This post is going to be a bit random. I'm sending out the warning now, it's a bit sentimental and a tad long (however, there's a cute picture at the end to try to make amends). There has been so much going on and I don't really know where to begin. How 'bout in April?
Most of my faithful blog readers (all 3 of you) already know that Trevor was laid-off in April. I really didn't feel like blogging about it at the time, or the following four months for that matter. I just didn't feel like going to that dark corner of my mind every time I sat down to the computer. This is my happy place. I wanted it to stay happy. I'm not bagging on those who have shared this same experience with the rest of us, in fact, I gained a lot of comfort by those who have. I guess that makes me selfish in a way by not returning the favor.
We tried not to dwell on the negative side of life, like having no job or income:) and instead, started counting our many, many blessings. We were able to stay in this house which should have been sold years ago. We still had a way of putting food on the table. We had an amazing support system in all our family and friends. We had our health, which, according to my sister Holly, is everything. We had a very happy little family that was about to get a little addition. Trevor and I like each other, so we knew we weren't going to get on each other's last nerve. We had several family visits to look forward to. And most importantly, we had faith.
We've had a fling with unemployment before and we've always been taken care of. We've never been homeless or foodless or anything...less. We've always been watched over and have never been without the necessitates of life. We knew this experience wasn't going to be any different. So as time went by, what do you know, we were looked after. We had a very busy summer to keep our minds off the stress that this struggle should have given us. We had a baptism, a crazy birth, a baby blessing and lots and lots of family time. It was hard to think about trials when we were having some of the most wonderful experiences of our marriage. Like I said before, Trevor and I really like each other. We just enjoy being around each other. Through all our crazy skirmishes with life, we've always grown closer together, not to brag or anything. We decided that we need to be independently wealthy so Trevor could retire and we could just hang like the lazy bums we are for the next 60 years or so.
Still, we needed a job. It was pretty frustrating at times, not seeing much movement in that department. But we kept plugging along (when we weren't hanging out) and eventually the interviews started to come. Last Friday he got a job offer and he started this past Monday. We are, obviously, incredibly grateful. Once again, someone had His eye on us and our faith in our Heavenly Father is stronger than ever (is it disrespectful to say, He's the Man?). Maybe that's what this trial was for. A faith builder. Or maybe Heavenly Father knew I was going to need Trevor's help adjusting to life with four rug rats. After the last 3 days alone, I think it might be the latter reason. Next Monday is the first day of school and I don't think it can come save me fast enough. Getting rid of half my kids for half a day sounds pretty appealing (even if it's the least demanding half). I'm not complaining, honest. Sigh, I've always been a bad liar.
I have to take this small opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers offered in our behalf. I know there were a lot of them. I know they were heard. We all know now that they were answered. So...thanks. So much.
I've been thinking a lot about plans and paths and purposes and designs lately. Mainly, the Divine plan or path or purpose or design for each of us. I have a rad nephew. He's had a rocky path lately. I have two cousins who are on rocky paths. Why? That's a question I try not to ask very often. It doesn't help. More often than not, it infuriates me. My rad nephew is only 14. What he is facing is not fair. I think of his mom, my sister, I just can't comprehend what she must be feeling about the path her son has been placed on. I marvel at her strength having to watch him go through this. She's a rock star. What I do know, is that although Jax's rocky path, and my cousin's rocky path and my rocky path aren't fair. We are not alone. This life can be stinky for sure. It makes absolutely no sense at times. But there are little miracles along the way that show us we are not enduring our afflictions companionless. We aren't going stag to this dance. His hand is everywhere if we choose to look for it. It's in the healthy birth of a baby boy and the service from family and friends. It's in a busy summer, or an expert doctor from Texas.
We may not like all the stretches in the road, but I think we need to enjoy the pavement while we can. And when the road gets rough, try to enjoy the scenery.
Most of my faithful blog readers (all 3 of you) already know that Trevor was laid-off in April. I really didn't feel like blogging about it at the time, or the following four months for that matter. I just didn't feel like going to that dark corner of my mind every time I sat down to the computer. This is my happy place. I wanted it to stay happy. I'm not bagging on those who have shared this same experience with the rest of us, in fact, I gained a lot of comfort by those who have. I guess that makes me selfish in a way by not returning the favor.
We tried not to dwell on the negative side of life, like having no job or income:) and instead, started counting our many, many blessings. We were able to stay in this house which should have been sold years ago. We still had a way of putting food on the table. We had an amazing support system in all our family and friends. We had our health, which, according to my sister Holly, is everything. We had a very happy little family that was about to get a little addition. Trevor and I like each other, so we knew we weren't going to get on each other's last nerve. We had several family visits to look forward to. And most importantly, we had faith.
