2024

December Blessings and the Joy of Togetherness

December 2024 was a whirlwind of activity, the beautiful chaos that made ne pause and reflect on the little things that matter most.

The holiday season always brings its share of busyness, but this year felt extra special. One of my greatest joys was having my child back home from university. Nothing compares to seeing them walk through the door, arms full of luggage, and finally getting to spend time together after few months apart. Every moment felt like a gift long conversations, shared meals, and the comfort of togetherness again.

Another important moment this month was witnessing my other child’s baptism. It’s hard to describe the deep joy of seeing your child make a personal commitment to faith. It was a moment of overwhelming gratitude, a reminder of God’s faithfulness through every season of life.

As I reflect on the year, I can’t help but marvel at how God opened doors for Abel’s admission to UWE. It was a last-minute journey that had so many hurdles. From getting a visa in just two days to receiving his e-visa approval right before travel back home, everything fell into place perfectly - more like God's timing at its finest. we saw God's favour in many forms, how his right arm was saved from injury in a lab accident just before his exam, how God protected him from a storm by not making him book tickets on the the day his exams were done. That was a miracle, and we’re so thankful for God’s protection.

Christmas Day was busy, I decided to cook... Gathering with friends, especially Arshi’s family, made the the day more meaningful. Another family’s kind invitation for dinner on the 25th was a beautiful reminder of how love is shown in simple, thoughtful gestures.

And perhaps the biggest blessing of all this year? Having my husband back in Oman. Financially, it may not have been the most significant move, but emotionally and spiritually, it meant everything to have our family together again. Stability, shared memories, and a strong foundation for the kids a treasure far beyond anything money could buy.

December 2024 filled my heart with gratitude. The challenges haven’t disappeared, and the road ahead may be uncertain, but these moments of joy, protection, and love are my anchor. Here’s to stepping into 2025 with hope, faith, and a deep sense of thanksgiving.

Why Did I Do This? Reflections on Studying Mechanical Engineering

There were countless times during these past months when I sat staring at my online lectures, questions swirling through my mind: Why did I even enroll for this at this age? What am I trying to prove, and to whom?

It wasn’t easy. Far from it. The late nights, the early mornings, and those endless hours trying to figure out solutions, learn concepts I had never encountered before, and keep my focus, it felt relentless. Sitting through the exams was a mental and emotional battle. The challenge wasn’t just academic; it was personal.

This isn’t the first time I’ve pursued a degree amidst major life transitions. I took my Master’s in IT when my youngest was a newborn those were days of cramming for exams in between midnight feedings and nap schedules. Now, I find myself here again, this time juggling a Mechanical Engineering course as another child stepped to university. Life’s timing hasn’t exactly been ideal, but maybe that’s the point. Growth rarely waits for convenience.

I hope it was worth it. I truly do. If nothing else, this journey has reminded me of my own resilience. It’s taught me that learning is a lifelong process, and perseverance often means pushing through the self-doubt and exhaustion to chase something bigger something that perhaps I can’t fully articulate yet.

I didn’t do this to prove anything to anyone else. Maybe I did it to remind myself that it’s never too late. That dreams can evolve. Pursuing knowledge, no matter how hard it gets, is a gift. I just hope this season of effort will eventually bear fruit in whatever form it’s meant to.

For now, I’m taking a breath. I’m choosing to be proud of what I’ve endured, regardless of the outcome. This chapter is not over yet I have 7 for semesters to beat ...it may have tested my limits, but it hasn’t broken me. 

To all the late-night thinkers and tired dreamers, keep going. We’ve got this.

Saved by Grace !!!

Reconnecting with What Matters Most

It’s simple to get swept up in the chaos of everyday life—our minds frequently focused on what lies ahead. While we pray for significant changes, miracles, life-changing breakthroughs or moments, we can easily miss the small blessings that exist all around us. These frequently overlooked treasures might not always evoke wonder, but they gently sustain and uplift us.

For nearly two years, B worked in Iraq, during that time, his absence weighed heavily on me. While he was in a relatively safe environment due to the precautions taken by his workplace, I was constantly filled with worry. I watched other dads drop off their kids at school, share laughs at the grocery store, and enjoy weekends with their families, while we were often shut in our home. It brought tears to my eyes as I realized how much I had overlooked the blessing of having him by my side before. I had never considered it a blessing, but then I understood the gift of simply being together as a family. Those everyday interactions felt ordinary back then, but I saw their true significance. The ongoing concern for his safety opened my eyes to how easily we overlook the simple joys of life.I had taken those everyday moments for granted, failing to appreciate the depth of their meaning until they were no longer there.

Now that my husband is back, I notice how easy it is to slip into old patterns. I catch myself focusing on trivial matters, risking the chance of overlooking the incredible gift of our family being whole again. I worry that I might forget to cherish the small, precious moments—the quick “I love you” exchanged in passing the laughter we share over dinner, or the playful teasing that fills our home. It's vital for me to consciously appreciate these moments and not take them for granted

Even something as simple as leaving the house and returning safely is a blessing that often goes unnoticed. I’d come to appreciate how significant each journey is, especially after feeling the weight of being a solo parent for a few weeks. I remember heading to meet my brother's family and I offered assistance to someone to drop her off - though it was a detour for me, only to realize my brakes were barely working. Thankfully, we were on a small road instead of the highway. At that moment, I understood how God protected us to take that detour. What seemed like a minor choice was a way to keep us safe from potential danger.

