Thankful Thursday, Friday-style

I am very weary. I literally have nothing left to give anybody today. Nothing. Done. The end of the school year does this to me every time. That, on top of some things I'll mention below, has left me completely and totally drained. Thankfully, it's nothing a glass of wine, some peace & quiet, and a good night's sleep can't fix!

Today I am thankful for...

• the grace and patience of the good Lord...be thankful He's in charge and not me
• my family and friends
• the health of my family and friends
• Daddy's ear surgery being OVER and knowing that he's finally at home recuperating...so glad that's over and that he's doing okay!
• Mimi being able to keep Mom company at the hospital while Daddy was in surgery and Bubba and I were at work
• being asked to be a bridesmaid in Bubba and Olivia's wedding...so, SO excited for them and that I get to be a part of their big day!!
• being employed, having a job secured for next year, and the feisty little people I get to teach for eight more days
• eight more school days
• my dear coworkers...it's nice to know you've got a strong group of people who have your back ALL the time
• a roof over my head, clean running water, food in my fridge, shoes on my feet, clothes in my closet, a well-functioning car that gets great gas mileage, a bit of money in the bank, strong legs and arms, hands that work, eyes that see, ears that hear, a brain that thinks, a heart that beats
• summer break right around the corner!!
• the safe arrival of little Charles Davis Aaron last Friday...he was in such a hurry that his mama birthed him without pain meds, left the hospital the next day, and hosted Elizabeth's 2nd birthday party the next day...Kira's middle name is Superwoman. Can't wait to meet that new little man!
• the arrival of beautiful Ella Cate Townsend...so excited for Brody and Haley! It's strange to see friends I've known since elementary school holding their newborn girl, but I know they'll be wonderful parents!
• a cute haircut yesterday...throw in a free hand, scalp, neck, and shoulder massage and I'm a happy camper
• an overnight guest named Kate...getting to spend time with my sweet friend has absolutely made my week!
• deliciously cool weather this week...I know summertime is on its way, so I'm enjoying this while it lasts
• some very lovely, very thoughtful gifts for Teacher Appreciation Week...every now and then, it's nice to know that you're important to somebody
• a sweet mama bringing me lunch today...I needed a pick-me-up so much today, and she was just the ticket! Thanks a bunch, Heather!
• the banana pudding cupcake my darling coworker Angie brought today...it was like a party in my mouth and I was just glad to be invited. When I found out she MADE that banana-y goodness, she was elevated to a new position of admiration in my book. Merciful heavens, Angie. You may have changed the course of my life today, and for that, I thank you ;)
• the precious student that made me this pretty little ice cream sundae cupcake (her "signature cupcake")...this girl loves to bake and puts my baking skills to shame. She's amazing!

• one of my wonderful students showing quite a bit of initiative yesterday...she brought me flowers for Teacher Appreciation Week, but I was out at a workshop all day. Instead of leaving the flowers to dry out or asking the sub for help, she made it work. She found a vase under the sink, trimmed the stems, filled the vase with water, added the plant food, and put the flowers in my windowsill so I'd see them this morning. She's 10 years old. Get it, girl!
• a good workshop yesterday
• patience
• letting go of a long-held dream, for now...I'm planning to just ride things out for a while and see what God has planned next for me
• contentment and peace
• fun plans for my upcoming summer break

HAPPY WEEKEND, yall!