Thankful Thursday!

Happy Thursday and Happy October!!!

Now that I have some time, peace of mind, and the desire to post again, I'd thought, "What is a more wonderful time than my favorite day of the week AND my favorite season?"

Just a reminder on the purpose of Thankful Thursday:

This is something I started in about 2009ish when I became concerned and disgusted about all the negativity on the most popular form of social media. I decided that I could bring a small amount of positivity by creating a list of the blessings, items, people, etc., that I was most thankful for each Thursday. This has grown over these past 6ish years to become a small movement on that same social media, and I know that it has been posted in several languages and in different countries. Join the movement!!!


This week, I am thankful for:

Mom's first visit to Maine
Job offers
The courage to listen to my gut (and the voice of my former therapist) to accept a job that will only propel me further towards my professional goals
Already feeling respect and kindness towards my potential new supervisor
Cool, rainy fall days
My Coastie and his success at this new assignment
Bike rides
Prayers with Jenny
Finding a new church home
Lunch with a friend
Scarves, boots, and fall sweaters
Apple pickin' in my very own back yard

Take a moment to count your blessings!!!

A Lot to Update!

Greetings from Maine!

Yes, you read that correctly. Team Preston has re-located to Maine. Josh received an advancement, which resulted in an automatic transfer. Maine was our number two pick on our dream sheet. We wanted to move back to the East Coast to be closer to family. We are blessed to be in such a beautiful location!!

Echo Lake on Mount Desert Island, Maine

Leaving California was difficult, however. I had just been given my dream job as a social worker in hospice and home health care. I was able to work that job for about 7 months before we had to move. It was a dream come true! The work is my calling and I felt very fulfilled and encouraged to finally be good at what I love to do. We also had to leave behind a wonderful church family and friends. Everyone was extremely supportive of us, but also sad to see us go. I forget how hard it is for friends of military families... they are experiencing loss just as we are each time we are called to a new duty station. To all my California friends: I love you, I miss you, and I could not have survived the difficulties and stresses of life in California without your love and support!

So, here we are in Maine. Josh is thriving at his new assignment. I am currently seeking full-time, meaningful employment. I have had several interviews, but no conclusive results or job offers at this time. I can admit to one item: I was not cut out to stay at home all of the time. I am already volunteering as a pet therapy team with our dog, Buttercup. We visit a residential care facility - the residents adore Buttercup and I enjoy spending time with all of the residents. I have also begun volunteering with a local, volunteer-only hospice. I'm sure that comes as no surprise to anyone who knows me!!!

Please continue to send us your prayers, support, and good vibes. Settling in a new place is hard, but we love this military life and we know that God continues to call us to new locations.

Love from Team Preston!