What a Day

A few months ago, a precious woman from Antioch contacted me about speaking at their Christmas Ladies' Luncheon this past Sunday. As I began to pray and prepare about what the LORD wanted me to say, several things went through my mind.

"It's too soon. What an honor! It's way too soon. I need to do this for Reese. I'm not ready for this. What a opportunity to meet some wonderful women. I don't want to go there right now. How amazing to share about her. What in the world could I possibly say to these ladies?"

With all these thoughts bouncing around, the LORD gave me wisdom through some friends' words without them even knowing...

"They need a word of hope, just like others have been an encouragement to you."

"Find a purpose. Live with passion."

"We are called to be faithful."

With these words in mind, I started writing. During the afternoon while Colson was playing on his mat, I would type and cry and type and cry some more beside him. I felt the LORD leading me to speak about hope and healing.

The women were so warm and welcoming, and the room looked like a winter wonderland. So beautiful! I was even able to eat lunch and talk with the other ladies at my table. For a moment I would forget I was the speaker. Ha! I wish I had taken more pictures, but I was so nervous I couldn't think about doing much extra. I even thought about hiding in the bathroom until the lunch was over. ; )

Mom & me

My MIL Trish came, too. She told me she would hide behind an artificial tree if I wanted her to, but it didn't come to that. Thank goodness!

I brought this picture of Reese so the women could connect who I was talking about with her sweet face.

a new blog friend Kati

another new blog friend Jordan

I met some wonderful women, some who have lost children. As I listened to their stories, I was again reminded how treasured each of us is t0 the LORD. He counts every tear. No matter what we have been through, He values and cherishes us! I loved hearing their hearts.

The song Healer by Kari Jobe has ministered to me greatly over the past 16 months. It's about what is true, believing in GOD, and how He heals.

One of my favorite things about Sunday was saying Reese's name so much. This made me happy. ; ) Most days I would give anything to be "normal" again, but GOD had different plans for our family. Reese has changed us, and I'm so proud to be her mom.

Jason, Z, and Colson had some fun "male bonding" time, too. Ha! He did a wonderful job watching our wild boys all day. ; )

I will turn their mourning into gladness; I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow.

Jeremiah 31:13