Our Vacation

Well, we are back from our long vacation at Camp of the Woods in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York. We had a wonderful time! No TV, no computers, long conversations by the campfire, time to meander in nature, no dishes, and no errands were just what we all needed. We ate a lot, exercised a lot (because we ate a lot!), laughed a lot, relaxed a lot, and had a blast!!!

It's funny, I'm not really a camp type person but there is just something special about Camp of the Woods. While I was there, I went ahead and asked the Lord if my home in Heaven could be set in a scene like Camp of the Woods. As a matter of fact, I also asked if my friend Kim Mather could decorate it for me in her signature Adirondack, rustic style. I just love her house!!! If I can get her to send me some pictures, I'll post them on my blog. You will love it too!

Her husband makes Adirondack type furniture. He literally goes out in the woods, cuts the trees that he needs, goes into his basement and returns with amazing furniture. He has made almost everything in Kim's house. So, last year, I ordered two end tables for my den and picked them up this year. Here is a photo of one of them:

Camp has asked my husband and I to do our marriage conference series at Camp again next year. So, if you are looking for a great vacation for your family where you can make a good investment in your marriage and have a wonderful time with your kids, I would encourage you to consider Camp of the Woods. We'll be there Aug. 2-9th, 2008. For more information, you can log on to http://www.camp-of-the-woods.org/
I hope to see you there!

Somewhere in PA

This is the week my family looks forward to all year... It's our Camp of the Woods week. Since it takes us close to 17 hours to drive to this beautiful camp nestled in the Adirondack mountains of upstate New York, we break the trip up by stopping somewhere in PA. Sadly, my boys aren't with us this year as they were hired by Disney to do a concert in Orlando. But I'm sure they will have the time of their lives with Mickey! So, here I sit in somewheresville, PA waiting for my three daughters to finish getting ready. Then my husband's job will be load up all the stuff that it takes for three little women and one grown woman to get pretty. We are all still prissy... even camp week!

My job this morning was to walk down the street and find us breakfast. I felt like a true Proverbs 31 woman as the part of that verse, "she brings her food from afar," was ringing true for me today. I even found a little coffee shop that was willing to make my high maintenance coffee order...
Fat-free, sugar free, single shot, 7 pump, grande, vanilla latte, extra hot, hold the foam please.

Really I am not typically high-maintenance but I do know how I like my coffee! If I could just hop behind the counter and make it myself, I would be a happy girl. But barista school is not one I have time to attend for now, so I just keep smiling while I rattle off my order. But hey, don't knock it till you've tried it!

I have a quick funny to share before we must hit the road. This is a BIG Announcement: I have a son with a driver's license! Yes, indeed, I now have something I've dreamed of forever... a personal driver. Ever seen the movie, "Driving with Miss Daisey"? Well, that's me and I love it. Jackson only has his learner's permit so it is the best of both worlds. He can't have full access to the car yet, but I don't have to drive everywhere anymore!!! I love it.

But here's the funny... during part of the process where I was not with him, the DMV officer asked Jackson if he wanted to be an organ donor. Only having been in America 6 years, he had no clue what this man was asking. His quizzical look prompted the officer to go on to explain, "you know do you want to donate your heart, kidneys, or liver? If so we'll indicate that on your license." Well, Jackson was horrified at the visual that popped into his mind. He thought the man was asking if they could take some of his vital organs right then and there. When he got back over to me, the look on his face told me something wasn't quite right. He said, "Mom, we gotta get out of here. These people are weird! They want me to give them my organs!" I laughed and tried to explain while HE drove us home! Watch out Charlotte... when we get back home, we'll be all over the road... literally.

Well, I'll keep you posted on our camp adventures this week. In the meantime, go try my coffee and let me know what think! Smiles!

The Empty Podium

Last Sunday I was scheduled to speak at the annual AWSA Golden Scrolls Awards Banquet for writers, speakers, publishers, and others in the Christian Book Industry. Right before I got up to speak, the coordinators of the event paid tribute to one of their own that had just graduated from the dusty roads of earth to the glory of heaven.

