So thankful

I need to take a few moments to share just how thankful Rich & I are for our WONDERFUL small group. For a solid 2 years after college, we both prayed hard for community. I was especially desperate to find a group of women similar to the incredible friends I had left in Iowa City. And for the longest time, we just waited. With no answer. Growing quite frustrated, and pretty lonely.

When we moved to Woodstock, we really felt like that was where the Lord wanted us. And we trusted that He would provide us with solid friendships. Oh, how He has provided! Our small group is filled with some of the most genuine, loving and Christ-like people I've ever met. We are constantly encouraged and challenged by the men & women we have the privilege of meeting with each week. We are so thankful for them!

The week before Rich left for Graduate school, we had group as usual. During group, our leaders shared that the men had set up a schedule to come mow the lawn for us while Rich is gone. At first I felt silly and prideful. I can mow the lawn. I've done it for years. Sure, I'm pregnant, but I can do this. No need to bother the guys.

Thankfully those thoughts were quickly replaced with an overwhelming sense of comfort. Up until that point, I had been putting on my brave face, pretending like having Rich gone for the summer wouldn't totally suck. Hearing the guys share with Rich their promise to look after and take care of anything I needed for the summer was so incredible. Of course, I cried. Big shock. I was just so overwhelmed by their generosity.

Yesterday, Jason & Kathy (our small group leaders) came over to take care of the yard. They even brought us dinner too! I had such a great time with them & their 3 sweet little ones. It was a really fun night together, and I was so thankful for all of Jason's hard work!