One of the things I love about women’s retreats
is the break. As a homeschool mom of four, there’s nothing quite like a room full of lively female chatter that I don’t have to referee!
I love women’s retreats because that’s when I’m reminded I’m not the only one who leaves the ladies room checking to make sure I haven’t tucked in the wrong stuff and let the stuff that should stay hidden hang out! And when it does happen you have a massive group of women who will totally feel the pain with you–and then laugh until their sides hurt and the tears run freely–all because they get it.
When there’s a women’s retreat with a conference room full of ladies who know full well they left all their kids at home I love watching what happens the moment a baby who was brought along with her source of milk starts to cry. Every beautiful head in that place turns because we are all sure that baby is crying for us.
Have you ever watched the ladies at a women’s retreat stand in line for a cup of coffee or the product table? It makes me laugh every time–they are all swaying to keep their imaginary babies quiet!
Just the thought of a conference room full of estrogen can be intimidating. But the best thing is nobody argues about whether or not to use the air conditioning–it’s automatically on full blast!
I love the praise and worship time at a women’s retreat. The smiling faces, the tears flowing, and heart-felt, prayerful worship moves my heart at a deep, deep level. Singin’ with the Sisters–it’s heaven on earth!
Looking across a conference room full of women makes me wonder so many things: How many of these ladies left dishes in the sink? I wonder how many of them forgot to use deodorant today? Could it be that there is a new widow or recently diagnosed cancer patient here? Is it possible that in this large throng of God’s feminine creation there is one who would understand me and be my friend?
I love the camaraderie of women’s retreats. The conversation flows freely (and so does the coffee and hopefully the chocolate) and the laughter is contagious.
Tip: Make sure you bring tissue in your purse or you’ll smear your makeup when you laugh (or cry).
Bring a friend. The fun is great and you’ll need someone to laugh with a few months down the road when you remember what happened at the conference. Laughing alone is kind of sad!
Book far in advance. Anticipation builds excitement! It’s more fun to go when you’ve been planning for months! (And it gives hubby and kids plenty of time to get used to the idea of being Mommy-less for a few days!)
Travel light. At least on the way there. Every woman knows she’s going to do at least a little shopping… so leave room for books, CD’s, a gift bag and all the other stuff you might win or pick up. Actually–the best idea would be to bring an extra bag, or suitcase, or U-Haul!
Come early. This is the best way to get the best seat so you can take the best pictures and maybe win the best prizes. This is also good because you can stand on your seat at the front of the auditorium and wave at everyone coming in.
Desperate for God Conference
Come meet Carla and other MMCW staffers at our first women’s conference on Friday and Saturday, November 13-14th. To register visit www.womenonthemove.org.
We’re looking forward to meeting you there!
About Carla Anne Coroy
Carla Anne can be described in one word: passionate. After just a few minutes with her it is evident that her biggest passion is people. Carla Anne is an accomplished Christian author, speaker and business woman. Her favourite way to spend her free time is hanging out with her 8 kids (an even mix of sons, daughters, and in-laws) and many family “add-ons”. In winter you can find her cheering for her local hockey team and in summer she’ll be on the beach!
