Yesterday, along with 500 other families, we were dealt the devastating news that as of the end of January my husband will be without work. We live in a very small community so news of this magnitude will be felt by the entire town. It is so hard to comprehend. When I sat my kids down to tell them I had bad news, my daughter immediately asked “did someone die?”. And right there the hand of perspective is dealt because while this job loss will be far reaching and painful, no one died. Not this time. We will get through this, that I have no doubt, and I draw strength from a God that provides hope in all circumstances.
There is no sense worrying about what we cannot control. What I do have some control over though is my gift closet. It’s gotten a little out of hand as I’ve started to prepare for Christmas and needs a bit of an overhaul. Today I welcome the distraction it provides. I’ll post the after pictures for you tomorrow.
PS: I’ll also be posting the Mr. Linky for Org Junkie’s Monthly Round-Up tomorrow. How are your drawers looking?
shirley rempel says
Just know that I prayed for you and your family this morning. Our strength is in Him and He will provide all our needs! In our humanness it is soooo easy to worry, but He will bring you through this:)
Lona says
Hugs and prayers… I’m so sorry!
Michelle Sarabia says
You are in my prayers. As we are self-employed and have been hit hard this year. I have learned in this PROCESS that God is faithful and on-time!
Kimberley says
So sorry to here, it is always tough on a family in these situations but on the plus side everyone is alive and well. I have friends and relatives in BC that have been dealing with the same issues, and in our own corner of the world many of us are struggling with poor cattle prices. Keep your head up and stay strong!
Melinda says
God is good ALL THE TIME…hold onto that!
Jenny says
Hey Laura, I’m praying for you and all the families that are affected. What a terrible blow. So so sad for everyone.
Jolene says
So sorry for just bad news! And yes, you will get through it. We have been through this 6 times in 9 years….disturbing to think it’s been that many times, somehow as hard working as my husband is, he has bad luck in where he finds work lol. Our most recent time was 6 months he was out of work starting just before last Christmas. While it’s hard on the stress levels and hard emotionally each time(many thoughts of “why us?” and “what are we doing wrong for this to keep happening?”)….but each time it does also get easier to handle, I just know what to do because there is nobody to help us, we seem to make it through on our own though.
I wish your husband the best of luck in finding new work, on the bright side, better now that at the beginning of the recession! Lots more places are hiring again :).
Tanna says
Oh, Laura! So sorry to hear that. You and your family will be in my prayers.
Tiffanee says
I am so sorry! I will also keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Ally0005 says
I so understand your pain, why because we went through this last year. My husband lost his job in March 2008, took him 8 months to find a job but it was a lot less than what he was making. He kept looking and 7 months later he found a great job. Pays more than the job he lost. Those 15 months were so hard and I don’t want to go through them ever again but we learn alot, changed alot and my hsuband found out what faith was all about. We call the job my husband has now a blessing job.
I will be thinking and praying for you guys.
Ally
Hip Mom's Guide says
I add my “I’m so sorry” to the other. What a tough situation. I love that you saw the perspective in your daughter’s comment. Hang in there. We’ll be praying for you.
Charlene says
So sorry to hear of this, for yourself as well as your community.
Michelle says
I am so sorry to hear your news. With news like that, I would want to organize something, too!
Organising Queen says
Your daughter is like me – I always think absolute worse case scenario first. And then it’s actually not THAT bad.
I also prayed for your family now.
Darla says
I’m sorry!
Jeanne B says
Big hugs, I know that kind of news is scary. But remember, as clichéd as it sounds, when one door closes, another opens. This is the launch pad for hubby. Something even better WILL come to fill in the void left by the job loss.
Give yourself a bit of space and an appropriate amount of time to grieve the loss of the job. Then, focus on the excitement of what’s up ahead instead of the pain of the loss and watch to see what unfolds. 😀
Ranee @ Arabian Knits says
My prayers are with your family. Is there any way to set aside any extra money over the next three months? Even as a little cushion? I pray for a new job to be made ready for your husband or an opportunity for a family based business.
