September 30

Today Clif and I finished the next puzzle in the series I had purchased back in August.  This too was difficult, but it only took an entire week to finish.  So we are improving.  Michael and Valerie came over for a brief visit this afternoon.  They too contributed to getting the puzzled done.  Stephen had come earlier in the week, and he was able to complete the antlers.  This helped tremendously.



I am grateful to have had steady work since the first day of school.  Life is getting better now that I am able to reconnect with my normal routine.  This past week I was especially joyful because I was able to attend the King of Kings Charismatic Prayer Group Thursday evening.  Their Praise songs were perfect.  The guest speaker's topic was relevent.  It was just the perfect "pick me up" for the middle of the week.  The week ended on a positive note as well.  I was able to help out on the Emmaus Retreat this weekend.  15 ladies were able to share quiet time and tranquility deepening their relationship with Christ.  I was able to work in the kitchen, and share fellowship with wonderful ladies.  After a 13 hour day, I left with such a feeling of satisfaction.  Aaahh.  What a precious week.

Sep 15

It's been a while since my last post (obviously).  I haven't exactly been in the right frame of mind for being grateful.  So, you can say, I officially "fell off the truck of gratitude" 7 months after beginning this blog.  But after much effort, I have returned to a place of joy. It is through reading, reflecting, facing hard Truths, making significant changes, and being creative that my balance has been restored.(almost, but getting there) God has been good.  He has reminded me everyday that He is by my side, and won't let me go.  For that I am grateful.  He never gives up on us!

The biggest help in my mental state was going back to work.  I was blessed to have a job starting the first day of school, and have/will be working through Oct 1.  Children always touch my heart in a special place.

I also bought several puzzles to do.  Usually I can get a puzzle done within a couple days.  This one however took me over a week.  With Clif's help, it is finally done.  I have 3 more nature puzzles to complete, but I will wait until I am done helping Amber with the baby blanket she's making for her sister.  She will be coming over tomorrow.  Hopefully, we will be able to finish it. :)



I was also able to arrange the moose I bought on vacation atop one of the kitchen cabinets. I meant to blog this back in August, but fell into a state of depression.  I thought the siblings would enjoy seeing the last of the birthday money purchases displayed! :)
Thanks for such a generous gift.  I had so much fun picking out Northwoods decor to complete the theme.