And what about our meals together? I’ve learned to value the ability to sit around the table as a family, sharing food and stories. I've had nights when I didn't want to have food as I didn't have a company. Many go without, and I want to remember how fortunate we are to nourish each other and create a sense of home.

These small blessings are not trivial at all; they form the foundation of our lives and well-being. I don’t want to let these moments slip by without fully appreciating them. My focus should be on the love, safety, and connection we share—things that truly matter.

As I move forward, I will consciously take time to recognize the blessings that surround us. I want to embrace each moment with gratitude, understanding that our family’s togetherness is a treasure. Cherishing these everyday gifts is essential, for they remind me of how fortunate we truly are.

With love,
GB

A second chance

 A's second chance - a long story!! A story of God's hand !! A storey of GRACE - unmerited favour. A story that is close to my heart ..and incident that open my eyes to salvation and its meaning! how we take it for granted!

Year long bible reading plan with other PW

As we succumb to the needs and "busyness" of daily life, finding time for personal reflection and spiritual growth is also important. This year, I decided on a journey to commit to a year-long Bible reading plan with a few other PWs. 

Oh, the initial enthusiasm and determination were so great that I delved into the scriptures each day even exploring passages that challenged me to comprehend their full meaning. There were times when I felt profound connection and understanding, where certain scriptures spoke to me very deeply in a specific way offering me nourishment for that day.

However, as the days turned into weeks and months, I noticed that I gave in to personal demands and it started eating my reading schedule. It is tempting to blame work deadlines, family responsibilities, and unexpected challenges for diverting my attention. but that's no excuse for keeping up or neglecting spiritual growth. 

I found myself falling behind in my reading plan and now I'm trying to catch up with the others. Feelings of guilt and frustration come by sometimes as I struggle to catch up. But, I find comfort in the reading and it reminds me of the importance of grace, forgiveness, and perseverance. It's not okay to stumble bit if you do keep moving forward with faith and determination.

One thing that kept me going back and catching up was the supportive community of PWs with whom I am reading. Their accountability serves as a motivation for staying on track with the plan. Connecting with them, reading about their experiences, and support helped me regain momentum and motivation. I understand that my spiritual growth is not a sprint but a marathon, one that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to confront reality. 

I may still be ten days behind but it still brings me closer to God. I wish the "Plans With Friends" feature was available on laptops, I could have read during break and then comment.. I wish they'd bring back this option for the Bible app.

So in short, lean on your faith, and trust that God's grace will carry us through, one day at a time. The path may be challenging, but the rewards are beyond measure.

“He brought me out into a broad place; he rescued me because he delighted in me” (Psalm 18:19).

In His boundless grace, He led me forth,  

Claiming a place where His love holds its worth.  

"I'm rescued, redeemed, and made worthy," I declare,  

For His love's story, beyond compare.  

He delights in me, His care so sure,  

His love is steadfast, one that will endure.  

Overflowing love, without restrain,  

He showers upon me in joy's sweet gain.  

He holds me near, and says, "I'm always here,"  

In His presence, there's nothing to fear.  

He knew me before He laid the foundations,  

In His love, I find my salvation.  

So let us journey further in,  

Where His love knows no end, no sin.  

Together, we'll explore and see,  

The depths of His love, eternally free.

From a mother’s heart!

 A poem to all parents who are trying; from a mother’s heart 

In a world of snapshots and endless clicks,
Where perfection's the goal, and every trick,
To portray the ideal, the flawless scene,
But where's the truth in this pristine sheen?

For it's not about the perfect pose,
Or the grandest house, where comfort grows,
Nor the kids with smiles, impeccably dressed,
But those who cherish moments, not impressed.

Let's ride with the kids who grasp the joy,
In simple pleasures, without a ploy,
To hold the moments close, within their hearts,
Not on display in curated parts.

For true security lies not in the show,
But in the love shared, the bonds that grow,
In imperfect homes, with laughter true,
That's where the heart finds its secure view.

Let them see your path to Christ, brightly lit,
Guiding them towards faith, never to quit.
Let them remember your hugs, a comforting embrace,
In times of turmoil, a safe space.

Your presence, a beacon in their darkest hour,
Guiding them through storms with gentle power.
Stood up for them, with courage strong,
Protecting them from all that's wrong.

In moments of weakness, you were their strength,
Lifting them up, no matter the length.
So let them remember, in every trial and peak,
Your love, your faith, the lessons you speak.

Geeba 

God's Faithfulness

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to become complacent, to take for granted the small blessings that surround us. But sometimes, life has a way of jolting us awake, reminding us of the fragility of our existence and the importance of leaning on something greater than ourselves.

Today, we faced with one such wake-up call. It stemmed from a seemingly innocuous email from school nurse, on Tuesday, informing us that Ben had taken a fall. Initially dismissed as a minor sprain, it wasn't until 4-5 days later that we were redirected to suspect there might be more to his injury than meets the eye.

