Friday, August 26, 2011

Thankful

As hurricane Irene approaches, I find it really helpful to look at peaceful times that I am thankful for.  I never know whether or not the news is sensationalizing the hurricane, or if I should really be worried...but I guess it is better to be safe than sorry. 

Currently I am writing to my sister in between classes to let her know that New York Times said the bridges will be closed down if there are sustained winds over 60 mph.  She is at her cabin in Maryland with her husband relaxing, canning tomatoes and mushroom hunting.  The cabin is on the Susquehanna River, and I am begging her to head back to the city soon so that she can get home safely.  

I am thankful for peaceful barbecues at the cabin with my sister...
...and her husband...
and shmiggs.
I am thankful for yummy portabello burgers! 
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I am thankful for my favorite driving companion...
Malomar
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I am thankful for bridges.  The bridges built sturdy years and years ago that I travel over each and every day.  I am thankful for the bridges that connect me to others, physically and metaphorically.  I am thankful for the ability to travel, and to travel safely.
  I am thankful that these bridges are not only sturdy, but also beautiful, and I am thankful for the water I overlook as I drive over them each and every day. 
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I am thankful that I have a job.  A full time job teaching.  A full time job teaching Art and Design in a tough economy, and when the arts are undervalued in schools.  
I am thankful for coffee, without which I doubt I could do my job.  Lots and lots of coffee.  AND patience, and fabulous coworkers, who give me mugs for my coffee.  
I am thankful for moments spent relaxing and reading after work. 
I am thankful for moments spent relaxing in the woods. 
I am thankful for the sound of bullfrogs, the rhythm of the water, and the cool breeze I feel every morning and night.  I start my day by this lake, and I think of 3 goals for the day.  I sit there and imagine what a beautiful day I will have.  Before I go to bed I sit by the lake.  I reflect on the things that went well.  I replay the smiles on their faces, and the "aha" moments they have.  I replay the tears on their faces, and the moments of being comforted by a teacher, or a friend.  I replay all of the blessings that I have had that day...and I think of how lucky I am to be alive...and to be a teacher. 
Thanks for reading!
xoh
d

1 comment:

  1. This is so sweet! I hope your sister & her husband get home safe and you stay safe as well. Everyone on Long Island is freaking out and it's beginning to rub off on me haha. Thank you for reminding me to appreciate and be thankful for what I have when times get rough ♥

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