find us on instagram
  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Categories
    • Beauty & Style
    • Crafts
    • Dream Create Inspire
    • Family
      • Parenting
    • Freebies
      • Free Fonts
    • Giveaways
    • Health
    • Holidays
      • 30 Fun Ideas Ideas For Fall
      • Christmas
      • Easter
      • Halloween
      • St. Patrick’s Day
      • Thanksgiving
      • Valentines
    • Home
    • Parties
    • Photography
      • Project 52
      • Project 365
    • Recipes
    • School
    • Special Needs
    • Technology
    • Travel
    • Tutorials
  • Free Downloads
  • Pregnancy
    • Birth Stories
  • Recipes
    • Appetizer
    • Bread
    • Breakfast
    • Dessert
    • Drink
    • Main Dish
    • Side Dish
    • Snack
  • Shop My Favorites
    • Bloglovin
    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter

Sarah Halstead

You are here: Home | Family | When Life Is Hard… {Part 1}

November 7, 2011 By Sarah Halstead

When Life Is Hard… {Part 1}

Filed Under: Family, Photography, Special Needs Tagged With: carsyn, cerebral palsy, faith, Holoprosencephaly

I don’t talk about my faith on this blog much but after some thought I am going to go in a semi new direction here. I want to do more writing {not much of a writer but I want to improve} and less photo challenges. Don’t worry I will be sharing PLENTY of photos.

I joined the Woman’s Bible Study at our church. I HAD to do it. It is based on the book When Life Is Hard by James MacDonald. It talks about all the trials he went through and how God worked through them.

It really is an awesome book and study. The first week was talking about the difference between a trial and a consequence. Trial is out of your control and a consequence is something that happened because of you. Of course you all know I am going the a huge trial right now and I know it is nothing that I did but it was still nice to hear.

The second week was talking about the question that everyone asks, “Why me?” I have asked myself this more times then I can count. I think, why is this happening to me? Therapy three times a week, endless hours of working with Carsyn, seeing other kids his age thriving and seeing him struggle, knowing he wants to do something and can’t. This is not how I pictured my life God. It all comes down to one answer. You are going through your trial so God can shape you and work through you. We even talked about that in church on Sunday.

The third week was how to work through the trial. Of course the normal, pray, read your bible, etc. The other thing is to understand that you are going through this trial for a reason. To trust God to see you through your trial. Knowing that you will be better on the other side and that you will lead others to God. A trial can bring you closer to God or it can take you further away. In all honesty when I first learned of Carsyn’s diagnosis. I ran the other way. I couldn’t understand why. Now with the help of this book and bible study I know. Right now I NEED God in my life. Without him I wouldn’t be able to get through this.

I can not wait for the next three weeks. Maybe I will do another post at the end.

Related

Don’t Miss A Thing!

Stay Up To Date With The Latest

« Friday Fun
Photo Tip Tuesday- Inspiration »

Comments

  1. Martha says

    November 13, 2011 at 6:45 am

    I love the forest/bokeh picture! I totally hear you on the trial thing. My daughter is healthy, but I myself was a kid who caused my mom a whole lot of heartache, diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis when I was a year old (definitely not as bad as what Carsyn has to deal with though). It was so bad she thought I'd never run or hold a pencil, but I ended up being able to spend several years playing sports and I'm a lifelong musician (piano, violin and voice). Now that I'm grown (and still dealing with lots of physical issues) I can see a thousand reasons why God knit me together in the strange way that He did. I don't know if this will reassure you, but in his mind, this is the way things have always been--it's not a shock to him (the way it is to you) when he can't do something. I hope that's encouraging. I know that my physical problems were much harder on my mom than they were on me as a kid, because I just accepted them. I'm sorry, I've written an essay. Praying for you and your sweet family. Thanks for sharing this; I'm sure you'll be an encouragement to other moms in your situation.
  2. Branson says

    November 12, 2011 at 2:35 pm

    Trusting that there is a reason can be so hard! It is always amazing to look back once you have traveled a hard road, though, and see that reason revealed! :) Can't wait to read more posts like this! HUGS!
  3. SavvyLittleWomen - Kate says

    November 10, 2011 at 2:39 pm

    Love, love, love the honesty in this post. Praying for you and hoping that God gives you strength to get through this time. Hang in there, lady!
  4. Barb says

