On a day when I should be on Cloud Nine, I find myself a little low. I had the awesome opportunity to spend this evening celebrating my grandma (Ma Nel’s) birthday at a Gaither Homecoming Tour concert in Nashville, TN. I realize few people my age prefer Southern Gospel music, but I totally rock out to the stuff. You won’t find superior harmonies anywhere, and it makes the music so much better when the subject matter constantly tugs at your heart. Alas, despite a great night of worship and celebration, I’m still just in a bad mood.
I’m bored, feeling as if I lack purpose these days and am looking for adventure to fill the void. I really miss friends that I don’t see or talk to as often as I would prefer. Silly quirks have annoyed me all day. Lately I’ve slacked off on running/P90X workouts, to the detriment of my self esteem. Someone pointed out how far away I still am from being fully funded for World Race, to the panic of my rationale. It’s just one of those times when you want to scream, but you’re afraid that will somehow make you feel worse.
One of my favorite songs was on the set list tonight, and in trying to fight this stubborn “down in the dumps” mindset, I have the chorus (See blog title) on repeat in my brain. Likewise, I’ve decided to count my blessings. Pardon if some seem material based; I tend to think an ugly win is still a win.
- I had a really good hair day.
- Today, I got to see several new places that I’d never been before.
- My dad doesn’t have to work the weekend, so I can squeeze in some QT with him.
- My grandma has lived to see her 68th birthday!
- My Mom and Grandpa both being retired means I’m spending loads of time with both of them while I’m at home preparing for World Race.
- My long-time BFF was free to make plans for tomorrow night.
- Everyone I care deeply about is happy and healthy at the moment.
- I believe that God has blessed the first batch of fund raising letters I mailed out and He will keep provided as he already has.
- I found a card in my keepsakes today that reminded me how awesome one of my best friends is, and how fantastic it is to know that someone is always in my corner.
- I found another card, from my late grandma (Ma Fern) that reminded me how unconditional her love for me always was. As she always said, she “loved me for living.”
- I get to see my awesome little cousins tomorrow afternoon.
- I’ve successfully transferred most of the files from my old laptop to my new one, which backed-up my in-progress novels and boosted my iTunes library tremendously.
- I’ve been given a tremendous opportunity to help a friend. I’m looking forward to coming through for them!
- A pal from high school made me feel incredibly special this week via her imaginative contribution to my World Race experience.
- An elementary school connection blindsided me with fund support for World Race. God is good!
15 blessings… in literally about 5 minutes of thinking/typing. I realize I have much to be thankful for. I appreciate prayers that I will be able to start tomorrow with a positive attitude and that I will pass it on!
Be Blessed!
-Ashlee
