Blessed

I just got back from several days with my family in West St. Paul.  It was such a blessing to be 'home' again after some very challenging months, to see old, familiar faces and places.

I was especially blessed to see and visit with my "little sister" again since it's been about two years since we've been together. 

One highlight of this home visit was a girls' day trip to Stillwater, where we had lunch and walked along the St. Croix River.  We even crossed the bridge and went into Wisconsin (barely). 

Trips home, like this, often make me reflect back on my life, on all that has happened and all that has changed.  They also tend to renew my gratitude and give me renewed appreciation for having a chapel in our own convent and workplace; while my mom and siblings have to make a special trip to the church to visit Jesus at adoration, I just have to go down the hall.  I am spoiled, really.

Hopefully, I can maintain this appreciation throughout the months to come.