The Joy of Henry
I’d like to introduce you to a little fellow. He’s our grandson Henry.
His middle name is Samuel, but it could be Joy. Of course, that would be kind of feminine which would never do for this tough little guy. But what you think of when you are around Henry is joy. He’s a joy to his daddy John and his mommy Audra and to his Notty (that’s my husband Ray) and to his Little Mama (that’s me). When Henry smiles, he smiles all over. He crawls and he pulls himself up and he makes loud boy noises. He does all those wonderful baby things, but when you think of Henry, the first thing that comes to mind is that wonderful smile. Pure joy!
When I was a girl, I liked it when Miss Pauline came to be our substitute teacher at school. Miss Pauline was known for smiling all the time. I wonder what it would do for our husbands and children if we gave that a try.
Rejoice always.
1 Thessalonians 5:16, NASB
Thank you, thank you, thank you Charlene! This has truly been an encouragement for me today (smiling as I type this). I used to smile all the time, but recently noticed that my smile turned into anxiousness and worry over the last several years. Many women, like me, have learned to just “deal” with it, when God’s Word plainly states that we are to be anxious for nothing. I am smiling now, thank you for the accountability to do so!
Dear Charlene–What a wonderful way to encourage homeschool mothers! You have so much to share! Your words will be a blessing–because they are words from His word! 🙂
You are so right about smiling…. thank you for the reminder! I think I walk around with a look of stress on my face most days! I am so glad to see beautiful Henry! I have prayed for your family this past year, Charlene. May God continue to heal and bless you all through Henry, and through His Joy!
I am going to love hearing from you each day. There have been several times I wanted to just give you a call, or show up at your home, just to sit and chat. You say we homeschool moms are heroines, but like you said, we don’t always feel that way. Women, like you, that have already traveled this road, and always have kind and encouraging words for us that are still on this journey, sure fall in the category of heroine, as well. Not only are your words encouraging, your family is a shining example of what can result when we follow God…..that, alone, is encouragement magnified. We love your family and are blessed to know you!
Thank you for these words today. I needed to be reminded to ……..smile………..