Joyce says
Sorry to hear about the job loss. At least there is advanced notice so you all can prepare for it. I hope that something turns up for him. My husband lost his job in January (very unexpectedly) and I was pregnant with our 2nd daughter. Right before she was born he got hired, doing something that he likes even better, getting paid what he’s worth, with a better commute. They even gave him a late start date so that he could stay home a little while after our daughter was born. Prayers for you and your family….and I should get going on that drawer. Can’t believe it’s the end of the month already.
Valerie Shoates says
My brother in law has been without work for several months. I feel for you and I will pray. You never know maybe a new door will be opened.
Katie says
So Sorry to hear that your husband lost his job!!
Erin K. says
Hmmm… I am listening to a sermon online and browsing blogs at the same time. Just as I opened this post, the pastor was quoting Nahum 1:7 – “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him…” I though it was incredibly well-timed. 🙂 Praying for you and your family!
Ginny says
So sorry! My husband has been out of work himself due to an injury. It is hard when you have kids because they don’t fully understand. You get through it though, with your organizing & planning you will for sure!
Crista says
Oh I am so sorry. I have been there, and it’s not easy, but we have always made it through. I know you will, too. I will be praying for you and your family.
Amy @ Finer Things says
Our Tiny Town is facing the imminent closing of our school. We’re not sure when it will happen; sooner rather than later, though. This economy is DEVASTATING small communities.
But you’re right. God does know what he’s doing, and … it could always be worse. No one died.
Mrs. Wilson says
That sucks SO MUCH. I’m so sorry. Yea, no one died, but it’s almost as devastating on a town. A huge employer of people died.
Jena OrganizingMommy says
I’m so sorry! I had a dream that we met in real life. I woke thinking that I should pray for you. Hope this finds you hopeful for the future.
BigMamaCass says
I read your blog all the time but don’t comment much. I am so sorry to hear of your husbands job loss. That is so scary. I will say a prayer for your family.
ter says
I’m sorry to hear of your husband’s job loss. On the upside, he has had enough notice that he might be able to find another job to start by then. Wishing you all the best.
Debbie JordanKravitz says
Hugs to you and your family, Laura. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Allison says
I hope that a new opportunity presents itself for your husband right away!! HUGS!
Lucky says
That’s terrible! I’m so sorry.
Brook says
I’m so sorry to hear of this news. Our town has had similar shock waves pass through it over the past year. It’s awful.
Thankfully our God is bigger and in control. He will provide!
I will be praying for your family!
Sonia says
I’m so sorry to hear that. My MIL was just laid off on Monday, she too was shocked but has faith that the Lord will provide. Praying with you through this.
Tracy says
I’m so sorry, I know how hard that can be! In December it will be a year since my husband was laid-off, thankfully he was able to get another job after only three months. I hope your husband has great success in finding a new career!
I REALLY want to start a gift closet next year, something I have never done before. I look forward to your posts about it!
Belle says
It hurts my heart that that is what your daughter thought when she heard ‘bad news.’ 🙁
I’m so sorry you guys have to go through the hard times!
Cindy says
I’m so very sorry to hear about this. I will keep your family and your town in my prayers.
April W says
I have been sick for 3 months, very sick. I have had serious problems with my lymph nodes. We are waiting to see if my condition is going to cause my lymph nodes to turn into lymphoma. I had a cancerous cyst on my face removed today. If I have learned ANYTHING in my recent trials, I have learned that God is good and faithful and ALWAYS provides. You are alive and you have your health and family. NOTHING ELSE MATTERS! I am praying for you in your struggles.
Isaiah 40:29-31
40:29 He gives strength to those who are tired;
to the ones who lack power, he gives renewed energy.
40:30 Even youths get tired and weary;
even strong young men clumsily stumble.
40:31 But those who wait for the Lord’s help find renewed strength;
they rise up as if they had eagles’ wings,
they run without growing weary,
they walk without getting tired.
Ann-Marie says
Just wanted to say, having come from a town that has lost all it’s industry and having faced this myself as a child and an adult, …..
“I’m sorry to hear your news and I hope you’ll find the strength you need to get over the worry and keep your heads above water!”
Karen says
Praying for your family. Our God is amazing and He will provide in way’s you’ll never guess! We have seen this first hand in our family, and I am alway’s amazed by his love and compassion.
