This weekend I hosted 12 women for my family’s annual “Girl’s Weekend” at the ranch. This tradition began with my sisters and I traveling to my parents’ farm and spending time together while our father and husbands went hunting. Time passed, we had children, they married and had children, and the group grew. This group now includes my mom, sisters, daughters, nieces, friends, and an occasional dog or two.

We all love to cook (and eat!). We plan a craft or two, stay up late, and tease each other relentlessly. We reminisce, enjoy our time together, and look forward to future gatherings. Yes, we have moments of irritation and impatience, our political views are best not discussed, and we may not agree on the best way to help care for our mother as she considers her living arrangements … but we are family and that trumps all.

Three sisters, born of the same parents and raised in a Christian home, is more than enough for which to thank and praise my Lord. I know they may not always agree with me or understand my actions but, if I need them, they’re there for me. 

I am also blessed with sisters in Christ, my church family. I know they will also be there for me, to lift me up, hold me accountable, laugh and cry with me, and pray with and for me. This is a sisterhood of choice … Lutheran Women in Mission!

Today I’m exhausted, but I have a smile on my face and love fills my heart. I’m thanking my Father for the gift of sisters, all of them!

Today, and always, we are surrounded by God’s grace,
President Debbie