A Weekend Away

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone! I love this day. Do you know the history behind this day? It's pretty neat and I love a day devoted to loving those around me. Our family has dubbed this day as a special family day. Jamie especially loves spoiling his girls on Valentine's Day and is excited to teach Riley how to join in!

This Valentine's is going to be a little different. A few weeks ago I was asked to pray about being the speaker at a young women's retreat, sponsored by the Religious Life Department here at our local university. When I found out it was on Valentine's Day I figured Jamie wouldn't want me to except. As I pondered this, I started to actually feel relieved. You see, speaking to young women is a passion of mine, but I had this sneaky feeling that God was going to use this as a way to teach me and grow me. That freaks me out, to be frank, so I was starting to be thankful that my husband wouldn't dare let me ruin our family day to spend the weekend at some campground ministering to young college women. I was even starting to imagine how lovingly he'd look at me when I joyfully submitted to his will!

Well... little did I know. My friend, who happens to be the retreat coordinator, called a couple weeks ago to ask if I'd made my decision. I told her I needed to talk to Jamie and I'd call her right back. Expecting Jamie to say no, I told him more about the retreat and asked his opinion. My mouth was already forming the words, "It's okay honey, I didn't really want to do it anyways. I would never want to miss out on our family day. Maybe next time," - when what do my ears hear??? "Ruthie, I think you should do this, in fact, I think you must do this. Also, I want you to go for the whole weekend, and I want you to leave Riley home. I'll be fine with both kids and you can have the whole weekend to yourself." "Uh, okay... um, that's great. Thanks honey..." :)

So, I'm facing my fears and I'm doing it. Pray for me. I'm giving two messages today and I feel so burdened that the Lord uses me to impact these young girls.

I'm feeling so loved by my husband today and praying I can impart some love to these special girls this weekend. I'll be back to post on Monday.

Happy Lovin' Day!

Ruthie :)