Saturday, April 12, 2008

Note to Cindy

Regarding your comment in my previous post... the fact that I "know how to use the system" but have all kinds of money to buy teddy bears and go to thrift shops.

Cindy said...

Why do you need free medical things, which should be a priority in your budget, but have all kinds of money to spend on teddy bears and thrift shops. Do you really need all this stuff or do you need your medical items. Sounds like you know how to use the system.

Obviously you have not been reading my blog for long. You do not know that we had lost everything, including a beautiful home, friendships, reputation, "stuff", etc. due to my husband's illness. Because of the extreme and sometimes unbearable stress (so say my specialists)... I developed Juvenile Diabetes. The little home in the country we have now was through a special USDA loan for low income people.

As far as using the system... I do not receive Medicaid. I do not receive any govt. help. I nearly died a few years ago, was in intensive care for three days, because I did not have insulin. By the time I told anyone (my daughter), I was already in the hospital near death's door. The results were so devastating that I never fully recovered. I try to work part time a couple times a year at the bookstore but I am unable to work full time. I have just a couple of good hours a day in which to do my housework and keep my home looking nice for the guys and meals on the table.

It was that incident that caused my husband to stop trying to work and to go on disability for an illness he has had since high school, which only got worse as time went on. He is now 60. There was so much proof of his illness through the years that he was immediately qualified for S.S. Disability. He has severe environmental allergies.

He holds a B.S. in Economics and a M.S. in Furniture Engineering and has worked hard through the years, until the day came he tried to work as a salesman at Lowe's and could not because of illness (it was after losing his job there that we didn't have money for insulin). The trip to Germany where he bought me the bear? That was many years ago when he was well enough to hold a job... as a Corporate Quality Assurance Manager who was over multiple plants in Michigan and New England. His trips to Germany were for meetings with the parent company of those plants.

I have no insurance because we have no income other than S.S. Disability. My son does not have an asthma inhaler anymore and also suffers from severe allergies. The last time he had an asthma attack, I stayed up at night with him and kept praying and weeping because I told him I could not call for am ambulance. God answers prayer.

Obviously I was using the system, right? The only help I have asked for is through the Eli Lilly fund to get my insulin free. Without it I would not be alive tomorrow.

The teddy bears were all purchased during the years we did have additional money and most were gifts as friends and loved ones knew how much I enjoyed them (just as they give me teacups now). I depend on my thrift store finds for the very clothing I put on my back. I am in desperate need for a new pair of shoes but (like most moms) I told both the guys to buy shoes first because they needed them even more. Christopher had outgrown his shoes and my husband had holes in the bottom of his.

My son is only a high school senior but he has worked since the day he turned sixteen. He pays for all of his clothing and any "fun" items. He pays for his part of the car insurance so he can drive... a car given to us by the very sweet parents of my son-in-law.

We live on or near poverty income. Do you know how little one receives on Disability? Which, by the way, is not a government handout. It is an insurance plan for which money is taken out of your paycheck each week.

The reason I have been sharing about using our priority list is just this... our regular income is too low to keep up household or car maintenance, purchase clothing, etc. We have learned to live on next to nothing because we had to. Now I love sharing with others how they can live very well, with beauty and elegance, when there is little income.

Before you do another "hit and run" post on anyone else's blog, learn a little more about them. My life is an amazing testimony to the grace of God and the way He takes care of His children. I receive dozens of e-mails from hurting people and I can tell each one of them... He will not let you down. We do not understand why He allows us to go through illness, death, trials, etc. but one thing I am able to tell each and every one... He brings us through them.

By the way, my coffee and bagel at Panera is what I call my "mental health" breaks. My husband's illness causes him to suffer from Bipolar Disorder. My daughter always knew when I'd had a difficult day (as does my son now) because I had to get away for awhile. Do you know, it is so rare for a marriage to last when one mate is Bipolar that the agency we worked with did not know how to deal with a married couple?

I'd say a few dollars for coffee and a bagel are worth being able to absorb God's Word to strengthen me and help me stay married another year. This August, we will celebrate our 34th wedding anniversary.

Just in case you were wondering, the pictures I can post on my blog are only here because of a very dear blog reader who sent me her camera when she purchased another. That is walking in love for a person you have never met.

Sorry friends, but that made me so upset I can't write tomorrow's Sunday Afternoon Tea... which was going to be about Christian Homemaking. I need to get alone with the Lord for awhile. Sheesh... no wonder some people have given up blogging.

