OK, here's the situation....

my parents went away for a weeks' vacation

LOL Remember that Fresh Prince song?!

Now, for real....I may have mentioned somewhere on the internet that I have shingles. If you missed my whining about it, look around, I'm sure you'll find some! I am not in pain, which is fantastic. What is not fantastic is A) that the shingles are on my rear and B)they itch like no other. I mean, all. the. time. The only real relief I get is by keeping the rash iced and therefore numb.

So there has been some feeling sorry for myself happening in this body o' mine over the past 10 or so days. And then I found this today when catching up on emails I hadn't been able to get to while out of town.

"Blessed is the man who preserves under trial, because when he has
stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has
promised to those who love him." --James 1:12

Praise be to You, God. I am blessed in so many ways and I want to
stay focused on that. Forgive me for feeling sorry for myself and
forgetting that joy in You is a real source of strength. I want to
sing your praises at all times!

No matter what you do - there will always be someone who has more
money or a better lifestyle than you. At the same time, there will
always be someone who doesn't have the blessings you do. Find joy
in God's love and remember to count your blessings.

God IS good. ALL THE TIME. Keep reminding me Lord!! Keep at me!!