Women's Winter Weekend

This past weekend I went to a women's retreat with Hope Church--the church we've been going to since around Thanksgiving. It took some convincing for me to sign-up, but I'm so glad I did. I felt quite nervous and intimidated going into the weekend, as I only knew two people (and I didn't know them very well). Jeremiah encouraged me by reminding me that I had been on many a retreat in college and had a blast each time. This is true; however, it was going to be a lot different not going with best friends and not being part of the leadership that put the whole thing together.

When I arrived at the beautiful Williamsburg Hospitality House on Friday night, I felt very out of place. But thanks to a few sweet and caring women, I was enjoying myself and feeling better by late that evening. The retreat was so well thought out--every detail was significant and made the weekend relaxing, encouraging, and a lot of fun. We had several meetings with worship and a talk from the guest speaker, an woman working in youth ministry in Colorado. After each of these times we met in small groups that were assigned to us for the weekend. This was a great way to further discuss what we had heard, and to enable vulnerability and support in a group of about eight women. Saturday afternoon was free to roam around Williamsburg, which I loved considering I had never been there. I only got to see a snip-it of the city, so I am anticipating the next chance I'll have to go back. Late Saturday evening there was a Pajama Jam, which was so so great. They had Rock Band set up on a projection screen, chocolate fondue, pedicures, and--my personal favorite--jewelry making. They were so generous to provide tons of supplies to make bracelets and earrings. I must say I'm rather impressed with my products, and was told many times that I'd have customers if I started selling. Maybe jewelry is my new calling in life. Probably not.

One thing I cherished most about the weekend was the fellowship with women of all ages and stages of life. I've been so used to the college atmosphere and being in fellowship with Christians my own age, that this was something new. I loved listening to other women's experiences and learning from them. It reminded me of how valuable my mom's wisdom, and I am looking forward to making a point to pick her brain a lot more about life.

All in all it was a nice weekend. I know plenty more people than I did going into the retreat, which I think will help Jeremiah and I get more involved and plugged in at Hope. I loved learning more about the values of Hope and seeing the community of the church, too.

http://hopecentral.com