Bonnie Keen sang a moving song while they showed pictures of our friend, Janice Chaffee, who seemed way too young and vivacious to truly be gone. Though the song was lovely what really captivated my heart was the empty podium on the stage. This podium just one year before had been occupied by Janice. She had surprised everyone last year by showing up with hugs, smiles, laughter, and a soldier's resolve from battling cancer for quite some time. She was sick and frail but determined to live her legacy well to the end.

Now the podium stood there with a microphone perfectly positioned for someone to speak... but no words were coming from the stage. As the song filled the room with words so appropriately describing Janice and her life, tears filled most of our eyes. Though her podium was silent the legacy of her life that we all carried in our hearts spoke loud and clear.

Lord, remind me of the legacy that I am building every day. May my actions and reactions never betray the woman you've called me to be. I pray that I am known for laughter, perspective, discernment, fun, faithfulness, integrity, and genuineness. Keep these characteristics always in the front of my mind so as life marches on, I stay the course toward the legacy I so desire. Lord, more than the words I ever speak from a podium, may the message of my life make You and those I love, smile.

Evan Almighty

Yesterday, I took my kids to see Evan Almighty. To be honest, I wasn't expecting much: a few hours of sitting in a cool place, eating one of my favorite treats...very salty popcorn, and simply being entertained in a very shallow but funny way- is what I expected. What I got instead was one of the most God honoring messages that I've ever seen Hollywood produce.

Honestly, I was moved by this movie. I think it is because it resonates with the passion of my heart to listen to God, do what He says no matter what, and trust Him at all costs with the outcome. There were several times when I wanted a notepad to jot down very profound thoughts and quotes. I'm not kidding! I know the star of this movie jumped into stardom in a role that was less than tasteful... I think the movie was 40 year old virgin. (In all fairness, I never saw that movie and don't know much about it except that I heard it was quite crude in places so I skipped it.) However, I feel certain that everyone that worked on the "Evan Almighty" movie had to be moved by its message somehow.

I would highly recommend this movie as one the whole family should see and then take time to discuss afterwards. Make sure you stay for the very last shots of the crew and the stars from the movie doing what Evan calls, "The Dance." Oh my stars... it is simply hilarious. I can do this dance... no joke... I think I actually look good doing this dance... it embarrasses the stink out of my kids but I just think they are jealous... seriously, I wish I could show you. Maybe one day I'll post a picture...not!
Smiling and thanking God for getting his message out on the Big Screen...

Contact Me

To contact Lysa TerKeurst, please feel free to e-mail her assistant Holly Good, at Lysa1@Proverbs31.org .

The Power of a Pause

I was very touched today by reading a blog about how my book,"What Happens When Women Say Yes to God", inspired someone. It once again reminded me of the power of a pause. In our fast paced world, pausing is not easy. It can be hard to remember to do. It can be inconvenient. It can require more than our overflowing schedules will allow . But it can also be the very thing that God wants us to do the most.

Pausing allows us to catch our breath and take note of what is right in front of us. A child's joy over some accomplishment. A quickly fading sunset. A cloud in the shape of an elephant. A beautifully crafted flower. A friend in need of encouragement. Or, as my friend's blog told about, an elderly man who had probably not been noticed by anyone in quite a while.

She paused.

She noticed. She listened. She obeyed. She spoke. She helped.

She encouraged.

She experienced God.

Here's the note I wrote to her after reading about her story. I pray we all take more time to simply...

pause.

Dear Beth,
I am so very touched by your obedience story. And, even more importantly, I'm sure God is as well. Remember, our job is obedience... God's job is outcome. I suspect God asking you to help this man had less to do with him needing physical help and more to do with this man simply needing someone to pause and notice him.

There is such power in pausing.