60 comments:

Lyndee said...

I want to encourage you to continue to make the best life possible without guilt while you follow God. He will guide and protect you in the midst of trials. I understand having frustration and even anger when people act like a judge and do not bother to discover what your situation really is. I too am going through a walk through a valley holding God's hand all the way. I just want to tell you that you are a model for others while you walk this out. Be brave and bold in the face of the one who brings condemnation. It is not from the Godly. Be blessed!

Shan said...

-*/Dearest Brenda,

I am so sorry you received such an undeserved comment. Obviously, this lady has not read your blog from the beginning or she would know the narrow financial path that you walk each day. You are a blessing to me and so many others. Your testimony is so uplifting and inspiring, I feel blessed with each post you write. Please know that you are wonderful and many readers have been helped with the wisdom you dispense!

Yours so very kindredly,
Shan
Honey Hill Farm

Alesha said...

Hi Brenda,

I wandered over here from Cheryl's blog and I wanted to say that I appreciate your outlook on things.

Your posts on recession have really gotten me thinking, and we'll be stocking up the essentials too, as God sees fit.

I'm sorry this person left a rude comment. Thank you for answering it so graciously.

Now, try to be like the little baby duck when he climbs up out of the pond, "just shake it off!" and keep waddling along!!!

:-)
In Him,
Alesha
www.xanga.com/akconklin

Shan said...

Brenda,

I don't know why there are characters in front of your name in my comment. I don't know all the blog lingo and was afraid that they mean something? I certainly did not intend for them to be there.

Your slightly clueless blog friend,
Shan

Nita in South Carolina said...

Your blog is such a blessing to me. I really appreciate being able to read how you make sure there is beauty and love in the midst of personal trials. Also, I have printed nearly all of your postings about stocking up/recession planning and are busy studying them. They are very useful to me, as we have a family of four, including two young teens who are ALWAYS hungry and ALWAYS needing something :)
Nita in South Carolina

Nita in South Carolina said...

Your blog is such a blessing to me. I really appreciate being able to read how you make sure there is beauty and love in the midst of personal trials.

Nita in South Carolina said...

Sorry for the multiple posts, please get rid of the shorter one . . I pressed GO too fast!

Anonymous said...

Dearest Brenda,

I've only been reading your blog for a couple months, but I love everything you have to say. YOU DON'T NEED TO EXPLAIN YOURSELF TO ANYONE. GOD knows what is in your heart. He is the only one who matters. Your faithful readers love you!

Tammy said...

Take a well-deserved moment to enjoy a cup of tea and restore your mind to grace, dear lady. I, too, am sorry someone felt the need to be so rude. We should all pray for her bitterness to be relieved.

Anonymous said...

Oh, my friend! Hugs to you!! I'm so sorry that you have received such a hurtful comment. You are such a giving, generous woman...both of your time and your resources. I think it's difficult for some younger women to realize that we've had decades in which to build our homes. What seems like a lot of "stuff" to them is, in reality, a treasure trove of memories and gifts gathered over the years.

I do appreciate your blog so much, and it's one I've been reading since you started! You are a true Titus 2 woman who has so much to share with the younger gals about living through hard times - medically, financially and even in marriage. You are a blessing to me and I know to many others as well.

Tammy said...

I wish I could hug you!!!

This is one of the reasons I've left public blogging...I would get emails like this and it just got so old.

You don't have to explain a thing to anyone especially an random person. I so wish if someone did not like what they read that they would hit that X at the right hand of their screen...argg!!!

Bless your heart! I hope the Lord blesses you real good!!

Mary said...

Brenda, I am so sorry about the bitterness of that comment. Your blog is such an encouraging and uplifting place to visit. Please know there are so many of us that rejoiced when reading that you were able to get your testing supplies. You freely share the wisdom that only comes from walking thru the storms of life to the other side. May God touch your heart and soul as only He can as you are hurting. You daily encourage me and I count you as a dear friend I have not met on this side if heaven. Have a cup of tea and know you have many "blog friends" praying for you. May God hold you in His Hands. Be well and God Bless!! Mary

Sandra said...

I'm so sorry you had this negative comment. I also enjoy your blog and am continually encouraged by it. I always look forward to visiting here and reading what you have to share. Keep up the good work...you're definitely appreciated!

Susan Humeston said...

I agree with everyone, especially with Paula in MN - you don't have to explain yourself to anyone. This blog is your wonderful ministry - I check every day to see what you've written. Like every ministry, there will be those who don't get it or want to get it. You can't please everyone, only God, and this ministry is a blessing to so many people.

