Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Many Blessings.....
























































How do I start this blog post? I guess with where I have been. I have been here with a heavy heart. I wish I could say I went off on some wild adventure..but mostly I have been here meloncholy. We had to put my cat Lawrence of over 16 years down. Too say I was attached is an understatement. I have had that cat since I graduated highschool. He was given to me by my grandmother..who is also gone. I had to have my dh take him...I just could not bare to do it. He was in pain and I know it was for the best. So compile that with my son's birthday planning....he turned 11 on Saturday...and getting the news on Friday that my dh was laid off AGAIN (he is in the building industry)....and having some minor health issues of my own..I feel like I have nothing to say that is worth while OR up beat. Well darn it....that just isn't so. I know I have a lot to be thankful for. We have two healthy animals and a roof over our heads. My son's birthday was a hit....especially by the under 12 crowd. I love to have a house full of children running around....and boy did they. IN and OUT of the house all weekend long...I have a soiled floor to show for it. Yes I have also been doing some crafting...which keeps me sane. I actually decorated a little for Thanksgiving which I never do. I think this is the year to start...because it is a holiday that really makes me stop and think about what I have, so many blessings from God. Of course that made me decide that I would make a "Blessings" banner...which was wonderful therapy. I hand glittered the letters and added some of my fave..burlap. So that is what I have to share with you today. My banner and my decorating....I bought a new red/paisley table runner a few weeks back and had a lot of fun adding it to my decorations. I got the orange glittered "Give Thanks"....back in Sept. for 3.00! Even a good bargain is a blessing. I know God will look out for us..and my husband will be back to work. This soon will pass. It's the little things...and taking each day ....one at a time. I am off to visit many of you....hopefully tonight. Hugs to so many of you that checked in with me.....it did not go unnoted! cherry

77 comments:

Wendy said...

I actually get to be the first to comment. wow! I'm so glad you're back! I've missed your posts and your creativity. So sorry about your kitty, and your hubby's lay off. I sure hope and pray that he's back to work soon. Lovely decorations...they really put me in the the Thanksgiving spirit. Hang in there :-)

Unknown said...

I'm so very sorry about your kitty..I personally know the pain of that loss, and it is great. And I'm really sorry about your husband's job situation...it's never a good time for that to happen, but particularly now. We've been that route, as well, and now that I'm single, it can be really tough (especially when all six want "high dollar" items!)

I'm humbled and moved by your expressions of Thanksgiving...you decorate beautifully, and it's wonderful to be able to see the good amongst the bad. Things will get better...

Glitter & Bliss said...

So sorry to hear about your kitty. That is such a hard thing. You just hang in there, and continue to spend time being thankful. I am really glad you're back. I think we have all missed you.
Leslie

Marianna said...

Cherry,

Sorry to hear about your kitty. Losing a pet is so very hard.

Good luck to your dh on finding a new job, and soon!

Marianna

Carrie said...

BIGGGGGG hug!!!!!! It sounds like you have A LOT going on right now. But it also seems like you have the abilty to recognize all the good you have going on as well. Hang in there!! I am sure it will all work out....`

AJ said...

Cherry-Sorry to hear things have been rough lately and that you are missing your kitty.
My husband is still out of work so I know how you are feeling. I am so not looking forward to the holidays! I'm trying to claw my way out of a funk but nothing seems to be helping! UGH! Hope you get your health issues resolved!
Love your decorations!

Goldielocks said...

My heart goes out to you and the loss of your pet- I think that is the worst feeling. I feel as though pets are like a best friend, someone that's for us thru EVERYTHING and still so loyal to us- Know that God uses tough times like these thru our lives to mold us and that time is for us to draw near to Him. I pray that during this time of hurt, that he will Bless you and give you a sense of peace. Your decorations are beautiful as always- i love popping in to see them. Many hugs! - Kat

Susie said...

I am sorry for your loss but inspired by your attitude to count your blessings in this trying time.

The Berry's Patch said...

Cherry,

I'm so sorry about your cat. Having your pet put down is such a hard thing to go through. We've had to do it twice with our dogs. It's just awful. I know your hubby will get another job. Sometimes these thing happen for the best. I bet another (better) job is around the corner. Hugs to you!

Brandee

Lisa Marie said...

I hope this will start to come up roses for you.....I know so many of us are having health, job and family issues right now...why does it always happen during the holidays...I'm so sorry about your kitty..that is so sad...HUGS.. hopefully things will start too look up for all of us and we will have many many things to be Thankful for...hugs, lisa

Kaitlyn said...