What if that man had prayed and asked the Lord yesterday to please have one person during his day acknowledge him in some way... and out of all the world, God picked you. Not because the job was particularly difficult or that you would even accomplish it with absolute finesse... but you were chosen for one glorious reason. God knew your heart was in a place to simply say yes. And that my friend is awesome.

If you would like to read Beth's story for yourself go to: http://www.elizabethingersoll.blogspot.com/.
And on this beautiful day of celebrating our country I think taking a pause to thank God for where we live and ask for the protection of those that are fighting for our freedom is especially appropriate. I'm off to do just that.

Unreserved Joy

When is the last time I reacted to Christ the way my daughter, Brooke, reacted when she saw her gifts Christmas morning? I loved watching her throw her hands up and from the depths of her happy heart exclaim, "Wow! This is great!" As her parent, seeing her unreserved joy just made me want to give her more good gifts.

I think God is the same way. So, today, I'm giving God my unreserved joy. I'm going to refuse to focus on the distractions and aggravations that will surely tug for my attention.

Instead of looking at the bright sun and hot temperatures and complaining about it being sticky and muggy... I'm going to throw my hands in the air and thank God for the warmth that allows things to grow green and beautiful.

Instead of mentally beating myself up for once again not having a car that is washed and clean, I'm going to throw my hands in the air and praise God I have a car that gets me where I need to go.

Instead of focusing on the cellulite and stretch marks on my hips, I'm going to throw my hands in the air and praise God for the privilege of being able to participate in the miracle of life.

And instead of rolling my eyes when my husband gives me that 'romantic look' tonight, I'm going to throw my arms around him and tell him how thankful I am to have a man like him to love. (Maybe I should have you pray he doesn't have heart failure in that moment...smiles!)

Today will be my "joy" day as I focus on seeing the many, many gifts God has for me and thank Him for each and every one. Lord, forgive me for not rejoicing and worshipping you more. May this one day commitment become the permanent attitude of my heart. "Wahhhhoooooo. Wow, God... You are Great!"

The Oprah Show

Many of you have contacted me asking how you can see the interview we did on the Oprah show.

Unfortunately, the links are no longer available. But you can click here to read about the show on the Oprah website.

My greatest hope from being on this show is that people can see how incredible it is to say yes to our amazing God. All I can say is get ready for amazing things to happen when you simply say yes!

Lysa's Books

To order your copy of any of these resources go to http://www.proverbs31.org/. Ordering from Proverbs 31 Ministries helps support this vital ministry for women. Thank you! May you find great encouragement, challenging insights, and life lessons that will linger for a lifetime through the pages of these books.


Spiritual Growth for Women:

Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl:
$12.99
Lysa knows what it's like to consider God as just another thing on her to-do list. For years she went through the motions of a Christian life: Go to church. Pray. Be nice. Longing for a deeper connection between what she knew in her head and her everyday reality, she wanted to personally experience God's presence.

Drawing from her own remarkable story of step-by-step faith, Lysa invites you to uncover the spiritually exciting life we all yearn for. With her trademark wit and spiritual wisdom, Lysa will help you:

*Learn how to make a Bible passage come alive in your own devotion time.
*Replace doubt, regret, and envy with truth, confidence and praise.
*Stop the unhealthy cycles of striving and truly learn to love who you are and what you've been given.
*Discover how to have inner peace and security in any situation
*Sense God responding to your prayers

The adventure God has in store for your life must might blow you away!




What Happens When Women Say Yes to God:
$9.99
Total obedience to Christ can transform an ordinary life into a remarkable journey. This is the hope found in the liberating message of What Happens When Women Say Yes to God. Lysa shares inspiring stories from her own life, along with compelling biblical insights, as she describes what it means to partner with God in all decisions and actions. This book reveals how honoring God produces a life of deep joy and great purpose. It is an invitation to seek God and boldly ask for and expect more from the Christian life.
(This is an updated release of Radically Obedient, Radically Blessed. A Bible study is included.)