You choose to write about the things in your life that fulfill this verse in Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things."

Brenda, you - and this blog - are a blessing. Be comforted and know that truth.

Karen Deborah said...

some comments should just be deleted. You are doing the best you can and sharing some good ideas on being frugal. Everybody has their opinion, but some don't need replies.

Sherry said...

Ignore. Delete. And go on. You are a blessing to me and to others.You are responsible to the Lord and to your family.

Peace to you.

Anonymous said...

Dear Brenda;
Big Hugs from CT-I have read you blog for a while and you certainly don't deserve the criticism from that one person-Please enjoy your tea and the rest of the weekend-it finally feels like spring here! I hope the sun shines for you too!
Blessings Alisa

Trish said...

Dear Brenda,

I have never commented on your blog before now, but I am a frequent reader. It is because of posts like the one from Cindy that you need to continue blogging dear Brenda!!

There are a lot of hard, hurting, bitter people in this world. As one takes the time to read your blog and get to know you through it, one could surmise that you too could have been a bitter and hurting woman.

But the beautiful truth is you are not! Far from it!! Through Christ you are a faithful wife, a loving mother and a tremendous Titus 2 woman to countless ladies who come here to glean from your wisdom!

If anything, the Cindys of this world need to be pitied and presented with the gospel. They need to come here to your blog and read and learn and grow in the grace and knowledge you have to offer.

Brenda, you are one of the 'wealthiest' women I know! You have such strength and courage, such a wealth of trust and faith in the Lord!

Please know that there are many women out there that love and care for you. I will pray that the hurt subsides, and I will pray too for Cindy; that her bitter, hurting heart will heal, making her the kind of woman you are Brenda.

In Christ,
Trish

Anonymous said...

Brenda,

I am an old and harried senior person who is still trying to work at a demanding job. On some days, it seems as if it takes everything within me just to put one foot in front of the other. When I drag in home every evening, my gift to myself is to check on some favorite blogs. I always check yours (along with pioneer woman).

You bless me, inspire me, calm me, encourage me.....thank you, thank you for such a wonderful blog. I am so sorry that you had such a mean-spirited comment. Try to let it go...it truly is her problem, not yours.

Again, thank you from an itty bitty town in East Tennessee. We are snuggled up to Va and NC where I live, so if you ever see notice the weather channel mentioning the Great Smoky Mts, we live about an hour and half away. And you can think....hmmmm, somebody in that neck of the woods appreciates my blog!

Dee from Tennessee

Lydia said...

This woman didn't even deserve your response. It's obvious she doesn't know the Lord, since if she did she would have just kept her mouth shut even if she believed these things about you. I also think sometimes it's better not to defend yourself or respond to comments like these. TRy out Mary Kassian's Bible study "Conversation Peace" if you get a chance!

Vee said...

You're a better woman than I for that comment would have been dispatched like yesterday's rubbish without a word from me. (And, yes, I've had to do this several times.)

It's easy to take potshots, but potshots are nothing more than lies since there is no way one can know another's story. You know as do the readers of your blog where the truth lies. I hope that the "Cindys" of the world who might be reading will learn something from this. God forbid that she might ever have to walk a mile in your shoes.

Don't give up blogging! You are a great encouragement to many!!

Abounding Treasures said...

Dear Brenda,

I couldn't have said it any better than Trish did in her comment :o)

I have been coming to your blog now since Christmas and I am encouraged, blessed, inspired, challenged and appreciate all that you share, always!!

Blessings,
Dallas

Anonymous said...

Brenda... I don't believe that I have ever left a comment on your blog before. I was introduced to your site through Coppers Wife on Xanga a week or so ago.

Please don't allow negative comments like this one to paint your day. This woman obviously does not know anything about your life. I agree with all the posters in that she's the one who deserves the prayers and pity, because she is so full of judgment, and that ain't pretty. You're a stronger woman than I, for if I had been attacked like that, I would feel the need to use words that aren't very nice.

Reading your blog is a blessing to me, as it shows me what I aspire to be.

cchhbb said...

Please don't let others discourage you. You don't have justify anything to them. You know you are doing the best you and your family can and if they read your whole blog they would know that. Would you mind telling me your shoe size? You mentioned wanting a new pair of sneakers and I have so many pairs and if you wear a size 9 1/2 I would be happy to send you some. God bless.

Susan P. said...

