DISQUS

Twinkletoes · 1 year ago

I am things have you down. Hoping the upswing comes quickly for you (all). And don't ever be sorry - it's your blog AND you are human! 'Nuff said :)

Shann · 1 year ago

Oh...I have been there, we were in this boat in January...husband layed off...me not working...and the furnace decides to kick it! When I read this post I saw flashes of my life. It will get better, just trust!
And don't be sorry...we all have days were we need to vent!

Charity · 1 year ago

My heart breaks for you. It is tempting to say all those cliche things like it will get better soon, but the truth is maybe it will and maybe it won't. What encourages me about you and your situation is that you really seem to know what is important even in hard times.

So, whether or not this is the worst of these trying times for your family, your attitude and faith will see you through.

Still, I (and I'm sure lots of others) will keep you in my prayers and all other families that are struggling in this hard economic time our country is in.

Erin · 1 year ago

I have been there, too. Thing after thing, and you just want to say, 'seriously?'. Psalm 5:3 says, "My voice you shall hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up." I love the part about looking up. Sometimes that is all there is strength to do. But it is enough. He hears you.

Jessie · 1 year ago

Oh Brittany I'm so glad you posted this. It made me feel so much better! My list is very similar to yours. And I also try to be positive and focus on all the good blessings but sometimes we just need to vent. Here is to hoping that 2009 is a less stressful year for us all!

Tricia Moran · 1 year ago

Wow, Brittany, my heart and prayers are with you. It's OK to talk about the hard stuff, despite the blessings - if we didn't we'd go insane! I don't even know you, but I totally emphathise with you. And I don't have six children to take care of... Just know that my husband went through this job loss thing three times in the past two years and there is nothing good about it. It's hard on everyone, especially the man. But, of course it's affecting you.

You have many blessings, but that doesn't mean that you can't be scared, or tired or fearful. We all are. (A lot of the time!!).

My husband left us about fifteen months ago and I have had some really hard challenges. What gets me through them, is talking it out (either on my blog) or to friends or to family. (mine are all overseas, so that can be tough). But, you will get through all of this. You are so strong, an amazing mother and wife and person. (and i don't even know you, but I know - *smile*.
I really hope that things get a little better soon. My children have been very good about the gift thing too - and luckily we have always taught them it's not about that anyway. I'm glad your girls de-stress you, they de-stress me looking at them! Your blog is wonderful. Keep on sharing. :)

You are in my prayers, as is your beautiful family...

Hope tomorrow feels a little better,
Tricia and Family (N.Virginia)

Aleah · 1 year ago

Your family is so great!
I wish I could tell you that in person!
I love both your lists, good and bad. Life is messy sometimes, isn't it? But your focus is just right!

Michelle · 1 year ago

Brittany,
You hang in there girl and keep looking up. We don't always understand God's ways, but we know there is always a plan and a purpose for our good.
And honestly, I like people who can blog about the real stuff. The stuff that we know "everyone" goes through. Your blog is beautiful and honest, probably just like you. :)
Please know you're in my prayers.
Blessings, Michelle

Shari · 1 year ago

It's OK to vent Brittany! It's healthy to do that. I KNOW how hard it is with no money and no job. We were there thru the summer. It's tough! The person that rear-ended you, did they have insurance? The insurance should be paying your bills for your back and chiro treatment. If they didn't have insurance then your insurance should pick it up. Family issues are so tough sometimes. Been there too and still there. As far as your check engine light, many times it's emission issues such as an o2 sensor or something simple like that that needs replaced. Be easy on yourself. I am glad you posted positives too. You're an awesome lady and a wonderful Mom! Hang in there hon!

Claire · 1 year ago

Hugs, Brittany. I hate hard times. Makes me look forward to the day I'll live in Heaven with my Lord, and not have a care in the world. :)

Kerry Lynn · 1 year ago

If anyone is reading just for happy posts then they are not your true "friend" :-)

You have every right to be stressed about all that is going on and you have every right to vent about it!

I do hope that things get better real soon though.

Jess · 1 year ago

We are waiting for some better days here too! :) Seems to be going around.

Mary · 1 year ago

Saying a prayer for your family.
God IS good. Keep believing :)

Liz · 1 year ago

You and your family are in my prayers. Times truly are tough right now - it seems to be a hard year for so many. I am so sorry that things are tough for you as well. You are such a wonderful mommy (you multi-task like no one i have ever met) and an amazing woman - you will come through this. Just the fact that you can still see all the positives, despite the negatives, speaks volumes about your strength.