Tracy says
I’m so sorry to hear about your husband’s job. I, too, believe that the lord provides what we need when we need it. I will keep your family in my prayers.
se7en says
All the best to you and your family. I shed a tear for you all when I read this post. This will be tough, be encouraged that you have lots of folk out there who are praying for you and thinking of you.
susan says
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I truly understand what you are going through. My father passed away on September 25 and on September 29 we were told my husband will be laid off at the end of October. I wish you the best of luck during this new transition in your life.
HeavenlyHomemakers says
Ugh, we’ve definitely been there…and even though we KNEW God would make everything okay…our hearts were heavy. For a long time.
That’s a big deal for your small town. I can’t imagine how you all must be feeling. I will be praying for you all as you seek God’s direction in what road you should take next.
{big hugs}
Susanne says
Oh Laura I am so sorry! I am praying for you and your husband and family! I pray that something even better will come for him and that your steps will be ordered by the Lord! {{Hugs}}
Liz Jenkins says
Laura – I am so sorry to hear this – and I do hope that something works out for you both. My husband had to close his company at the end of last year due to the real estate recession but luckily was able to find a new job in February. Interestingly enough it is completely different from what he was doing but uses the knowledge from that & previous businesses. He looked a bit outside the box of what he thought he could do and it worked out. I really hope this is the case for yours as well.
My thoughts will be with you.
Laura says
Thank you so much for sharing your stories and being so kind to pray. It has been amazingly uplifting to come back here throughout the day to read such words of strength and hope. Just as my real life friends have rallied, so have you and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for that.
Laura
Melissa Multitasking Mama says
I am so sorry, praying for your sweet family and knowing with you that God is in control.
stacy says
I’m so sorry to hear about your husbands job. Mine has been out of work for the past four months. It hasn’t been easy, but we have clothes, plenty of food and a place to live. I’ve come to realize that all the rest of it is just extra. I wish you and your family the best.
Tenney says
I’m so sorry – to echo another commenter: You’re in my thoughta and prayers, and also the rest of your community.
Ashlee says
I have not had time to check out any of my close friends’ blogs, let alone those random ones I’ve come across and added to my favorites (like yours).
Yet, completely by “random” choice, I clicked on your blog tonight.
I am so sorry to hear your news. This economy has been hard on so many people. The fact that it’ll slowly come back to life is of little comfort to those of us facing dire financial needs, though.
Just know that, even though I don’t know you, I will pray for you and your family. As everyone has said, God will sustain. He will provide. Place your trust in Him. God bless!
Gina says
So sorry to hear this news, Laura. I’m thinking of you and your family.
Sherry says
Praying for providence for your family during this time.
Sandy says
Oh Laura, I can relate. I will email you later.
I am on a cleaning frenzy myself!
xx hugs!
Juggling Motherhood says
Laura,
What an out pouring of love you have been receiving from your friends (both in cyberland and in real life). Difficult times certainly bring families and communities together.
May the Lord bless you and your family. Ditto to what Hip Mom’s Guide said, “hang in there”.
PS I thought I was the only one that hoarded gifts?!
Amy Marten says
Laura,
I haven’t posted on your site before, but I have been enjoying and encouraged by it for many months now. Today, I have to post for 3 reasons: 1) your verse and the beautiful photograph caught my eye–bless you for proclaiming God at any time, but especially now. 2) I wanted you to know how sad I was to read about your husband’s job. I appreciate all you do, just want you to know that you are supported and being prayed for, and I have a feeling that many are thinking of you that have not posted. 3) Just want to say that I got on the website to be inspired to tackle a project; your rows of beautiful bins always make me so happy. And the first closet pic I saw was your gift closet–I laughed and felt so much better that Organizing Junkie has a closet that actually kind of looks like one of mine!!! (well, even your messy closet is clean, but you know what i mean 🙂
I pray you feel the peace of Christ all around you, all the time.
Beverly Coggins says
Laura, I’m so sorry! How hard this must be for you! I don’t know what people do who do not have the Lord to draw strength from.
I’ve heard a quote by Wayne Dyer about how losing a job is an opportunity to switch to doing something you love. Easy for him to say! But I pray that that is the case with your husband, and that it will turn out to be an open door to something wonderful!