Dearest Brenda, I have felt such a connection, a kinship, if you will, since the first time I read your blog. You inspire me and encourage me daily and are such a wonderful example of a true Titus 2Lady. Now it is our turn to encourage and love you back!!All you need to do is look at all the comments from these lovely ladies and realize what an amazing impact you have made on their lives and what a blessing you are to each of us. Oh, how I wish we could sit down for that cup of coffee, but I know for sure we will some day;o) Much love, Susan P.

Anonymous said...

Dear Brenda,
Sadly there are a lot of ignorant people in this world who have little to do but to cut down others because they are so miserable in their own lives and want to drag down others with them.

I agree with those who have said to delete and go on - and that you do not need to explain why you do anything to anyone. Your life itself is a shining example which should say enough if people take the time to read your blog.

I can very much relate to your life because I have chronic health issues and cannot work. We live on the edge as you and your family do but with God's strength we get through each day. I love reading your blog because you are able to reach out to many people in similar circumstances. I am grateful for your openness because it is a real encouragement. There are so many other blogs I cannot relate to because my life is so different from theirs.

I hope you will feel encouraged by those who appreciate you. God bless.

Anonymous said...

Brenda,
Take Cindy's comment like "water on a duck's back.....let it roll right off". Don't let her upset you and make you crazy. Some people just "don't get it". And no amount of your blogging will convince some. I enjoy each and every post you take time to make. Keep your chin up...too many of us need you.

Blessings,
Debra

Heather L. said...

Just wanted to say I understand. I could launch into a few paragraphs here, but I'll leave it at that for now.

Happy@Home said...

I have been reading your blog for a few months now and I have been very impressed by how well you seem to run your home and keep your family happy despite many challenges (health and financial). I think you have been a tremendous help to so many of us with your tips on getting through a recession.
I am so sorry about the insensitive comment that you received. You DID NOT deserve that. Please know that you have many readers who admire you greatly. Take a deep breath and continue to enjoy your trips to Panera - guilt free.

Niki said...

Ignore hurtful comments and know that many women are blessed by your words, experience, knowledge and kindness.
Blessings to you,
Niki

Anita said...

Dear Brenda:
I came across your wonderful blog quite by accident one day and I've been blessed by it ever since. Please don't let negative comments from one person discourage you. You're the most delightful person sharing the love of God through your creativity. God loves you and so do I!

~Bren~ said...

I agree you are one of the wealthiest women around. Please do not let the snare of offense trap you. I just 2 days ago wrote an entire post on this. Forgive a woman who was like those who "know not what they do." Cindy is probably a sweet woman who did not take the time to get to know you and spoke out of turn...may God use this to teach her to not speak before she knows, and then to speak in kindness. I am almost certain she already regrets her words.
You are a shining example of God's grace and love.

Willow, said...

Brenda,

I have only started reading your blog a few months ago and you are a blessing! Only someone who has had and lost and knows what it still is to be blessed can feel joy at anothers happiness, expecially the sincere happiness and beauty you share in the small things.

I will pray you find peace quickly and offer this comment and person up in prayer and let God carry that burden. You give light and share joy and you are far enough in your journey to know while you suffer there are still blessings to be thankful for. You don't own explanations to a drive comment....I will say a prayer for that person who is obviously suffering.

Blessings,

On Willow's Road

Arden said...

Brenda,
Yuck, what a hateful comment. That woman should learn to use her delete key before she spreads any more of her poison.
You inspire me, Brenda. There are so many frugal blogs out there and they don't get it like you do. What's it like to live your life having to watch and plan? It's expected when you are young but it gets harder as you get older and it can make you tired.
You get such joy out of thrifted treasures and good solid meals and making a home for your family. Your home is beautiful and so are you.

Karen said...

Oh, I am so sorry for the careless words of another. I just wanted you to know how much I appreciate your recession posts. Stand firm, girlfriend. God knows your heart. And He loves you.

Anonymous said...

Brenda..
hugs to you. I understand.
We, too, live at well below poverty level. I maintain a computer connection because this is how I make income...husband has a service connected disability...on and on..
Picking up a book for 10 cents at a thrift shop..or an antique teacup for 1 dollar...those are "handfuls on purpose" from God into my life. What a gray life would be led if it was all drudgery and colorless with plastic flowers and cheap tea.
Spend your time with the Lord, and come back to us refreshed and renewed. Praying for you today.

MotherHen said...

