Meeting new people

I am a bit of an introvert and am quite comfortable staying at home, doing my own thing.  However, the life of a homemaker, particularly one still raising children who need naps, can be a lonely one.  My "comfort" level really had nothing to do with the calling to raise Godly children and growing in my faith so I marvel at how the Lord stretches us and the opportunities that He brings our way to fellowship and connect with others!  I marvel to at the way he has blessed our children with opportunities to fellowship with our family and to learn to interact with people of all ages and genders and experiences under our protection and guidance:  Any thing from attending a physic's lesson at OMSI with 9th graders to participating in football camp with children many years older to enjoying spending time with family and friends to meeting new families.

Here is this weeks recount:

A phone call from long ago work friend (of mine) led to a tutoring job which then led to an evening of fellowship.  What fun to have a family who lives a traveling military life share stories in the cool of the evening on our back patio.  What fun for our children to learn to make new friends and for us to watch them running about, laughing sliding down the dirt hillside, picking berries, splashing in the pool, and of course, sword fighting!  (Tuesday evening)

What a pleasure it is to have friends who inspire us (me in particular) to rise up to the challenging task of raising small children as my first priority (after the Lord and my husband).  (Sunday evening)

What a blessing to have reconnected with a childhood friend these past 6 years even though the relationship is long distance and to be mentored by her experience raising a large family and homeschooling.  She is my true Titus 2 friend (even though she is a few months younger LOL).  So glad that I can vent my frustrations and get encouragement and God's Truth. (Thursday)

Above Rubies and Nancy Campbell, first introduced to me by the friend mentioned above, has been such an inspiration and a comfort to me.  (Thursday), I got my email "invitation" to register for the next retreat.  I have gone the past 2 years and been rejuvenated and refreshed!

Name dropping...I have heard a name "dropped" to me several times by several different people over quite a long period of time and thankful for the Lord's continual knocking (and down right perseverance) about getting to know this person better.  Through her, I have already learned of opportunities to get involved and network with other homeschooling families.  Looking forward to next week when we can have a chance to visit in person!

When I reflect on these opportunities, I am drawn to them and at the same time want to cling a bit to my reclusiveness.  I get the feeling though that I am just along for the ride!

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