Seasons change as people change. For the first time since 1997, I will not have a “job” come next Friday. Several people have asked me if I am scared? It may be weird, but I am actually more relieved. This is a hard semester at school as I am finishing up my degree. I choose to look at it that this was all in God’s timing. He new my plate and wanted to clear part of the plate so I could concentrate on my studies. I will admit, I have had a really good four years at BabyCenter. The company has definitely helped shaped me into the person I am today. My boss has been an incredible one who gives constructive criticism. The constructive criticism has helped me both personally and professionally. The next steps from here will be exciting.
With the job gone, a big portion of our income leaves as well. My husband said it perfect when he said it was time to get back to the basics. We are in the process of downsizing to a much smaller house. The smaller house will equate to over $400 a month in savings. The satellite will be turned off which will save us over $80 a month. Our home phone has been turned off and we only use our cell phones. No more weekly out to eat visits. Am I anxious about all these changes? The answer would be NO! I am looking forward to being minimalists and growing in our faith with the Lord. All the extras are not needed to have a good life. We have really cut back the last two months as we knew the changes were coming. During the next few months, I am focusing on finishing school and blogging here and at my local blog. Writing is a great passion of mine. Due to school, work and other activities, I have not been able to write like I want to on the blogs. This will change after next Friday. We are looking forward to possibly traveling to even more locations throughout the US and just living on a lean income. It will be exciting to see how the next few months unravel. I hope you will come along for the journey.
The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. ~ James 5:16b, NLT
This verse is so powerful. We can never forget the power of prayer. Prayer has brought me thus far in life and will continue to take me into the future. Prayer, faith and determination are three words that my family is choosing to hold on to as we go through this big change. Life will be different but a good different.
For now, I will enjoy my view more.
Change can be a good thing especially with faith along side it.
You’ll do fine! I think you’ll find that life is a lot more peaceful with smaller spaces to clean and less tv. We use Netflix, so it’s much more intentional watching because it’s on demand, not just whenever the channel wants to air it. 😉 Whatever your needs are, God will provide them. Who knows? This may be a transition into something even better than you can imagine right now!
We use to live in a 800sq. feet house when my stepdaughter lived with us and the girls were little. It was my first home that I owned and we really miss that sweet little home. I am not a TV watcher so I could care less about TV but even the girls and hubby and not putting up a fight. It’s going to be some great changes 🙂
Jen you have such a great out look on life, you inspire people. I know with your faith, the love of your family and your determination you will prevail. I know what you are going through as my husband has been laid off of work and still is due to lack of work in his field for the past three months. There have been scary times, times when you worry how you will pay your bills, feed your family and such. Some how you get through it. When I get too worried is the time I reach out to my husband and family for those extra hugs. Good luck to you and your family and to finding your new home. I wish you the best! I loved your message to me, was so touching. I hope you received mine.
Sharon, I am so sorry to hear you all are going through similar circumstances. I hope everything will get better soon. We have been doing lots of extra group family hugs. I wish I could reach through computer and give you a big ((HUG)). I always appreciate your messages so much!
Awww Jen , you just did 🙂 Thank you for your concern. Nice to know we can be there for one another even if it is only across the miles and through cyber space.You will be in my thoughts and prayers. It is nice to have you as a friend !
Good luck Jen! We are “roughing it” too so I can finish school. It isn’t easy but it also isn’t forever! Your sacrifice will be worth it.
Teanne, thank you so much for your sweet comment. It will all definitely pay off in the end. Proud of you and your schooling. When will you hear back from your Duke interview?
I really admire you Jen for stepping out in Faith and making these changes for the good of your education. We had to do the same due to finances and I don’t miss cable t.v. (we got an antenna and get local channels) and we just use our cell phones. I love seeing where your life takes you and your beautiful family and I really appreciate your prayers for me and my family. You are an inspiration to so many people. And being without a few luxuries only draws you closer to God…love ya!
I love you too sweet friend! Praying and thinking of you often!
I love your attitude Jen! I lost my job of 11 years last year but amazing doors keep opening for me and they are doors I wouldn’t have opened on my own. You go girl! 🙂
I remember you telling me at the Coca-Cola event Jamie! You are doing amazing work and so proud of all that you are doing. Thank you!