk to them.  I had the opportunity to see some of them last weekend at Gabriel Iglesias, which was by far the funniest night of my life.  

Duncan, of course.

This week because he went out of town and drove through four different states for work in three days for auditing.  Man, he was exhausted, but he did it and he said he learned a lot.  He put up with a minor freak-out I had on Thursday due to a power outage knocking out a long assignment I was doing, and still managed to surprise me with a pair of Jessica Simpson pumps that I loved but refused to get because they were over my price range for shoes (to be fair, I refuse to buy shoes that are over $30--the few exceptions are for nursing shoes, maybe sneakers, and a to.die.for pair of boots).  Now, I need a reason to wear these babies, any suggestions??  Thank you, Duncan.

Therapy.

For those of you who don't know or missed the post, I did start therapy in July.  I believe it was my June resolution.  Apparently many nursing students take advantage of GSU's already-paid-for-through-ridiculously-high-fees counseling services.  I love my counselor.  It's sort of weird sometimes because I'll say something then procede to explain why I've already figured it out and accepted it.  But it's nice having someone who remains 100% objective to listen to me and offer helpful, constructive advice.  And no, she doesn't simply just say "And how does that make you feel?" I feel like I'm making slow, but positive steps, especially when trying to cope with all the stress going on.

(source)