Dear Brenda,
I have just recently started reading your blog (through Cheryl's) & I absolutely love it. I am sorry that some people have to say hurtful things to others, I always tell my children when one of their peers did that to them to just pray for them and shake it off. There are some people in this world that just have to say, gossip or do hateful things to others to make them feel better!! Keep your head held high and know the Lord works in mysterious ways!!
God Bless,
MotherHen1966 (Gretchen)

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry. I have no excuse.

Anonymous said...

Oh Brenda, how sad I am that the insensitivity and cruelty of this person has caused you pain! You also don't owe anyone an explanation. Your blog is a true blessing to so many people! Please don't let this one person keep you from sharing your thoughts.

Hugs,

Manuela

Manuela

Sharon Goemaere said...

Dear Brenda~
I was really saddened to see that someone left such a hurtful comment here.I would just not even give folks like that the time of day.People often speak without knowing the details.My husband and I are living on his disability checks.He had a triple bypass and mild stroke in 2002.We did'nt have much before that but now have even less.But we have seen God's provision time and time again.And in many ways I have never been happier.LOL Go figure.God's most recent"gifts"were free flowers at a local nursery.I now have 2 pots of lovely pansies on our small apartment patio.God also provided two twin window fans for $5.00 a piece at a garage sale recently.We have countless stories like this.In addition to having to stay home with husband I also developed health issues.For all I know they could have been stress related from the major changes when husband fell ill.I am 46 and he is 55.We are not thriving in the traditional sense but have what we need.And for that I praise God.Blessings~Sharon

zetor said...

So sorry about this . I have only been blogging a couple of weeks and you are on my favourites list. Thankyou for a great blog and please continue. Prayers for you.

Anonymous said...

Dear (((Brenda))),

As soon as I read the comment at the top of your post I feared losing another favourite blog! I have read a few times, on other blogs, that bloggers need to have a "thick skin". Well, you don't and I am glad of it! That's one of the reasons why I love your writings so much. Please keep blogging, for the sake of the many who are encouraged by what you write.

Anonymous said...

Brenda,
You owe NO one an explanation. I would not respond to that type of comment ever again. Hit DELETE, pray and press on! They don't deserve your time or energy.

I'm not sure where you live girl, but if it was close enough...I'd pick you up, take you Panera and go thrifting ALL afternoon...my treat!
{{Big HUGZ}}

aby914 said...

I've only recently begun to read your blog regularly and I have so enjoyed it. Thank you for your sweet spirit.

Laurie said...

God Bless you and your family Brenda, I am so sorry someone left such a rude remark ~ I visit your blog now and then, and I can tell you are a sweet, lovely Godly woman.

teacupsandpoodles said...

Dear Brenda,
I found your blog a few weeks ago and marked it as one of my favorites! I really enjoy reading your blog and I hope you don't let this person's comments discourage you. I have found I have needed broad shoulders when I have put myself out there. Stay strong!
Love in Christ,
Mary Ann

Mrs. A. said...

I am another who has your blog on my favorites list and I echo all the ladies who said you do not have to justify or defend yourself to a drive by commentor.

This person may be fortunate enough to have all her material needs met, her health, and not among the nearly 50 million Americans without health insurance. Perhaps it was easier from this place of comfort to lob judgment, I don't know, but I do know the Lord sometimes allows circumstances to come our way that remind of us prideful moments. We should pray (pray for those who persecute you) that her heart would soften toward those struggling in this world.

Thank you for sharing your heart.

"Do what you feel in your heart to be right, for you'll be criticized anyway." --Eleanor Roosevelt

Brenda, I am a freelance writer who has had over 400 essays published in print and sometimes the feedback can be heartless and cruel. Don't let that stop you, though, from doing all that you do as unto the Lord. Continue sharing your heart and your day with those who traipse through cyberspace.

I am sorry your feelings were hurt so, but as a result, I see that many have come forward to share what a blessing your blog is. Isn't God good?!

Kathy said...

Dear Brenda,
Once again I'd like to thank you for your lovely site. Even though I do visit regularly I hadn't realized the extent of all the difficulties you have been through. I'm so sorry that it was an unpleasant comment that caused you to write your "Note to Cindy" but how encouraging to read the heartfelt comments/support from the blogging community.
Thank you for your sensitivity, for sharing openly, and for being so generous with your time as you describe your faithful journey.
With love, Kathy

Anonymous said...