Pam · 1 year ago

Brittany,
I've read all the comments to here and I definitely echo all of the sentiments before me.

We've been in the same spot where you guys are in years past. And with a brand new baby. We went through all of my husband's retirement money and wracked up quite a sizeable amount of debt. It was very frightening and a dark place to be. It has taken a long time to get to the point were we are today but it still is not and has not been easy. But we are still together as a family and are all fed and warm under one roof.

You've seen tough times before and unfortunately I'm sure you will again. It's always darkest before the dawn. But I feel a new dawn is not too much farther away for you guys!

I'll remember you in my prayers,
Pam

Amanda · 1 year ago

Even though I don't have a family yet I love reading your blog because your personality just shines through. I think one of the hardest, but most important, things about blogging is being truthful and sharing the struggles as well as the joys.

After all, nobody's life is perfect, is it?

I remember Christmases where finances made it hard for my parents to do the gift thing, and I think the most important thing is that your kids feel loved and that they know the true reason for the season - which seems is clearly felt in your family.

I love the verse that a previous commenter shared about "looking up". Such a good reminder! You and your family will be in my prayers!
Thanks for sharing your "journal" with all of us!
God Bless!

Amanda · 1 year ago

Just big (((hugs))). =) Thanks for being *real* and sharing so much of yourself.

Best of luck to your hubby on his search! It is never easy and seems to always take longer than we would hope or expect.

Stay strong in all that is good in your life. =) Sounds like you already do pretty great in that aspect.

Brittany · 1 year ago

I am being constantly reminded that if we didn't have turbulence, in life, then we aren't REALLY followers of Jesus Christ. If we were living the perfect life, then why would we need God? Rely on Him, and everything will be ok in the end. I'll be praying for you!!

Kat · 1 year ago

Those are all incredibly stressful and worrisome things, so of course you are going to be upset once in a while. If you didn't, that wouldn't be normal.
You are so inspirational. You really do put your life in God's hands and your are such an example of faith.
I will keep you in my prayers that God sends the perfect job (and furnace and chiropractor) your way and continues to bless you and your family.

Abby · 1 year ago

I am sorry things aren't going well. You are always so positive I wouldn't know things were bad. I am keeping you in my prayers.

Jenna · 1 year ago

I still cant rememebr how I ofund your blog months ago but I stumbled across it some how. Often when I am stressed out, I look at your blog, and your words and pictures seem to lift me up. I amazed at the wife and mother you are. 6 babies and everyone is so healthy and so happy. I try to often to model your attitude. You are full of grace. Thanks for letting me into your family, you truely inspire me.
We will pray for answers and guidance

MamaBear · 1 year ago

I don't know how you do it Brittany. You get right to the heart of it with refreshing honesty. I'm too scared to blog about the hard stuff most of the time. I don't want people to feel sorry for me or have to admit that things really are as bleak (financially) as they are. I suppose that's the trouble with having in-real-life friends and family reading my blog.

You see the hope that is our Savior, the joy that is your family, and the peace that is your faith. I love that about you.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

I have some ideas.... you could get a job. I would love to stay home with my children but work so that I can provide for them. I also have twins who I would love to dress alike. I do not because I cannot afford it. You will only need 1/2 the clothes if you do not buy matching clothes all of the time.

Allison · 1 year ago

I like to tell people during rough times something I saw on a card once (I know, cheesy, but it is SO true)..."To get to the rainbow, you have to get through the rainstorm first!" God is Good and I know he has a plan for your family! Trust that!

Courtney · 1 year ago

No one expects you to be perfect all the time or even some of the time. I dont know if that helps but sometimes when i am down those are the words i need to hear the most. As long as you are giving you best and you are with your happy loving healthy family all will be well. God shows us lessons in strange ways sometimes and we usualy dont understand until it is all said and done. I will be praying for you and your family!

Michelle · 1 year ago

Brittany, I love your honesty. I am amazed at all you do! Goodness, mine are doing good if I get them bathed each day and you have 6!?! I will sincerely keep your husbands job in my prayers. There is no greater job on earth than to be the one to care for our children! You do an incredable job of it! Much love, Michelle

Elaine A. · 1 year ago

Well I am pretty sure the second list is longer than the first! ; )

Prayers for you that things will get even better! (especially on the job thing...)

