I feel like there are a lot of things I could say about the conference but I don't know quite where to start. I felt so much love and community from all the amazing women I met there. I tend to break at conferences from the travel and the lack of sleep; but I felt so lifted up by all the kind words and love I felt.
One of my least favorite things about the internet is that I can't directly love on the people I encounter. And I have discovered that I am at my best when I'm able to love well on others. I sometimes wonder if my ability to encourage in hindered by the miles that separate my and the computer screen that prevents me from reaching out my arms to hug others.
A few of my favorite moments from the conference were:
I got to feel Kate's baby kick. Kate and I spent a lot of time at Panera talking about "the waiting period" and what it looked like in both of our lives. It has been so joyous to see this blessing of a baby for her. It was also neat to see her speak at the conference. I was SO proud of her.
Rebecca is so talented and has a heart of gold, seriously. Not only was she my hilarious roomie, but she taught me so much about business and loving others well.
I seriously don't know how some of you mamas do it with all the little ones running around at your home. I love kids under the age of 5, so it was such a blessing for me to spend some time loving on Nicole's little boy, and giving her a break. Let's just say he wanted to go home with me.
The late night talks with my girl Kara-Kae. She is more than just a gift to my heart. She encourages me in the throws of life and reminds me to keep trucking out through the muck.
Sweet Annie Downs had some seriously good things to say about being kind on the internet. She pretty much wrecks my heart at every conference we are both at.
And there were so many other sweet moments throughout. I think what I took away the most was simply this: community matters. There is nothing sweeter than walking through life with people who encourage, uplift you, and spur you on.
I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Like so much. So thankful for you, your precious heart and how you are affecting this world for good!
ReplyDeletei am SO glad we finally got to meet. thanks for your encouraging words after my workshop. keep pushing for community. the more we all fight for the deep and rich fellowship that we want, the more likely it is to happen and be the norm. xo
ReplyDeleteLove this post so much. I'm so thankful for the time we were able to spend talking! That was so good for my heart. Love you!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad we finally met (cause I see you all over the internet and everyone has said how sweet you are. They weren't lying ;) even if it was only for a short time. And that moment with Nicole's son.. oh my goodness. how sweet.
ReplyDeleteYes! Community matters- and No! I don't know where to start- my heart is also full. Time to let it overflow... Amy
ReplyDeleteSO glad to have met you in real life. Know your encouragement reaches out through the internet across the miles, too. xoxo
ReplyDeleteSo much truth in this post!! Thanks for sharing - makes me want to go to a conference sometime soon :)
ReplyDeleteAt my brother's wedding recently, the pastor's charge to the couple was to invest in community and fellowship because that accountability, opportunity to love on others, etc. is essential to selfless love. And I so echo your "I am at my best when I'm able to love well on others."
Thanks for your uplifting words!
Elisabeth
PS. What happened to Paris?
Looks like you guys had a great time! :)
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