Long Time, No See!

It has been some time since I have written, hasn't it?  My life has been crazier than usual over the past few months.  Many decisions and choices have had to be made.  Lots of paperwork, and endless tasks. 

I was separated from October 2012 until November 15, 2013 at which time my divorce became final.  During that year I gained and am continuing to gain an appreciation for single moms that I would never have gained otherwise. Caring for six school age children on my own with virtually no family living close by, has been a challenge, to say the least.  Many is the time over the past year that I have longed for lots of siblings of my own who lived close by who could lend a hand or give me some respite from time to time.  So here is a shout out to all single moms out there!  And here is a challenge to those of you who may know of a single mom who could use a day off or even a weekend - Maybe a coupon for free babysitting for a day or weekend would be a good Christmas gift for someone you know!

Now, on another subject that I know everyone deals with this time of year.... the struggles of keeping your joy while struggling with bouts of depression that come from missing loved ones who should be with you.  Whether they are absent because they have passed away, or whether from an estranged relationship, or even being separated by a physical distance.  It's tough. There is no question about it. 

There was a time when decorating the tree and our home was so much fun. And I used to bake at least a dozen different varieties of candies and cookies. Now it takes me days to get the tree and house decorated and baking seems to be more of a chore than something pleasurable.  These things that used to bring me so much pleasure - where is that pleasure now?  

Oh, don't get me wrong, I get the decorating done - I still have children at home who very much enjoy it and need those memories.  I do some baking - not as much as I used to, but enough that the children get to enjoy helping out.  I want them to have good memories of the holidays.  And honestly, seeing Christmas through the eyes of children helps to lift my spirits.

And then, when I start feeling too sorry for myself and who and what I'm missing - the Holy Spirit nudges me ever so gently to remember the true meaning of Christmas.  And I look at the nativity scene and I think.  And I remember the most wonderful gift ever given, the gift of God's Son, Jesus. Without this gift we would not have the hope of seeing our loved ones again. 

And suddenly I can hear the angels singing, and my spirits lift and the joy of the Lord wells up within me and I must sing with the angels, "Joy to the World!" and I thank God for the Joy in my world!  In spite of all the hardships, trials, failures, hurts, I am Blessed!  Not just a little, but abundantly! 

I pray that you, my friends have a glorious, joy-filled Christmas and that you will take time to see, feel, and be thankful for your blessings!  And please, don't ever stop looking up - you will see the

Sunshine After the Storm
Blessings....
Betsy 

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