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“Blessed Jesus, Hold My Hand”

author- Albert Edward Brumley

Jesus, hold my hand
‘Cause I need Thee every hour
Through this pilgrim land
Protect me by Thy power

Hear my feeble plea
And O Lord look down on me
When I kneel in prayer
I hope to meet You there
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand

When I kneel in prayer
I hope to meet You there
Blessed Jesus, hold my hand

Yesterday, Joe and I were sitting on the front porch with our grandbabies. Joe and grand-son were sitting on the porch swing while grand-girl and I were in the rocking chair. We watched the birds flitter among the tree limbs and feeder- in a circular motion comparable to the children’s animated movies- tweeting as they went about their business. Squirrels skirting up, down, and across the limbs and ground gathering nuts for winter preparation.

Besides the beautiful sounds of nature, the creaking of the swing and rocker were in simultaneous motion. The leaves were turning their vibrant yellows, oranges and reds.

—-a small piece of heaven on earth—-

While I was observing my gentlemen peacefully swinging, I surveyed little grand-son take Papa’s middle finger and wrap his long arm around him in a secure grasp. Grand-son enveloped with Papa’s loving hold nestled for a short period with a smile stretched across his innocent face.

Picturesque moment- My heart filled with peace and calmness from the scene of the unspoken words of love and trust being exchanged between the two.

“Blessed Jesus, hold my hand” came to mind as I beheld this cherished sight.

This is the same with our Heavenly father- protected by His loving arms…

May your day be filled with the little things that remind you of our Father and Son as I have with the fall scenery- Jan

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Remembering THOSE WHO GAVE ALL

Hope everyone had a safe and industrious or restful Memorial Day.

How was the day spent: cookout at home? going to the lake? gathering with family and friends? fireworks?

Were patriotic decorations scattered about the setting(s)? Was the serving ware displaying the American flag?

At any time, was a moment of silence given to those who gave all?

Memorial Day is an American holiday, observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. Originally known as Decoration Day, it originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.

Memorial Day 2021: Facts, Meaning & Traditions – HISTORY

No pictures or words can describe this holiday as best as observed in the following images. My simple words of “THANK YOU!” to the fallen heroes and their families will never be able to fully express my deep gratitude for the sacrifice given for my freedom. I have never faced first hand what this day stands for even though I had several generations of uncles and cousins who served in wars. Remember my son and his family as he is serving our country.

https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7c/f2/05/7cf2055742b705117890f1b681a10702.jpg
https://captainjamesdavis.files.wordpress.com/2013/05/freedom_isnt_free.jpg
Marines pray for fallen brother
http://www.flickr.com/photos/marine_corps/4790536772/

I cannot listen or read the lyrics without shedding a tear for this holy ground. We will forever be grateful for your service.

https://youtu.be/TGzuvmut3Hs

The lyrics are eloquently written from a fallen soldier’s perspective.

I never thought that this is where I’d settle down,
I thought I’d die an old man back in my hometown,
They gave me this plot of land, me and some other men, for a job well done,
There’s a big white house sits on a hill just up the road,
The man inside he cried the day they brought me home,
They folded up a flag and told my mom and dad, “We’re proud of your son.”

And I’m proud to be on this peaceful piece of property,
I’m on sacred ground and I’m in the best of company,
I’m thankful for those thankful for the things I’ve done,
I can rest in peace, I’m one of the chosen ones, I made it to Arlington

I remember daddy brought me here when I was eight,
We searched all day to find out where my granddad lay,
And when we finally found that cross,
He said, “Son, this is what it cost to keep us free.” Now here I am,
A thousand stones away from him,
He recognized me on the first day I came in,
And it gave me a chill when he clicked his heels, and saluted me.

