As we close out the week, I’m reflecting on five things that have been on my mind lately. Each of these has brought a little more joy, challenge, or excitement into my life. Let’s dive into this week’s “Five for Friday”!
1. Adopting Cats: A New Furry Friend in the House
After pretty much no consideration, the family (ok, *I*) decided to adopt a cat! We have two, Max and Linda, who were litter mates and had the run the house for the last six years. This week we’ve introduced a new cat, Knackers, a little kitten, into the mix. Knackers was seemingly abandoned in my yard and after feeding him for a month and looking for his owners, I now have three cats. There has been a lot of growling and hissing but, so far, no fur is flying. Max and Linda are pretty cuddly but Knackers isn’t as skittish as they are and will cozy up without much bribing, so I am loving the unsolicited kitty love although I wish he would not attack me when I’m doing my yoga.
2. Chickpeas: My New Favorite Ingredient
Chickpeas have become my go-to ingredient this week! From homemade hummus to roasted chickpeas as a snack, they’re incredibly versatile and packed with protein. Since my kidney transplant – and the daily dose of prednisone that I take, I’ve been more mindful of my diet, and chickpeas are a nutritious way to add flavor and substance to my meals. They’re also great for meal prep, making healthy eating easier to manage during busy weeks.
3. The Simpsons: Comfort TV at Its Best
After a long day, sometimes you just need to unwind with a good laugh. Lately, The Simpsons has been my TV comfort food. The first six seasons have me rolling and there’s something about the humor, the nostalgia, and the references that are and timeless, make it the perfect escape. And so far, up to season six, it’s still as funny today as it was when I first watched it years ago!
4. Kidney Health: Continuing My Wellness Journey
It’s almost been a year since my kidney transplant. I think about how my transplant shaped many of my life choices. Today I am especially thinking about health and wellness. Earlier this week I had my one-year checkup, and the nurse practitioner gently told me that healing takes time and that I need to be patient. I am bummed because I have gained over 20 pounds since my surgery and I am having trouble moving that scale. I realize that the number on the scale is not everything, but it bums me out to be so out of shape, so stiff and so round. I have refocused on staying hydrated, eating less sugar, and keeping up with my workouts. Taking care of myself is my top priority—so I can keep doing all the things I love, like working out, crafting, and taking on new challenges, such as…
5. Taking on More Responsibility at Work.
Big changes are happening at work, and I’ve been getting more responsibility in my role. It’s exciting and nerve-wracking, but I’m ready for the challenge. At my last library, leadership opportunities were available, but I can admit that I was not quite ready for the responsibility. I clashed so much with my then director that even if I was not so intimidated by the responsibility, I was intimidated by him, so I was miserable. In my new role, with a more supportive atmosphere, I feel like I am ready to be that Rachee again. Confident, excited, and eager. It’s a chance to grow professionally and I’m confident I can manage it all with the right mindset.
That’s it for this week’s “Five for Friday”! Whether it’s welcoming a new cat into my life or finding joy in the simple things like chickpeas and The Simpsons, this week has reminded me of the importance of balance, health, and taking on new adventures. What’s been on your mind this week? Let me know in the comments!
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