Be assured of my thoughts and prayers!
Ellen Christian says
I’m so sorry to hear about your husband’s job. I’m praying he finds something else quickly.
Jana says
Hang in there! My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Julie says
Laura, sorry to hear this. We went through it twice in less than a year, having to move to two different states during that time. It is no picnic going through this, but I am confident (bold letters) that your husband will find work. Because you are so organized you have much to your advantage.
Beth S says
Sending a huge hug your way. I have now been out of work 8 months after our major employer went into creditor protection. My husband has been unable to work for the last 6 months due to health issues. He was self-employeed. Our company had asked for people to stick around but time is running out. I haven’t given up. Even at 44 I’m looking at going back to school. I live in a little town of 2000 and if there is nothing for me here I’ll find something out there. Take care and keep hope in your heart.
Jeannette says
Wow, job loss? that stinks!
But you already are ok as you trust in God. NO matter what you and your family face God will lead and guide you. How awesome is that.
Thats not to say it will be easy and comfortable but at least you know its only a season. Who knows what God has planned for you and your family?
Thanks for sharing your blog and being such a wonderful encouragement
Melissa says
Hang in there, while it seems like the end now god provides and won’t give u anything u can’t handle. my husband has been jobless in jan for ONE YEAR! there is just not any jobs around here, he is waiting for his job to hire back but it doesn’t look like that’s going to be for several more months still. it’s hard but u will get through it…i promise!
Tammie Paul says
Despite the news reports, the “recession” is far from over! We will pray for you and your family. My husband was out of work for 3 months and God used that time to grow us in ways that we never imagined. My husband especially because God was able to show him that he is more than just a paycheck to his family. That we love him for him and not only for his provision. It also gave the kids and I perspective on the importance of what my husband does when he is not with us. He is not just off playing somewhere but working to take care of us. And it was such a time for God to receive the Glory and share it with those in our family that do not share our faith. Jesus lived in poverty for us to receive our true riches in HIS Kingdom. Our love to you, your family and your community.
MyLinda says
Hugs and prayers! It is/will be hard but perspective will help!
Harmony says
500 Families? That is awful! Praying for you and your family in this tough situation!
Kim says
I can empathize with your situation. Between my husband and I, we have survived 4 layoffs in 9 years. Hubby has currently been out of work since March and the prospects do not look good for a job (construction related industry) anytime in the near future. To make matters worse, my company may also be looking at structural changes that could impact my job.
I am comforted that others are walking in our shoes and are sympathetic. I am encouraged that so many have been able to rebound and grow spiritually and financially.
I hope that 2010 will bring us all joy and prosperity.
Bonni says
I will be praying!! I am blessed by your attitude…I love that you’re going to conquer an area! Can’t wait to see the ‘after’
Pamela says
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Beth says
I don’t know you personally but my heart goes out to you and everyone suffering the effects of a slow economy (it could happen to our family at any time). Rest assured it is a sign of better things to come…a simpler way of life that we once knew. Your outlook is optimistic and every new challenge brings with it more opportunity. Blessings to you & my prayers for you and all those in need of comfort.
Hope says
I love your blog and read it all the time. I am so sorry for you and your family. I will be thinking of you and hoping something comes along soon!
Cindy says
So sorry to hear that you received such bad news. You and the others are in my prayers.
Greta @ Mom Living H says
I’m so sorry to hear about your bad news. It sounds like you are choosing to have a really good attitude about it though. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers 🙂
Debora Kapsiotis says
you are totally doing the right thing. Lean on God and he will direct your paths. He will shelter you under his wings.
Hugs
Deb
xx
Cee says
So sorry to hear this. Will be praying for you during this time!
Rlfie says
Like all the others…hugs and prayers headed your way. It will be tough, but the way will be opened for your family. You are all strong and no one has died. Good luck to your family.
Janessa says
I am so sorry to hear about your husband losing his job. Mine has been without a steady job for about a year and a half now. He has attended every job fair but with no luck. He has done some odd jobs for people from our home and somehow we have always been able to provide for our needs. It is only through God that this has been possible. He has continually looked out for and provided for my family. I know He will do the same for yours. Keep your chin up! You will make it through this!
