This is the picture that has kept me going since my last post. It was sent to me by a Jewel Box® reader and shows her grandson and his best friend. It came with a note that said, "I love how they don't seem to be looking down at their feet. They are looking ahead with such confidence because they know who is behind them. Their mommies who love them and will always be there. They don't have to look back." And then she said, "I am right here this morning and I will be here all through the day. Love you much friend." And every day since, she has sent me a few words of inspiration or message to keep the faith.
I do not want to break any confidences, so I will not reveal who she is. But I have saved each and every one of her email gems and know my favorites by heart. This is also true for all of you who have sent emails and comments. I had no idea when I posted last time, the invaluable advice and caring words I would receive in return! Thank you so much!!! I especially want to thank Laney, June, Judy, Comeca and Mrs. B. You have been with Jewel Box® since the beginning and the fact that you keep 'hanging in there' and coming back to catch-up, means so much. I also want to thank Susanne and Michelle for sharing their stories. It's good to know I'm not alone. And a BIG thanks to everyone who sent a prayer!!! I love those!
Next time I'll be back with some Jewel Box® tips.
Thanks again to all of you for being so wonderful!
Genevieve
I'm so glad to hear some things are starting to look up. I haven't commented more recently but have been quietly following along and sending up prayers. Money has a power over people I find hard to understand... all I can say about that is priorities and values. Life is life and always will have it's ups and downs. I can commiserate on the teen angst for moms & dads. We have it here, only with a DD instead of a DS. (We have a tween DS tight on her heels though... oh goodie.) Love those kids but some days I'd like to gift them new parental controls, LOL. I do hope (and will continue praying) that some more things break free for you all soon and you can once again breathe a little deeper.
ReplyDeleteI have been subscribed to your blog for quite a while but never commented. Just wanted to tell you that I have been following your story and always look forward to your posts. I was going to weigh in on the things your younger son has said- my husband was the youngest of 3 overachievers and he was totally like your son in attitude about school, etc.
ReplyDeleteThis may be his way of venting his insecurity about being successful (esp since it seems your older son is so successful and driven) without having to admit he feels insecure. Or he may truly feel that way- defeated.
You obviously know more about his personality, but I would encourage you to not fight him on this. Encourage him to decide what he loves and make a career out of it. If you just help him find passion about something, the work that has to happen will follow :)
Praying for you tonight! I hope your family has some peace and security soon.
I have been subscribed to your blog for quite a while but never commented. Just wanted to tell you that I have been following your story and always look forward to your posts. I was going to weigh in on the things your younger son has said- my husband was the youngest of 3 overachievers and he was totally like your son in attitude about school, etc.
ReplyDeleteThis may be his way of venting his insecurity about being successful (esp since it seems your older son is so successful and driven) without having to admit he feels insecure. Or he may truly feel that way- defeated.
You obviously know more about his personality, but I would encourage you to not fight him on this. Encourage him to decide what he loves and make a career out of it. If you just help him find passion about something, the work that has to happen will follow :)
Praying for you tonight! I hope your family has some peace and security soon.
Ella, thanks for your prayers and commiserating about teen angst. It is exhausting. So glad you stopped by!
ReplyDeleteGenevieve
Oh Jessica, I think you might be right about my son's insecurity! I never thought of it that way. He does look up to his brother and feels he can't keep up. I really appreciate your comment and thoughtful advice!
ReplyDeleteGenevieve
Hi You are so sweet to remember me thank you and for the record I do stop by and still pray for constant positive movement in you life as well as my own glad that some things are coming together for you. As for the heartache we carry from our children just let me say as of late I can relate. I recently found out my 19 yr old son is dating a girl with a baby should I be feeling this upset and judgmental!? I do hope your readers wont blast me.You are not dear Abbey Im goin to pray on this one lol have a weekend filled with smiles!
ReplyDelete...my heart rejoices...my prayers are coming to fruition...keep watching the sky...i love you much...hugs and blessings and prayers laney
ReplyDeleteMy prayers have been answered!!!! Glad you are still on the grid ( just knew you needed some way time );}.Still praying. patti
ReplyDeleteWhat a day brightener to log on tonight and see your posting! I think of you every single day and find myself wondering how my dear on-line friend is doing.
ReplyDeleteWhat a darling picture and what a wonderful way to interpret the lessons the little ones in our lives teach us. When I went to school for preschool education it was always instilled in us to look at everything we do through the eyes of a child. I have really tried to embrace that thinking and it can be very eye opening especially in times of struggle.
As for the brother in law - hmmm my niece who is a Pastor always says, "grief comes out sideways". I'm guessing he is clearly not processing but enough said about him.
Great news on your oldest! Watch for my personal email. Sounds like we have family life to catch up on.
Sending you big hugs. We all miss your postings so much.
june
...june!..."greif comes out side ways"...how incredibly wise...i am remembering that one...thinking of you genevieve...and don't you be forgetting it...love you hugs laney
ReplyDelete...g.r.i.e.f...i do know how to spell...how insecure am i!?...hugs again....
ReplyDeleteI am a fairly new reader -- I found you just before you took a posting break -- but I am glad to see you back and to hear that things are slowly beginning to take a turn for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteWe've recently experienced a strange family-related money situation as well and, you are right, money can really muck things up.
Sending light and hope.
I'm so happy to come here and see a new post. You have been in my prayers. I have been without a job since June and it has been awful. Just a constant nagging worry watching bank accounts empty. Teenagers are so worrisome. Who knows what is really going on in their heads?? Right now he needs to be safe and know that he has a long time to figure out what he wants to do. Working for a year or two before college can be very helpful, especially for boys. Try to relax and love each other.
ReplyDeleteHello Genevieve! I've just stumbled upon your site today googling "decorating small homes." First, I am glad to hear that some of your struggles are turning in the right directions. I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers. Secondly! I live in a small bungalow that was the home of my grandparents and I love all of the wisdom you share about these jewel box homes! You've put my thoughts into words :) I'll be visiting often now that I've found you and hope to hear more good news.
ReplyDelete...thinking of you genenvieve...and all those who love you and jewel box home...have a blessed Easter friends...love...laney
ReplyDeleteSuch good news to hear that your son has done so well...congrats on his upcoming graduation. I have kept you and your family in my thoughts.....so glad to see your post. Post again soon! I have missed you! Take care!
ReplyDeleteAndrea