And I’m proud to be on this peaceful piece of property,
I’m on sacred ground and I’m in the best of company,
I’m thankful for those thankful for the things I’ve done,
I can rest in peace, I’m one of the chosen ones, I made it to Arlington

And every time I hear twenty-one guns,
I know they brought another hero home to us

We’re thankful for those thankful for the things we’ve done,
We can rest in peace, ’cause we are the chosen ones,
We made it to Arlington, yeah dust to dust,
Don’t cry for us, we made it to Arlington

Trace Adkins – Arlington Lyrics | MetroLyrics

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Loving My Outdated Kitchen

I love my kitchen!

Have you ever heard of the saying, “The kitchen is the heart of the home.”? I believe this statement is true. No matter the size- the kitchen is always filled with bustling bodies or food to feed the weary. The kitchen is a gathering area. It hears stories of the day, worries about tomorrows, and whispering prayers.

Our table has served us well over the years. There is nothing like having a meal or conversations with family and friends.

January is the beginning of a new year. My goal for this winter season is to declutter any unused items. With this decluttering goal, I am reminded of how much we have accumulated over the years and being fortunate in receiving an overabundance of household items when we married.

This house was built in 1985, and we purchased it in 1994. We remodeled the kitchen 18 years ago. Light oak cabinets were the style in the early 2000’s. Not much has changed since the remodeling except a new refrigerator and removing the dish washer.

The counter tops have faded to a lighter shade of the original darker burgundy. The color’s purpose was to mask future stains and shield against the hard well water. Surprisingly, the counter tops have held up quite well and continue to look in good condition for their age. I know they are not in style, but who can complain when they are doing a great job. My goal or wish is to replace the counter tops with butcher block, but this will be a project for another day.

The Keurig sat here previously before moving to the coffee bar in the sunroom.

I know, I know. The appliances are different colors. We started with the white theme but had a change of heart when the refrigerator had to be replaced. I love the black stainless look; it matches the microwave. We will go with the newer scheme as the appliances are needing replacing.

I cannot live without the magnet monthly calendar. It keeps me sane as well as the school calendar, cleaning schedule, and Bible verses.

Our stove top is unique. The top is divided with a grill on the left and two heating elements on the right. We keep a removable Lodge gridle on the grill. If needed, the grill can be used as two more elements allowing four pots to cook simultaneously. I love my stove top and the interchangeable grill element even though we never took advantage of purchasing additional parts.

The lighting for the stove top is hidden under the upper cabinet as well as the electrical strips concealed under the other cabinets. The light switch is for the newly converted sunroom.

This corner can feel overwhelming when I have to cook several dishes or have a multitude to wash.

Lastly, a trash can and other items are stashed in the dishwasher’s space. I never felt the need to replace it. What was the point in having a dishwasher if I was going to rinse beforehand? This way the overflowing trash can is not visible to the visiting eyes.

A door way between the stove top and microwave cabinets open into the sunroom. This was originally the side porch, which was utilized more often than the main porch off the living room. The sunroom is a dream come true; however, it is still under construction with only the small details left to be finished. I am eager to share the new room once I get the “go ahead” from my husband.

I would be telling a false statement if I said this is the kitchen’s normal state. Most days the counter tops are filled with items needing to return to their home. I have to give myself “grace” when it comes to cooking and cleaning in a timely manner.

As I was writing earlier, I love my outdated kitchen. It has been good to us. The kitchen brings me joy and happiness even if it is a little cluttered.

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Featured

Oh Christmas Tree! Oh Christmon Tree! Oh How I Love Thee!

Our Christmon tree will remain up till the end of January. We waited with decorating until the arrival of our son’s family, which was the week of Christmas.

The tree is adorned with crocheted pieces from our wedding 27 years ago. My aunt created patterns to crochet specific Christmon symbols. Every year, my husband reads the meaning of each symbol while a child (young adults now) places the symbol on the tree. It has been a tradition since the children were younger to read aloud the true reason for the Christmas season.

A Christmon tree holds symbols that represent Jesus, our Savior.
Five symbols are mixed among the angels, candy canes, and snowflakes.