I am so sorry about your kitty. You're the second blogger in a month I've read gone through this. I've also read very much about people being laid off. I'll be praying for your family as well in this hard time period.

I am so glad you are back!

Thrifty Decor Chick said...

Three things -- I am SO sorry to hear about your kitty. Oh, I'm so sorry. I am a kitty lover, we have three, and we always talk about how it will be so hard to deal when we have to say goodbye to them. Long time from now, God willing. I'm also so sorry to hear about your husband being laid off. Third -- is the Blessings banner for sale because I WANT IT. :)Seriously, that is gorgeous. If it's not for sale, would you make a Christmas themed one? Please let me know! Sending good thoughts and prayers to you!

Julie said...

Cherry so glad to see you back and so sorry to hear about your kitty he lived a long life with someone who loved him. Hopefully hubby will be back to work soon. Love the thanksgiving decorations the banner is wonderful.
julie

Vanessa {Bloom Right Here!} said...

A big blog {HUG} to you! I'm sorry for all you are going through. I'm also glad you are looking for blessings. Speaking of that, I absolutely adore your Blessings banner. It is beautiful! Keep up that crafting. It is good therapy!

Stella Blue said...

I've never commented on your blog, but I do look at it from time to time as I've encountered it in the blog world. We've been dealing with my husband's job loss since July amongst other issues, so it is with utmost understanding that I pain for you. I just posted a very similar post to your's tonight, called 100th post. God's Grace does always prevail, however, the times of our heavy hearts do make it tough. Thank you for posting an honest, real, post. I think it's really what the blog world needs in addition to your fabulous craftiness! Blessings upon you and your family.

Becky said...

So glad your back, I've missed you and your creativeness. I'm so sorry about Lawrence. We had to put one of our kitties (Alex) down a few years ago after having him for 14 years so I know how you feel. Also sorry to hear about your Hubby's layoff. It seems to be tough everywhere right now. We just all have to be in constant prayer about the world today.

SarahJarnagin said...

I am sooo sorry to hear about your kitty. I've had my kitty for 17 years so I can completely understand. Just remember God has a plan.... hope your hubby finds a job quickly.

Darlene said...

Oh Cherry I am so glad you are back. I am soooo sorry about your kitty. It is so hard when our fur babies pass on. I will keep your family in my heart and prayers that your hubby gets another job quickly. I missed you and your posts so much. Also, I am so sorry that I did not tell you I received my little birdie box and LOVED it....somehow I never ended up letting you know...so sorry about that.

Unknown said...

I am so sorry you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Buzzings of a Queen Bee! said...

Cherry, I am so sorry about your cat. I understand how much a part of the family he must feel. I will say a prayer for you tonight!
Carrie

CMB said...

So sorry to hear that you are going through a rough patch...your good attitude and ability to be thankful for what you do have is very inspiring. Love all your Thanksgiving decor...that banner is beautiful. Missed your posts...glad you are back!

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

Your decorations are lovely. I am so sorry about your precious kitty. And sorry that things are rough right now. Try to be strong and hang in...life is like a pendulum - back and forth between the good times and bad....but we sure want it to keep ticking!!

Oliver's said...

Cherry, I am so glad you are back, but so sorry to learn why you have been away. I am so sad to hear of your Lawrence passing, I know that it is so hard, the ones that love us so unconditionally and selflessly are here for such a short time. I am praying that your husband finds work soon. I have noticed alot of bloggers not posting as much and so close to the holidays (including myself). It seems that the whole world in a state of sadness at the moment. I was hoping that after the election things would take on some sort of normalcy again. I guess us "blogging sisters" will have to look out for each other. I missed ya! I have to say your blessings banner is my favorite craft of yours so far. Maybe because it shows that you found your silver lining. God Bless you and your family Cherry!

Laura said...

I feel your pain. One of my mother's cats (who has lived with me the past year after her death) is not responding anymore to chemo for a tumor. We have that decision to make soon. I've had to do it many times in the past, and although it breaks your heart, you know that what you did was out of love for your pet. The good memories will always live in your heart.

Betsy said...

You've been missed! So sorry for your difficult times but I hope that all of your blessing will be of comfort to you. So glad you are back to blog land. I love the banner you made. You are TOO creative.