    November 9, 2011 at 9:40 pm

    Beautiful and heartfelt. I'm glad you found this Bible Study Group and that it is helping. Your photography is beyond stunning - you have so much talent.
  5. charmaine says

    November 9, 2011 at 11:30 am

    It certainly sounds like you've made a good decision! I need to check out that book too! Beautiful shots too, by the way!
  6. Cedar says

    November 9, 2011 at 10:32 am

    The Jeremiah Bible Study I am in discusses the same thing--the Why for the Israelite is because you turned from God and all He wants is for them to turn back...but the why for Jeremiah is because God has a plan for his life, plans to prosper him, and to bring God glory. Sometimes we don't really see the why until later, but we can know that God loves us and knows what we are going through. "Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD And whose trust is the LORD. “For he will be like a tree planted by the water, That extends its roots by a stream And will not fear when the heat comes; But its leaves will be green, And it will not be anxious in a year of drought Nor cease to yield fruit." Jeremiah 17:7-8...I am loving my Jeremiah study...so glad you are enjoying your Bible Study.
  7. Serendipity is Sweet says

    November 9, 2011 at 8:23 am

    Beautiful photos. Blessings to you and your family on your journey. Thank you for sharing your beautiful story, your strength and your courage.
  8. Courtney @ The Mommy Matters says

    November 9, 2011 at 1:51 am

    Thank you for sharing this. I am going to have to pick up that book because I think that I could really use it. I tend to run the other direction when things seem to start crumbling around me and I don't understand why things are happening to me. Praying for you girl. And looking forward to seeing more heartfelt posts like this!
  9. June Makes Six says

    November 8, 2011 at 10:45 pm

    Sarah, I don't share about my faith on the blog either...but am so glad you did. I have not been able to participate in a bible study for a few years but it always helped me focus on what God's plan was/is for my life. I hope His word brings you comfort during this difficult time in your life. Please know that your family and Carsyn will be in my prayers. Tiffany
  10. Ashley Sisk says

    November 8, 2011 at 8:52 pm

    I'm so thankful for all that God is doing in your life. I know from personal experience that the harder the trial, the bigger the reward. God works in strange and mysterious ways and I'm so glad you're taking the time to appreciate it. You know you can talk to me whenever - I'm here with you and I stand in prayer for you.
  11. Elisabeth says

    November 7, 2011 at 11:06 pm

    Thank you, Sarah for opening up. Otherwise I wouldn't have known you were even going through this. I guess I am just as wrapped up in my life as everyone else to realize when others are going through trials. My trials are different, but still I can relate to knowing that you need God in your life. This has been a year full of me getting closer to God and wanting more and more of Him and less and less of me. You're on the right path. Keep breathing and praying. That's all we can do. hugs.
  12. Jaymi says

    November 7, 2011 at 8:00 pm

    these are really beautiful photos! I love the first one, and the leaf on the ground. And your out of focus shot of the trees is really cool too!
  13. Jodi Hall says

    November 7, 2011 at 7:38 pm

    Love that first picture! I love the new direction you are going in with your blog i cant wait to read more!
  14. Bri says

    November 7, 2011 at 3:24 pm

    What a fantastic post! I really think the more we share our faith (and especially our trials), we become connected and God is able to use us to help others. God Bless you as you walk through this trial!! ~Bri~
  15. Katy says

    November 7, 2011 at 12:07 pm

    I think it's great that you're moving past the "why me?" phase. It really is hard, and I think we all backslide from time to time, but it's important to know that it is not our fault. I love the idea of a trial v. a consequence--makes that easier to digest. As far as faith goes, I always remind myself that God's plans are bigger than the the human mind can even conceive. We want answers, but truthfully, we might not be able to see them. It's hard, but that's what faith is all about. Great post.
  16. Kim Stevens says

    November 7, 2011 at 11:38 am

    Sarah, I don't know your exact trial but knowing that it is something with your child tugs at my heart. I recently watched a video of Nick Vujicic, a motivational speaker who was born without any arms or legs. (I've been trying to find the exact link and can't-there are many), but I did write down some things he said that really hit home for me. He said, "God can heal you without changing your circumstances so that the works of God can be revealed through them." That is so powerful. He also said, "If God doesn't give you a miracle you are a miracle for someone elses salvation." I just want to encourage you to follow your heart, you never know who you may touch in the process. Hugs, Kim
  17. Faith says

