Anderson MOPS: December Meeting Recap

Some of the goodies available

This month we held a decadent celebration of motherhood and friendship. We indulged in some amazing holiday treats, enjoyed relaxed conversation, and allowed ourselves a break from the stress that often accompanies the Christmas season. We hope that those who were able to attend left rejuvenated and joyful.

Service Project

Tables assembled "Blessing Baskets" to give to families at Anmed whose children are hospitalized during the holidays. These included care items for parents spending long hours in the hospital with their child.

28-Day Challenge

Anita introduced an upcoming activity in which we hope that all MOPS moms will participate. Details are contained in the "Becoming Starry-Eyed" book that was included in this year's membership kit. If you have a chance before our January meeting, when we will kick off the challenge, find your book and give yourself a preview!

Devotional

Margaret spoke about the difficulty of making room for God, particularly during this busy time of year. Here is a small portion of the excerpt she shared from Christian blogger Chrystal Evans Hurst:

Margaret speaks candidly about making room for God

"I ... often find myself in life situations that feel like a bad dream. I might be uncomfortable … stuck … in emotional or physical pain. Sometimes I find myself stressed out, overwhelmed, without peace, lonely, worried or unhappy.
Do I believe this? “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, To all who call upon Him in truth” (Psalm 145:18, NASB). Absolutely.
Do I believe “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1, NASB)? Sure I do. But I have to admit many times I settle for the ache in my heart or the anxiety in my head. I don’t immediately reach out for the Presence available to me.

...While we can desire more of God’s presence, knowing He desires the same, we have to make room for Him."

To read more, visit Ms. Hurst's blog here.

New Mentor Mom

Joining Ms. Jan and Ms. Mandy as a mentor mom for our group is Dianne Pray. Hailing from Indiana, she spent 30+ years as a special education teacher in a suburb of Chicago. She currently lives in Seneca, where she spends her free time quilting, crafting, singing in the church choir, and stepping in to help out with her granddaughters whenever she can!