My Necklace and Lies Women Believe Study Info.

While stopping by the post office this afternoon to mail some much delayed Sufficient Grace shipments, I was finally able to check our P.O. Box for the first time since the Christmas Marathon of 2010 ensued. And, waiting for me was a lovely gift from Sue (My Forever Child). A couple months ago, I won a $100 gift certificate on her blog, and chose to get a necklace with the names of my children engraved on the front and their birthdays on the back. I have waited years to have a piece of jewelry in memory of my sweet babies in heaven, as well as to honor my boys who are with me. The necklace is absolutely beautiful and perfect. My sad photography skills do not do it justice, but I so wanted to show it off here. And also wanted to thank Sue for all that she does for grieving families. Her jewelry is beautiful...the service she provides is amazing...and she is generous to so many. In addition to the gorgeous necklace now adorning my neck, she also donated many charms to be added to our Dreams of You baskets. Thank you, thank you, thank you Sue...you are amazing!

I've shared in the past that I'm not a big New Year's Resolution maker. That being said, it seems that I do find myself reflecting on the past year and looking ahead to a fresh start in 2011, especially with regard to some of the areas in my life where I am weak. I won't be making any grand promises this year. But, I would like to work toward improvements in the areas where I fall short. The difference is, I will rely on the strength and daily measure of sufficient grace granted me by my heavenly Father rather than on my own will power (which is quite minuscule, I can assure you!).

One commitment I would like to make is to focus more time and consistency on my devotion and prayer time. I have felt for awhile that God is really calling me to "cast off the shackles" and let go of the "weight of sin that so easily ensnares" me...to be truly free...letting go of the things holding me back from being the woman I am called to be in Him.

That is why...even though bible studies have not had the best response on the blog...as we often begin with enthusiasm and then fizzle out when the demands of our days seep in...I have decided to re-read one of my favorite women's bible study books by Nancy Leigh DeMoss and share/reflect about it here on our blog every Monday beginning January 3rd.

We will be doing the book, Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free. Oh, how I am longing to delve into some truth and allow it to soak in, dispel the deception, and set me free. And, I am hoping at least a few of you will join me. You can order the book at CBD, or check it out at your local library. Or, if you need a copy and sincerely wish to join us, let me know and Sufficient Grace will send you one. We want to encourage all women...not just those who are grieving the loss of a child. So...all are welcome to join us. I'm not sure if I will just post and then we can discuss it here...or if we should post a Linky and then you can post on your blog and link here. What do you think? I want to keep it as simple as possible so that many can participate.

Praying that you will have a blessed New Year as we look forward to what the Lord has in store for us in 2011...