My Cup Is Full

I had an amazing time away at the Whole Heart Conference.  What a treat to travel with my sweet friend, Lisa.  I enjoyed our long chats, stopping for some lunch and an uninterrupted adult conversation.  :)   

Upon arriving, I saw a very familiar face entering the church.  One of my best buddies, Amanda, was stepping in for a weekend of encouragement as well.  I thought she may be going, but wasn't sure.  She was so surprised to see me.  She had a friend, Karin, with her that Lisa and I were able to get to know.  Sweet fellowship!

We listened to Sarah Clarkson, Sally Clarkson, Zan Tyler, Sandra Maddox and Racheal Carman. Each of them had a life giving lesson for each of us.  They mentioned: 

faith

ideals

joy

smiling

grace

fear

embracing

loving

surrendering

holiness

beauty

serving

reading

shaping

trust

offering

forgiveness

compassion

subdue

heart

bitterness

ministry

mundane

holy

encourage

significance

perseverance

guilt

perfection

stories

expectations

refinement

guardians

nurturing

As you can see, I have a lot to process and be sharpened by.  The whole conference and company I was in, blessed my socks off.  I am extremely thankful for the Clarkson family's passion for encouraging and uplifting mothers and family.  I am on a "mommy high" right now.  I have been surrounded by 200 other moms this weekend and fed encouragement, life giving messages, scripture, prayer, humor, lots of chats, coffee and good food.  

I am grateful for my family that continued on here at home and seemingly didn't miss me.  No, just kidding.  I was getting Brayden out of the tub tonight and told him that I missed him while I was away.  He said, "I luz you come home."  That is Brayden for I love you and glad you are home.  This is where I belong.  Home is where my heart is.   

Karin, Amanda, Sally Clarkson, myself, and Lisa

This is Lisa.  She has a family that she knows in Charlotte.  That sweet and accomodating family allowed Lisa and I to stay with them.  We had a great time together; eating, talking, laughing, eating some more, and talking some more.  I am so delighted to have this homeschooling mommy friend to confide in, relate to, be weak and strong with.  What an amazing friend.

Here I am with Amanda, always such a treat.

Amanda and Karin