The yearly tradition is completed when one child places the angel on top. This year we were graced with our 11th month old grandson-with the help of his dad and uncle- adding the final touch.

There is something special about a tree and its belongings. An ornament or other significant item representing memorable events, whether good or bad: birth, marriage, or a year’s highlights such as toilet paper and facial masks, but our tree gained an ornament announcing our grandson’s “first Christmas.”

I have not transitioned my tree with Valentine’s decorations, nor do I intend to do so at this time. I prefer to leave it as is in order to focus on the peace and calmness the tree brings with reflection and the Christmas story.

One side note- I took a picture of the tree and the outdoor waving flag and posted the scene on Instagram. At the time of the post, I was not aware of what was taking place outside of my home environment. Later, I learned of the events and thought of the irony of the perfect timing of my thoughts and feelings, “One Nation Under God.”

I hope this past Christmas tree brought you much joy and happiness as it did our family even with the multitude of 2020 hardships.

May you be filled with the jovial anticipation of decorating any tree for any occasion.

“Renew My Spirit O’ Lord”

Since 2020, I have chosen a word to encourage and uplift my changing lifestyle. I first had to accept the fact that I will be mostly homebound. Limited shopping, going out to eat with friends, meeting up with the adult children or family members, or whispering a silent prayer in church. This led to becoming a maker and a doer with God having a purpose for me as a homemaker. As I am thanking God for allowing me to enjoy this season of homemaking, I am learning discernment. It, at times, has been very difficult for me to wait on Him.

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer.

Romans 12:12 (KJV)

When things are going well, I am high in His HOLY SPIRIT! Singing God’s praises. Thanking Him for His many blessings. But when things do not look in my favor or one of my family members is hurting, I am pleading to God. Crying out to God. Pacing back and forth while whispering and talking under the breath, “Please! Please, God!” You know the conversation. Patience left when tribulation knocked.

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

My focus is that of renewing. I am seeking a meek and calming spirit. One that shines for God. As the verse states below, this world is filled with tribulation. My renewal spirit shall not fear, for it knows God is in control for it leans on God for guidance.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 (KJV)

I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Psalms 34:4 (KJV)

Dear readers, I suffer from anxiety with my health issues that cause me to question my every move from eating, cleaning, leaving the home, etc. Is it worth the risk? Sometimes I do not think and naturally act until the damage is done and have to suffer the consequence: emergency mode goes into action.

But, I want to go beyond the health subject and discuss the spiritual fears. With today’s questionable topics, the darkest realm of fears is easily being opened and displayed on every corner . These fears seep through my emails and text messages and daily conversations. No matter how hard I try to avoid in reducing interactions with social media, gossip, specific company, etc., the fear continues to creep into my life.

As God states, we, as his people, face the plethora of daily challenges. Accepting the peaks with the valleys is part of the faith. Life is life. RENEW MY SPIRIT O’ LORD!

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

“Renew My Spirit O’ Lord”

Since 2020, I have chosen a word to encourage and uplift my changing lifestyle. I first had to accept the fact that I will be mostly homebound. Limited shopping, going out to eat with friends, meeting up with the adult children or family members, or whispering a silent prayer in church. This led to becoming a maker and a doer with God having a purpose for me as a homemaker. As I am thanking God for allowing me to enjoy this season of homemaking, I am learning discernment. It, at times, has been very difficult for me to wait on Him.

Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer.

Romans 12:12 (KJV)

When things are going well, I am high in His HOLY SPIRIT! Singing God’s praises. Thanking Him for His many blessings. But when things do not look in my favor or one of my family members is hurting, I am pleading to God. Crying out to God. Pacing back and forth while whispering and talking under the breath, “Please! Please, God!” You know the conversation. Patience left when tribulation knocked.

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

My focus is that of renewing. I am seeking a meek and calming spirit. One that shines for God. As the verse states below, this world is filled with tribulation. My renewal spirit shall not fear, for it knows God is in control for it leans on God for guidance.

