Lighting up my eyes

September 22, 2011 | My Jottings

A few weeks ago my children surprised me for my birthday. I always tell them I don’t want gifts but would love just a card. I really like birthday cards, especially if the person who gives it writes a few words.

I also really like words. Have I ever mentioned that, that I like words? If not, perhaps it’s time to say it again for good effect — I really like words, people.

Back to my birthday surprise. Along with their nice cards, here’s what they surprised me with:

My 3 daughters, 2 sons-in-law and 7 grandchildren

 

 

And this:

Carolyn, Sharon, Sara

 

 

This too:

Chris, Sharon and family

 

 

And this:

Jeremy, Carolyn and family

 

 

“Let your eyes light up when your children are around. Laugh more. Tell them how empty and quiet it is when they’re not there. Enjoy the things they bring to your life. Attend their activities, not as if they were compulsory for parents, but throw yourself into their lives.”

Valerie Bell

*     *     *     *     *     *

Why has God given me such a family? Why has He poured such riches out on me, one who claims to follow Him yet is so flawed, so lukewarm and undeserving? Why has His grace and very present help never been in short supply? Why does He love like He does?

As I sit here and type this my eyes almost overflow.

Lord, I want to tell you again today…..thank you. Thank you. Thank you!

Comments

  1. Carey says:

    Beautiful family…awesome God!

  2. Just Julie says:

    Thank you Carey. The same can be said about you and yours…..:)

  3. sue raimo says:

    You must know how deeply you are loved. You are a rich woman, Julie Balmer!

  4. Just Julie says:

    I am always taken aback by the love of God and others, Sue….yes I feel loved and very blessed, even in the midst of hard times! He is faithful. Thank you for visiting and commenting…so looking forward to the 3rd!

  5. Jessica says:

    What a fabulous gift for a fabulous lady! These will be treasures forever!!!

  6. Just Julie says:

    Thank you Jessica. I can’t wait to have these framed (a couple of them are huge prints) and find a good wall for them. I appreciate your faithful visiting and commenting on my little blog, friend.

  7. Deb says:

    Love it! Love it!! Love it!!!
    You are blessed!

  8. Just Julie says:

    That’s why I keep saying thank you thank you thank you! But like anyone else, Deb….there are many prayers and desires of my heart I’m still waiting for. I know you understand and relate too.

  9. Patty says:

    Thank you for sharing these photos! I can see your light shining in all of their eyes! They are blessed to have such a grace-filled and loving woman in their lives. What a legacy of love you have in them!

  10. Just Julie says:

    You are much too complimentary for my own good Patty! Maybe you should talk to them to get the lowdown…:)

  11. Kristi says:

    Beautiful family, Julie! What a wonderful gift and blessing.

  12. Just Julie says:

    I’m so glad you stopped by again Kristi…thank you! God bless your week.

  13. Ganeida says:

    HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Email us your addy & I will send a card ~ with a few words for good measure! 😀

  14. Just Julie says:

    I just might take you up on that, Ganeida. 🙂

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