Hot Off The Press

No...I am not sleeping 24/7...just MIA from the Blog World. aka....at this moment...P.T.A has my Blogging Time (and my house cleaning time, and my cooking time, and my laundry time.......)

Check out this article featuring an event near and dear to my heart,

yours truly, and some of my favorite people!

Cant wait until March 5-6 when it returns to Orlando.

(I hope it was OK for me to share that date...if not....

Call Me Call Me Call Me,

Miss Chrislyn or Miss Laurel...you know my numbers...all of them!)

Otherwise...party in Orlando girls..March 5 and 6, 2010

Be there or Be Square!

Hope to return to the Blog World soon...

Sweet Assurance

Sweet Assurance
Piecing a Miracle Together...

This morning, in Sacrament Meeting, experiences of the past two weeks came full circle.

Two weeks ago at a Relief Society Enrichment Meeting, a delightful new sister stood up to share her feelings regarding the 28 Days Closer To Christ program we had been working on together as a Relief Society. She and her family had recently returned from living in Costa Rica for a year and I was moved as she shared the experience of being called to teach the Young Women in her Ward in Costa Rica. Even though she did not speak Spanish, she worked all week, preparing he lessons and presenting them in Spanish. As she spoke, I had a VERY strong prompting to tell her about Time Out For Women and invite her to attend.

I would like to say that I followed the prompting and sought her out, however, I argued with my thoughts. The event was ten days away and I felt like asking her "at the last minute" was not considerate, especially since I could not invite her to ride with me or stay with me in my already full hotel room.

Skipping around in this story...

A few days prior to this prompting, I received an e-mail from the Director of Time Out For Women, Laurel Christensen. She asked me to find a few women to write short essays titled "How I Know". These essays were to go along with the TOFW theme of SWEET ASSURANCE. After reviewing the essays, Laurel would choose one that would be read by the author at our Time Out For Women Orlando Event. The other essays would be posted on the Time Out For Women Website.

One person came to mind immediately and I asked her to write an essay, yet needed a few more people. I prayed about this and was at a loss as to who the others should be. The first name had come so clearly, now who else was I supposed to invite to write an essay. In an answer to my prayers, the Spirit told me that when I heard the names of those who should write essays, I would know, without a doubt, who should write the essays and I would not have to look any further. Within 24 hours, this is exactly what happened. Two of my Team Captains gave me suggestions and, upon hearing their names, I knew they were to write essays. I did not know these women, did not know their stories, nothing...I just KNEW they were to write essays.

Another thing I KNEW for sure...before reading the essays...before learning about these women, etc, was WHO would be reading her essay. I told Laurel that I had a strong feeling about one of them, but would not say anymore as I did not want to influence her, etc. As the essays were submitted, ultimately, Laurel chose the one I knew was going to be read.

Now back to the new sister in my ward....

Last Sunday, the prompting returned....go talk to her about Time Out For Women. I just cant... I thought...this week is crazy and she will wonder why I waited so long, especially if she finds out that I am the local person in charge of the event. Oh....and it would help if I had introduced myself a few weeks earlier when she moved in. (Like a usually do whenever I see a new face)
I just felt like my timing was off...Note to self as I am digesting the following lesson this afternoon...MY TIMING does not matter....THE LORD'S TIMING is the only timing I should be concerned with.
Another Note to self....YOU are an instrument in the Lords Hands...LISTEN TO HIM!

I went home last Sunday, once again, arguing with this clear prompting regarding someone I did not even know. Fast forward to Sunday evening....I got THREE separate phone calls from people who wanted me to find some one to use an extra Ticket to Time Out For Women. All three of these women had purchased 5 tickets during the Group Discount Pre-registration time and did not need all 5 tickets they purchased. All Three women did not want money for the tickets, they just wanted someone to have them who would use them.

The following morning, I dragged myself to the gym for a quick workout. I walked in the front door and the first person I saw was a sister from my ward who works as an instructor/trainer at The Gym.. Without hesitating, I told her about the TOFW Tickets and asked if she wanted one or knew of anyone who could use them. YES, she wanted to go and would find people to go with her. I suggested a few names of people she may want to ask...including the sister who had been on my mind. SURE, she said, that NEW SISTER IS MY NEXT DOOR NEIGHBOR! What....? I had no idea! At that moment, my phone rang, Megan was home from school sick and I had to head home without exercising at the gym. I was at the gym just long enough for my path to cross with the person who could use these tickets and, ultimately, get this new sister to Time out For Women. Interestingly enough, I had NO INTENTION of offering these tickets to anyone as I started off that morning.

By the next day, not only were the 3 tickets spoken for, now 2 others were going, INCLUDING THE NEW SISTER who I knew needed to be invited. She had arranged child care (her husband is working out of town) and everything fell into place for her to be away from her young children to attend Time Out For Women. The Lord did not let up in his efforts to get this new sister to Time Out For Women. It was not until this morning in Sacrament Meeting that I KNEW FOR CERTAIN why....

