Thursday, December 26, 2024

Not Always Roses

Me and Jess had a bit of a run in with a woman who was unreasonable and unfair with her demands, and it saddened me because it came right on Christmas Eve.  It's not always roses here at Red Rose Alley;🌹 we come into some challenges, and sometimes we have to deal with all kinds of people on different levels, but being a woman myself, I know how important it is to be helpful and compassionate with people in need.  But unfortunately, sometimes we come across women who abuse their power in their jobs, women who stand by and do nothing while someone needs help, women who have no grace and mercy, and women who have no love.  We all come across them in our daily lives.  But someone very dear to me reminded me of what Saint Francis said, "Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received - only what you have given; a full heart, enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice, and courage."



So, give your light, my blog sisters.  There are those who need it so desperately.



I had a beautiful Christmas, and my children gave me so many wonderful gifts.......leggings and socks, Holiday spiced tea, Boston Tea Party Tea (Earl Grey), which actually came from Boston when Jess visited, Starbuck's Christmas Blend, candy cane chocolate cookies, "joy to the world" cup, framed picture of Francesca, which meant so much to me, cause she was wearing the dress I picked out the first day of school, kitchen dish towels, glass bowl, coasters, and See's!  And Jess always puts oranges in the packages, which will remain a tradition forever.



Aren't these the most unique coasters?  Have no idea where Jess got them, but I love them.



I have to show you the packages that Nel wraps from Santa because it's such a creative idea.  She puts a big S stamp on them also.

Matching pj's and hats.

Here's Mia opening up my present - the Disney Dream House!

I hope you have pleasant days leading up to the new year.  And I will leave you with one of my favorite verses.  Please remember it in times of trouble.

If God is for us, who can be against us? ~Romans 8:31   

6 comments:

Ginny Hartzler said...

Nel's packages are gorgeous! wow, you got such lovely and thoughtful gifts, things you will really use! I've never seen coasters like these. St. Francis quote is so beautiful, and I agree. I'm so sorry you had this bad encounter! And I know you handled it with strength and grace.

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

Very sweet and thoughtful gifts - and so beautifully wrapped! I want a Disney Dream House! xx So glad you have such a loving and giving family, dear Sheri. It makes up for the discouraging encounter you had. I hope that the kindness you always show cancels out this unfortunate experience and comes back around to bless you. I love the quote and am glad that you didn't label her a 'Karen'! Lol! My poor name has been dragged through the gutter. I hope that the New Year brings you and your family many blessings, my friend. Hugs xo K

Patricia said...

Dear Sheri, your Christmas looks just wonderful. What a loving family you have, and such thoughtful and sweet gifts. I have not heard the St. Francis quote, and it is so good, I will copy it down. The oranges are festive, and also traditional as well as pretty. The coasters are indeed very attractive, and you will enjoy using them. Disney house is the absolute business! Hours of fun for Mia. What a disappointing interaction you had on Christmas Eve but you are so good and kind, and rise above it beautifully. Merry Christmas Sheri.

Debby said...

Oh Sheri, I’m sorry you encountered such a mean woman on Christmas Eve. It must have been upsetting. I’m glad you had family near to buffer what could have been a major bummer on Christmas.
I love that “Santa’s seal.” How fun. Sounds like you raked in all your favorite items. That Disney dream house, I’m sure it was a hit. Enjoy your time and thanks for checking in. Love all the sights from your Christmas.

Katerinas Blog said...

Very nice post.
When your family is well,
nothing should dampen your spirits.
Looks like you had a great Christmas.
How I loved the words of St. Francis,
so good to read them at this time!!
Thank you very much!
A positive outlook on life!
Have a good new year.
Be well and have fun🎁🌲⛄🧡

roughterrain crane said...

Thank you for your frank words. They encourage us to walk steadily in any weather.
Your home is full of heart-warming presents.