We've had a fling with unemployment before and we've always been taken care of. We've never been homeless or foodless or anything...less. We've always been watched over and have never been without the necessitates of life. We knew this experience wasn't going to be any different. So as time went by, what do you know, we were looked after. We had a very busy summer to keep our minds off the stress that this struggle should have given us. We had a baptism, a crazy birth, a baby blessing and lots and lots of family time. It was hard to think about trials when we were having some of the most wonderful experiences of our marriage. Like I said before, Trevor and I really like each other. We just enjoy being around each other. Through all our crazy skirmishes with life, we've always grown closer together, not to brag or anything. We decided that we need to be independently wealthy so Trevor could retire and we could just hang like the lazy bums we are for the next 60 years or so.
Still, we needed a job. It was pretty frustrating at times, not seeing much movement in that department. But we kept plugging along (when we weren't hanging out) and eventually the interviews started to come. Last Friday he got a job offer and he started this past Monday. We are, obviously, incredibly grateful. Once again, someone had His eye on us and our faith in our Heavenly Father is stronger than ever (is it disrespectful to say, He's the Man?). Maybe that's what this trial was for. A faith builder. Or maybe Heavenly Father knew I was going to need Trevor's help adjusting to life with four rug rats. After the last 3 days alone, I think it might be the latter reason. Next Monday is the first day of school and I don't think it can come save me fast enough. Getting rid of half my kids for half a day sounds pretty appealing (even if it's the least demanding half). I'm not complaining, honest. Sigh, I've always been a bad liar.
I have to take this small opportunity to thank everyone for their prayers offered in our behalf. I know there were a lot of them. I know they were heard. We all know now that they were answered. So...thanks. So much.
I've been thinking a lot about plans and paths and purposes and designs lately. Mainly, the Divine plan or path or purpose or design for each of us. I have a rad nephew. He's had a rocky path lately. I have two cousins who are on rocky paths. Why? That's a question I try not to ask very often. It doesn't help. More often than not, it infuriates me. My rad nephew is only 14. What he is facing is not fair. I think of his mom, my sister, I just can't comprehend what she must be feeling about the path her son has been placed on. I marvel at her strength having to watch him go through this. She's a rock star. What I do know, is that although Jax's rocky path, and my cousin's rocky path and my rocky path aren't fair. We are not alone. This life can be stinky for sure. It makes absolutely no sense at times. But there are little miracles along the way that show us we are not enduring our afflictions companionless. We aren't going stag to this dance. His hand is everywhere if we choose to look for it. It's in the healthy birth of a baby boy and the service from family and friends. It's in a busy summer, or an expert doctor from Texas.
We may not like all the stretches in the road, but I think we need to enjoy the pavement while we can. And when the road gets rough, try to enjoy the scenery.
15 comments:
Thanks for starting my morning out with a good cry! Geesh! Now I have to re-do my makeup! Anyway... We are so happy that you are going down a new and happier path right now. We are praying for the same for our other family members who are walking those dreaded paths at this time. Love you and miss you soooo much! Hang in there...the first day of school will be here soon!
Amen!
I really don't know how to "comment" on any of that, so I will just say glad things are looking up, I loved reading your thoughts, and we love you guys.
So glad for little "miracles", and a brighter path for you guys. We love you, and hope school and the Lion mascot are all easy to bear. Love ya :)
Oh Brenda, that was beautifully written. I wish I would have known about your situation, so that I could have added my prayers to the many others that I'm sure were offered on your behalf. However, I completely understand why you wouldn't share the situation on your blog.
I am so glad that everything is looking up for you and your family. It is amazing how the Lord watches over us, even during (or especially during) the trials.
Well, that was a good cry. Now if Aftyns surgery could just get over with in the next hour, and Jax can have some positive news on Monday this will be one relieved Grandma!
Oh Brenda! Right there with you lady! I'm so excited for Trevor and the new job. That's great. We're still walking that crazy, screwed up, scary path of figuring things out but we also know that we are not alone. What a comfort it is too! Great post and great attitude!
A big hug for the new path. So happy for you guys!
It's hard to write feelings down, but you did a great job. We can totally relate. We are really happy for you guys.
Sweet post Brenda! You are always so great with words. Glad to hear about the "Job!" Fantastic news. Hang in there. xoxo
That was a beautiful post. I am so sorry about him being out of work, I am so happy that you have found work. Good luck!
This chronicles our April and on too! I feel a bit of comfort knowing that almost the whole world is having job woes right now, and that I just feel like we've joined the club, instead of having to go it alone. It comes to everyone at some point or another. I'm glad you have a happy, hopeful future, employment wise.
Wow, that was beautifully written Brenda! It really touched me and I appreciate your words. It has given me a boost to be a little better and appreciate a little more. You guys are amazing!! Love you!
A rock star? Really? Well then please start referring to me as R-unit, seems more rock starish! You are so sweet little sister, and I'm so glad your back on the pavement.
I was wondering, but never wanted to ask, how you guys were making it but I should have known that you guys were fine and always will be knowing what a great relationship you and Trev have and I know that the kids make it all worth it! Good luck to Trev on the new job and good luck to you on your new "path" as mom to 4!! You can do it!
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