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

John 16:33 (KJV)

I sought the Lord, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Psalms 34:4 (KJV)

Dear readers, I suffer from anxiety with my health issues that cause me to question my every move from eating, cleaning, leaving the home, etc. Is it worth the risk? Sometimes I do not think and naturally act until the damage is done and have to suffer the consequence: emergency mode goes into action.

But, I want to go beyond the health subject and discuss the spiritual fears. With today’s questionable topics, the darkest realm of fears is easily being opened and displayed on every corner . These fears seep through my emails and text messages and daily conversations. No matter how hard I try to avoid in reducing interactions with social media, gossip, specific company, etc., the fear continues to creep into my life.

As God states, we, as his people, face the plethora of daily challenges. Accepting the peaks with the valleys is part of the faith. Life is life. RENEW MY SPIRIT O’ LORD!

Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Psalm 51:10 (KJV)

Hello!

Good evening or morning! I am attempting to write this post at 7:20 at night. There is no guarantee that it will be long. I just wanted to jump in and say hello to everyone. This was not an intentionally extended break from the blog. Life happens and sometimes other things take priorities. We are all good, and I should be back to blogging.

I hope everyone had a restful Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the New Year started off with a refreshing of hope for 2023. I am looking at 2023 with a new outlook. My word for 2023 is “renewing.” I will explain the word in another post as to why I chose it. I am still searching for a verse but for now I continue to focus on Romans 12:12. If you have any suggestions, I would appreciate it.

Praying that you all are safe and finding comfort in God’s word as I have.

I want to pass along a ministry that I currently have been following and printing out on Facebook. The study focuses on important people of the Bible. As with any study, it makes one think about the actions and consequences and how it relates to today’s judgment.

I have purchased two of author’s books-Bishop Ronald Wilson Ministries. He is a former pastor of my church. His books can be purchased on https://www.amazon.com/s?k=bishop+ronald+wilson&crid=1YP9VOX5PQSV&sprefix=bishop+ronald+wilson%2Caps%2C207&ref=nb_sb_noss_1: The Land of the Bible, The Book of Romans, Echoes from Patmos, The Life of Joseph, What Think Ye of Christ

Bishop Wilson has traveled to the many places that he references-located in the Bible. Places I, and maybe you, will only be able to read about in the Bible and books.

Take care friends, Jan

Taking a Different Approach to the Seasons…

Hope this post finds you well. I took a break from writing and allowed myself to focus on other hobbies that will be topics for later posts. But for now I will tune into this gorgeous season of fall.

It is that time of year for the heaviest decorating seasons: fall, Christmas, and winter. Yet-when it comes to decorating, do we need to break the bank trying to recreate what we have seen on YouTube or Pinterest? I’ll be honest. In years past my house was flooded with themed decorations and the family loved it. However, the children are older and half are no longer living here. The other two wish for simplicity as well as their father. I, too, want minimal pieces that reflect the season.

My vision for 2022 is embracing a simpler more calmer fall theme for our home. I gathered and displayed a combination of families heirlooms in the main living areas. These items brought back memories of where and how they were used in the original homes. The colors and artistic designs added to the fall theme.

The kerosene lanterns are missing. They were used for a combined Meet and Greet and Bab(ies) Shower. (That will be posted later.)

A mixture of dishes, sewing tables, clocks, dish towels, antiques, baskets, handmade cutting board, plants, and a family Bible blend to create their own focal points.

May you find comfort in this fall season as I have by finding the joy in reflecting on our families’ memories and reminiscing over fall events.

I leave you with 2022 verse.

“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer.” Romans 12:12

Father Figures….

Father, I…

Father, I see everything that you do.

Father, I hear everything that you say.

Father, I smell everything that you smell.

Father, I taste everything that you taste.

Father, I sense everything that you feel.

Father, be careful for I follow in your footsteps.

Janet N Stover, June 11, 2022

A child imitates what is observed. This observation carries into the teen years and adulthood.

I will guide you in the way of wisdom and I will lead you in upright paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered, and when you run, you will not stumble.