V and Co. said...

i am so sorry your husband lost his job, and about your cat. yes looking at the bright side of things sure does help doesn't it. and without the sad and the pain we wouldn't know joy and happiness. i hope you get that soon. happy birthday to your son! november is a wonderful month to have a birthday! :)

MarthaYvette said...

awww I'm so sorry about your kitty, I have three (one for each of my kids). I'll keep your husband's job situation in my prayers. Blessings :)

bloggin' Chrystal said...

Cherry...
My prayers are with you tonight. Losing a pet is so hard. We lost our cat about 3 weeks ago and it was a really low point for the entire family. It sounds like you're dealing with a lot. I'll keep you in my thoughts as well as my continued prayers.
Chrystal

squawmama said...

Cherry... Welcome back little one... I am so sorry about your beloved little cat and the loss of your husbands job... sometimes things just seem to go wrong all at once but I am glad to see you looked at what you do have to be thankful for... Very pround of you... I really liked all your decorations too...Love & Blessings

(((HUGS)))
Donna

Shell in your Pocket said...

Love it all..the banners are just so sweet!!! We all have times like that...hope each day is a little brighter..sorry about your cat...that is so very hard!
Saying a little pray for you right now!
-sandy toes

Robin Beck said...

Sometimes it seems like when it rains it pours. I am writing your name down on my prayer list and will pray for you and your husband's job situation. I'm glad to see you are crafting it is very good therapy in itself! Plus it is so rewarding to have such beautiful things to show!
Robin~♥
Thanks for sharing.

Valarie Lea said...

I am so sorry about the things going on. My husband and I are both in the building /real estate world, so I know how tough it is out ther eright now. I am also so very sorry about you kitty, that has got to be just awful.

Hang in there things will get better. :)

Elise said...

Cherry...so sorry to hear about all that has been going on your way. Hopefully things will look up soon and your husband will find work. I love your decorations and craftyness as usual. You rock, girl!!
Love,
Elise

Rae said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty cat and your husband's job! There are times when you truly do not know why things are happening but must put your faith in God that He will comfort and provide. You are such an amazing woman who continually inspires me! You are a blessing in my life!! The pictures in this post are phenomenal. I almost squealed when I saw the orange chipboard "Give Thanks" banner. I have it too and thought of you when I bought it! I'm not as talented as you when it comes to making banners...this is as good as it gets for me! :)

Jenni said...

Oh, I am so sorry about your kitty! That would be so hard! And everything else on top of it, especially with your husband losing his job. I was worried about you, and I will definitely be praying that your heart will heal over losing your cat, and that your husband will find work quickly. I hope you feel better soon physically as well.

I love your new Blessings banner! I was going to ask you where you got your orange glittered letters, but see you made them yourself! You're amazing! Love all your decorating. God has given you such a wonderful gift of making things beautiful, Cherry! And it blesses everyone who visits your blog.
Take care of yourself, and I will be praying that things do get better for you and your family!

Ms. Tee said...

Oh, I'm sorry about your kitty, I know that is so hard. And for the other things you are dealing with, too. I'm sending up a prayer for you. {hugs}

Eloise said...

I'm so very sorry about your sweet kitty. I still miss my cat Jack who died 5 years ago next month so I understand your pain.

I hope a new job arises quickly for your husband. I'm sorry you've been hit with so many tough blows this month.

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

I am so sorry to hear about Lawrence. I know your heart must be so heavy. But know you will carry wonderful memories in your heart.

I am sorry to hear about your husbands job lay off too. I hope he is working again soon!

Your Blessings banner is beautiful.
Hugs,
Penny

Mimi Sue said...

Some days it's easier to count your blessings than others, don't you think? We had to put one of our dogs down last Dec. I know how much it hurts. I still tear up when I think of her. I miss her so much. Hopefully the husband will find another job soon. Our prayers are with you. Mimi

Tracey said...

So sorry about your kitty Lawrence!
That is so awful hard!!!
and your hubbys job, but you have the right outlook in being thankful for the blessings you do have!
Tracey

maryanne420 said...

i'm sorry about all that you've gone through and going through. i'm praying for protection over your family and that your husband will find a job again soon.

belated happy birthday to your son!

CatHerder said...

I am so sorry for your loss of Lawrence. I lost 3 in the herd this year...Angel, who was 22, Casey who was 20, and Sushi whom we had just found 6 months earlier and spent almost 4,000. on (had heart disease). I can truly say I know your pain..and 16 years is truly a long time, they become family from the day you bring them in. My loss was so devastating, I wound up making a little area on a sofa table with their urns and a buddha...so sorry about your hubbys lay off as well..wishing you better times very soon! ..ps, love your blog

Tanya said...