What Happens When Women Walk in Faith:
$11.99

This is Lysa's best selling book and has been featured on Focus on the Family, the 700 Club and Oprah! If you want to be challenged, changed and encouraged like never before, be sure to order your copy of Lysa's exciting book, "What Happens When Women Walk in Faith." You'll discover the five phases you'll go through when seeking to walk closer to God and dare to venture toward the dreams He's put in your heart. This book includes a Bible study, which makes it ideal for individual devotions or a group Bible Study.


Living Life on Purpose:
$13.99
Every woman longs to live up to her full, God-given potential. But the hectic nature of your life may leave you struggling just to keep your head above water. Fortunately, you can do more than simply survive. In this wonderful book, Lysa outlines how you can develop a Life Plan that will help you. More than just helping you get a better handle on your schedule, your Life Plan will allow you to enjoy a life this is truly well-lived. Great for individual or group study.






Who Holds the Key to Your Heart:
$12.99
If you have believed in a life filled with the abundance of Christ but haven't known how to find it or it you have felt unworthy to even dream of this, then this book is for you. Lysa offers practical tools for navigating through the deepest, darkest places of our hearts. Here, God can reveal His truth and set us free from the bondage of sin. The truth is that God loves us, He'll never leave us and we always have hope in Him. If you have ever struggled with shame, rejection, depression, or addictions... read this book and watch God replace each of these with love, acceptance, joy and freedom! Perfect for individual or group study.


Parenting and Marriage:

The Bathtub is Overflowing But I Feel Drained:
$11.99
Lysa TerKeurst, mother of five and President of Proverbs 31 Ministries, knows the bouts of "mommy stress" that come with parenting and managing a home and a life. From her own experience and conversations with hundreds of other women, Lysa shares how mothers can release their mommy guilt when they:
*turn to God for support, peace, guidance, and patience
* stop blaming their parenting every time a child does wrong
* let kids live with the consequences of their bad choices
* simplify life to create breathing room
* quit comparing themselves to the "perfect" moms
Overflowing with practical ideas, short Bible studies, and plenty of encouragement, this inspiring resource will help overwhelmed mothers turn to God's grace as their lifeline.


Capture His Heart- for Wives to read:
$9.99
A truly fulfilling marriage involves two people focusing on each others' needs rather than their own. Lysa TerKeurst, president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, has written a practical guide for each spouse that will open their eyes to the needs, desires, and longings of the other. She offers eight essential criteria for capturing the heart of your spouse, with creative tips on how to accomplish them. Having a great marriage takes time, creativity, and willingness. Capture His Heart and Capture Her Heart are excellent tools for couples to do together, in a small group setting, or even for pre-marital counseling.


Capture Her Heart-For Husbands to read:
$9.99
A truly fulfilling marriage involves two people focusing on each others' needs rather than their own. Lysa TerKeurst, president of Proverbs 31 Ministries, has written a practical guide for each spouse that will open their eyes to the needs, desires, and longings of the other. She offers eight essential criteria for capturing the heart of your spouse, with creative tips on how to accomplish them. Having a great marriage takes time, creativity, and willingness. Capture His Heart and Capture Her Heart are excellent tools to help spouses run this very worthwhile race.



Balancing Life:

A Woman's Secret to a Balanced Life:
$12.99
Women have written to tell us this book is as fun to read as your favorite fiction novel... only it is about real life, your life! You'll feel like you have finally found that mentor you've been longing for! From the leadership of Proverbs 31 Ministries comes this essential book for every Christian woman who wants a more balanced life.Using the principles of the Proverbs 31 woman, the authors invite you to learn seven vital ways you can prioritize your life:Revere Jesus Christ as Lord. Love, honor, and respect your husband. Nurture your children. Create a loving environment for your family and friends. Faithfully oversee your time and money. Mentor others and develop Godly friendships. Extend yourself to meet community needs.