Proverbs 4: 11-12 KJV

It is the duty and responsibility of the earthly father to guide in the way of wisdom and lead in upright paths. Metaphorically speaking, one will have the understanding when steps are hampered and stumbles when running. The earthly father will be waiting with open arms and a forgiving heart as the Heavenly Father.

The Parable of the Prodigal Son demonstrates this love a father has for his son [child]. According to Luke 15:20 KJV, “But when was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”

And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:

And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.

And the posts of they house, and on thy gates.

Deuteronomy 6:9 KJV

A small list of Biblical KJV father figures:

  1. God the Father (Genesis-Revelation)
  2. Adam the First Man (first of every biological experience, from conception to death including the emotional aspects; Genesis 1:26-5:5)
  3. Noah A Righteous Man (wickedness filled the earth, instructed to build an ark and remained faithful during the great flood; Genesis 5:29-9:29)
  4. Abraham Father of the Jewish Nation (Genesis 11:31-25-11, well known children’s song “Father Abraham had many sons…”)
  5. Jacob Father of the 12 Tribes of Israel(Genesis 25:21-49:33 birthright was taken by trickery and youngest son, Joseph, was sold- Joseph’s story is told as the “Coat of Many Colors”)
  6. Moses Giver of the Law (Exodus 2:1-Deuteronnomy 33:12 lead a multitude to the promise land while giving God’s laws to the people)
  7. Joseph Earthly Father of Jesus ( Matthew, Luke raised Jesus as his own even though Jesus was not his biological child)

May you be filled with contentment on this Father’s Day.

“A Rule for Birds’ Nesters”

A beautiful nest hidden in our old mailbox. The birds are not gone but we enjoyed the scene.

The robin and the redbreast,

The robin and the wren;

If ye take out o’ their nest,

Ye’ll never thrive agen!

The robin and the redbreast,

The martin and the swallow;

If ye touch one o’ their eggs,

Back luck will surely follow!

Anonymous

We are all aware that touching birds’ eggs will bring harm to the unborn hatchlings. In addition, it is unwise to remove the nest from its resting place for the eggs will not thrive to their created purposes.

But let’s think a minute of how this child’s poem is applicable to our adult lives. How often do we forego refrainment and interfere with nature or circumstances? I often think what harm will come if I get a closer look at the eggs or touch the meticulous crafted nest-

From experience this delicate serene nest quickly turns into a hornet’s nest. Parents do not leave the nest due to human’s smell but from disturbances caused by outside sources. When we allow ourselves to intervene, the opportunity leads to controversy, bitterness and rotten eggs. People leave our nest due to outer disturbances.

Sometimes it is better to observe the nest from a distance and allow God to work His plans.

The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and it is his glory to pass over a transgression.

Proverbs 19:11 KJV

A person with good sense is patient, and it is to his credit that he overlooks an offense.

Proverbs 19:11 ESV

May your nest be unharmed from outer disturbances. ‘Bad luck’ always follows when we permit disturbances to enter.

“Mother”

Hundreds of stars in the deep blue sky,

Hundreds of shells on the shore together,

Hundreds of birds that go singing by,

Hundreds of birds in the sunny weather,

Hundreds of dewdrops to greet the dawn,

Hundreds of bees in the purple clover,

Hundreds of butterflies on the lawn,

But only one mother the wide world over.

George Cooper

I inserted the link from last year’s post defining Mother. https://thepileofstickshome.com/2021/05/09/mother/

The following is the beginning of the 2021 post of Mother.

Mother…

I received a text from my mother stating, “I bought a Mother’s Day gift for my children’s mother.” For all you mothers, buy yourself something special. You deserve it!

May you honor the “Mother” figure in your life or be honored for being that blessed calling. I will be surrounded by my children’s text and voices.

Blessings- Jan

Are Your Dishes Washed?