I'm sorry for the loss of your beloved cat! I know they are family and the loss is very hard.

Thank you for putting up such a great post despite your sadness! Cyber hugs to you!

Nina said...

Very sorry for your loss and pain. Also been going through a down period and want you to know you are not alone. Also want to say I love your crafting and was stumped for Thanksgiving but your beautiful crafts inspired me again!

Anonymous said...

So sorry to hear about your kitty, I have had to do that myself and it is not easy. I will pray that your hubby finds a job, we are presently in the same boat and have been since Aug. so I hope you will pray for me too, but your post was inspirational, we all have so many things to be THANKFUL for.

LindaSonia said...

So very sorry for the loss of your kitty and your husband's loss of his job. These are definitely hard times, but it seems like your head is in the right place. This too shall pass. You are not alone. Sending you prayers of support and a cyber hug or two or three. xo LindaSonia

Shannon said...

We have missed you and your posts! Glad you are back. Sorry about everything going on. I'll be praying for you!

Stacey @ The Blessed Nest said...

I'm so sorry about the loss of your precious cat. Our pets are such a part of our family life, and I will be praying for you and your family in this rough time. I know also that God will watch over you and will provide a job for your hubby soon! Stay focused on your blessings, and know that I'll be praying for you!

Blessings,
Stacey

Rhoda @ Southern Hospitality said...

Hey, Cherry, so sorry about your kitty. It really is hard to say goodbye to them. I had to do that with my dog 3 years ago & it's one of the hardest things I've ever done. Hope your hubby gets a job soon, that's tough this time of year. Enjoy the season!

Anonymous said...

I am so very sorry for the loss of your kitty. Our pets mean so much to us so I'm sure this has been very hard for you. Your husband's job loss is hard too. I lost my job in July and and can understand your concerns.

Your Thanksgiving displays are fabulous as always and I hope things will be looking up for you soon.

Candy

Anonymous said...

You are in my thoughts....so glad to see you back posting. I missed you!

Lisa & Alfie said...

Cherry,
I know how hard it is to put down a beloved pet. They do truly become family. I think that is why I put off getting one of my own after college and waiting until I was 45 to commit. And now I can't imagine or remember life without my Alfie. He is the love of my life.
You show us such courage with your words of faith and gratitude during this difficult time. Such a great example for us all.
Sending best wishes your way,
Lisa & Alfie
P.S. And see? We were all just waiting outside your door for you to open it again when you were ready.
As always, great crafting!

Happy@Home said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty and your husband's job. I have missed your posts and am glad to see you back with such beautiful photos. Love them all and especially the Blessings banner.

Hugs,
Kim

Georgia Girl said...

Oh Cherry, I am so sorry about your kitty! I know just how you feel, we have one that if something happened I don't know how I would be. They are family, like one of my babies. Sorry about hubby to but your right he will get work again soon. So many people are having the same problem. I just hope things get on track soon with our economy for so many people.
Glad your son had a wonderful birthday.
I really have been checking abck and forth to see if I missed a post of yours and so glad you are back...I really enjoy your blog and it is on my favorites..take care of yourself and will kepp you in my prayers.

Hugs!
Beth

Kim @ Home Is Where The Heart Is said...

Dear Cherry,

I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved kitty! {{{Hugs}}} And, the situation with your husband's job. Hang in there, sweetie. I am thinking about you and will be praying for your family.

Love, Kim

Jill@Barnes Yard said...

I'm so inspired to start Thanksgiving decorating...

Rose Broadway (Rosie) said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your Lawrence. I know just how you feel, it leaves a hole in your heart for a long time.
Also sorry about your husband. We've been in that situation a few times and it "ain't easy."
Sometimes it's just so darned hard to see the happy things around us and the things we should be appreciative of.
You are very creative and I love your blog with all the beautiful pictures.

Ashlie said...

I'm so sorry y'all are having hard times right now! Take comfort in the fact that God will take care of your family no matter what comes along. Times are scary right now but our God will keep us in His hand!

Your decorations are beautiful, as always!

Victoria said...

I am so glad to see you back. I had missed you!

So sorry about the heavy-hearted things going on in your life. I am sure that things will look up very soon.

Kudos to you for looking on the bright side and being thankful!

