If you are a faithful reader to the blog then you are used to me sharing how YOU encourage me. Today is another one of those days. 

Earlier this month I had the opportunity to speak at the New York State Reading Association's Delegates Assembly. It was a lot of fun. I reconnected with old friends, made new ones, and shared about writing and books. Their theme this year was "Sisters". Everyone at the assembly brought a "sister" book to share. These books ranged from early readers to adult fiction and non-fiction. I wrote down a few titles as did my daughter who joined me for the evening. 

After my presentation and the evening's meeting I had time to visit with those in attendance and even sold a book. The sale was a blessing but it was hearing the ladies stories of loss , finding hope, and the healing they experienced that truly brought me joy and encouragement. 

Since I started to speak and share with others over six years ago, it still amazes me to see how sharing from my heart with honesty (sometimes too much, lol) how it frees those listening to share their own heart aches and pains. They understand they aren't alone and there is hope and most importantly it is possible to survive loss and tragedy.

One woman bought a copy of Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey to read and we enjoyed a nice conversation. Within the week I heard from her. She thanked me for writing the book and how it encouraged her. Then what she said next encouraged me, she asked, "Can I order 5 more copies please? Others need to read this." Wow...a blessing I'm still counting almost three weeks later. This is a compliment and answer to prayer.

As I wrote Where's Heidi? One Sister's Journey I prayed for God to use the words within it to encourage, uplift, and inspire at least one person. God continues to answer this prayer four years later. I'm thankful and this is a blessing I count. As I communicated with this woman via the Internet she introduced me to PayPal and because of our connection, I'm now able to take orders for books and accept payments through PayPal. 

We were doubly blessed...I love it when it's a win-win, don't you?
We both were encouraged and learned something new...

It is typical for bloggers, myself included, to post a "thankfulness" post on Thursday because of the /th/ similarities. As I look back at the beautiful weekend I had, I decided to do it today. In the midst of life's happenings there are ALWAYS things to be thankful for. Sometimes we need to look a little closer and with more intent, but they are always there. 

I'll share a few to get you started.

• I made it to the gym twice this weekend and was able to work out for more than half an hour each time
• I enjoyed lunch with a friend
• I had the opportunity to spend time with some of my favorite 2nd grade peeps - they fill my  heart with such joy and inspiration
• I crossed many things off the never ending list
• I completed one sewing project and have fabric cut for the next
• We enjoyed homemade cinnamon rolls (Yummy!)
• The inspiration from lunch and time spent with the kiddos resulted in the notes and planning for another book 
• I'm thankful for the goal setting we are doing at school as I set a lofty goal and look forward to the kiddos keeping me on target to accomplish my goal
• I'm thankful for each of you...have a great week!

This afternoon we had the opportunity to "shower" a beautiful young woman with love and gifts, along with her friends and family. She and her husband are expecting their first child. A baby and your first child is a priceless and precious gift from God and also the most difficult and rewarding job a parent accepts. Yet, this humbling and miraculous joy isn't what I'd like to focus on this afternoon.

Instead, I want to share something different. In addition to her showering of gifts, love, and prayers...there were reunions filling the room.

I'm thankful to be a part of this couples life and even more blessed for the friendships created through knowing both the bride and the groom. Mags joined me and we both were able to reconnect with dear and special friends. Although the time was short, it was special and means a lot to each of us. We enjoyed time around the table with some sweet ladies we haven't seen in a few months. It was a time of laughter and joy. 

Before leaving, both Mags and I spent time visiting with friends that moved away a few years ago. I enjoy friendships when you reunite, there is no awkwardness but instead, excitement to catch up. As it came time to leave, my heart saddened a little, I realized how much I miss my friend. I'm thinking a road trip is needed in the near future to catch up when she isn't the mother of the mother-to-be, for a proper time of catching up.