today

I woke up this morning sick. But even worse, I woke up bitter. I was bitter because this is the second time in two weeks that I have, what seems like, the very same virus. I woke up bitter because I am sick of doing nothing, getting off track with my workouts, and eating a few crackers in a day. I woke up bitter because it is too cold and snowy to sit on my front porch with a cup of hot tea. I spent the majority of my day lying on the couch watching reruns on my laptop, taking my temperature, holding this fever against my body. Why can't I have a better immune system? Why can't I do what I had planned for this day? After I had wasted half my day from being annoyed and bitter I realized something. Just because I'm sick doesn't mean I have to lie here in pajamas and greasy hair. I got up and showered, blow-dried my hair, and put on normal clothes. I went downstairs and put in a load of laundry and then did some dishes. And as I was washing dishes, something amazing happened. The subtle hint of coconut in the dish soap brought me back to that week in August when I drank piña coladas under the Mexican sun, my honeymoon. In that sacred moment, the day became beautiful. I was reminded of the blessing that awkward, beautiful, exciting week was and what it represented. I am married to my best friend. Trent is the greatest gift that I have been given and no matter what happens, I am blessed beyond words. After this realization, while standing at the sink with hot water running over my hands, I was content. I then realized the sun that was beginning to shine through the glistening snowflakes. God's grace brought me this moment and this realization. So although I am still sick, I am happy. Today is a gift no matter what I do. Thank you Lord for coconut, sunshine, my dear best friend and husband, and your grace that reminded me of how blessed I truly am.