Today's Bliss: Friday

There is one great thing that happens every week (but it is especially sweet after a long, stressful week at work): Friday evening arrives. Tonight I am working a bit late, but afterwards I plan on hanging out with my husband, eating lots of leftover pizza, pouring a glass of wine, and watching a funny movie. This definitely describes bliss to me!

When I have a rough day or a rough week, there is always something that I look forward to: the end of it. I am able to see an end. Some people are having difficult seasons of their lives. Instead of rough days, they have rough years or rough decades. But for me, it's a much shorter time period and I am can look ahead, optimistic that things will get better soon. I can survive a challenging day because I know that my loving family will help me overcome it. And the next day will begin fresh. For that I am very blessed.

I pray for people who can see no light at the end of their tunnel. For those whose difficult circumstances seem to be never-ending. For people who need hope. May we all step up and show those around us the Light of Christ and the comfort He offers us every moment of each and every day.

Today's Bliss: Comfort Food

Whether your day has been good or bad, whether you've had a day full of fun activities or dull chores, there is one thing that can always make your day better: comfort food. Nothing makes me feel safe and secure like a good, home cooked meal. And it's always especially good if it is a dish that my mom used to make when I was growing up.

I cook a lot. I try to make wholesome, healthy, tasty meals that N and I both enjoy. I actually really like menu planning, searching through recipes for new dishes to try, coming home in the evenings to spend some time with N as we cook...it is a part of my routine that I find really relaxing.

This has been a hectic week at work, so I was really looking forward to a night of cooking and comfort food...and it was just as good as I had hoped. After we ate, I felt relaxed and, well, comforted.

Our comfort food: chopped steak, mashed potatoes, and sauteed garlic and mushrooms.

Sometimes, your greatest bliss can be found in little things around you. Tonight as I was cooking and enjoying our meal, I thought about the things I've learned from my mother as she cooked countless meals for me in her kitchen (and still does when I am at home). I thought about my Grandfather and his cooking prowess that showed itself in our delicious Thanksgiving dinners. I thought about how grateful I am for my family and the examples they have set for me...not just in the kitchen, but in all areas of my life. 

I am so blessed. So are you. Give thanks and be comforted.