Fast Forward To The Time Out For Women Event Yesterday....

It was time for the Essay author to read her essay. It was powerful, moving, and heart wrenching as she shared details regarding the drowning accident that took the life of her 23 month old son, Evan, last summer. I prayed for her to have the strength to get through the essay. Her strength, courage, and testimony of Jesus Christ touched every heart in that room

This morning....

The promptings, the essays, the tickets that became available, the timing, the Lord's continual opening doors to get this new sister to Time Out For Women, etc.....all the pieces that needed to come together were in place as I heard this new sister speak in Sacrament Meeting...about the drowning accident that took the life of her toddler son over 10 years ago.....

This new sister and the essay writer/speaker needed to connect yesterday, and they did. They understand each other's pain in a way no one else can unless they have experienced a loss in this manner. The Lord was working on me to make sure this new sister attended Time Out For Women. Even though I did not follow the promptings at first, she continued to be on my mind so that when yet, another opportunity came for her to be invited, I made sure I suggested her name first.

Once again, I am reminded of how involved The Lord is in the details of our lives. Most of the time, we are unaware of how much he is orchestrating for our benefit.
After Sacrament Meeting, I went to this wonderful sister and shared the "big picture" story of how Time Out For Women came to her. I also apologized for not following my initial promptings and for not introducing myself until yesterday at Time Out For Women.

I shared with her how I KNOW that the Lord loves her and is aware of her needs at every turn.

I am reflecting on a period of time in my own life when the Lord was arranging every detail, piece by piece, yet, it was not until later, that I could see His hand in every move. He placed me in the path of exactly who and what I needed to be around at the time I would need them the most. I am sitting here today as the result of The Lord's hand in the details of my life.He used people to touch me in ways that forever changed me. How grateful I am for those who followed promptings on my behalf.

How grateful I am today to have rubbed shoulders with this miracle. I know that the Lord did not give up on using me as his instrument to bring these two sisters together at the exact time and place they needed to meet.

The Sweet Assurance felt as a result of Time Out For Women is deep in my heart! Deep..

Bloggable Oh So Bloggable

When Life is Truly Bloggable, there is not enough time to write about it. Looking back, I should have started a separate blog just to record and preserve my TOFW experiences (If time allows, I should still do so) Daily, I am experiencing and watching miracles as I am part of bringing Time Out For Women to Florida.
Women from all over (and I mean all over...every corner!) the Southeastern United States and more are clearing their schedules, gathering their friends, saving their pennies, and registering to attend this amazing event. Most realize that every sacrifice they make to attend will be rewarded thousands of times over.
The Pre-registration group discount deadline is less than 3 weeks away! Oh My!
As I told my Team Members earlier this week, it is February, which means....our event is NEXT MONTH!
Working as the Team Lead for the Time Out For Women Orlando event has afforded me a unique perspective. This behind the scenes look at miracles, miracles, miracles provides me with the knowledge that this event will be LIFE CHANGING for those in attendance.
Too many absolute miracles are happening to make it possible for women to have this experience.
The theme, SWEET ASSURANCE, is needed NOW, more than at any other time in recent history.

I cant wait to witness the sea of women basking in the

Time Out For Women Experience. I cant wait to see friends

from now and from MANY years past.

I cant wait to meet all the friends I have met during the planning

stages of this event.

I simply cannot wait!!!!!

But I will...there is still so much work to do and EVERY MINUTE is

worth the end result I am catching a glimpse of!

Miracles

Tears and Goosebumps....
They are becoming a part of each day and I don't want them to stop!
Every day, as the Team Lead for the Time Out For Women Orlando Event, I watch miracles take place as women in my area share the TOFW Event information by reaching out to friends and family. Friendships and Family bonds are being renewed, repaired, and strengthened as a result of TOFW.
Women are making arrangements to meet long lost friends and family they have not seen in years. Some are in the process of turning their lives around and Time Out For Women comes at a perfect time for them as they are on their journey back to the path that will lead to happiness and, eventually, Heavenly Father.
Yesterday, I had a conversation that brought tears and goosebumps as I listened to a woman tell me about the sacrifices of time and money she is making in order to attend TOFW in Orlando. She and her sisters are attending as part of a family reunion and this will be the first time they will be together in many, many years. Some of them are making huge changes in their lives for the good. Some have not attended Church for years until the past few weeks.
Time Out For Women came at the perfect time for them...no coincidence on the timing...yet, a miracle for this family.
I hung up the phone and just cried as I drove down the Florida Turnpike. There on the Turnpike, I became completely aware of the love Heavenly Father has for this woman, her family, and for each person on this planet. It is an amazing feeling to feel so much LOVE for those around me, even those I have never met.
There is no doubt in my mind, The Lord is in charge of this event. I pray for His spirit to attend every inch of the TOFW event here in Florida as well as the events around the country.
I LOVE the women I work with. The Team Captains leading the State of Florida are some of the most incredible women ever. They have Team Members who are just as amazing.
And yes, yes, yes, I am grateful to be part of bringing this experience to the women of Florida and beyond.

