Hanging out with girlfriends is therapy for me (without the whole “make an appointment” thing). If I’m in really bad shape, a weekend with the girlfriends is better than a carton of Smoky Mountain Fudge ice cream (and if you knew my ice cream addiction, you’d really understand this reference).
As most of you know I’m writing a book about girlfriends. You’d think since I’m writing about girlfriends, I’m always hanging with girlfriends and doing girlfriend stuff, but, nope, not so much. I struggle to find girlfriend time between planning a wedding, taking care of the new puppy, raising a teenager, working a job (in addition to the one I have at home), loving my husband, and writing a book. Oh, then there’s my church stuff – co-leading Bible study, planning the fall retreat and the trip to the Smoky Mountains (and it’s just a coincidence that I happen to like the fudge ice cream…) Whew. I’m making myself tired.
There’s a lot going on in my world, but the Lord is gracious and allows me to the strength to handle all of it – but I don’t do it all at the same time. I’ve given up on housecleaning — I never loved housework, okay, I confess, I HATE housework. I don’t want to clean anything, ever. I only do it because I love a clean house; I just wish someone else would clean it for me. I’ve also given up striving for Mom of the Year….and yes, I know that this was probably the year I would at least get nominated. I’ve given up hobbies like reading for fun and sleeping – I really miss the reading, but I’ve always thought sleeping is a waste of time.
Giving up some things helps me get through the day – and the knowledge that in five weeks the wedding will be over and the puppy will be gone. (A puppy is a lot like a toddler, but without the benefit of diapers – use your imagination). Of course, in five weeks Charity will be married and moved out – so life will calm down enormously and I’ll be really sad that she’s gone, but happy that she’s happy (how’s that for playing both sides of the fence?)
I love being busy – and I really love writing this book. I love the time I spend in prayer getting ready to write. I love what the Lord is teaching me through these busy days –wedding, puppy training, and writing. I love that He is a gracious and forgiving God. I’m awestruck that He continues to bless me even when I make a mess of everything. I’m learning that He’s in control of this thing I call ‘My Life.’ I’m learning that I have to let go and He will take care of it all. I’m learning that I can only serve one God – and I’m choosing (it’s a continuous process) to serve the Lord, my God.
But back to girlfriend time….that’s where we started, right? I miss girlfriend time and I’m looking forward to spending time with girlfriends in the very near future! I know that the Lord is using this time to strengthen me to be a better friend. I just need your prayers – and I could probably use a little more sleep.
I look forward to that girlfriends book you are writing! I have a dear friend that I share hardly anything in common with, except for JESUS and THAT is enough to bond us for life!!
Great and fun post…though it wore me out thinking of all you do!! haha
blessings