Lists

Random thoughts have been fighting for space in my brain lately. They seem to pop up at unexpected times and inappropriate places. And because this is the place and way I can share my journey with you, as well as keep a bit of a journal for myself, this evening seems to be the time to bring some order to the cranial chaos. It also is a way to share some of the mixed feelings and unexpected pleasures of every day. This is not inclusive, it certainly is not rank ordered, and I know the minute I click "publish post" I will think of at least five other things that should have been included somewhere.

Things I miss:
-- Family
-- Friends
-- Quick and not-so-quick phone conversations with friends and family
-- A microwave
-- My own washer and dryer. (The laundromat's a great place. I meet fascinating people there. It is, however, also a bit of a hassle and takes time and energy, rain or shine.)
-- Being able to read the directions on the things I buy!
-- Hugging grandsons (and their parents, of course)
-- My car
-- Knowing where to get good, inexpensive food on the run (not necessarily the same thing as take out.)
-- Being connected with the everyday changes in the lives of those I love and miss

Things I love:
-- Radishes and kohlrabi as a snack or a "crunchy" in my lunch bag
-- The unknown songs of unseen birds
-- Life without a car in a place that knows how to do public transportation!
-- Watching the sky change from Carolina blue to storm gray in a matter of minutes
-- Watching Czech children on the tram and on the street
-- Ever present, ever available (darn it) Czech sweets
-- A feeling of belonging
-- New friends
-- Being comfortable in each moment, listening to my own unknown song

Things I'm grateful for:
-- This place and this moment in my life
-- Feeling that I am making a positive contribution in the lives of others
-- Being able to wake up and move out each morning
-- The technology which makes it seem as though the life I left behind isn't really so far away
-- The colors of Prague
-- Milton's blog as it nourishes my spirit at unexpected moments
-- Keeping the pace (mostly)
-- The view of my courtyard
-- All the promises of each tomorrow
-- The support of family and friends, whether they agree with me or not (and even if they think I'm crazy!)

This isn't the end, it's just a beginning. It's just a minor dent in all the things that could/should be included on these lists. Most of all, I'm grateful for the gift of each new day and the chance to continue learning, to keep adjusting my view and testing my values, to see another new slice of life as others see it. I hope you are enjoying the same gift, wherever you are.