I'm going to pace myself and tell you about the week one day at a time

Okay, first things first .... new computer .... plus, new camera .... plus, technology-challenged person .... equals frustration!

I think I have FINALLY figured out a way to post pictures on my blog with my new computer and camera, but I'm sure there is a quicker way than the fifteen steps I am using to make it happen. I just don't know the quicker way. But ... whatever works.

Okay, so last week had to have been one of the most exciting I've had in awhile in terms of events. I have much to share (especially about this weekend at Deeper Still), but I'm going to pace myself and give you that post tomorrow. Today is all about Sheri Rose Shepherd.

Here's a little backstory .... we don't really have a women's ministry persay at our church. This is something that I believe I've been in most prayer about over the past several years when it comes to how the Lord wants me to serve through my local church.

I am passionate about serving the high school girls at our church and love teaching them, but I am also passionate about women's bible studies. There is something so magnificent about watching a woman study the Word of God, whether for the first time in her life or as a familiar student - either way, it's a great way to see God bring victory to a woman's life that she wouldn't otherwise have. I love it.

So, really I'm torn between the two and often ... OFTEN ... in prayer about how to bring the two ministries together. I sometimes think God won't keep me in both for long and He'll choose for me, but so far that's not happening (not to say it won't ever). I just have to continue praying for guidance.

Okay, I promise I'm getting to a point.

Other than fall and spring bible study, there aren't really any other events for our ladies. We are slowly starting to plan other things and the response has been great. I have asked several speakers to come to our church, but let's be honest, some want a hefty fee to come. A hefty fee.

Say this with me.....

No women's ministry means NO BUDGET.

But, that doesn't keep me from asking.

I've already expressed my love for Sheri Rose Shepherd, her books and what they've meant to me and the girls in our church. So, one morning while my kids were at school, I emailed her to ask if she would come. I shut the computer and went upstairs to clean out O's closet.

My phone rings.

Me: "Hello"

Caller: "Hi, Deidre. This is Sheri Rose."

Me: "Ha!" (thinking a friend was playing a joke on me and then realizing almost immediately I hadn't told anyone I contacted her - I now feel stupid).

Caller: "Are you there?"

Me: "Yes, hello!"

Sheri Rose: "I am looking at your email and I think I can work this out the same week my son is getting married. He's marrying a girl from NC and I could speak on my way."

Me: "Okay, great. But, before we go any further, how much do you charge to speak?"

Sheri Rose: "I don't have a set fee. I come based on your budget."

Me: "Oh, well this should be interesting because we do not have a budget. We really don't have a women's ministry!"

She wasn't phased at all and from that point, we started planning the event.

From the beginning she was very gracious and even called my phone while I was sitting in the car line at school one day just to pray for me. Seriously.

Just as it should be I guess, a few things happened the week leading up to the event that sent me into tears because oh.my.word. I couldn't handle the pressure. My new assistant, Eric stepped in and handled the final details for me and I was sure I'd never loved him more. He was such a huge help and kept me sane the last few days.

Some of my favorite things about that night were seeing a few women I really wanted to come actually come (So glad you got to make it, H! - I loved seeing you there!) Also, Sheri Rose gave away so many books. If someone came to her and they didn't have a book for her to sign (maybe not being able to afford it), she ran to her book table to get them one ... free! I loved that.

I've heard so many testimonies about that night and was so thankful God chose to meet with each lady in His own way. I know He showed me so much in the process.

If you haven't read her books, please do so. Especially this one. You will be encouraged.

O with Sheri Rose

Sheri Rose and me. Do I look worn out? Because I was! This was the end of the night.

E and O with Sheri Rose's daughter, Emily. Emily and E really hit it off!

Sheri Rose with my friend, Rita (also our pastor's wife). I wish I could tell you these two bonded over the Word of God, but that would just be a lie. A Big Lie! But, bonded they did. God is so sweet to put these two on both sides of the country because oh.my.word., I don't think this world could stand them in the same city. Everything is as it should be.

The women that helped put this night together ... Tina, Heather, Piper, Sheri Rose, Rita, Leslie and myself (missing KTBeth). Thanks, Ladies!