Am I the only person who goes to bed with dishes in the sink? How often do you wash your dishes: after every meal, at the end of the day, in the morning, whenever? Do you hand wash or use the dishwasher or both?

There are many reasons as to why people leave dishes in their sinks- a water bill controls the daily water amount, not enough dishes in the dishwasher to make a full load, growing up being conservative with water usage, saving the dishes to wash after supper, etc. I can think of many reasons as to why dishes remain in the sink throughout the day.

Researching the history of washing dishes, I came across several books written over the years to help the new bride, bachelor, or give the homemaker insight of being efficient in keeping a home. I became enlightened as to how one should wash dishes. I understand that this type of research may not be of interest to most people, but I am intrigued with the evolving domesticated housewife.

Modern conveniences have made the impossible mundane chore easier and expeditious. Yet, I do not have a dish washer, so we wash by hand using the traditional method of hot soapy water, rinsing, and drying on a mat or towel. Consequently, do you rinse or wash your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher? Why? Does this give the dishes an extra boost of cleanliness?

Let’s go beyond the washing of everyday dishes and focus on the cleaning of the decor dishes. How often do you wash/dust the dishes being utilized as decorations? Spring teapots are displayed on my China cabinet and butler’s buffet. I have a presentation of blue and white plate collection on the dining room wall. Seasonal bowls and figurines are perched on top of the refrigerator and small stands and tables in the living room.

These decor items are cleaned/dusted once or twice a week to keep the friendly dust particles down. Sometimes, I wash them in the sink. No matter when or how often these show pieces are being “washed.”

But I want to go further with this thinking and ask the question, “Are you washed in the Blood of the Lamb?” Um, where am I going with this? I went from washing dishes to washing sins. I am making a metaphorical comparison here.

Have you been to Jesus for the cleansing power?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Are you fully trusting in His grace this hour?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Are you washed in the blood?

In the soul cleansing blood of the Lamb?

Are your garments spotless, are they white as snow?

Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

Hoffman, 1878

I wanted to take a moment and question how often do we go to God and clean ourselves. Do we talk to God once a day, once a week, only in time of need, or given praise when things go our way?

There are many book compilations about seeking and finding strength in God. I have a plethora of books from devotionals to commentaries referencing Bible verses. I do not disagree with reading these genres but I rely heavily on the primary source, the Bible.

We have easier access to reading and researching the Bible with modern conveniences. We can read any time and anywhere. How great is this!

Easter is April 17th. Jesus bled for our sins. His sacrifice was to wash and clean us.

Are you washed in the blood?

May you find comfort in knowing that His blood washes away our sins as I have.

Blessings, Jan

Adjusting to the Pandemic…

a treasured gift from my daughter
This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 20220327_130442-1.jpg
a treasured gift from my daughter

Before I begin telling my story, my family lost loved ones and dear friends. We witnessed hardships and tragedies, but these observations are not my stories to write. We, too, made the required and needed adjustments during this time. My reasoning behind this post is to learn how you and your family and friends adjusted. This post will not express political opinions nor justify whether one received or not received the shots. I want to connect with you-the reader- and how you are fairing now at this present moment of reading my post.

This post is a shorten version of the main points during the pandemic.

My husband, Joe, is an adequate follower of the news. Beginning in the FALL of 2019, Joe stated the virus will reach the United States soon and we needed to prepare. With his biology and chemistry background, he explained how the virus would spread in time. Joe ordered me several N95 masks and wore these inside and outside the home. As he listened to the news, he gradually stocked up on items: toiletry items, toilet paper, powered milk, can goods, meats, frozen vegetables and fruits, etc. The family began taking precautionary actions in the Winter of 2020 before the lockdown occurred on Friday, March 13th. Prior to the pandemic, the family would come in through the basement and take showers and/or change clothes before greeting me after arriving home. Mail and some nonperishable items would be left in the basement for several days before I was allowed to touch anything. I was not permitted to go down to the basement unless severe weather was in the area. The family washed their clothes so I would not be exposed to the “outside” germs. They did all of this to protect me while I was at my lowest point with my health. Many work peers said I went on extended leave at the right time avoiding all the cleaning agents and sickly bodies. [Read my post to gain a better “Understanding MCAS.]