    November 7, 2011 at 10:44 am

    WOW - such a good post!! I don't talk about my faith on my blog either, but it's great to see my friends thriving! Going through a trial is SO hard but as I'm starting through to the other side of some of my trials I can definitely say that I'm grateful to have gone through them. Thanks so much for sharing!!
  18. Gina says

    November 7, 2011 at 10:33 am

    Beautiful post Sarah! I know that we all go through things for a reason. We may wonder why at the time- but I have learned that the Lord teaches us things through certain experiences to prepare us for other things he has in store for us later on. Sometimes it's just his way of teaching us something he wants us to learn- making us into the person he wants us to be. You are doing a phenomenal job! These pictures are stunning by the way!
  19. WeeMason's Mom says

    November 7, 2011 at 9:46 am

    So glad to hear the new direction you're taking your blog. I'm one of the people who come for the family updates etc and not the photos (which ARE spectacular, don't get me wrong) so I'm very excited to hear this!
  20. Jessica says

    November 7, 2011 at 7:41 am

    love the new direction you are taking with the blog. I'm so glad you have found a way to feel supported through these tough times. I hope things only get easier for you and Carsyn.
  21. Alicia says

    November 7, 2011 at 7:41 am

    Keep on chuggin' there, mama! I know all about trials and personal struggles and I, for one, can tell you how very worth it it can be if you allow yourself to push through the pain and get through to the other side. It is only by doing a little more than you ever thought you could that you will be able to make yourself stronger! And being a mom, you were already pretty strong to begin with! =)
  22. Amber says

    November 7, 2011 at 7:34 am

    It is so wonderful to not only see your beautiful photos, but to hear you share your heart. Amen. Amen. Amen. "You are going through your trial so God can shape you and work through you." This truth is soooooo hard, especially when you are in the midst of it. Each time I am faced with a trial and I get frustrated, angry, etc. I think, "God, you know I am capable to preserving, so I will walk through it. Please, forgive my occasional attitude or frustration as I walk this road you have given me knowing that my deepest desire is to bring glory to Your name." I look forward to hearing more and pray that God will continue pouring hope, encouragement, and love into through your study and group time.

Welcome

I'm Sarah and I am the writer behind this blog. I love sharing recipes, DIY projects, photos and about my everyday life. I married my high school sweetheart Kenny. We have three boys and one baby girl - Dustyn, Carsyn, Prestyn, and Annelyn. Thanks for stopping by, can't wait to get to know you more. Read More…

Let’s Connect

  • Bloglovin
  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter

Search

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Hello Instagram Friends
  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Privacy Policy
  • Hello Instagram Friends

Newsletter

Latest News · Tips & Tricks

Categories

Search

Partners


Love my new Aglaonema Sparkling Sarah (Chinese Eve Love my new Aglaonema Sparkling Sarah (Chinese Evergreen) I picked up from @_rootsplantco this past weekend. The pink is gorgeous and I love it’s name.
6 weeks ago I cut off the top of my Monstera Adans 6 weeks ago I cut off the top of my Monstera Adansonii because it was very tall but not bushy. It was nerve wracking at first. I had 5 total cuttings that I put into water. 4 of the pieces had roots longer than 2 inches with some secondary roots. The last piece is still in water, it has some roots but not enough, so giving it a bit more time. Where I cut it is also making a new stem and I noticed further down it was trying to branch out in other places. Hopefully it takes off this Summer and becomes fuller looking.
Sweet pea. Sweet pea.
Freaking freezing soccer nights. 🥶🥶🥶 It Freaking freezing soccer nights. 🥶🥶🥶

