Living like sheep {and free books!}

New Zealand. August 2009.

Holley Gerth taught me something about sheep this past weekend as a dozen of us gathered around tables with her and spilled our God-sized dreams into real-life conversations. Sheep are defenseless when they're alone. They can't protect themselves against predators unless the single sheep is disguised in a group that confuses the predator. They flee when they're scared and band together because there is safety in numbers.

Photo by Nasreen Fynewever.

Perhaps we really can learn something from sheep.

I gathered with women I'd never met in real life this past weekend. While we shared meals and stories, my soul felt protected. The same goes when I gather with my friends in my everyday life. Protection comes as emails, texts, phone calls, lunch dates, trips to the park, and parties.

Life is best when we're coming together and communicating. Like those sheep. I know my herd of people often direct my heart and soul right to the Shepherd himself, the one who gives dreams and grace.

Together really is the best way to experience life.

Jenn and I talked the whole 5 1/2 hours from Murray to Branson and then again, along with Sonya who joined us for the trip back, which took longer than usual because of some icy roads in Missouri. Sonya is an encourager who asks good questions. I stayed up later than usual talking with my roommate Kelli who quickly became my friend. Elise drew me in with her stories. Deb's quietness gave way to wisdom. Jennifer and Michelle gave us their time and perspective of the publishing world. Cathy cared for the details and our hearts. Kim cracked jokes at perfect times and shined a sweet spirit. Sarah gushed with excitement. Nasreen led us with love, truth and laughter. Holley opened her heart and her words both to the group and to us each individually.

{You can see more photos on Facebook.}

In addition to these ladies, the weekend was possible because of the generosity of Revell Books, DaySpring and (in)courage. And, yes, there were free books. In fact, I brought home two sets of the free books -- one for me and one for you!

GIVEAWAY :: Use the Rafflecopter below for various ways to enter to win. On Friday I will pick five winners. Each winner will get one of the books -- "You're Going to Be Okay" by Holley Gerth, "A Millions Little Ways" by Emily Freeman, "Rethink How You Think" by Dr. David Stoop, "The Smart Woman's Guide to Planning for Retirement" by Mary Hunt, and "Everday Confetti" by  Karen Ehman and Glynnis Whitwer.

UPDATED to CONGRATULATE Holly C. Wyse, Jennie Woelpern, Beth Stiff, Stephanie Hoffpauir, and Chrissy Montes on each winning one of these books. Winners, you've been emailed, so let me know if you don't have a message from me in your inboxes!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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I'm sharing this post with communities I adore at Jen Ferguson's Soli Deo Gloria party and Beth Stiff's Three Word Wednesday. 

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