It's Not So Bad Here After All :)

After writing a few different posts about what I find frustrating since being back in the States or what I miss about Germany, I thought it's about time I shared a few things I am thoroughly enjoying about being back. Yay for optimism!

• First off, I have to mention winter. I loved being back here for winter! It was so much fun trompsing around in the snow in big winter boots and enjoying the bright winter days as the sun glistened off the thick snow blanket that covered the ground. Now that it is mostly melted I am reminded what a blessing it is to get to enjoy that facet of the season while it lasts.

• Free water! Although I am constantly asking for it with no ice, it's still surprising but soooo nice to have it as a legitimate beverage choice when eating out. Noone even bats an eye!

• No fear when talking to strangers. Bring it on! Say whatever you want to me, no matter how weird or random and I'll at least understand the words and be able to express myself at least somewhat no matter how caught off guard I am. Lovin' that.

• It's so much more fun to cook! I can actually find the ingredients for recipes I get online at regular grocery stores! I feel alot more free to try new things in the kitchen now.

• The sales. No joke, I bought a set of 12 tall glasses marked down from $15 to $.90 at K-mart. Uhh, can't beat that!

• The abundance of Christian resources. When I hop in the car I can hear an uplifting song or thought-provoking message on the Christian radio station. A Christian bookstore is only five minutes away. I have already been blessed to take part in a marriage seminar, a mothering lectureship, an intense ladies renewal retreat, not to mention meeting many Christian friends in groups like MOPS (mothers of pre-schoolers). It's all so nurturing to the soul.

It's too easy to focus on what's so great about being anywhere but where one is; it's so nice to take a moment and reflect on the blessings God's surrounded us with right where we are!