Have you registered yet?

Are you attending TOFW in your own area?

If you are attending Orlando...look me up and tell me to SMILE and BREATHE!

Pre Time Out

It's A "Pre-Time Out For Women" Weekend

Tomorrow, I head to Orlando to prepare for a Saturday meeting with my Time Out For Women-Orlando Team Captains. I have FIVE of the most amazing women working in every corner of the State of Florida, and beyond. Beyond meaning, Southern Georgia and Alabama. (We will attend a Temple Session together on Saturday Morning and then have a "working lunch")

They, along with other Team Members, are spreading the word....Register NOW for the Time Out of your life. Yes, March 20-21... be prepared to Charge your Spiritual and Emotional Battery.

Remember...HUGE discounts are offered to groups of 5 or more BEFORE February 21. Cant' make it to Orlando...Check HERE to see which city nearest you is hosting Time Out For Women for 2009.

Be the catalyst in your area, or amongst friends and family. Collect a group and Register together..Carpool Together, Go out to Dinner Together, Share a Hotel Room, Laugh, Cry, Eat, Laugh, Cry, Eat some more...

You can thank me later, after you feel like a New Woman!

Have you Registered yet?

Do you attend Time Out For Women in a new city each year, just for the experience?

Do you meet long time friends at Time Out For Women year?

Click HERE to Register for Orlando.

(You have been meaning to register for weeks now)

And the Bonus of this trip???? A trip UP and BACK with my best friend..Ron, the man I am married to. Uninterrupted Conversation TO and FROM Orlando...it doesn't get much better than that.

Time Out-Take Some

High Gear
Get in gear and GO, GO, GO...
Call a Friend or two and plan NOW to attend Time Out For Women in a city near you. Being the Team Lead for the Orlando Time Out For Women Event, I am partial to suggesting that you CLICK HERE now and purchase your ticket for the March 20-21 Event at The Orange County Convention Center.

My e-mail inbox is stuffed full along with loads of phone messages daily regarding Time Out For Women Orlando. I have the most amazing Team of Women leading the entire State of Florida along with southern Georgia and Alabama.

Each day small, and not so small, miracles occur to move this event along. The Lord is in charge and I am just making sure the event happens in a manner that His Spirit will attend in abundance. There is no way I could have assembled a Team from areas where I knew absolutely NO ONE without the guidance of a loving Heavenly Father.

Purchase tickets, plan carpools, reserve hotels, get the time off from work (get your husband time off to watch the kiddos), and plan an exciting, uplifing girls weekend. Advance ticket purchases save big $$$. Can't pay for a ticket? Contact me regarding the Orlando Time Out event, it is handled. No one should stay away due to lack of $$$.

• If you live in Florida, call a friend who lives in a COLD climate and invite her to meet you in sunny Orlando for a weekend of laughing, crying, talking, eating, and fun.
• If YOU live in a COLD climate...purchase your ticket, and get to Florida, bring a friend, or come alone..you'll have hundreds of friends when you leave.
• Wherever you live, pick a city hosting a 2009 Time Out Event and meet friends or family for Time Out together. I am amazed at how many women are doing this. It has become an annual tradition to pick a city and date for Women to meet friends and family from all over the United States and Canada.
• Call your mom, your sisters, your cousins, your grandma, plan a Family Reunion for all the Grown Up Girls in your family. Pick a city and take Time Out together.
• Be the catalyst in your area to get a group to Time Out For Women.

Oh,in case you didn't click the link above, HERE is is again.

Ahhhhhhhh!
AND TIME OUT (For Women, That Is)
Can you hear me? That is the sigh of relief after I was done speaking in Sacrament Meeting today. Call me crazy, but I don't mind Public Speaking. I don't get that nervous about actually speaking in public. What I fret over is sorting out the millions of thoughts that come to me as I prepare to speak or teach. If I get nervous about anything, it is that I want to make sure I say what the Lord wants said and what the audience needs to hear.

After Church, I went to a Girl's Camp Meeting for Parents and Young Women planning to attend Camp this summer. Hard to imagine that I finally have a daughter going to Girls Camp. After years of being Stake Young Women's President and putting my heart and soul into Girls Camp for so many other girls, one of my very own finally gets to go. I have the next 10 years for Girls Camp with my daughters and their friends. Katherine already has a plan as to how to raise money for her Camp Cost. The fun is just starting.