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry to hear about the bad news; my heart goes out to you. You're in my prayers & please remember that when one door closes, God can open up a bigger and better door! Sometimes our adversities, like losing a job, can lead to an even better opportunity! I love your attitude shown in your banners! Hang in there! Patti

Unknown said...

I am so sorry to hear about your kitty. I know it is very painful for you. And i hope counting your blessings makes up for it. Well, in what it can make it better. {{hugs}}

Melodie said...

I'm glad to see you're finally back! I'm so sorry about your cat. I love my cat like one of my children, and I haven't even had her for two years.

Good luck to your DH with landing another job, hopefully a better job!

Heathahlee said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your beloved pet. I know how hard it will be to lose one of mine. I have one that's 12 years old and can't even think about losing her.

And don't give up hope on your husband's job situation! Keep up the good attitude!

On a happier note, your banners and Thanksgiving decorations are too cute!

Millie said...

Cherry, I went through the same heartache 3 weeks ago with our much loved 15 year old cat Miss Chloe. I feel your sadness, but maybe they are together somewhere comparing notes!

Your craft work is so lovely & reflects your kindness & optimism. Take care of yourself.
Millie from the Land Down Under ^_^

the undomesticated wife said...

I'm sorry about your cat. :( That happened to me a few years ago with one of my dogs, and it is very hard to handle. ((hugs)) I'm so sorry.

I'm also sorry to hear about your husband's job. I'm in the same position. I was laid off (along with most of my department) 2 weeks ago. What makes it even more difficult is that we can't transition...we have to work through the end of November. I'd been with the company for over 8 years. Some folks much longer. :(

I'll keep you guys in my prayers for sure!

I'm glad you are using crafting to keep your busy. I want to find something to keep my mind from going into overdrive, but I'm just not enjoying it right now.

Hang in there!

Mindy said...

Tough times! I'm sorry for your loss.

Anonymous said...

I was getting worried! I am so sorry about Lawrence! I have had my cat for about 12 years now and was just telling my friend that I am dreading that day. My little girl and I will be so heart broken! This is such a crazy time! It seems like everyone I know is in limbo with thier job just waiting to know if they still have one! God does have a plan and will be with you every step of the way! Dont worry! Julie

Anonymous said...

Dear Cherry,
I have really missed your blog entries! You have blessed me today with your openness and your creativity! I will pray that you find comfort during this difficult time.

Cathy Cobblestone said...

I'm so sorry I missed this post. And I'm terribly sorry about your kitty - I know how it is to get so attached. Bless your heart. And your husband's work - so very sorry. These are definitely trying times - on us all. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. Hope things are looking up real soon. Blessings, Cathy

Ali said...

I love the cupcakes! I am throwing a birthday brunch on sunday and I am going to copy your idea.

Anonymous said...

So sorry about the rough news...so much at once! What a great attitude to focus on the positive and God's blessings! I hope great news comes soon.

Kim -today's creative blog said...

I'm so sorry about your kitty. So sad. I hope you're feeling better.

Great job on Hunter's party. So many great ideas.

Also wanted to tell you we are kindred spirits........I have that table runner AND that black bird. I also almost picked up that wood acorn. :)

Rosemary said...

I have been so busy myself, so I just checked in on your blog.
I am so sorry about your kitty. We had to do the same several years ago, and it was so horrible. I totally understand and feel for you and your family.
So sorry to hear about your husband's job.
Your son looks so cute, and having a wonderful birthday!
What a great mom you are.
I love your Thanksgiving decor, and your crafting is so great!!
I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Your friend,
Rosemary

Anonymous said...

I can certainly feel for you about your kitty. When we are blessed enough to be granted a wonderful, loving animal for so many years, the grief at their loss is just awful. We've been there---it is so rough.
I am also so sorry about your hubby's job. I so admire you for moving forward and finding the blessings in your life---and giving your boy a party he's sure to remember.
I LOVE your Thanksgiving decorations--you're so right, we do overlook the true meaning of the day. Thanks for reminding us. Dana

Marie said...

(((Cherry))) I am so sorry about your cat and your husband. It seems there are quite a few of us "out there in blogland" going through some things, isn't there. I love how you can retain your creativity... I just don't have it in me. lol I've missed you!

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Cherry, I just lost both of my girls recently... my 15 year old dogs that I loved to pieces so I understand what you're going through. Sending big cyber hugs your way. {{{hugs}}}

XO,

Sheila

Anonymous said...

Again, your vingettes inspire! I'm so sorry to hear about your kitty. I lost my kitty several years ago & I know how hard it can be.