Sometimes a girl just wants a little pampering - of the non disposable kind

What is the common denominator of:

A massage

A fire place

A chocolate fountain (brilliant invention)

No cooking, cleaning, or diapering

and Beautiful soft fluffy snow

You're right - lots of common denominators. All very desirable (well, if you are into white, cold, fluffy stuff any way). Here's what I was looking for though:

They were all a part of my weekend. :)

You may ask "How does one get these fabulous experiences integrated into their weekend??"

Well, Let me tell you.

I have the amazing privilege of working for and with some really incredible women. Each year the director of client and volunteer services at the crisis pregnancy center where I work organizes a retreat for all of the volunteers who work there. And seriously you guys, she makes it so relaxing, warm, beautiful, and let me add - delicious!

For 24 hours I had quiet (compared to life here at home...), learning, pampering, sweet fellowship with very like minded sisters, and delicious food served to me.

I can not even put into words how much this meant to me. Folks, I have been tired. My days have been sprinkled with so many joys, but the intensity of life with three young boys has proven to just really not be an easy thing to keep up with. Some times at the end of the day I quietly admit to myself, "Oh how I would love a little break - nothing long, nothing big, but just to catch my breath..."

And such a beautiful thing was granted to me. And my heart is thankful.

I love the work that I do at the Center for Women. It has become so much a part of who I am. It truly is a joy to be serving there each Monday. Fifteen months ago, when I began my training and work there, I was so excited to be given the opportunity to help join the others who worked there in ministering to the women who walked through those doors. Never could I have imagined how much I would learn in the process. Never could I have anticipated the bonds that would be created between myself and the women I would be working with. I didn't know. I knew God was going to use me, stretch me, and teach me. I did not know that I would be gaining a family.

This weekend I sat in front of a warm crackling fireplace and looked around the room at the faces of some of the most beautiful giving women I have ever known. I thought about the richness that has been added to my life since God has led me to the Center for Women.

For the first few hours of the retreat I felt strange. It felt unnatural to relax. To not be following little people around with a broom and dust pan. To not be making food and just constantly tasking. It almost felt wrong.

I mean really - a massage, chocolate in front of a fireplace, a gorgeous lake view, cuddling two precious little babies (A four month old and ten day old and oh my - did baby fever hit...), conversations with people older than 5?! Serious indulgances.

And then it just felt so, so right. :) So, I relaxed. And I enjoyed.

As sweet as my 24 hours off was, I did miss my little guys. Today we awoke to big fluffy snow flakes falling out side. This afternoon I pulled my lil ones in a sled. We made a snow man. We had hot chocolate. I really really enjoyed them. I felt ready to take on this mommy thing again, because of the gift of relaxation I received this weekend.

Here is a photographic glimpse into my weekend:

I wish this picture could impart the warm ambiance of this room - but it doesn't quite do it justice. Just use your imagination.

Oh baby Ben - I have fallen pretty hard for you sweet mini person. your mommy is pretty special too.

Mmmmmm, chocolate - falling in smooth waves of goodness. And Kathy - what does one even say to the hard working, tender hearted mommy lady behind it all. I just love you. Way more than chocolate. It's a big deal - I'd take that seriously lady.

Oh, this moment was priceless!! Jay and Noe asked if they could go out to play in the snow while Dave and I fixed lunch after church today. We let them go out by themselves, but kept a close watch on them out the window. With out any parental coaching or help, Jay went and found the sled, helped Noe into it and began pulling him around the yard.

Okay, just don't judge. It was a dusting of snow, but we were all giddy about it and I happen to think he's pretty cool.