June 23

             

So it appears that I am now down to 1 entry a week in this "gratitude" blog.  But, hey, at least I haven't stopped completely.

I have several things to be grateful for this week: time for trip planning/preparations for 2 trips, fellowship/exercise time with friends, and time off of work to be able to catch up on household chores and purging that gets neglected during the school year.
  
While tending these tasks, I had a suprise visit from Stephen's best friend, Michael, that he's known since Kindergarten.  He got back from his 1 year contract in Kuwait.  He had taken several "side trips" in the region since airfare was so inexpensive.  I thought he would show me lots of pictures.  No, he told me I could "friend" him on facebook and see them there.  Instead, he brought me a gift....Rosary Beads from the Vatican!  I was so touched, I choked up and tears flowed.  I use plastic ones from the kids Religious Ed class that are 15 years old.  The new ones are beautiful with the Our Father beads being a silver icon of each of the Papal Basilicas in Rome.  I had to google to find out the significance of each.  I have been saying the Rosary every morning, and extend a special prayer for Michael.  I loved his visit and the stories he shared.   His parents must be proud of him, and his whole family for that matter.  They are Mormon, and truly exhibit the love of Christ in all they do. :)

 To the left, plastic Rosary. To the right, Rosary from the Vatican.  I know God still hears my prayers, and speaks to my heart regardless of which one I use, but I do like the thought that the one has a connection to where Christ once roamed the Earth!

Michael is between my 2 boys at one of their friend's wedding.

Now onto the next thing I am grateful for.  I am thankful for the Internet that has been instrumental in planning our trip out West.  I do have to admit I am a bit apprehensive because of all the hiking Clif would like to do, especially around the Grand Canyon and several parks in Utah.  I don't know if I'll have the stamina, but I have been walking on the treadmill at a 15 incline for the past few weeks in preparation.  Then, I  have a fear of the sheer dropoffs.  I would much rather be in a wooded environment with wider trails, but it is now time to explore the desert, and get "outside" my comfort zone.  Towards the end of the trip, we will head over to Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.  It should be a great trip that we are both looking forward to.  Clif needs a much needed vacation!  He works hard.

Thank you Lord for the opportunities You give us to renew our spirits. :)