This post is linked to Wordless Wednesday and Just for the Joy of It!
Joy of Marriage
I've often said that I love Good, True and Beautiful's "Just for the Joy of It," because it makes me think of something that brought me joy this week. And there are many things I could write about. But mostly, I'll have to say it's my husband. Seriously.
He is a HUGE supporter of whatever I do. He sees more in me than I could ever see; and he has faith and confidence in me when I shutter in my lack of it. I am often time left in awe as I realize he probably truly sees me the way God intended a husband to see his wife. I hope that makes sense.
And he loves me when I am sick.
Or tired.
Grouchy.
and perhaps, even a bit irrational. (But not lately! ha ha!)
This past year, he has been by my side through it all. He was there with me throughout my illness and LENGTHY recovery.
He held me when I cried because I was going back to work full-time. He understood my tears and didn't take it personally.
And he has become a really, really good stay-at-home dad/husband.
Seriously.
He cooks…really, really good meals. And he cooks for my friends, too!
He cleans. Much better than, me, I might add.
He does laundry.
He runs errands.
He checks on me to see if I need him to do anything.
He loves me and cherishes me.
And that, my friends, is what has brought me the most joy this week!
New Seasons
It's funny how time flies. One day they are babies, and the next, they are all grown up; in the blink of an eye.
Friday was my nephew's end of kindergarten program. It was cute; sitting there watching him sing…and refuse to sing…and then sing again. And watching him get his little kindergarten certificate.
As I sat there, I was reminded of the last time I attended a kindergarten program. It was 1993, and my oldest son was graduating from kindergarten. He'll be graduating colleg in a little over a year.
I sat there and tried not to cry. I do that easily these days. We have so many changes going on. After a year and a half of living with us, my niece and nephew will be going home. After homeschooling for 16 years, my youngest will be entering school in a few weeks. After being home for so long, I am starting a new job.
Seasons change, and we must change with them. Sometimes it isn't easy, but we look for the joy in it all.
It’s been an Honor to know you, my friend
Today's Just for the Joy of It is a bit different then my others. I say this, because though my heart is saddened, I will have joy.
A very dear friend of our family is in his final stages of living here on earth and on his way to be with our Maker. And as I sit here, wondering if the call will come soon, I smile as I remember his smile, and what he has meant to our family.
We met Vern and Lois many years ago. I honestly don't know how long, but we were immediately drawn to them. They have that wonderful sense of humor that doesn't come along too often. Vern is known for wearing his silly t-shirts with saying on them that are meant to make you laugh. I remember when my hubby turned 40, I wanted to get him some t-shirts like our *old geezer* friend. I call them the Vern t-shirts! To make hubby's celebration even better, it was Vern that lent his wheelchair to us so that we could wheel my *Over the Hill* husband into his home. These days, I wear my husband's t-shirts a lot…and I always think of our old geezer friend when going to put one on. (He even has Geezer 1 on his license plate.)
Things about Vern that have brought us joy:
The way his face lights up when he sees us. Seriously, nothing makes you feel better than knowing that someone is thrilled to see you.
The way he could talk your ear off.
Knowing that he adored my kids as much as they adored him.
As we pray for Vern during these last hours, we rejoice that He will be free from his pain and dancing at the feet of Jesus. I came across this song tonight. I've never heard it before, but it touched my heart. I hope it brings you joy.
About an hour after I posted this, Vern went to meet his Maker. You were loved, and we'll miss you much.
Things that bring me joy
I haven't had a lot of time to blog this week. It's been kind of busy with Vacation Bible School and such. I don't have any pictures, but I do have a few words to say. 🙂
Serving in the kitchen and bringing meeting new people has been joyful.
Swimming laps with my new *BFF* and going to bed exhausted has brought me joy.
Having breakfast with a *newish* friend has brought me joy.
Having my oldest son show up unexpectedly always brings me joy.
Our Wednesday nights with Miss Kathleen ALWAYS make me smile.
But, I think the thing that has really warmed my heart this week is…
That the Talented One is working with four year olds this week at VBS. Completely out of his comfort zone, and not feeling 100%, he has still been there each morning to teach them about God.
B-boo has gotten up early and left the house each morning by 7 am to get to the church on time. 🙂 She's been watching the little ones, then helping with the 5th and 6th graders. And loving it.
And the Smart One. It's been so much fun to watch him up on stage helping to teach 260+ children the dance moves to *Saddle Ridge Ranch.* And then, he goes and helps with the preschoolers.
And the younger ones spend the week learning new things about Jesus.
The week is almost over, but it's definitely been full of joy.
For more Just for the Joy of it, click on the picture below.