Monday, August 15, 2011 WOW-Zine

This was supposed to automatically post yesterday, but didn't for some reason:
By the time you read this, I will probably be on my way over to Pendleton for our son's sentencing this afternoon. It's going to be a very hard day. There's the slight possibility the judge might show some mercy and leniency, but it's more likely that things will go hard with him, which means it will be hard on us as well as his children. This has been a very long, heart-wrenching journey these past 26 months, and I know there's a part of me that is looking forward to knowing the end result. But there's the other part of me that doesn't want to hear it if it's bad news. These past three weeks since his trial have been like someone being told they have cancer, but having to wait for weeks to find out how deadly it is and what the treatment will entail. I can't express how much the words of sorrow, understanding, and encouragement that so many of you have said to me have meant. How I would hate to be going through this on my own! I know God is using all this in my life and that I will better be able to feel your pain as you go through difficult times in your life. This is what the Lord calls us to be--a community of women who walk alongside each other in the good and bad times of life.

Wasn't the Summer Sizzle fun yesterday? Looked like we had great attendance and hopefully some new relationships were begun. The weather was very cooperative too, though when I looked in the mirror a few minutes ago I realized I should have put more sunscreen on. Thanks to each of you who provided cupcakes for the Cupcake Walk. I think we had just the right amount, and the kids (and some adults) really enjoyed the sweet treats. It takes an immense amount of effort to put on such a big party for the community, and it's always fun to see how it comes together.

Don't forget about Zumba on Tuesday and Thursday morning at 8. I think we'll continue on that schedule until the end of the month. Be sure to let me know your preferred time for any exercise class we might offer, so we can try to have something that will work for the most people. (Thanks for your input from last week, Jennifer! We'll have to see what we can work out.)

This Thursday from 11:30 to 2 PM is the WOW swim party at Karen's. Bring your sack lunch and spend a few hours relaxing with ladies you might not have seen much of over the summer. Even if you don't want to swim, feel free to show up to eat and visit. It's our last planned event of the summer. Before you know it, we'll be telling you about fun activities coming up throughout the new school year. I can hardly wait to get back into a routine!

Sherrie Ashcraft, Wapato's Women's Ministry Director
sherrieashcraft@yahoo.com    971-285-6699