As someone who has gotten up the courage to go to the party, but have, more than once, never gotten up the courage to get out of the car, thanks for this. It's a great strategy. I, too, have learned how to be extroverted when needed (like every single Sunday at church), but sometimes, I just can't get there. This will be a helpful way to get out there and have some fun with new people.
I'm doing another scripture memory plan this year and was looking for a verse for this week. I'd forgotten I sent that picture to you. I still do that, and it still works. : )
The church in which I grew up briefly experimented with seating visitors in the front row of the sanctuary. Predictably, it was a complete failure as the brave visitors got to the front row and then asked the usher for a different seat, while the less brave just never came back, or, in the case of one family, walked out during "meet and greet" time. (Also, there were some families who were a bit put out because the front row was "their" row...)
When I pray for pastors, especially those whose ministries are big and public, one of the main things I pray is that God would protect your hearts and minds from sexual sin. Too many great men (and women) of God have fallen into this trap. Thank you for not only setting a good example, but sharing how you do it!
That's just fantastic! The only thing that could make this story better is if you pulled a mannequin head out of your bag by its hair as a grande finale. Maybe next time. : )
Congratulations! Here's to lots of sleepless night, both now, and in 16 years! : )
Regarding thought #1, I reminded myself last night that God already knew who would win, and it wasn't something I needed to worry about. This morning, I tripped over Psalm 72 and decided I'm going to pray portions of it for President Obama whenever he comes to mind. God sets up kings, and instructs us to pray for them, so that's what I'll do.
I feel most content after I've taken a shower in the evening, I'm in clean pj's and my cozy robe. There's something about being clean and warm that's super comforting. I'm so blessed that I have hot water, shampoo, and soap. Those are three things that, for some reason, I never take for granted.
If you have trouble falling asleep because you can't turn your mind off, count breaths - "1" when you breathe in (long and slow), "2" when you breathe out (long and slow). Rinse. Repeat. When you find your mind wandering to other things that require more brain power (and your breaths becoming more shallow), go back to counting. 1,2.1,2... Within a few minutes, you should be relaxed, your brain should "turn off" and you should fall asleep**. Sometimes, it's a discipline to not think about anything.
**I say "should" because one size does not fit all, no matter what you're talking about!
It's the Tilt-A-Whirl for hamsters!!! Hilarious!!!
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Amy 
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