Time Out for Women

I can't even begin to describe what a great weekend I had! I'll at least try... think girls night out  x100??  That might be exaggerating a little, but I'm pretty sure it's not.  17 friends.. ready to learn, grow and change.. who maybe haven't "been out" in a while.. and ready to party hard.  I can't remember the last time I laughed this hard and had so much fun with great friends.  

I needed this mommy "time out" for so many reasons.  This "ME" time was long overdue.

Just in case you're not familiar with TOFW.. here's their description..."Time Out for Women is an inspirational event for women. Attendees are treated to messages of inspiration from respected authors and music artists. TOFW offers a day of learning, laughing, and lifting of spirits. It's a great opportunity for women everywhere to gather and get recharged through motivational messages and music." 

As Ellice concluded.. like EFY for moms.  This is my new tradition. 

The theme "Choose to Become" was perfect.  Exactly the message I needed to hear.  There wasn't one talk or musical number that didn't pierce me to the core.  I wish there were words.  

Best part is.. I started to put some of these epiphanies into action when I returned home.  I can see the benefits already.  The Spirit testified to me over and over again of the areas I need to improve and the wonderful thing is...

I'm not overwhelmed... I'm motivated. 

There's something so powerful being surrounded by thousands of women.. women trying to better their lives.. trying to be the best they can be... trying to find the good.  Women embracing their divine roles... women with the ability to change the world. 

I'm grateful for wonderful friends that I have the opportunity to share this journey with.  Friends that I know will help me remember this weekend and the promises I made to myself.  Friends that motivate me to be better on a daily basis.  Friends that help me find the good.

Special thanks to my darling friend Heather for all the fun pics.  I left my camera at home, but I'm so grateful she brought hers and captured our fun memories.

Part of our fun row.  Ready to kick off the last day.

 Our large crew..yep.. 17

Yes.. those are teary eyes.  I'm pretty sure I cried the whole time.  Good cries... Spirit-filled cries... epiphany cries... yes.. and even ugly cries. 

Right before we headed home.. uplifted.. edified.. ready to be better moms.. friends.. and followers of Christ.  Ready to become who He intends for us to become.

There are a few memories not documented... but are worth remembering...

* Breaking Dawn reenactments

* "You so dummbbbb" clips

* Hot tubbin with dear friends

* Midnight snack from "the" room service cart

* Mad dash getting ready in the morning

* Peaceful dining out experiences.. which included yummy Chinese, Red Rock and heavenly coconut gelato

* My new friend.. the sweet old lady there with her daughter, anxious to celebrate her 90th.

* "Breaking the barrier"-- still laughing.. and I apologize for asking such personal questions! Where was my filter??

* $3 bottled water.. for real?

* Facial cleansing wipe reactions

Another special thanks to my wonderful husband.. who held down the fort and had a blast with the kiddos.  Mylie and Luke were thoroughly entertained and I'm pretty sure they didn't miss me one bit! Success!

What a great weekend...I'm already looking forward to next year.