Women's Leadership:

Leading Women to the Heart of God:
$14.99
Building a vibrant, God-honoring women's ministry is an enormous challenge. There are so many issues to consider and points of view to incorporate. This book is a comprehensive compilation of articles by leading Christian women addressing key areas of women's ministry. The topics range from "Your Own Intimate Life with God," to "Building Your Confidence to Lead and Teach," to "Developing Leaders within Your Ministry." Anyone involved in women's ministry must have a copy of this essential handbook!

Speaking Topics

Here are the messages that Lysa is currently speaking on. However, she feels very strongly about developing messages within a package that will best connect with the audience that she's speaking to. So, please feel free to contact me with your specific needs and we can work together to develop your ideal program.

Blessings,
Holly Good
Assistant to Lysa
Holly@Proverbs31.org


Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl:

Lysa knows what it's like to consider God just another thing on her to-do list. For years she went through the motions of a Christian life: Go to church. Pray. Be nice. Longing for a deeper connection between what she knew in her head and her everyday reality, she wanted to personally experience God's presence.

Drawing from her own remarkable story of step-by-step faith, with her trademark wit and spiritual wisdom, Lysa invites you to uncover the spiritually exciting life we all yearn for. Session titles: When God Hurts My Feelings, The Most Powerful Two Word Prayer, Say Goodbye to Canned Faith, Ruined For Good.

Lysa will help you:

• Learn how to make a Bible passage come alive in your own devotion time.
• Replace doubt, regret and envy with truth, confidence and praise.
• Stop the unhealthy cycles of striving and truly learn to love who you are.
• Discover how to have inner peace and security in any situation.
• Sense God responding to your prayers.
  
  
  

What Happens When Women Say Yes To God:

What if you could wake up every morning with a sense of anticipation? What if the everyday could transform into the extraordinary? Join Lysa as she shares how to experience God in unexpected ways, learn to discern His voice, and make your faith come alive. Her message has led thousands of women to:

• Build personal, two-way conversations with God.
• Develop a hunger for getting into God's Word every day and applying its truths.
• Enjoy blessing others by seeing inconveniences as opportunities.
• Get involved in the unique adventure that God has created for you.

"Lysa Terkeurst is the best speaker we have ever had! Her life stories spoke to all of our women~ women of all ages and all seasons of life. We are still hearing incredible stories of life change from women who came home and put into practice the Biblical principles of faith that Lysa taught. She was a dream to work with and was sensitive to the needs of our group, while being open to the Spirit to lead her as she spoke and ministered. Lysa is real and transparent. She will not only move you to tears and laughter, but to a closer and more authentic walk with Christ."

"Lysa, I can not thank you enough for all of the wonderful testimony you have shared and for turning your life to God and following His calling for you to minister to women and people such as me! I have always been a believer in God, but never knew how to take it to the next level. I practiced what you taught me and have been amazed at how faithful God is. God is truly AMAZING!!!"

No More Shame (Lysa's Testimony)

Many women walk alone haunted by the shame of past mistakes or the accusing lies of Satan. We think that by hiding these hurts that they'll just fade away. Instead, they quietly erode our most precious relationships. Lysa has experienced this pain, and tells the inspiring story of how Jesus transformed her journey. Her powerful presentation guides women to:

• Stop shame from blocking God's blessings.
• Allow God to heal any wound and break free from control of the past.
• Share healing with other hurting women to redeem painful memories.
• Rediscover the joy that helps keep life in perspective.

"I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for leading us in a wonderful spiritual retreat. EVERYONE I talked to, both young and old, thoroughly enjoyed your talks. What a blessing to have you share your heart and what Christ has done in your heart and mind. You were such an inspiration to everyone!!"


Lysa's Adoption Story

Lysa and her family chose to say yes to something that changed not only their lives but countless others as well. Their story has garnered national media attention from Good Morning America, O Magazine, The Oprah Winfrey Show and many others. Not only will her personal story inspire you, but you will also learn from Lysa a simple yet profound prayer that will prepare your heart daily so you don't miss His amazing plan for your life.

