Gathering Chestnuts

chestnuts I gathered sitting in a cherry bowl made by my friend Ron.

This morning I got up and decided to get my walk in early. As I began my walk, I crested the top of the first hill and was aware that I was not out of breath as I sometimes have been. I decided to see how far I could run the next part of my walking route. I made it quite a distance before I needed to stop and walk. Feeling pretty pleased with myself, I walked a far piece (mostly an uphill walk) and then challenged myself to run from point A to point B on another leg of my route. Again I met the challenge. When I came to point B, there I found, much to my delight, chestnuts strewn around the ground just waiting for someone to come along and pick them up! I kept thinking of how happy my students would be to use them for counting and holding. As I gathered the chestnuts it felt like I was being rewarded and with each gathered chestnut, my pockets filled and swelled.

I sit here thinking of this past week and how many 'chestnuts' I've placed within my pockets this week....

*I finished my grad school application and submitted it, feeling excited, yet nervous, with the ability to further my education. Loan applications here I come!!

*I was told I was appreciated by a parent in my room. She says I give her great advice, am always honest and answer all her questions. This felt so good to hear!

Sunflowers given in appreciation by Caitlin's mom.

*I hugged and kissed my children more this week, telling them I love them.

*I walked twice this week so far, staying on phase 1 of the Fat Flush plan and dropped 3 more pounds making it to my first goal!

*I made very healthy choices in my food and in my sleep habits.

*I spoke my truth to my boss regarding no raise this year when everything costs more and I am raising my children on my own.

With pockets full, I continued my walk and came to a stretch again that was a challenge to run. As I ran, the weight of the chestnuts began dragging my shorts down and I slowed to a brisk walk again. I thought about all I do and accomplish and how to much pride can swell your head, weighing you down. To much pride can get in the way of being there for others. As I walked, I thought of those who help me on this path I walk. (and sometimes run) I am blessed to have each and every one of them in my life. I think of those who touched my life this week in small yet meaningful ways.

*My younger sister who listened as I cried about feeling overwhelmed.

*My friends with whom I gather each Wednesday sharing fellowship and prayer.

*The anonymous friend who left grocery store gift certificates in my mailbox

*The hugs I receive from my students.

*The love and help from my children daily.

*The compliments from friends on my weight loss.

*My online mom friends who send me hugs because they are thinking of me.

*The laughter and camaraderie shared on the soccer field between other parents.

*The stranger who made Patrick and I see that there are good people in the world. This person found Patrick's wallet and mailed it back to him. No note, no return address, just simple kindness. We'll never know who took the $10 and the gift card but are grateful for the kindness in returning the wallet.

All of these balance who I am. So I will continue to gather these chestnuts that fall on the path I am walking. Each one swelling with pride and accomplishment.