I'm writing this post from my son's bedroom floor.  He has been struggling with night terrors and simply can't close his eyes peacefully without one of us by his side.  So here I sit, encouraging him without words... just by my nearness.

Encouragement is such a powerful thing and we all need it.  For us moms it's especially true when times are most challenging; when finances have added stress to an already tense marriage, when sleep deprivation has taken it's toll both physically and emotionally, when negative self talk has replaced all that is true and left you feeling broken, empty and unloved.  Have you ever received a casual hug from a friend and turned to a puddle of tears?  Encouragement.  We need the nearness of a friend by our allegorical bedsides when night terrors come calling.  

How blessed I am to have a small army of Encouraging friends;  they are partners in this journey we are all on, as mothers, wives, daughters, sisters, and women...

Today I gratefully celebrated many of them with my annual "Barnabas Tea."

Barnabas was the man who brought Paul to the apostles after his conversion, then Barnabas continued to encourage Paul throughout his ministry.  The ladies I served tea to this afternoon have been Barnabas' in my life this past year, bringing me back to good teaching when needed it, and supporting me as I step out in ministry.   

We had scones, creme and curd; a mixed green salad with balsamic pecans, crimson raisins, and rotisserie chicken; egg salad with bacon and brie; and for dessert pear pie and chocolate fudge.

Since there are so many others who should have been around my table this afternoon, I've included my pear pie recipe below - it's sure to encourage your taste buds in the very least.  

I also want to encourage my first two Giveaway book recipients, Laurie W. and Nora H. Your books will be sent tomorrow!  Thank you one and all for posting your comments, encouraging my heart with your feedback, and allowing me to feel a sense of community as I write my way through this blessed journey.

PEAR PIE

1 unbaked pie shell

3-4 ripe pears (peeled and sliced)

2 large eggs

3/4 tsp. vanilla

1/4 cup butter (melted) 

1 cup sugar

1/4 cup flour

Beat eggs until frothy.

Mix sugar and flour and add to eggs, beating well.

Beat in vanilla and butter.

Layer pears in bottom of pie crust and pour mixture over the top.

Bake @ 325 for 50 minutes.  

If pie is still jiggly, turn oven off and let sit for an additional 15 minutes.