Thank-Full, Fear-Less!

What if you had the confidence to face anything that happens? What if you knew that good could come out of any cirumstance? As a wife, mother, and ministry leader, Lysa is no stranger to the fears that women face. This encouraging message will strengthen your faith in God as Lysa shows how to:

• Reduce controlling fear by placing your deepest desires into His hands.
• Embrace a sense of worth by realizing your desirability to Christ.
• Apply proven Biblical examples to modern-day decisions.
• Make your walk with God an exhilarating journey.

"I just want to thank you for the work you do. I was blessed with the opportunity to meet you 2 1/2 years ago when you came to California to speak at our church's women's retreat. Having the opportunity to sit and eat dinner with you was a special time for me. I was so excited when I found the Encouragement for Today messages and am taken back to that retreat every single time that I see your name on the message of the day. That retreat profoundly touched my life and I just wanted to thank you. May God richly bless every day of your life as you bless the rest of us."

Developing the Character to Match My Calling

God never meant for us to reduce Him to something on our to do list. He wants a thriving, vibrant relationship with us where we experience Him throughout our day. This session will breathe new life in your journey with God as you:

• Gain new perspectives on the importance of the events in your everday life.
• Better understand the pathway to your calling.
• Learn to trust God in deeper ways than ever before.

Pregnancy Care Center Banquets and Adoption Fundraising Events:

After finding great healing in her local Crisis Pregnancy Center's post abortion Bible study, Lysa has gone on to be a voice for the unborn. Sharing her own tragic choice of abortion in podiums throughout the country, she is determined to help women heal from the shame of abortion and even more urgently to help those in a crisis pregnancy to choose life. Lysa has also gained a unique perspective on the beauty of adoption since adopting her sons from Liberia, Africa. Her story has inspired audiences nationwide, including coverage on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

Here is what some directors had to say after having Lysa at their events:

"To listen to people talk, the best thing we’ve ever done was invite Lysa to Abilene. We’ve been complimented, praised to the hilt and chewed out (by a person who said I didn’t tell her how good it was going to be so she hadn’t cancelled a standing (big) hair appointment to attend). Congratulations. Well deserved praise!"

"Lysa was wonderful and her personal assistant, Holly Good was an angel! God used Lysa's message to challenge us all and the response was incredible."

Leading Women to the Heart of God:

Wise leadership is crucial to the success of any Women's Ministry. Hear Lysa's adventure of being called to lead Proverbs 31 Ministries, which encourages over 200,000 women across North America. Her seminar uncovers five crucial choices every leader must make, plus the secrets to developing a dynamic team. Lysa will empower you to:

• Attract more women to get involved with your ministry.
• Identify gaps on your leadership team and learn how to fill those positions.
• Show women how God can turn their past pain into effective ministry.
• Distinguish God's direction for your ministry with confidence.

Here's what one attendee recently said after participating in a leadership event with Lysa:

"I'm still basking in the love and lessons that I learned. The presence of the Lord was tangible and His love was ministering to each woman there. Thank you, Lysa, for serving the Lord and serving us."

The Bathtub is Overflowing, but I Feel Drained:

The journey of motherhood is a constant adventure. As a mother of five, Lysa know about the 'mommy stress' that comes with managing a home and a life. In this workshop, Lysa shares with humor and compassion how to release your stress and find refreshment. Whether your kids are toddlers or teens, she will help you:

• Feel a calm assurance that God is active in your parenting.
• Overcome 'to-do' list tyranny and free more time for deeper relationships.
• Implement proven strategies to let consequences scream, so you don't have to.
• Replace 'Wonder-Woman' syndrome by taking God's provision moment-by-moment.

