Fruitful Spirit

Today was the Women's Brunch. It was over the Fruits of the Spirit. Based upon the book Naked Fruit by Elise Morgan. Was hoping to sleep in until 8am but Lilu was ready to go at 7. Thankfully she played in her room for thirty more minutes. Got up and got ready. Once we were ready to leave Lilu had a full blown tantrum. Not really sure as to why. She cried all the way to the car. About five minutes before we got to the offices she stopped. THANK GOD. She was pretty good during the brunch. She even sang with us. But when we had to get into groups she had enough. So I took her to the outer room where all the toys are and we sat in there. Robin(pastor's wife), Kodee(co-host of the brunch), and Jenna came over to have discussion with me. That touched my heart so much. I felt embarrassed for having to bring lilu. But i didn't have anyone to watch her. I know so many women and men do this. Being a single parent. But dang is it hard.

This brunch over the fruits of the spirit was so eye opening. They take the verse from Galatians 5:22-23 and really look at ourselves and others with it. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Each fruit is then taken one at a time and looked at through new eyes. One of the easiest things i can do is point out all the fruits i need worked on. The hardest is actually looking at myself and seeing the good. Almost feel like that isn't what I am supposed to do. Like I am vain in some way. So it was very interesting to see all that we are to be. Then we were to look for these fruits in other people. Which for me is really easy. But really just to be able to talk to other Christian women was such a treat for me. Growing up I didn't have many girlfriends. Maybe one and that one ended when her family killed my dog. Don't get me started. And then in high school I hung out with guys. Once in college I had some girlfriends and they didn't last long at all. so when I got to Germany I met Amy. And she has been so dear to me. So I know I can keep up the relationships but I think it is determined by the circumstances in which they grow. And I believe these will grow strong. So it was absolutely great having this time with them. I really needed it.

Lilu is on her third day without a pacifier!! I am so surprised at how it is going. About three weeks ago something happened (I have no idea what) that caused her to want her pacifier all the time. Before this she wanted it only at naps and bedtime. But now it was ALL the time. Was going to start a while back but she got sick and wanted her to be comforted while not feeling good. So the first day so far was the hardest. She cried but then fell asleep. Now she plays until she falls asleep. But in her room. So hopefully by the fifth day all will be a routine. Thank God for these blessings.

So ends a very good day. Lilu and I went back up to the church to learn more about the projection job I will be doing. Listening and learning something new is really hard to do when you have to have one of your eyes on Lilu running around. Not a kid friendly enviroment so had to keep a good close eye on her. But thankfully, Jon, who was teaching me helped out and understood about having to stop and go with the instruction. Felt better about doing it. Still get all nervous. Something new and all. Gave Lilu some chicken and apple sauce and off to bed she went. But not before brushing her teeth. Now I get to eat and relax. Ahhhhhh, the little pleasures are great. Much love to everyone. And thank you amy for commenting on my blog. I think you and Chris are the only ones that will ever read this.