Gratitude Sunday: Challenges and Blessings

Another week with much to be grateful for has come and gone.  There were challenges this week, yes, but also many blessings.  (Please bear with me as I post without pictures this week due to computer technical glitches).

First the challenges:

• I Somehow threw my knee out this week, and so now have a cane as my latest "fashion accessory."  I visited my orthopedic doctor, who took x-rays and gave me a cortisone shot.  It is now somewhat better, but I am still taking things a bit easy.
• Another difficult challenge that has been on-going for several years, reared its head again last week in a new and heart-breaking way.   This is one we are putting in God's hands and we have already seen one miracle this week to help deal with this. 
• 119 degrees in Phoenix this week!  Now if that isn't a challenge, I don't know what is!

 

Now the blessings:

• I was able to complete an online class and one in-person class, both of which will  help me go up on the teacher salary scale in my school district.
• I was able to find the time to make some surprises for my grandchildren, do a little reading and crocheting and take care of some things that had been on my to-do list for a while.
• We experienced  the support of friends and family in dealing with the second challenge mentioned above. They are supporting us not only with their kind words, but also with their prayers, and that means everything!
• My husband, youngest son and I took a road trip to get away from the summer desert heat and had a very nice time.  I got some great pictures which I will share when my technology glitches are solved.
• And of course, what would we do without air conditioning when the temperature is 119!?!

Looking forward to:

• A visit from daughter, son-in-law and three of our beautiful grandchildren this week - always something to be grateful for.
• Quality time with my husband - a summer perk for school teachers.
• No classes this week - I need a break from the books!

Inspiration for the coming week:

"But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice:  let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them:  let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.
"For thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield."
                                                                           --Psalm 5:11-12