It was soooo cold out there tonight even with the sun. The wind was whipping. It may have been in the 40s but the wind chill was in the low 30s. I think my face is wind burned. Annie did a great job playing tonight and was trying so hard to make a goal. The other team was short on players, so one of her teammates was goalie and did an awesome job stopping the ball. Annie tried a new strategy of holding the ball in between her feet until the other team gives up. 🤣 There is one clip of Prestyn (# 13). His games are harder to take video of cause his field is so big.
Reading a book and trying a new cider at @pineandp Reading a book and trying a new cider at @pineandporch. This is a blueberry pineapple. 🤤 If only it would have been warm enough to enjoy their outdoor space. Guess the past couple weeks were false spring.
Soccer season is here. Lots of time spent at the f Soccer season is here. Lots of time spent at the fields this year, since Prestyn decided he wanted to play too. Both of them have their first games tomorrow.
Two and a half months after her first tooth she fi Two and a half months after her first tooth she finally lost her second tooth. It’s been hanging on barely. Today while eating lunch I told her it was close to coming out and we would need to pull it before bed. While eating chicken teriyaki she thought she swallowed it and spit out the chicken in her mouth. I dug through it and it wasn’t there. She started freaking out. Then looked on the chair and it was sitting right there. 🤣 A similar thing happened with Prestyn on one of his bottom teeth. My kids never want to pull them out until they fall out on their own. Ha.
Instagram post 17899973702685454 Instagram post 17899973702685454
The roots of my monstera thai constellation are lo The roots of my monstera thai constellation are looking great. 🙌🏼 Lots of growth in less than 2 weeks.
My monstera deliciosa had some droopy leaves, so I My monstera deliciosa had some droopy leaves, so I asked my friend Molly at @_rootsplantco what she thought would be best. She recommended this wooden trellis from Lowe’s that cost less than $15. I tied up the droopy leaves with twine. There is lots of room left for growth.
I made the mistake of not repotting my philodendro I made the mistake of not repotting my philodendron white wizard when I first got it, I also didn’t give it enough sunlight. So it was growing soooooo slow. I finally repotted it a couple weeks ago, moved it closer to a window, and started using plant food from @happyhappyhouseplant. Not sure what made the most difference but the leaf opened and now a new one is already starting. Hoping it won’t take as long this time.
Prestyn and Annie had a blast riding their hoverbo Prestyn and Annie had a blast riding their hoverboard and bike. Loving this spring weather. ☀️🌅🙌🏼
Unpacking my new Monstera Thai Constellation. Kenn Unpacking my new Monstera Thai Constellation. Kenny told me to buy my dream plant for Valentine’s Day and it’s so pretty. I can’t wait to watch it grow. 🥰🪴

Awesome and quick shipping from @tropicalplantsusa. It arrived perfectly and they were so great to work with. Thanks so much. 🙌🏼
Prestyn needed a hair cut badly too. He looks so d Prestyn needed a hair cut badly too. He looks so dapper now.
Happy Valentine’s Day! We didn’t do anything s Happy Valentine’s Day! We didn’t do anything special but did get the kids cookies and a little bit of candy. 

Annelyn is loving her new hair cut and loving her hair straightened. Swipe for some adorable photos, she came up with all her own poses. Also the very last photo is her hair before, it was a hot mess. Mollie cut off 3-4 inches and it looks much healthier now.

Do you celebrate Valentine’s Day? If so, did you do anything fun?
Cookie decorating for Valentine’s Day at their g Cookie decorating for Valentine’s Day at their great aunt Lori’s house. So thankful she organizes cookie decorating parties. 🙌🏼❤️
Annie is home sick again, but she sure doesn’t a Annie is home sick again, but she sure doesn’t act sick. 🤣 Sunday night she threw up, was fine all day Monday. Sent her back to school Tuesday, then last night threw up again. She’s been eating and drinking and able to keep it all down. So not sure what is going on.
Currently reading - Things We Never Got Over by Lu Currently reading - Things We Never Got Over by Lucy Score and loving it. The second book in the Knockemout series comes out in 2 weeks on February 21st. It is called Things We Hide from the Light. 

Have you read this one yet?
Finally after, who knows how many days of wet and Finally after, who knows how many days of wet and dreary weather, there is sunshine. ☀️ It may only be 24 degrees out but I will take the sun. Tomorrow is supposed to be a high of 59 todays high is supposed to be 37. 🤦🏻‍♀️
Forgot to share this before my reel. Oops. Close e Forgot to share this before my reel. Oops. Close enough. 🤣 Kenny turns 40 this month and Dustyn turns 15. Craziness.

Copyright © 2023 · Captivating Theme On Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

 

Loading Comments...