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Hugs! Times seem tough for everyone right now, huh? I just wanted you to know that growing up my single Mom raised us on very little. The good news--we had no idea how poor we were until we were adults. Food on the table. A warm bed to sleep in. And hugs from Mom. I couldn't even tell you if we got xmas presents from her those years or not (big families help make up the difference with that!).

I suppose you could get a job (Anynomous). I mean there's 1000s of jobs out there right now that would pay you enough to put 6 kids in daycare, right? (Because if there were, wouldn't your husband have one?) Oh, and I guess he could stay home and breastfeed the twins while you worked, right? (Breastfeeding is FREE, formula costs $$!!...hello!)

I'm sure there are things we could all do to cut expenses. But life seems stressful enough right now. If a pair of matching tights makes you smile--and you're not homeless because of it--so be it!

I hope you can take advantage of all the resources there are out there for those that are struggling/unemployed. I know it takes a bit of pride swallowing, but just remember it's only temporary! =)

Following Him · 1 year ago

I know this is tough...and praying that you guys get through these rough times. Hang in there and try to stay positive!
~Elyse~

Lauralynn3 · 1 year ago

I hope things get better for you. We have all kinds of broken stuff at our house!ha Our water heater is leaking but as long as it works we just pray it doesn't quit. But it is encouraging to see you list all of the positives. Sometimes it is hard for me to not think of the negatives and your post was very encouraging! Thanks!

Kara · 1 year ago

Ironically my last post on my blog is about 'hard times' in our life. But it's even hard to completely concentrate on those because on the other hand we are so blessed. But as with anything REAL, the good comes with the bad. I'm an all-in-one package.
Thanks for sharing.

www.spunkyred.blogspot.com

Merry Christmas!

Kara

Kristan · 1 year ago

we must be on the same wavelength! I had had about 3 emotional meltdowns this week! Since I live near you, what can your hubby do, and I'll keep my eyes peeled for something!! I will pray for peace for you and just God's will to be done! Sometimes I have to remember that it's God's will not my own(I'm not saying you don't know that) Life really sucks right now...and for us too!!

Mama · 1 year ago

Brittany, it makes me feel better to hear you talk about the not-so-wonderful things too. That is life -- there is both joy and pain. And I honestly can't relate to a life that is all butterflies and rainbows. We don't have the same problems, but we ALL have problems, and it's kind of nice to hear a Me, Too every once in a while.

I love your blog and your view of the world, but I would quite honestly welcome more views of the downer side of things. It helps place things in perspective.

Irene Joy · 1 year ago

I'm so so sorry. We are so there too. You just have to take a breath and KNOW it WILL be okay. It will be okay. You bring me so much joy and encouragement. Thank you.

Michelle Jamie · 1 year ago

I short while ago I put you and yours on my daily prayer list...often through the day I pray for you. I wish I was there to do something to minister to you in a more practical way. We don't have much but we would give as much as we could!

Emily · 1 year ago

I rarely comment, but people like anonymous make me have to do it! :)

Anonymous- how do you know that Brittany hasn't looked for a job? As a working mother right now with one child- it's hard! It's hard to swing childcare- it was hard to continue breastfeeding- which lead to formula- which was expensive. Not that it can't be done- but Brittany has 6 kids... Our country is in a recession. Lots of people are struggling financially. Unemployment is at all time high...

If you don't have nice and supportive things to say- don't say anything. No one is forcing you to read this blog- if you don't agree with what is being written- simply don't read it.

How do you know that Brittany bought ANY of these clothes for her daughters? I hardly bought a thing for my son over the first year- because we had been given so many gifts. Just because her daughters have matching outfits doesn't mean she bought them!

If you are just coming to this blog to judge and spew negativity- go elsewhere.

t h a i t r a i t · 1 year ago

Will pray for you Brittany!

xo.

susanc · 1 year ago

Honestly....get a job???? what does that anonymous person think you do all day??? Exactly how old are your babies and then the younger children...the cost of childcare would completely wipe out any income. Honestly!!!!

chin up, we are all here to listen to teh good, the bad and the ugly...one thing is for sure in life and that is that things are dynamic...they never stay the same so hold tight to each other and you will get there in the end.

I REALLY liked how you balanced out your bad stuff by listing the good....

:):) smile

THE CHRISTENSEN CHRONICLE · 1 year ago

Your post really touched me and I wish I could find the right words to help you feel at ease. I just want you to know I am thinking and praying for you! Our God is an AWESOME God!

