Friendship and Fellowship

Note: This is one of those posts that has been setting in the draft folder for months waiting for me to get up the courage to post...

For several years now, I have been resistant to actively seeking out friends. I was filled with excuses from head to toe about why I didn't have time. I cheated myself out of some opportunities to develop deep meaningful relationships. I substituted virtual relationships in many was for face to face contact. I became a recluse slipping in and out of social situations. Many times, I chose not to accept invitations because I thought that I couldn't be away from children or my spouse. Maybe, I wanted to avoid the sting of loss. Friendships are an investment and sometimes that investment may leave you broken. I didn't want to risk loss.

Recently, I began to accept the invitation to take the risk into friendship again. During this time some new friends have moved, one to Chicago and one to Germany, and one to Mexico. Many are at home when I am at work. Somehow despite it all, God in his providence is beginning to grow deep, meaningful relationships in my life again.

I am thankful for those women who were willing to commit to pray over me as a dealt with a minor health issue. My heart was so encouraged when I received a text from my friend in Chicago asking how my follow up appointment went. I, too, find myself thinking of them often and bringing them before Jesus and thanking Him for his provision.These friends are gently speaking the Truth with love into my life in a way that hasn't been done in years.

It all started with acce[ting the invitation. I am so thankful for my wonderful friends.This week take the time to invite someone to coffee or lunch, you may meet a new friend.

Fall Fashion Week...

My friend Lexi posted about Fall Fashion Week in her blog yesterday. It sounded like fun. I messaged her that I would love to participate but that I didn't think I could take pictures of myself. So Lexi took away my only excuse for not participating. This afternoon she came over took pictures of all my outfits for fall fashion week. She would say that she is not a professional photographer but I think she is. Lexi did a great job of helping me to be a natural in front of the camera. She was very very patient with me. We couldn't have asked for better weather. So here we go...

Today's outfit is a lovely green paisley dress. I wore this dress to a wedding last October. In my opinion, it is just perfect for the Fall.

I love the closeup picture because it captures the delicate necklace. Duane gave me this heart shaped necklace for my birthday just weeks after Nathanael was born. It is like a memory stone for that sweet special time in our life.

One thing I loved about getting ready for the photo shoot was exploring all the great clothes hanging in my closet that are perfect for the fall season. Thanks Lexi for the invitation to participate in Fall Fashion Week.

Oufit: Green Paisley Dress-Cato

Ruby Heart Necklace-Gift

Patina Wedge Shoes-White Mountain