SOMEBODY, PINCH ME!

When my friends announced they were moving to Switzerland, I said how soon can I visit? I casually mentioned to my mom that I was going to make a big trip this year and she said us, too, meet us in Sweden. It sounded like a dream.

Then the conversations really began…and months and months of conversations went by with no real plans.

Two weeks ago, my mom announced she was working with a travel agent and that I should start looking at some dates in APRIL! Less than two months away.

This crap got real…FAST.

I looked online and found a flight that wasn’t cuckoo crazy expensive. LAX to Switzerland to Sweden to LAX for less than $1500. But didn’t buy it…it was still expensive and I just didn’t want to pull that trigger for some reason.

Yesterday, I got my bonus unexpectedly early and the flight was still available and cheap.

I bought it.

Somebody, pinch me…I’m going to Europe in less than two months!!!

I hope my passport gets here in time!!!

MICROWAVE WARNING

After going back and forth with my home warranty company about the microwave of death, I realized that I was more comfortable with something new rather than a second repair job. Thankfully, I had a few bucks in savings to handle a new purchase (and I had a coupon for Lowes and went on a discount weekend – BONUS!).

For $99, they offered delivery and installation and knowing that my dad has a bad back (and is constantly traveling), I decided not to bother him, but instead, go for that, too. They came and installed quickly and cleanly over the weekend.

I happened to chat with the installation guy about the fire and he gave me some simple advice: don’t keep the wire rack in the microwave if it’s not needed. If the metal rack ever slips by the plastic holders and touches the walls of the microwave, it causes a “fireworks show.” Right then and there, I decided to keep the rack in the cabinet above my microwave just in case I’d ever need it, though experience tells me it’s not an item I’ll require.

I’m incredibly happy with the new microwave, however, it is larger than the old one. It’s not a big deal, but I did notice that it sticks out about an inch further than the old one did. Note to self, measure before you buy next time. ; )

THE WAY I START MY DAY

Not long ago, in an effort to rewaken my relationship with the Lord, I picked up Jesus Calling. It’s a very brief daily devotional that my church is encouraging everyone to read. My SIL has it, my mom has it, and many friends do, too. I’ve known about it for ages, but never really thought about getting it for myself. However, one day after church, I just felt the nudge to get it…and I’m so glad I did!

The daily readings are brief…I mean, seriously brief. I’m not the best at getting out of bed super early before work and I still have time to read them. I like that they start with a little letter from God that’s written in a contemporary style and followed up with scripture. It’s accessible to those who have spent years studying the Bible or even newer Believers.

It has been the perfect thing for me to rediscover how easy it is to just “talk” to God and even listen to what He needs to teach me. Whether I read in the morning or at night before bed, I’ve been feeling inspired and hopeful about what the day holds for me.

I highly recommend it to those who also feel the need for a little “pick me up” in their relationship with the Lord!