Perspective.

Today I was happy. Why? Because... Well (embarrassing as it is to admit), I got toothpaste and a FREE (NEW!) toothbrush. Matt and I have been using the very teeny amounts we could get out of the tube for the last 2 weeks and then the very little we could get out of the tube in Valerie's bathroom...

Today, I went to Target while waiting for time to pass while waiting for (yet another) student to take his exam LATE...and was like "I HAVE TO GET TOOTHPASTE!" then "...but that is a couple dollars we don't have..."

Well, this was on clearance with FREE toothbrush. I was so excited, I sent Matt a text message and showed Valerie my new toothbrush. I just thought it might shed a little light into the existence we have. It is pretty bare-bones, but there is a REAL and SPECIAL appreciation for anything and everything when a new toothbrush is the cause for such excitement. I have had my last one as part of a two pack that my mom bought when she was here... and she left in December of 2008. :-)

I am grateful for the strangest things now, but you know what? I like being grateful, it has given me a perspective that I would not have (as an adult) otherwise and I am telling you, it has made me kinder, more humble, and more loving to those around me.

Now, I must say, I am counting down the days until I start my new job and have a REAL, BIG-GIRL salary with full benefits for the first time in my post-graduate life. What a relief that will be. If Matt's job continues to be a success, we might actually get to do something outside of the home regularly. That will be so nice. In the meantime though, honestly, I am so grateful for this experience. I have learned volume about so many things...