During the pandemic, my family spent many hours together. Joe continued to teach with virtual learning while our children learned from their schools’ instructional methods. We live in the country so going outside was not a problem. It was their outing for the needed fresh air. Many hours were spent talking and laughing around the table and/or living room. We came to understand each other’s spaces and knew when enough was enough; otherwise known as “getting on each other’s nerves.” WE came to respect the other person and how the pandemic was effecting the other family member. More meals were cooked. New recipes were tested. I ordered many books referencing the “Great Depression.” The family read more for pleasure instead of academics. The family would converse with our oldest son and his family through the WhatsApp. The app allowed us to see the family first hand and experiencing our grandson’s many firsts. This is the time where I learned about family vloggers on YouTube and found many great creators that have the same beliefs as me. I picked up crocheting and sewing again. Doctors’ appointments were completed by tele-visits. Oh, I prefer this method instead of going to the doctor’s office.

Everyday was not glorious. Joe continued to update us with the local and world news. Many times my heart broke hearing and reading about the countless numbers of the sick and those that passed away. Families not being able to gather at the homes, hospitals or attend the funerals. Families suffering from lack of needed items and/or long-term effects of the pandemic.

Did my family have Covid-19? Yes, we did. It took months to heal from the illness.

May you find comfort during these times of turmoil as I have. May you grow closer to family and friends and gain knowledge in what really matters in this life.

“He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” Psalm 147:3 KJV

Blessings, Jan

The Season of Being Alone

The Stitch, the family dog, observing God’s beautiful picture.

Social Media, at times, is considered my “bane of existence.” I view pictures of people’s travels, families, achievements/successes, friends gatherings, home and yard improvements, etc. and an overwhelming feeling of jealousy floods my inner emotions. I wish I could be sitting on a pew surrounded by family and friends. I wish I could be outside creating beautiful flower beds and vegetable gardens. I wish I could be present at my husband and children’s award ceremonies. I wish I could paint my bathroom and clean my carpets. I wish I could be more involved with my friends. I wish I could go on a family adventure and see all the things that bring the family joy. But in this season of life, I am alone.

I watch from the window while my family is outside cutting the grass, cleaning the yard, playing with the dogs, looking at the new growth of flowers and bushes. I get second hand accounts of church and its special occasions. I initiate the contact with friends and learn of their life through social media. But in this season of life, I am alone.

No one has forgotten me. Everyone is engaged with their jobs and families. The church continues to ask for updates from my mother. Joe is always willing to give information to anyone he sees. I understand. But I am no longer physically visible in the church, school system, family gatherings, normal shopping trips. But in this season of life, I am alone.

In truth, I am speaking of being alone (removed) from my once overly active lifestyle. I-now- have all the time to focus on God, family, and home. I let the pressures of work overflow into my home life. I was more committed to work and overly consumed with the pressures of being a better teacher than I was being a wife and mother. The home became less thought of- per say….

But in this season of life, I am alone. Alone to focus on being a homemaker: a child of God, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, and a friend who is willing to be an ear when needed.

God has blessed me with this season of life of being “alone” to focus on my priorities and what truly matters.

Yes, I will one day meet up with friends and have humbling fellowship catching up first hand with them. I will travel with my family when the opportunity arises. I will walk into the church with a smile and greet everyone with a handshake and hug. I will stand in my flower bed and garden and smell the freshness and goodness that is yet to come. I will attend my family’s ceremonies, funerals, weddings, gatherings and showers. I will be visible to all.

But for now in this season of life, I am alone.

May you find comfort in those seasons of being alone as I have. But know that you are not alone, your Heavenly Father is with you wherever you are on this temporary place called earth.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

Matthew 28:20 KJV

Blessings, Jan

a glimpse of the author
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