When I got home, it was time to hit the kitchen. We had 6 Missionaries over for dinner. Since this morning felt like the PERFECT fall weather, I was happy I had planned to make Taco Soup and Homemade French Bread (aka Jolynn's Sunday Bread). Wherever you are enjoying fall (or freezing winter), try my Taco Soup and French Bread Recipes. Taco Soup is from Cindy Jump and French Bread is from Jolynn Watson.

No nap today when I badly wanted one. I am so happy to have my latest big projects over. I have had so many big things back-to-back and need to take a deep breath and STAY HOME. As Ron commented last week (as he NEVER does) "I am thinking that it is time for La Hacienda to have some of your attention." (You know it is bad when he verbalizes what he observes as far as the house is concerned)

This week, I am getting my house ready for Christmas Decorating. I started deep cleaning yesterday. My house needs to be cleaned UNDERNEATH. Just a quick skim/run-through will not do at this time. I got some closets and drawers cleaned out and the fun is just beginning. I am super excited to put up my tree, for some reason.

We are leaving for Gainesville at the end of the week. Ron is marching in the University of Florida Gator Alumni Marching Band on Saturday. I am so excited! I love Alumni Band Weekend. We sit with the band and enjoy every minute of that party. The Band Section Rocks...Literally!

This week, I have already warned my partners in Volunteer Crime that I will not be showing my face at the school (other than for delivering and retrieving my child) or at any Community Projects. I am taking a TIME OUT!

Speaking of TIME OUT.....I am on the Deseret Book TIME OUT FOR WOMEN COMMITTEE Team for the Orlando Event to be held March 20-21. Yahoooooo! This is an amazing event and I am delighted to help make it happen in this corner of the world. I am always amused when people say things like and I give answers like.......

• They should not charge members of The Church (the whole Priest craft thing....) Hello... have you never purchased a Book from Deseret Book?
• Have you ever sent your children to EFY (Especially For Youth?) It costs and is not advertised in Public Meetings or over pulpits, yet ....Bingo...all can agree...there is not one Youth who should miss a summer at EFY.
• Have you ever attended BYU Women's Conference...Sponsored by The Relief Society of The Church? Hello.... It costs and IS advertised in Chapels and on Bulletin Boards.
• TIME OUT FOR WOMEN is too expensive...Hello...have you ever compared the cost of a Christian Women's Conference (Retreat) to Time Out For Women. No Comparison in Cost or Quality. AND did you know that Deseret Book would rather have people attend for NO COST rather than NOT ATTEND? There is a Ticket Scholarship Program for those who cannot afford the cost. No one is turned away due to cost. Try that one on for size!
• Trust me...this is not a money making venture for Deseret Book. Expenses are covered, at best. Authors may sell a few more books, yet, that is not the focus intended. At the end of the day... lives are touched...lives are changed... spirits are re-charged...cups are re-filled..WOMEN are better off at the end of TIME OUT FOR WOMEN than they were when they arrived.

Check out Time Out For Women coming to a city near you. Call up a friend, reserve tickets, and commit to attend. Thank me later!

I hope you are still with me...the above post started out as a brief check-in and quickly meandered all over every subject on my brain's agenda. If so....thanks for reading through this far! Have a Great Week!

Have you ever attended a Time Out For Women?

Have you made Taco Soup?

Do you like Girls Camp as an adult or did you as a child?

Are you excited to set up Christmas?

The Best Time Out

Time Out For Women

As you are planning this upcoming year, include a Time Out For Women weekend. Check to see the locations and dates available, call a friend or two or three and plan to have an all out incredible weekend. Your spirit, mind, and body will be refreshed. Your cup will be overflowing. Every minute spent at the Time Out is time well spent. Whether you go alone, with a friend, or with a group, you will return home with a fully charged battery.

Pick a city you have always wanted to visit and meet a long time friend there (I did this with BYU Women's Conference a few years ago......a wonderful way to renew an old friendship) If you have sisters, mothers, cousins, etc., this is a great Girls Family Reunion activity! Make a weekend of it. Share a hotel, stay up at night and laugh, cry, eat snacks, and talk. If long distance travel is not possible this year, find the closest city and carpool. You deserve this investment.

I have attended several Time Out For Women Conferences and BYU Women's Conference. I prefer Time Out For Women over the walking from building to building and waiting in ridiculous lines at BYU Women's Conference (although there are many things I love about BYU Women's Conference). When compared to any other Conference or program, Time Out and BYU Women's Conference are absolute bargains. The cost is a fraction of the cost for similar programs offered to other Christian Women's Organizations.

Time Out For Women is presented by LDS owned Deseret Book Company. The messages are suitable for any woman, LDS or not, married, single, young, not so young, etc. A few locations are lucky enough to have Time Out For Couples and Time Out For Teens.

Go to the site now and make plans to recharge your spirit in 2008!