This whole having girlfriends is a new venture for me. I’ve spent most of my life dodging girls because most of them are mean, catty and full of gossip. Maybe I’m not being fair in saying "most" of them… what I mean is MOST of the girls/women I’ve encountered in my life.

Until this past year, I’ve only had a handful of good girlfriends (when I say "handful," I mean three) and was deathly afraid of meeting more. I believed that women were nice to my face, then would turn around and trash me in every way possible. So, I kept a safe distance.

God has blessed me with a plethora of new REAL girlfriends. I don’t make these ones up in my mind. It’s not like I’m the only one that can see them.

It really started when I joined Sunset MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) last year. I met a great core of real women/Moms that truly cared about who I was and what I needed as a new Mom. They don’t take offense to my unfiltered thoughts that unfortunately find their way out of my mouth and they appreciate me for being my authentic self.

Besides the "Fearsome Foursome" and the ladies in my Care Group, these are the girls I would probably contact if something big happened in my life. These are the women that shape my life and pour into me ways to be a better mother and a better wife.

Tonight, I got to spend some time with Paula Smith and Lindsey Goldman (who are in my MOMS group). We decided to go to happy hour at Stanford’s because food is cheaper. Yay for cheap food!!! We spent 2 hours just talking about random stuff and they really encouraged me in many ways that surprised me and made me glad to have them as friends.

I was reminded tonight of how gracious God is. He has not only blessed me with a beautiful family, but He’s given me the desires of my heart in my girlfriends I’ve never had as a kid/teenager. I really never thought this would happen. Maybe some of you have always had girlfriends out there… but to me… this is a HUGE deal.

So… I’m going to steal Jay McKenney’s idea and do a shout out right now to some girlies in no particular "favorite" order (if you I miss you, don’t take it personally… it’s past midnight):

LaShaunna: for rockin’ with me for over 12 years. My first real example of grace. My favorite roommate (besides Brian and Chance). Always have the best memories of choir tour and Cultus Lake. What were we thinking??? We’re in it for the long haul.

Serena: for praying with me and for me. For all the beautiful pictures you’ve taken and will continue to take. For advice on things I know nothing about. For your heart.

Alli Rally: for the personal list of "how not to have morning sickness" when you barely knew me and now for the time you set aside for me… I know you’re busy and you live WAY out there… but you choose to take time for me. Plus, you drag around your big camera so I don’t feel like the only paparazzi in the restaurant.

JSizzle: for your courage and forthrightness. I love how you take the time to measure out my kitchen and go stone shopping with me when you could easily just send me on my own little way. For trusting me with your kiddies when you leave for your 10 year (btw, they will all know funny phrases and dances when you come home).

Rezzle: I don’t think I’ve ever hung out with you WITHOUT rolling on the floor laughing. Seriously, your laugh is contagious and I don’t know how I could make it through life without your stories. I love when you call and sing your greeting to me, even when it’s on voicemail for Brian to enjoy.

Janette: My mentor and cheerleader. Every word out of your mouth should be recorded and put into a book. It would be a best seller. You are so full of wisdom and grace. You have adopted me as your own daughter. You’ve been there for me in every way (medically, spiritually, emotionally, financially, etc.). I am so glad you are in my life.

Paula: For moving across the street from me against your better judgement and trusting me with your personal thoughts and fears. You’ve shown me how to get up after life packs you a big punch in the face and fight back.

Lara: You’re a hero. I don’t know anyone who’s endured what you have and yet show grace no matter the circumstances. You’re a great example of how to be a great mother.

J-Fo: Always a halo of grace for me… and BOY do I need it on a regular basis. I’ve known you 4 years now and you’ve always supported me, even when I’m not so sure I deserved your support. You’re brilliant.

Julie: I want to be a nicer person because of you. I try to hoard every word you say because it’s like GOLD… every moment I spend with you teaches me mercy and compassion towards others.

Jos: Girl makes me laugh. Loyal and supportive with great advice. Best thing about her is she’ll do pranks with me. Word!

Lindsey: You actually stopped by to trick or treat. That made me feel really important that you went out of your way to make a special stop to see us. You always have valuable and intelligent thoughts to offer. I can’t wait to spend more time with you… mostly because you crack me up.

Carrie Jean: Keeps me young, makes me laugh and laughs at my stupid jokes even when it’s not funny. You probably read my blog more consistently than anyone else. Well… all except…

Melinda: You check my blog more than once a day. You always have some tasty morsel of truth and encouragement for me. You make me yummy treats when you visit. You visit. You pray for me. Simply by existing, you show me that prayer is not only powerful but answered often. I have a lot to learn from you.

Last but not least… my sisters:

Renee: We’re on a fun adventure aren’t we? We have a lot to make up for from childhood, but at least we can say we are making the strides. I am proud of you for stepping up to the challenge of responsibility when a lot was stacked against you. You are one funny girl!

Helen: You may easily be the smartest girl I’ve ever known. You often show me the effectiveness of being a peacemaker. You have some serious kahunas for dating a black guy while G-ma is still alive. I loved being able to share HB03 with you. So privileged to have had the chance to serve beside you.

For all that I’ve missed, please forgive me. I’m not used to having this many girlfriends. I’m still trying to figure out what to do with myself in all this. I need to go to bed. Tonight… I’m going to bed feeling blessed.

Thank you, my lovely wenches!!!