To All of the "Older" Women in My Life:

I was at my friend, Jessie's, wedding shower on Saturday. Her friend, Virginia, spoke for a few minutes about Titus 2:3-5 and encouraged all of the women there to look after each other and to encourage Jessie to be a good wife and to grow in the Lord. If you don't know what Titus 2:3-5 (NIV) says, here you go:

... Teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to too much wine, but to teach what is good.

Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children,

to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the Word of God.

I LOVE these verses. I am not sure if I never noticed them before, or if they just hit me. But, since I've been going to small groups and getting closer to Shawn's family - I have a much better appreciation for this portion of the Bible.

I am also so appreciative to all the women who take the time to read my e-mails, listen to me, and encourage me on a daily basis. These past few months have been very stressful and full of many tears - but, for the most part, I've had someone there to guide me (whether my age, older, or younger) and help to "pick up the pieces."

I am so excited to be marrying into Shawn's family - Tara, Tiffany, and Kimberly are such good examples of wives and mothers. And, I know I will (and already have) learn a lot from them. I love talking to them and spending time with them. This is evidenced by all the times Shawn and I invite ourselves over (sorry about that, ladies). Miss Denise, too, has been such a great example of who a mom should be and how one should raise their children in the love of God.

Shawn decided that we should join Family Small Groups this summer. At first, I wasn't too happy - I was intimidated and afraid I wouldn't fit in or be able to relate to the group. It isn't that way at all, though - and now I go even when he can't (which is pretty much every month). In the process, I have grown closer to Mel & Wendy and, of course, the other women. They have such huge hearts for God and I can see it in the way that they live.

Of course, I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for my mom. I see the way she loves my dad, my brother, and myself. She works hard and serves others in so many ways. I want to be just like her "when I grow up."

Also this past weekend, I went on Open Bible's Women's Retreat. As with Small Groups, I was intimidated and not too excited about going at the beginning. Now, though, I'm so glad that I did - I had a great time listening to everyone's stories (and some struggles). Even though it may not always seem like it, I am very greatful for Open Bible. The women there (guides, teachers, friends' parents, Miss Sherry, Miss Patti, Miss Jeanine, Miss Dawn, Julie, etc.) are all so helpful and encouraging - ready with kind words or to tell me to straighten out.

I hope that I can guide the girls younger than me and teach them. I hope that I will be a good role model. Maybe, one day, someone will learn something from me.

So, to all of you women, thank you. Your help and guidance is invaluable. You will never know how much you have helped me grow in my walk with God and what great role models you are. Thank you for taking the time to listen. Love you!