Anticipation In The Air ...

Something occurred to me this morning as I stood at the bus stop with my daughter. It was the first time this season that we both had on long pants and a jacket. I had my mug of coffee in my hand, and I felt that familiar "giddiness" that I always get when the leaves change and the weather begins to cool. It's a feeling of anticipation for the change in season, for the fall holidays that tend to bring families together. For the good things to come.

This is how I feel about our group: a sense of contentment and anticipation, combined with peace and happiness. It's like a line from one of my favorite songs by the Eagles, "I've got a peaceful, easy feeling." So as the weather changes, so will we. And as the leaves transform colors and float down off the trees, our group will grow roots and flourish. Thanks to everyone for being there.

Standing at the Crossroads

Jeremiah 6:16

This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. “

This verse really hit me today when I thought about the stories we heard last night from Kate and Michelle. You both stood at a crossroads in your lives and and listened consciously or unconsciously for which path to take. God really gives us the wisdom we need and how much better off we are for it!! I feel so very privileged to be able watch the miracles that are taking place in your group right before our eyes.

Cindy

Are any miracles ordinary?

Dan mentioned to the group last night that we need to remember that miracles aren't something that happened only in the past. I think most of us don't really give credit to the miracles happening around us every day. The little "coincidences" of which we have all become accutely aware are certainly little daily miracles. Were they happening before? Probably. Were we just oblivious to them? Probably.

Today, I thank God for the miracle of each of you in my life. Although our meeting may seem ordinary, I think our relationship is extraordinary!

9/29/08 Meeting Recap

Song: (Terry Mohr) Breath of Heaven - Amy Grant
Prayer: (Deana Keen) God's Rose
Scripture: (Diana Arnold) Matthew 6:25-?
Snack: (Jackie Bailey) yum!

The theme of the evening seemed to be Motherhood, especially in the context of the Catholic Church.

The Crosswalk (e-mailed by Diana Arnold)

Awesome!! We complain about the cross we bear but don't realize it is preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see but we cannot.

Whatever your cross,
whatever your pain,
there will always be sunshine, after the rain....
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall;
But God's always ready, to answer your call....
He knows every heartache, sees every tear,
a word from His lips, can calm every fear...
Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night,
But suddenly vanish, by dawn's early light...
The Savior is waiting, somewhere above,
to give you His grace, and send you His love.

May God fill your day with blessings!!

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle!

Chipmunk Moments In The Morning

Hey, all. I had a moment this morning that I thought I'd share. I was sitting at my laptop, fulfilling my addiction to the morning news, when outside my window an adorable, as-cute-as-Alvin chipmunk sat atop our brick patio in the back. He climbed higher on the corner wall and sat about three feet away from the glass. I called my daughter in, then my son, and we all quietly sat mesmerized by this little creature and all his twitches and jerks. It was one of those moments, communing with nature, that I felt a spiritual "high." Three weeks ago? I would have thought, "Hmmm, there's a chipmunk. Whatever."

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling more calm moments in my life lately, and I am feeling much more positive and relaxed. I know part of it is the "after glow" of the big retreat weekend, but I'm hoping I can continue to enjoy this newfound contentment and maintain it for awhile.

Hail to the chipmunk and all those other little cute critters that help remind us what's important! Have you guys had any such moments lately?

With love, Michelle

Coincidence? I Think Not!

Hey, ladies, just wanted to say good morning. Quick question: Does anyone else have trouble going to sleep after our meetings? Whether it's because my mind is spinning, mulling over different things said, or whether it's because my adrenaline is flowing from the wonderful companionship, I can never wind down. Not to mention the fact that I can't stop pondering "coincidences," and everything that goes with it.

Feel free to comment or respond in any way you feel. I hope everyone has a fabulous week. I can't wait to see you again!

9/22/08 Meeting Recap

Song: (Jill Ehnes) Shout to the Lord - Darlene Zschech
Prayer: (Veronica Dolan) Serenity Prayer
Scripture: (Stephanie Meier) Luke 11:9-10
Snack: (Tammy Moskal) - "The snack spread that set the bar really high!"

The theme that seemed to pop out of this meeting was forgiveness.
Stephanie suggested reading the book, The Shack, by William P. Young.

http://www.theshackbook.com

Time For Sharing

Hey, all. I just signed up for this blogsite, so I thought I'd write a quick note. Hope all of you join in when you can. Tonight is our second official meeting, and I'm so excited to see everyone! I think this evening will be a wonderful experience, thanks in part to Heidi and Dan. Way to be the guinea pigs!

Yesterday I went to 9:30 a.m. mass, and saw so many of you! What a great feeling to make those connections from across the room. It's also pretty cool to start meeting all your family members! Enjoy the beautiful day out there, and I'll see you soon.