We’re off by now to hang with the fabulous Lettered Cottage duo, and I hope to stop in while we’re there to show you some of the progress from filming for the Nate Show, a furniture makeover, etc.
But anytime I leave the children for any length of time, I cannot help but do my thing.
My thing is pondering.
After a day like yesterday, where memories of the past float around in my head, I feel heavy. Heavy for those who lost so much, for those who still cope with grief. I am filled with only prayer to lift them up, being too human and bumbling to offer much more.
I am equally filled with hope. Hope that despite our shortcomings, we all want deeply to be there for each other. To sustain, to encourage, to help.
And in that, I feel some comfort. Some solace that there will be days of no hurting or turmoil.
For those days I wait.
But until those days come, I do pray. I pray for any of you who were touched by the day of September 11. And if you can know this one thing…know that I only wish I could step through the cold screen and have a cup of coffee with you. To hear your stories, to be there.
I’d love to hear anything you’d like to share, and spend some time praying for your families on our drive today. If you’d like, feel free to talk with me in the comments…you’ll be heard, I promise.
As I think of each of you, of life and it’s uncertainty, my heart falls to my own little family.
And the prayer that always, we are building a home, and not just a house. Always a home.
That our children find comfort in their daddy’s hands and warmth in their mama’s smile. That we, those entrusted with so much, hold each delicate moment so very carefully in the corners of our hearts.
And that we remember to laugh.
Because the tender moments will always be infused with the goldfish moments. The ones where they dump the whole tub on your freshly washed slipcovers.
Frustrating? Sure. Annoying? Sometimes. (Ok, more than sometimes.)
But the thing is this.
Those goldfish moments are the ones that get you through the days like yesterday.
Praying God dumps a whole bucket of goldfish on your head today. And praying it lightens your mood.
See you soon, friends.
🙂
Oh my gosh Shaunna …. what a beautiful post!!
Shaunna,
your post hit so close to home…we are waiting for test results this week regarding the health of one of my grandchildren…any prayers would be so appreciated..and prayers for you and your hubby to be safe while on the road. so exciting – what it going on in your life right now…I am so thrilled for both you and Layla and thank you for sharing your journey with all of us…it lights up our days!
chris
Love the pics. Why are the best munchies always covered in orange dust?
🙂
Enjoy your adventure!
Jan
Love this post and those sweet pictures! Hope yall are safe today. Praying for you! Good luck with everything! I know you’re going to do awesome! Love you girl!~
Hi Shaunna,
I don’t think I’ve ever commented, which seems silly since I stalk your blog daily. I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoy what you send out to the world. You have beautiful pictures and great projects but what I adore the most is your poetic way with words. That’s why I always try to start my day with your blog. Thank you!
xo,
Kristie
Shaunna,
What a touching post. As the woman stated in a previous comment, you have such a way with words. I love to read your blog and try to stop by daily. I wish your family and Layla’s the best as you embark on this new journey. May you enjoy every moment.
Sandra
Shaunna, this is why I love your blog-and you-so much. What a beautiful post. I love the fact that you are so open and honest and that you are always ready to pray for us and with us. <3. Not only that, but all of the people who share their needs with you here touch our hearts and we join with you to pray for them also. 🙂
I love reading your blog. I am a minister’s wife and I have even found myself praying for you because of all the things you are involved in – I love your heart for home and missions. Hoping to meet you some day and learn from you. I need guidance on painting furniture. I live in Montgomery, AL. Maybe you could do a workshop in our area?
God gave us a beautiful little girl on September 11, 2007, and she brightens everyday, and especially that otherwise somber date, so much. Many a goldfish dumping moment, but those are definitely part of the joy of being her mommy.
Lovely, my prayer time seems to be for health and the strength to be a better; mom, wife, daughter…
What a beautiful post! thank you for sharing and reminding me of those goldfish moments and how precious they really are
Sept 11, 2011 a beautiful young mother of three was killed in a car accident. We never know when any of our lives will be taken. Lets give our children and loved ones an extra hug today. Life is so precious. My heart goes out to all those who have lost loved ones. You now have a beautiful angel in Heaven.
Thank you…beautifully said.
This is a beautifully poignant and thoughtful posts. Thank you for the reminder I needed on what has been a very frustrating Monday!
Thank you for such a beautiful post. I have loved following your blog and it has provided so much inspiration to me while I renovate my own home. Although I wish I was going to be able to stay in our home after all the work is done. I will be leaving our beloved house behind for now, and moving Colorado to be with my husband who recently got a full time firefighter position. Days of frustration with house projects not going according to plan, compounded yesterday being 9/11, the constant worry life comes with being the wife of a firefighter, and spending our wedding anniversary yesterday apart, I found just silently praying as I worked on the house yesterday provided the strength and willpower to keep me going. After all I still have my loved ones in my life and they are only a plane ride away. Unlike so many of those that lost their loved ones on 9/11. So thank you for always for the inspiration and the power of your words.
Wonderful post! Reflecting on 9/11 certainly helps us view life from the proper perspective. As I am home schooling the last 2 of my 5 children, I always appreciate a redirect to the important things in life, which always quiets my spirit and brings me joy. God bless and safe travels.
Well written:)
You’re such a kind person, Shaunna. 🙂
Perspective is a wonderful thing to keep in our hearts and on the forefront of our minds. Thank you for sharing this today when so many of us have been ‘pondering’. I try to be thankful daily in the moments of the goldfishies and in the moments of ‘today’, not what could be. Praying for you in your travels!
A wonderful reminder to always re-evaluate your priorities. So grateful for for my little family… my husband of 22 yrs, my lovely daughter – that we waited 14 years for & my Lab! We are small but powerful & share many goldfish moments together.
I love your blog & your personal touch – you are a beautiful handmaiden of the Lord. I am new to blogging, but loving it. I find such kindred spirits that share my passion – it has been wonderful. Thank you for sharing your life & talent – you inspire! Be Blessed!
I love the way you write…it’s soothing and perfectly worded.
thanks!