Wednesday, December 30, 2009

What we do does influence other people

I have been convinced that even small things we do have an impact. I walk down the aisles and Walmart and intentionally smile. Most people smile back. When a server in a restaurant seems grumpy, I try to be especially nice, and they usually respond. Those are small things, but I think they show that we are an influence. I believe that little acts of kindness can cause a ripple affect. My theory was confirmed by something I saw last night. The TV show 20/20 did a special report on the real story behind the movie, The Blindside, which, by the way is a truly great movie, based on the true story of Michael Oher, a teenage boy who was adopted by Shawn and Leigh Anne Tuohy. If you haven't seen the movie, you really should. Anyway,on the TV show, Leigh Anne said that since the movie was released, the Tuohy family has received thousands of letters from people who were inspired by their story. People who are cancelling vacations so that they can use the money to help someone, people actually making sacrifices for the sake of another person. I loved the movie The Blindside. I was inspired by the story. It made me want to do something bigger than my normal life. Hearing what Leigh Ann Tuohy said makes me even more encouraged. I like to think that maybe when I gave out hot chocolate at Walmart the week of Christmas, maybe someone who saw that bought lunch for someone else. Just maybe. It makes me happy to think so.

Tuesday, December 29, 2009

2010 Ladies Retreat


Cottonwood Ladies Retreat

March 5-6
At the Elegante Suites Hotel, Abilene, TX

”More To See”

The Psalmist asked God to open his eyes to see wonderful things of God. Jesus said that His disciples were blessed because they had eyes to see. The apostle Paul prayed that the believers would be enlightened to see more and more of the things of God. For the Christian, there is always “more to see”.

Our speaker this year is Arnita Taylor, the Associate Pastor of Women’s Groups at Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas. Arnita is a passionate teacher of God’s Word, with an authentic, casual ministry style. Her vision is for every woman to personally seek the face of God and know her destiny in His Kingdom.


Cost:
4 per room: $60 per person
3 per room: $80 per person
2 per room: $100 per person
1 person $140

2010 Women's Retreat




New Ladies Bible Studies



Ladies Bible Studies Start Jan. 11
Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman
by Beth Moore
looks at the Old Testament story of Esther as a profile in courage and contains many modern parallels for today's woman. Going up against heavyweights bent on her destruction, Esther trusted God and landed a blow that saved her people. Esther's destiny can be yours as you know more deeply the God who is in your corner.
Times and Locations:
Monday evenings 7:00-9:00
In Stephenville; at the home of Jeannette Maxwell,
2565 Jasmine
In DeLeon,
The home of Marcia Koelln, 132 E Ross Avenue

Tuesday mornings 10:00-12:00,
Cottonwood Conference room;
Nursery available, but registration is required.
Call 445-2929 to sign up.

New Year, New Blogging Start!

My daughter Emily created this blog for me a while back, but I just did not get the whole idea. In 2009, my daughters Libby and Emily both started blogs. I LOVE reading their blogs. Here is a little secret, Libby is a very private person, and tends to hide her emotions. She shares more on her blog than she does in person!
I feel like I have learned things about both Libby and Emily from their blogs that I would not have known otherwise.
Well, because of my new estimation of the value of blogs, I am inspired to begin to use this. I don't know if anyone will ever read it or like it or if it will have any value at all, but I am going to give it a try.
I hope to use this blog to let the Cottonwood Women know what is going on in ministry, to invite and encourage women to participate in the ministry, and to just open up communication. Maybe I will share some of my heart, maybe tell a little about my precious grandchildren and my wonderful daughters, maybe someone out there will be interested!!! Here goes.