Stacey · 1 year ago

I am with Emily, anonymous get a life. You couldn't have kids. I checked into day care for THREE and it was more than 400.00 a week! I said a week! That is more than I make in a week. I am thankful that my best friend keeps my trio and I am greatful daily for all the blessings that have been given to us. And...I did not buy one thing for my kids until this summer going in to winter other than their Christmas clothes last year. So if you don't like it, take a hike!

Brittany you keep on keeping on! You are a huge inspiration to the most of us and we love you for the raw side which to most of us is called life. You rock and don't let anyone tell you different. You keep walking in the path of the Lord and you and your family will be fine.

Love and Prayers

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Brit,

Isaiah 43:2 says "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you."

Allow yourself to be washed by this water, sister! I love ya - hang in there!
Leslie

Holly · 1 year ago

Hang in there! You have so many people praying for your family and just try to keep your head up. You're in my thoughts.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

To anonymous:
raising 6 children is a 24 hour job. she is working and is an incredible mom and wife! as she mentioned in her posts before when she buys clothes she does so frugally and those matching outfits could be gifts anyways.
****************************
Brittany and family,
I am praying you will see more of the Lord's provisions soon and that this will be a memorable Christmas for you and your family.

sarah · 1 year ago

Thanks for being real, so often we present a fairy tale, and that's just not LIFE! Hard times are just that, hard. I will be praying for you, God has something for you out of all of this!

Francesca · 1 year ago

Dear Brittany,

it's normal to get down and at the moment you really are taking on the world. Not only are you raising a whole family, but it's a super dooper large one. You are also breastfeeding, DOUBLE and on top of that you have all the sort of normal issues that go on with being a mum and being a wife and generally being a human being.
BUT, what's great is that you kow that while there are down days and negatives you see all the good days and the positives. Keep doing that. Its the best way. For every negatve though say a prayerand think of two positives.
As for anonymous and getting a job, that is the most silly thing i have heard. if you worked chances are everything you earn would go into childcare and your kids would suffer a lot by missing u etc etc
what you are doing is, in my personal opinion tHE BEST and you WILL be rewarded. Youwill. What goes around comes around. Sometimes good people get rewarded later butthey eventually do get rewarded and you will.
I'm ill in bed with flu and have been for last few weeks. waiting for my reward. ;-) milk has dwindled and have a very unhappy baby but am sure all will be ok
stay happy. i am rooting for you and KNOW hubby will find a job
xxxx

3 Girls and a Daddy · 1 year ago

I have been there and 2 scriptures that encouraged me were:
"The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; your love O Lord endures forever". Psalm 183:8a and "When my spirit grows faint within me, it is You who knows my way" Psalm 142:3. It was always encouraging to me to know that eventhough I had no clue what God was doing that He did and I would be okay :)

steffenboysmom · 1 year ago

I had four boys also and then got pregnant with twins. ( mine turned out to be boys though) I was also 26 when I had them. So I am extremely jealous!!! I told God that he could have at least made one of the twins a girl!!!

Glad to meet you!

Tara

the*4*of*us · 1 year ago

when it rains, it pours...praying things work out quickly! Just keep your eyes on Him!

Kiki@Seagulls in the Parking L · 1 year ago

Thanks for sharing your reality. And for the things you are blessed with. God knows the way, keep following him. Also, keep getting things off your chest, that helps too!

Mandey · 1 year ago

First, I want to thank you for being real.... I know a lot of Christians who would only post the bright side of things and not show that they were human and had bad days. My parents have been going through similar struggles and when they were in the midst of it, we stood on this verse from Philippians 4:13 (in the Jerusalem Bible, my favorite translation of this verse) "My God will fulfill all your needs, in Christ Jesus, as lavishly as only God can." It helped us to get through and keep our minds on Christ and His provision. I'll be keeping you and your family in my prayers! Mandey

Angie · 1 year ago

Thanks for being so honest. I like a christian that is bold enough to be real!! Im sorry you are going through such a rough time I hope that things get better!! I'll keep you in my prayers!

Ang

the brock clan · 1 year ago

Girl, I totally feel you. It is frustrating being without a job and gets real old after a while. We have been there. God always provides though.

Robin · 1 year ago

Thanks for being honest so that we can pray for you and your family. God is good all of the time, He will provide! And praise Him for sending those 2 sweet little "stress relievers"!

Robin

Fire Hunt · 1 year ago

I'll be praying for you!!

Jessica mommy to Alex/ RTS · 1 year ago

Im sorry things are not easy right now. Thinking of you!
Thank God for healthy kids!!!

