How this all works...

Dial back to about 1999, some young women leaders are praying that I would consider being a small group leader to high school girls in the Student Impact ministry at church. I didn't know this then, but as God would have ordained, I volunteered for a few events and then, with Laurie's whole hearted approval, jumped in.

My first real event was Blast, a weekend retreat, where I was assigned a group of young girls, mostly sophomores and juniors in high school. From our first meeting I knew this was going to be cool and it still is. We have stayed connected even through their college years. I marvel that some how I thought that I could help them through the turbulent teens only to realize that they have seen me through the turbulent times of Laurie's death.

Yesterday was the wedding of one of those girls, Lisa. I was at the bachlorette party Thursday night, so fun. A cruise on Lake Michigan with these young women, dinner at Ed Debevic's. And yesterday the ceremony, the reception, with Pete as the DJ and me giving the blessing... full circle, dancing with these amazing young women, each so unique. God knew those many years ago, I would need a special circle of girls, not to replace Laurie, but to help me through each phase she would be in. And they have been there...Lisa, Elizabeth, Lauren, Karen, Mandy, Alex, Kim, Vanessa. I love you, girly-girls.