It’s almost here! All those attending Blue Ridge conference are making last minute preparations. Thinking back on conferences I’ve attended I remember the excitement, the anticipation, and the total exhaustion at the end of the conference. If you attend a conference this year, whether it is Blue Ridge (one of the best!) or another one, here are two suggestions:

1. Though it’s a difficult decision, skip a class, a workshop or one of the evening meetings.There is so much to absorb and the quiet time away will put you back on track and ready to learn more.                         

2. Spend part of that quiet time in prayer and reflection.Taking time out to draw close to Jesus will bring everything into perspective and bring your emotions back to a healthy balance.

Learn, Study, Network, Enjoy – but remember to keep the Lord as your focus and your conference time will be blessed!

Question: Are you attending a writers conference or retreat this year? Which one?

                             you’re not a mother?

                           your mother has died?

Either of these facts tend to make Mother’s Day a very difficult time. If you relate to this, how do you deal with Mother’s Day?

I’m doing better with the no kids part, check out my Kidless & Content article with Sasee:

http://sasee.com/2011/10/01/kidless-and-content/

But I can’t seem to get over missing my mom and Mother’s Day hits hard.

Please leave a comment with how you manage on this day.

Any suggestions or encouragement for each other in either circumstance is most welcome.

I know Jesus is the only One who can fill those empty places in our hearts.

And I also know the Lord will pass the following message on to my mother – the very best mother in all the world.

The first and greatest commandment. Do we obey?

Or do we get so caught up in the busyness of life that we forget our first love?

No matter what your week looks like, I invite you to join me in focusing upon this scripture every morning, noon and evening.

Loving God with all our hearts, our souls, our minds. No holding back.