Organizing Thoughts!

I'm working on organizing my, as I call it, growing vine of thoughts. I had a great bible study tonight with Matt on the names of God. We discussed Elohim (elo-HEEM). I was able to talk about some of the thoughts that had been percolating about that, since we do a study in 2 weeks to meditate on it. Then a friend came over who had missed the Ladies retreat and wanted to see my notes. We had a wonderful visit. Talking with her helped me to settle some of the thoughts I had been having about prayer and other sundry things. Now that I've thought about these thoughts, talked with someone about them (it's amazing how even just verbalizing something can make or break it, not to mention the added benefit of someone to respond and point things out you didn't see!) and worked on writing some of my questions and thoughts down I'm pruning the vine to a more manageable size. I think I can now string a few complete, related thoughts together and have them make some kind of sense! Yeah! Unfortunately it is time for bed, so I will have to wait for tom. to see if I can be productive with all this thinking...

Ladies' Night

I had a great night tonight. Took Elizabeth to see the Scarlet Cord performed by Ballet Magnificat. I try to bring culture to my children's lives, but it's difficult where we live. It was truly amazing to see. I was even moved to tears a couple of times. (If you know me that's very unusual.) Elizabeth loved it, she got to sit on the floor right up front and even got to dance with the Ballerinas when they asked the kids to go forward. My sister-in-law, her daughter, and another friend of ours went as well.

We dropped the girls off at our houses for the husbands to put them to bed. Yeah for great husbands! Then the three ladies went out to Applebee's for dessert and conversations. (We had gotten to the ballet early. My niece says to her Mom. "Mom, there's nothing to do. Did you bring me some toys?" Her mom replied, "Just sit and talk with Elizabeth, that's what ladies do."!)

It was a great night. My sister-in-law is amazing. I'm so in awe of the things she can do and her gift of mercy. Everyone likes her. They may not always agree with her, but I've never met anyone who could say anything bad about her, yet she doesn't compromise her beliefs. And she even likes me, prickles and all. Something I'm not used to.

Our friend is also wonderful. The things I learn from her. I admire her passion for studying the Bible and getting to know God, not just knowing about Him. Her fire is so bright. She is such an encouragement and I can talk to her for hours. She know so much and is great about helping me, in a kind and gentle way.

I am so blessed to have these wonderful ladies in my life. Women who I look up to and admire and often find myself hoping some of their good qualities will rub off on me (I'd like to be more tactful especially!). These amazing women are my friends, enjoy spending time with me, and actually learn from me as well. I'm just in awe of the wonderful women God has brought into my life.