Oh, hello there Monday! I’m not sure where you live, but here in Texas our entire state, all 254 counties are under a winter storm warning. Evidently, this is unprecedented and I’m totally not surprised. Very cold temps along with some sleet and snow are the things which make for a nightmare in Texas. Our power grid is tipping to overload, so we shall see what happens over the next few days.
Well, friends I have to say that I have been feeling a little stressed lately. As I have taken on more responsibilities at work and being on social media alert in the evenings, I am feeling a little frazzled. I also have had some nights that I haven’t slept well and all of that has made me a little irritable. I haven’t been as intentional with my contentment journal and winding down with grateful recollection each night. I can see the difference in my heart and attitude.
However, I did have a few thoughts about God’s grace in my life. Two years ago after my mom’s funeral in Iowa on the Saturday of President’s Day weekend, we tried to get on the road back to Texas because I had to be work on the following Monday. We were desperately trying to get ahead of snow storm. Unfortunately, we didn’t make it and instead were caught up it’s awful snow and winds. It was total whiteout blizzard. By God’s grace we were able to get off of the road and find a hotel where we stayed for the night. We made didn’t make it out of Iowa that night but the storm blew through and we were able to make it home the next day.
Ironically, two years later I am sitting in my home and watching another snow storm overtake the state of Texas. Again, I am warm and safe. I am grateful our power has not gone out. We have heat, plenty of food, water, and a fire in the fireplace. These things are simple and yet so much to be grateful for because it is God’s grace and goodness to me. I work to remind myself to be grateful for the simple things in life because they are a gift. It is easy to feel entitled while living in a land plenty, but I know I am greatly blessed and my suffering tends to be with first world problems.
I continue to strive each day to check my attitude, especially with an onslaught of social media. I’m not entitled to any of the blessings I have in my life. The blessings are gifts and I want to strive to be a good and grateful steward of what I have been given. I am truly blessed!
Y’all, I hope you have a wonderful week. If you in the arctic blast traveling through our country, I hope you will be warm and safe.
~grace & blessings, Carrie
Kellyann Rohr says
That winter storm is really something else, our son is experiencing it too in Nashville! Prayers for all you to stay safe and warm!
xo,
Kellyann
Michele Morin says
It’s on the way to Maine! We’re waiting…
Katie says
The winter storms going on in Texas sound really bad! I hope you stay safe and warm this week!
-Katie
http://www.hellokatiegirlblog.com/
jodie filogomo says
The perspective of being safe in the midst of it makes all the difference. It’s definitely scary otherwise.
Stay warm,
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Laurie says
I saw that winter storm warning for Texas on the news. Crazy! We were in TX in October and got caught in an ice storm. Driving was horrible! We were not prepared at all for such extreme weather in Texas!
Shelley Whittaker says
I hope the storm isn’t as wild as them predict. Stay safe! #mischiefandmemories
Joanne says
I can only imagine how life must come to a screeching halt in Texas for some ice and snow! Funny enough we have warmer temps and rain that is washing much of our snow and ice away this week.
Jill says
These winter storms are affecting everyone. I was surprised that the state of Texas had single-digit temps and snow. Stay safe and warm!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Leslie Susan Clingan says
We got hit by the arctic blast even here in El Paso. My daughter in Ft. Worth and my sister in Houston have really had a struggle as their power has been out. And the temps have been so cold. But God has seen them through. And tonight they both have heat.
Lysha says
I’ve been hearing from lots of family in Texas and seeing all the crazy weather. Praying for all to stay warm to have power back!
Kate Holmes says
This post spoke to me. How important to realise we are not entitled and should count every blessing however small or simple. You helped me today so I thank you. #MischiefandMemories
Lucy Bertoldi says
Hi there, Hope you are staying safe- sending prayers your way. On another note…I featured you in my Friday post- you look so lovely, I had to! Thanks for hosting:)