Thankful on a Thursday - God's timing is not my own.

This past week, I've been humored and puzzled by God's timing.

You've felt that, right? You feel like you've been praying for something for ages, or have sought out something for months... yet, nothing comes of your efforts. Then, out of the blue, at a seemingly inopportune time, the prayers are answered and you begin to see God's movement. 

That's been me lately. 

When I was living in Colorado, I was a part of a small group of amazing women. And when I say amazing, I mean it in every sense of the word. 

They loved Jesus. 

They chased after Him. 

They were encouraging. 

They challenged me.

It was this beautiful relationship, formed only by God's grace. We were all SO different... yet every Monday night, we came together and learned together. We shared our lives and our hearts. This group changed the way that I felt about women. 

Since Erik and I moved to Portland over three years ago, I've prayed fervently for a group of women that I could lean into, learn from and share my life with, just like that life-changing group in Colorado. My heart and spirit have craved it, and craved it deeply. 

Only recently has God started to move, which is why I'm puzzled. In just a short month and a half, Erik and I are moving away from Portland for six months to run the rafting company in southern Oregon. So, someone tell me, why in the world would the Lord start putting substantial women in my life right before I leave? Why now? I mean, I'm beyond moved and amazed at how God has fulfilled that desire in my heart, but... really? Now? Could it not have waited until we moved down there? 

Those have been my thoughts for the past week. But, after thinking, praying and pondering... 

I've decided to stop wondering why, and just say "thank you" to the Lord for listening. 

What are you thankful for this Thursday?

21. Good & honest conversation with good & honest women.

22. Bluebird mornings.

23. Breakfast for dinner.

24. Handwritten notes with words of deep encouragement.

25. Daffodils in every front yard on out street.

26. Taking a great picture.

27. Big, gummy smiles.

28. Snuggling into a fluffy couch after a busy day.

29. Holding hands while watching a movie.

30. God's timing.