Endlessly Surprised by Joy
As this year draws to a close, I'm reflecting on the mysteries of hope and joy.
Rainbows in the Valley
This year has been a season of downs and ups for my little family. My kids are thriving and saying the funniest things, but as you know, with growth comes learning and lots of big emotions. We have wept over paper airplanes that would not fly and rejoiced over toads that were rescued from the dog.
Oh, yes! And we have a new husky puppy named Luna. More on her later!
Then, shortly before Thanksgiving, Jason lost his job in a company restructure. As God would have it, just a few days ago, he found a position that I think he’ll enjoy even more. But before that relieving news, watching him work so hard, sometimes finagling three interviews in one day, reminded me of what an amazing father and husband he is. Even during that time of uncertainty, I felt secure and so loved.
New Book. New Beginnings!
I decided to launch this new newsletter in part because I have a new book in the works with Penguin Random House. I loved working my friends at The Good Book Company on Not Forsaken. But, just like a book, life has new chapters. I’m absolutely thrilled about how the editing and planning is going. And while I can’t reveal the title yet, I can tell you that it’s about defying hardship, sorrow, and fear to grasp the joy we have in Jesus Christ. I really think you’ll enjoy it and I’m so excited to tell you more as we draw nearer and nearer to launch day next year.
What’s the Game Plan?
In the coming months, I’ll be restructuring my website and social media activity to build bigger, better relationships, right here. The blog on my website is all fine and dandy, but I want to get to know you. I want to hear what you think, learn about your hobbies, and get your insights on life, philosophy, and theology. And of course, that means we need a more interactive platform. So … here we are!
What Happens Next?
In the coming months, I’ll be posting roughly once a week on all your favorite topics. If we’re friends on Twitter or Facebook, you hopefully already know what I’m talking about, but here’s the rundown:
Humorous kid stories and parenting encouragement
Growing closer to God; building stronger relationships with Jesus
Learning to endure hardship by fixing our eyes on the joy set before us
Navigating and healing from trauma, grief, and PTSD
Finding hope and taking heart despite depression, anxiety, and whatever else this life may throw our way.
Subscribe & Invite Your Friends!
If this newsletter sounds fun and helpful, please subscribe. While you’re at it, invite your friends to join us too! I’m super excited for this new year of new beginnings and new promise, and I look forward to enjoying it all with you.
Here’s my sweet little family: Jason, and our daughters, Elowyn, Leianor, and Gwynevere.
PS: Please Forgive Me in Advance
As you can see from the photo above, I’m a busy mom with three young daughters who keep me very busy (especially that little one on the left!) My letters may come out a bit sporadically, particularly in the beginning as I get the hang of a new platform, but this is going to be super fun. More soon!
Much Love,
Jenn