Friends.

I absolutely adore this picture of E and her two friends. I really cannot imagine that (aside from better lighting) a picture could capture the three of their personalities any more perfectly. And I am incredibly thankful for the families represented in this picture that God has allowed us to 'grow up' with the past few years - the things I have learned and the encouragement that I have received as a result of being in communion and friendship with the moms of these two girls has truly blessed me.

As a mom and a wife, it's been vital to be surrounded by other moms that are like-minded; doing their best to raise their children in the Lord and striving to be a wives that serve and respect their husbands. I've learned so much from watching them parent with forgiving tenderness at times and firm discipline at others, seeing them submit with ease one moment and with difficulty the next - knowing that at each turn we have a safety net of understanding that though we don't always get it right, we are always - in our hearts - truly wanting to become more like Christ in our roles.

Though it's probably unrealistic, I hold hope in my heart that these girls will stay in touch throughout the years. But even if they don't, I will be forever grateful for the time that we have had and will hang on to the memories they (we) make together.