Rachel says
Hugs to you and your family. My husband has been without work for just over a year, second time in the past five. And he is a highly trained IT senior project manager. ::Sigh:: I really feel for you and your community.
Despite the difficulties and frustrations, our family bonds are stronger than ever. We have a better sense of what is truly important in our lives, and in the world. Keep your faith and a check will always arrive when you need it most. Take care!
Amy says
Hi Laura,
I’m so sorry that your husband lost his job. It has often felt like this has been a year where one bad thing after another has hit. And yet we’re hanging in there. My husband lost his job during the summer. It has not been fun but we are getting by. It will be okay–take care of yourself too. 🙂
Sherri S says
I have been an avid follower since beginning my meal planning a little over a month ago. I’m always UP for anything to help me organize! I feel for your news of the upcoming job loss. I will keep you in my thoughts uplifted. What makes us struggle inevitably makes us also stronger. Though at the time it doesn’t feel that way. Hugs.
Sue says
Praying, praying, praying….
Becky L says
I will keep you in my prayers and your husband for new work. My husband was out of work 2x close to Christmas. I had most of the gifts bought. This year I’ve got less $ becuz of buying another car with $80 more out of pocket for car and husband works less this year, no overtime, like last year. 18% pay cut, without that. So we get by and I really am watching our money out flow. I’m holding on tighter, lately. But God is there for his children and will sustain you. Hang in there and know you are thought about.
My drawers are ok. Still am working on my papered desk!! Have also been working on my quilt to get mailed for Christmas. I’ve had some struggles with it but it’s getting done. Will blog about it soon.
Take care!!!
http://grandmabeckyl.blogspot.com
MemeGRL says
Oh, Laura, hang in there. I’m “behind” on my blog reading so I just saw this post tonight. That is sucha blow to any family. Try to keep your faith, keep your perspective, and stay open to where you are led. Good luck to you. I’m glad I “know” you in blogland so I can follow you anywhere!
Belinda says
Been there…I feel your pain. You never know, something better could be around the corner…hard to be optimistic at this point I know…Hang in there!!! HUgs!!
Julie says
My husband lost his job also this past year and now works as a garbage man. It’s so hard to know that he is 43 and physically busting for his family everyday without a complaint. Makes me want to be a better wife!
Hang in there…i know it’s sooo hard but God is faithful this we know. Will lift you up today.
((()))
Julie
Stephanie O'Dea says
Laura, I am so terribly sorry your family has been hit with such devastating news. Your family, and those affected are all in my thoughts.
oxox steph
Brantley Parrott says
Thank you for the reminder that we can all trust in God’s strength during the times of our greatest need. I am continually blessed by your blog. Thank you.
Kris Mays says
Know that you are prayed for! We recently lost our home and it has been a tough year. But we will get through because of the Lord, and so will you.
Take care,
The Mays Family
Candace says
I don’t know how I missed this post the first time around. I just wanted to offer you some encouragement. My husband was laid off Aug of 08. We were very very blessed that he found a job (that he likes better than his old job) only one short month later. Looking back I can tell you that that was the best thing that happened to us that year. It grew our faith so much and brought us closer as a family. Your family is in our prayers.
Stacey says
I’m so sorry to hear about this. My husband lost his job just before Thanksgiving last year and just began a new job this week. This new job takes him out of state and it’s a long drive but we feel so blessed that he has this job after being out of work for just under 1 year. I’ll be praying for you and your family.
Sarah says
I missed this post the first time; saw it in the link in your more recent post. I’m so sorry for this news. Thanks for your candor. I’ll be praying for a resolution for you. Hang in there! (((hugs)))
Ariane Benefit says
Oh Laura, I just read your post and I’m so sorry to hear the news about your husband’s job. Your resilience and positive attitude is such an inspiration. I totally agree that Organizing is stress relief and can be extremely therapeutic. I pray that your husband finds that this closed door is the just the beginning of a new adventure – and that there will be many other doors of opportunity now opened.
Hugz and Blessings,
Ariane
Jim says
Are you kidding? I only wish my basement looked that good!