Friday, June 4, 2010

Simple Joys Saturday 4 ~ Family Times


Please link up with Jan for Simple Joys Saturdays!

This week has been blessing-filled with family times, as my sister, brother-in-law and my mom came for a visit from the midwest. We enjoyed eating outside on Memorial Day, with very fine weather and the joy of being together. Our daughters and their families joined us, and it was such a pleasant day.


I continue to be amazed and thankful that all 3 grandchildren (our JEMs) are living near us. This week, my mom and I had the joy and the busyness of watching them at various times. Mom is staying with us for a few weeks, and this week it has been such a blessing to see her feeling quite well, considering that she has Alzheimers and uses a cane to keep from falling. We usually only see her once or twice a year, as she lives by my sister and brother-in-law. They tirelessly take care of her and I am so thankful for their love and care of her, as it is not an easy task.

Spring is unfolding the flower blossoms and tree leaves; the transformation always amazes me as we go from bare tree branches to full leaves in just a matter of days. I was also able to plant flowers in our window boxes recently, making spring official.

This week has offered us the simple pleasures of sitting on our front porch to soak up a new book, magazine or to just sit and listen to the sound of the birds as they flit from tree to tree. The backyard also beckons us to sit under a shade tree or loll in the hammock. My husband and grandson Jack are going to go to a fishing derby on Saturday. Ahhh, simple joys and blessings!

I am not saying this because I am in need,
for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.
 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
 I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation,
 whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
                                                 Philippians 4:11-12 (NIV)

9 comments:

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

Oh what a delightful photo of a sweet family sharing the day and enjoying each other! The home and yard are beautiful too! Simple Joy for sure!

Jan said...

What a joy and delight to have your family around you, enjoying their company and the good weather as well, in your lovely back garden.
I'm sure this time will stay with you, with your Mom still with you.
Yes a grateful heart and joy in the simple things makes for a wonderful life.
Richest Blessings - Jan

Joan Hall said...

Such blessings to be surrounded by your family and to have your mom around.

Have a blessed and wonderful weekend.

Joan

From the Kitchen said...

I just "met" you on another blog and thought I'd drop in. I really like the family photo on the lawn. I am imagining that you later played croquet!

I see that among the many books you enjoy, is the Jan Karon series. I just adore her books and her. Several weeks ago, I did a number of posts on my trip to "Mitford". I've done book talks on each of her books as they came out and joyful await another.

Best,
Bonnie

Anonymous said...

Wonderful, sweet times. I miss my children very much (and have only held my grandaughter when she was a day old), so I understand how very special these get-togethers are for your family, Laurie! :)
I hope you have a wonderful weekend,
Zuzu

Mary Lou said...

Laurie, What a blessing you are. Thanks for the flower pot comment. None of the ones I showed are actually mine. I live in a condo and have no room. The one in the yard was our former house.
My mother in law had alzheimer's so I know what you go through.
I love the chairs under the shade tree. That's the way I grew up in the country with big picnics..
God bless you.

Jocelyn said...

Looks like you had a beautiful Memorial Day. The children are very adorable! =D

May more and more blessings come your way!

Joyful said...

Aw, such a blessing to enjoy the simple joys of family and relaxation. You are blessed.

Kit said...

Oh you sound so happy! What a great gathering. We are finally getting some sun over here on the other side of the mountains. Have a wonderful Sunday! Kit