Despite his insistence that he was fine, on today morning, I reached out to a friend who works as a nurse at a nearby clinic, seeking her advice. Little did I know that this simple act would set off a chain of events that would ultimately lead us to a hospital waiting room. In moments of doubt, I found solace in the words of Psalms 46:1, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." God remains steadfast in His love and protection. And true to His word, God guided us every step of the way. From the unexpected encounter with doctor uncle who urged us to seek further medical attention, to the time spent waiting, God's presence was discernable. And when the doctor finally delivered the news that my son's injury was not a sprain there wasn't much of a shock, it seemed that we were already prepared and thanked God for it not being any severe.

In the midst of it, God's faithfulness is our only anchor! 
However, Ben faced the reality of a four-week cast for the active person that he is and we know that keeping those busy bodies still would be no small feat. Yet, God's strength will carry us. We need to lean on His grace. I am reminded of the importance of trusting in His plan, even when it doesn't align with our own.

There were a lot of jokes shared while waiting..while getting used to the cast, B, Abbie and I signed off his cast to make it look colourful for he is going to be with it for 4 weeks :) 

In times of trial, in moments of fear,

God's faithfulness shines bright and clear.

He guides our steps, He leads the way,

Protecting us from harm each day.

Though we may stumble, though we may fall,

His love surrounds us, standing tall.

In every storm, in every test,

His grace sustains us, we are blessed.

So let us trust in His unfailing hand,

For in His care, we firmly stand.

With grateful hearts, we humbly bow,

For His faithfulness, we praise Him now.

Unexpected Twist... Yet God's Plan Prevailed!

God has His specific way of surprising us when we least expect it. Through tears, prayers, and wavering hope, I found myself grappling with uncertainty for nearly two years. However, amidst the twists and turns, my husband and I were met with a delightful surprise: he landed a job in the same area as mine, just a short six-minute drive away. The emotions that followed were mixed—a blend of excitement, relief, overwhelming happiness, and questions about the practicalities of such a change, especially with our child preparing for university.

Reflecting on the journey leading up to this moment, I can't help but recall the challenges and uncertainties we faced. As a wife, I tirelessly applied for countless jobs in various locations, even willing to uproot our lives to other countries if it meant we could be together. Despite our efforts, doors seemed to remain closed. In those moments, I struggled to see beyond the disappointment and frustration. I found solace in my pillow during those difficult moments, wanting to shield my children from any unnecessary worry or distress. Yet, little did we know that amidst the rejections, God had a plan for us.

When we received the news of my husband's new job, the relief was indescribable. No longer would we endure the agonizing wait of 28 days between our moments together. The mere thought of being just a short drive away filled me with an overwhelming sense of joy. However, this transition also came with its challenges, as my B embarked on a job unlike any he had taken before.

Financially, the change meant adjusting to a lesser income, cutting back on expenses and reevaluating our priorities. It may not always be easy, but we have to find joy in the simple things. Seeing our 12-year-old, little B smile, it brought us immense comfort and reassurance that love and togetherness are truly priceless than anything else.

Looking back on this journey, I'm reminded of the invaluable lessons learned. The resilience, adaptability, and unwavering positivity that guided us through life's twists have strengthened us as individuals and as a couple. As we embrace the present moment, we're filled with gratitude for the opportunities it brings and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead.

As we embark on this new chapter, I'm filled with a sense of excitement for the future and gratitude for the journey that brought us here. Whatever twists life may bring, we're better equipped to handle them together, hand in hand, trusting in God's faithful plan for our lives.

On the Other Side of the Rotation: Embracing Patience and Hope

I know.

I see it too.

Announcements of spouses getting jobs in the same city, being able to attend school events together, celebrating holidays, and enjoying weekends as a family. I've witnessed the joy in their faces, the excitement in their voices, and the unity in their lives.

And I know. You're happy for them. You genuinely celebrate their achievements and their newfound togetherness. But deep down, there's a twinge of sadness, a longing for the same routine, for the shared moments that seem elusive in the world of rotation jobs. Maybe you've had dreams of finding a new home together, decorating it, and building a life side by side.

Perhaps you've scrolled through social media, seeing families attending events, creating memories, and sharing daily life while you navigate the challenges of a schedule that keeps your spouse away for 28 days at a time. Maybe you've smiled through the happiness of others while feeling a pang of loneliness, wishing for the day when your daily life will be more intertwined.

I see you, partner. This is a tough situation. I know how much you yearn for the simplicity of being in the same place at the same time. I know the sacrifices, the adjustments, and the occasional loneliness that comes with a rotation job.

And I want you to know it's okay. It's okay to feel a mix of emotions – happiness for others and a sense of yearning for your own shared moments. It's okay to feel a bit wistful when others talk about their joint experiences. Life is a tapestry of emotions, and your feelings are valid. You're navigating a unique path, and your response to the experiences of others is entirely natural.

True friends understand. They acknowledge your situation and celebrate your joy while recognizing the challenges. Remind them that your feelings don't diminish your happiness for them; they merely reflect the complexity of your own journey.

They get it. And they love you.