Women of Joy

Ever since I got married, my mom and I have loved to go to Christian Women's confrences together. We get a group of women and usually go to a Beth Moore confrence; we have a blast, learn a lot, and come home changed. The last time we were able to do this was when I was pregnant with the twins..needless to say things have been a little crazy since having 3 children! Last year as a suprise to my mom, my dad and I booked a ticket for the two of us to attend a local Women of Joy confrence down in Branson. We had never been to one before- but were really looking forward to it. It was going to be a 3 day getaway! We left Friday afternoon picked up Pam, and headed to the hotel. Friday night we were able to hear Candace Cameron Bure (aka DJ Tanner from Full House) give her testimony. I don't think there was a dry eye in the whole place. We were led in worship by Big Daddy Weave- which was amazing! Candace spoke about her time on Full House, her family life growing up, her brother Kirk Cameron, and the influence that God has had on her marriage.
On Saturday morning we woke up early to hear Kay Arthur speak. And she didn't hold back. Kay had one question for us... Are we ready to meet our God? It was powerful. The truth is, God is coming back soon, and what are we doing to tell others about-plus to prepare ourselves?
We had a nice break in the afternoon to eat some lunch and do some shopping at Tanger. Since the economy is down- the outlet malls have even better deals than normal, so Pam got a whole new wardrobe! We headed back around dinner time to hear a concert by Michael W Smith and Steven Curtis Chapman. Not to long ago one of SCC's daughter's was killed in a accident, and you could tell he is still in the mourning process. It was a very heart breaking time, but also a time of celebration to be able to celebrate his little girl being in heaven. Michael W Smith did a great job too.
Sunday morning we woke up, packed up and headed into the last session. Donna Gaines was the guest speaker. Her husband is the pastor of Bellevue Baptist Church outside of Memphis. She was great! They say she is going to be the next Beth Moore.
We left the confrence refeshed and renewed. We roomed with two of my mom's dear friends Cathey and Pam, and they were such a blessing. We stayed up late laughing and making great memories. We've already booked our spots for next year!