Wow, I'll have to come back and read all these comments!
I'd like to respond to this sentence-
"I receive dozens of e-mails from hurting people and I can tell each one of them... He will not let you down."
I am having a bad day and truly feel that God does not care about me. There is something I want very much that looks impossible and the pain is almost unbearable. Please tell us often that God will not let us down-I need to hear it over and over-daily, if possible.
You know how much you are loved by so many people. I come here for so many things-comfort, understanding, friendship-the list goes on and on. I am never disappointed.
I wish I had a million dollars I could give you.
((hugs)))
joanna

Anonymous said...

Dear Brenda,
Wow! You are certainly appreciated by many! I also want to thank you again for your lovely blog and all your wonderful posts....you inspire many!
I also want to give Cindy a hug via cyberspace because she may be hurting and after reading all of these supportive posts, she may feel badly.
We are called to love one another and though it can be difficult at times, God wants us to forgive and to extend grace as He has extended it to us.
Brenda, be blessed and know that you are a blessing to many.
Love,
Joanne
And to quote a very special lady:
..."May your day be filled with love, joy, peace, beauty, and blessings... not to mention a cup of tea and a great book."

Cheri said...

I just found your blog a few weeks ago and appreciate your sweet, gentle spirit.

It is also inspiring to see how God provides for us in ways beyond what we could ask or imagine.

I have discovered that some comments on my blog that are hard for me to take come from people who are taking my views out of context. Or without the proper background information.

Please keep blogging. You are an encouragement to so many!

Daffodil Hill said...

Shame on Cindy! She obviously doesn't know what she is talking about. Your life and your blog are such blessings to me. I started reading here last year and continued to read daily because of your beautiful spirit. Little did I know that my life would change dramatically, leaving me with no income due to my husband's sudden death. Now I appreciate your words of wisdom even more. {{hugs}}

Susan said...

Dear Brenda,
((hugs)) I have been reading your blog for only a short time and did not know ALL you have been through but knew that you trust God to meet your needs in whatever way HE wants and God knows we need little simple pleasures to help us along the way...so enjoy when HE gives those trips to Panera. I did notice Cindy commented again that she is sorry for what she said...lesson learned! but something good came out of it because I got to know you better.

Terri said...

Those "hit and run" comments are the price we pay for blogging, I'm afraid.

I hadn't realized that stress could bring on type 1 diabetes, though.

You are doing so great with so little. You really are an inspiration.
God bless.
Terri

Anonymous said...

So glad to see Cindy's apology...maybe she is a good person inside who may have just made a mistake and was in a bad mood when she made the comment. We should all learn from this...."Sticks and Stones yada yada yada....words really do hurt.

Anonymous said...

I was glad to see Cindy's apology too. But the words still stung. Your post was a very good one and you answered her so well.
Don't be discouraged...you have wonderful things that you have taught us all. Don't ever stop.

I know you walk a hard road with your illness and your husnabd's too. But your example of how well you walk it is inspiring for those walk similar roads.

Don't change Brenda we admire and love you the way you are!

Blessings, Patty

sherry said...

Oh my...

Bless you dearly, Brenda.

(email forthcoming)

Adrienne said...

Dear Brenda -
I am just doing a bit of catch up after a very busy, full few days. I felt such hurt for you as I read of the comment you received. You don't need to defend or explain. I am one of those who come here often and always go away blessed. I thank God for His supply of your needs - however He chooses to do it. He is faithful!
~Adrienne~

~~Deby said...

Amen...I am so glad you addressed this.....
no one knows on the other side of the keyboard the path someone else has walked or is walking and that we are letting our lights shine only by the grace of GOD and the prayers of HIS people and HIS WORD.
Blessings to you,
Deby

Anonymous said...

Please don't let one unkind blogger ruin your blogging experience. I have at times in my life been poor, and at times I've been very well off. Right now I'm in between. But, even in the poorer times I was still able to shop at regular stores and I had health insurance through my job and parents who could bail me out if I got too deeply into financial troubles.

But, I had enough experiences of money being tight that I know how hard it can be. On your limited income it must be so very hard. For you to find lovely clothes and nice things at Goodwill is so very fortunate. You have always seemed to be a very frugal person and there is nothing extravagent about your spending.

And, I learned when I was short on money that sometimes one just has to buy something pretty, or something to read, or music to listen to just to help get through the rest of the times with no money.

The cost of diabetes supplies are very high and it was fortunate that you were able to find a way to obtain them at no cost. Perhaps you can get help for your son's asthma the same way.

I'm sorry that times are hard for you and I hope you continue to find joy through your blog.