Ali · 1 year ago

Saying a prayer for my favorite mom of six precious little ones! Much love from Dublin!

chris · 1 year ago

It sounds like you have a wonderful family! I'm thinking and praying for a new job soon.

Tonya · 1 year ago

As bad as the negatives are you have more positives listed! Hope hubby finds a job soon.

Ashlie · 1 year ago

Praying that the stressful things get better for you soon!

A Look Into Our Lives · 1 year ago

I'm so sorry to hear about your struggles. I know exactly what you mean, you don't want to complain, but seriously, these things stink!
My husband has no job and is currently looking, too. We've never been in this situation before. Sure, we've been tight on money whenever he was hospitalized, but he always had a job to go back to. So, I understand your pain in this one.
All we can do is keep leaning on God because He is our ultimate Provider! AND, to keep reminding ourselves of the blessings we have! Just like you did.
You are doing an AWESOME job and please know I will be praying for you and your precious family and that your husband finds a job soon!
I hope you feel better real soon too!
Blessings,
Hilary

The Zoo Keeper · 1 year ago

we were in your some spot last christmas (no job!) It will pass and it will bring you closer as a family!!Hang in there!

jan · 1 year ago

It's so true that when you remove all the issues that weigh us down, and cause us grief, the only thing that is left to do, is to look to GOD. You reach a point that you just have to turn it all over to HIM, because you cannot do anything about the circumstance, and you are completely helpless, without HIM....now look to HIM.

Lorie · 1 year ago

It's good to share struggles, so people (even those of us who don't know you personally) can pray for you and your family. It's stressful when things hit you like a ton of bricks but especially so at holiday times.
Continue to focus on HIM!

Mistress Meeyee · 1 year ago

I am sorry that you have fallen on hard times.I know how that is.It happens to most of us once in a while.You have a lovely family.
What about space heaters?? Do you have any??I could send you one if you need.Thats all I use and one space heater heats up a very large room.Keep your chin up,it will get better.Please just let me know if I can help.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Keep your chin up, keep praying to your God, and keep loving on those gorgeous kids and your hubby!

Pam · 1 year ago

OK. Just so you do not feel like it's just you...

Woke up this mornng to no heat downstairs. My husband has been fooling with it off and on most of the day and finally got it restarted. Went to my Mother's for dinner and came back to no heat again.

I thought of you immediately and have been hoping yours got fixed.

Yea for the heating guys!

Liz @ My Full Cup · 1 year ago

Thanks for being real and sharing your heart! We are so there with you right now. My Hubby lost his job, both cars died, our 2 computers crashed...But God is still good! And we still have so much to be thankful for.

I am so sorry for the hard times you are walking through. I am praying for you!

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Did i miss something? Why can't you get a job? Your husband is at home to keep the kids if he's not working. Breast pumps aren't expensive, or you can rent one. Apparently it's not too tight yet if you don't feel compelled to go get a job.

Anonymous · 1 year ago

Brittny I am new on your blog but my grandma had a spanish saying that translated pretty close to:
WORDS carry the SAME weight as the WORTH & VALUE as the person who speaks them!!!!
What worth can an ANONYMOUS commenter possibly have? other than mere ignornace & selfish jelousy
Marie

Pam · 1 year ago

And MY Grandmother had a saying once as well--Amen, Brother Ben. This, of course, is meant in agreeance with everyone who commented on the 2 unnecessary, ignorant, rude and dispectful comments left by "anonymous".

As if everyone in our country today is not feeling the pressures of our economy! And as if this is not a Christian, being thankful and 'wishing the best for others' season. Why must someone be so nasty and ill willed?!

just jamie · 1 year ago

Just wanted you to know, I'm here, and I HEAR you.

Lady T · 12 months ago

Good evening! I came across your blog, thru a friend's blog who has a link to thaitraits blog. Anyway, it completely touched my heart and wanted to thank you for being real. Life isn't always a bed of roses everyone trys to portray. But, when I have found myself in similiar circumstances I like to call on one of my favorite verses and hope it helps give you comfort, peace and hope to know that the Lord is working for your family. It's just tough getting through it when it feels like everything around you is coming down. Anway, the verse is:
"For I know the plans I have for you.Plans to prosper you, NOT to harm you. Plans to give you hope and a future." JEREMIAH 29:11

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you and your family have a very Merry Christmas!

God Bless you!

The 6-S Ranch · 12 months ago

Life can be hard, but so GOOD! :) Take care! I'm wishing you the best!