01/31/2026
A week or so before the ice storm, I was working on drawing some new shirt designs, writing down ideas. We were at the shop brainstorming and Haley says, “Oh I love this, I want one with count it all joy”. So I got it drawn out, printed her a shirt and never really thought much else about it. Until a couple days later. I decided to look up the scripture that goes along with “count it all joy.”
Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. James 1:2-4
I read it and thought to myself, “Wow…find joy in the trials. That’s a tough one. I’m not sure I can even wear that shirt and truly mean it.” It weighed on my mind. Then several days later, the ice storm hits. And it’s tough. We are definitely facing trials. Our area was hit hard. The damage is so widespread. It’s been hard. We still have no power. We went 5 days without water and some are still without. But a day or so ago it dawned on me…count it all joy! The trials…they shape us into who God has called us to be. So count it all joy! I’m learning to find the joy in the little things like running water, natural gas running our fireplace, time to slow down and just be with my family. “Little” things we take for granted that are actually the big things.
So here’s the designs I drew that day a couple weeks ago not knowing what was coming. If you’d like a shirt or a sweatshirt, the link will be in the comments. We are still without power but we promise to get them shipped out as soon as we possibly can. We’re thankful for all the support and all the prayers during this time. Our families are safe and warm but we know there are people out there who are not. We’re praying for those who don’t have heat and who are cold. Bless them, Lord. We are praying for everyone affected, our fellow small business owners, for all of our linemen, city and county workers, and all those doing all they can to restore power, water, and gas. Through it all, God is faithful and so, so good. Count it all joy!