Watching light snow come down outside the window and listening to the Simpsons (Mitya is in my room), I can’t believe it has been over a thousand days since our Babushka passed unexpectedly two days after her birthday in 2022.

It is easy to notice all that is wrong and missing, but we could remember Babushka’s positive outlook and sense of humor and ask, “What’s good about today?”

We don’t have school today! We are mostly healthy inside in a warm house under a thick blanket. Orange chicken on the stove and rice in rice cooker awaits anyone who is hungry. Cookies are baking. I have plenty of water and tea bags. The TV works. The WiFi works. The car is functioning with a new tire. We have books to read and our lesson plan for tomorrow was already done last week. We have amazing coworkers and great friends (thanks so much for your kind messages; they are so appreciated today). In addition, my sister and her boyfriend are in town. God-willing we are going to remember my mom at the church this Sunday and my friend is helping me bring desserts. We have much to be thankful for! With God’s help and Babushka advocating for us in Heaven, we can still accomplish our dreams!