Friendship

I love looking back through journals and times with the Lord. Seeing the way He continually answers prayer never ceases to amaze me.

A few years ago, Michael and I prayed specifically for friends. Might sound a bit silly or simple, but it was a desperate cry for us. Many of our closest friends had moved away and others became mere acquaintances as life carried us along different paths. We had a new son, new church home, and longed for real community. Relationships that would encourage our spiritual walk, hold us accountable, challenge us to live more for the Kingdom, and help shape our parenting skills.

ones that would DO LIFE with us. . .

even when the road was tough.

The Lord heard our cry and has blessed us with a precious group of friends (both near and far) that love us, our boys, and have truly invested themselves in our lives. Many are from our small group at church. . . oh how I LOVE and treasure my brothers and sisters in Christ. We are so thankful the Lord led us to Long Hollow and that we were obedient to serve where he commanded. Such goodness our God has lavished upon us!

Lovely night out at P.F. Chang's

Small group ladies retreat (this past March)

Last month, it was also wonderful to see friendships from the past that have stood the test of time. Ones that you know will last forever!

A few of us from the College & Career class at CHBC 'reunited' one Saturday at the park. Oh the laughter that ensued as we looked at photos from the late 90s - we were quite the crew!

Such a joy to see how our families have grown and how the Lord is leading us all. . .

The sweet White family

Charlie and Cristie were our C&C leaders. Kinda crazy that we enjoyed lovin' on their kiddos when they were young - now they're lovin' on ours!

My bestie, Charis, and I

Dear friends, the Woodliefs, also made their annual trip in from Canada. We met up at Rita's with the 'old gang'.

Their daughter, Mackensey. I remember bouncing her on my hip when she was Cade's age :)

(picture taken by Cole)

Conor, their son. What a handsome teenager he's become!

If you find yourself in the same position as we were, cry out to the Lord. No request is too great or too small for Him to answer. He inclines His ear towards us and longs to meet our needs. . . cheers to friendship!