"Lysa is one of my favorite authors and speakers. This book is definitely her best! It deals with a mother's heart which is where successful mothering begins. Lysa's transparency endears her to her readers until they feel they know her personally and her love for our Savior encourages them to know Him better. This is a must read for any mother who needs to know that she is not alone on this crazy journey of motherhood."

A Christmas to Remember:

Hear the amazing story of how God took a simple Christmas prayer and changed Lysa's entire family. Her message leads women back to the true meaning of Christmas, and brings many to Christ for the first time. Your holiday event will be enhanced as Lysa:

• Reveals how small acts of trusting God can lead to unexpected miracles.
• Moves women from going through the motions to having a joy-filled Christmas.
• Presents the gospel in a way that appeals to any woman.

8 Things Every Wife Should Know:

Marriage is an adventure that doesn't come with easy-to-follow instructions. Lysa shares personal stories from her own marriage that went from failing to fulfilling. Her seminar covers eight basic desires of your husband and practical ways to capture his heart today. Fall in love all over again as Lysa teaches you how to:

• Increase the creative romance with your husband.
• Embolden your husband to confidently overcome challenges.
• Build a deeper level of life-long trust in your relationship.
• Understand how God empowers and protects your marriage.

This Crazy Little Thing Called Love:

Building a great marriage isn't a matter of chance, it's a matter of choice. Lysa and her husband, Art, share creative ways to make good choices as they relate to expectations, communication, intimacy, and more. This seminar is filled with humor, guidance, and truth that help couples discover how love can last for a lifetime. Art and Lysa will help you:

• Better understand each others needs thus reducing your conflict.
• Rediscover the things that will make your marriage fun.
• Identify and eliminate the things that are hindering your intimacy.
• Put divorce proof tactics in place to strengthen the legacy you are creating.

"This Crazy Little Thing Called Love" sessions include:
Great Expectations, Great Sex-pectations, Bridging the Communication Gap, Giving Your Family a Spiritual Vision, and The Legacy of Lasting Relationships.

Speaking Schedule

On the road again... I just can't wait to get on the road again. Oh, wait, I promised in my first post to leave the country music behind. Sorry, I have a hard time hiding my roots, smiles!

Anyhow, I'd love to meet you in person so here is a list of where I'll be and when. Hope to see you soon!

If you are interested in booking Lysa for an event, please contact her assistant Holly Good at Holly@Proverbs31.org



November 13-14, 2009
Trinity Baptist Church
Lake Charles, LA
337/480-1555
http://www.tbclc.org/

November 15, 2009
Lifesong for Orphans
Community Orphans Awareness Event
Pontiac, IL
http://www.lifesongfororphans.org/

November 30 - December 2, 2009
Temple Baptist Church
Treasures of Christmas - Women's Outreach Event
Lodi, CA
http://www.tbclodi.com/
209/369-1948


December 4-5, 2009
Covenant Presbyterian Church
Simsbury, CT
http://www.cpcbarn.org/
860/658-9772

January 11-12, 2010
Hope Presbyterian Church
Cordova, TN
http://www.hopepres.com/

January 13, 2010
Central Church
Collierville, TN
901/255-8113
http://www.centralchurch.com/

January 15-16, 2010
Blue Valley Baptist Church
Overland Park, KS
http://bluevalleybaptist.org/moreabundantly

January 23, 2010
Upper Cumberland Women's Conference
Cookeville, TN
http://www.livingisforeternity.com/

January 29-31, 2010
East Cooper Baptist Church
Pawleys Island, SC
http://www.ecbconline.com//pages/page.asp?page_id=86890

February 5-6, 2010
Fellowship Bible Church
Roswell, GA
770/641-5604
http://www.fbconline.org/

February 11, 2010
Life Impact Network - A Woman's Place
Luncheon
Tampa, FL
http://www.lifeimpactnetwork.org/


February 12, 2010
For the Girls International Inc
St. Petersburg, FL
727/243-7198
http://www.ftgi.org/FTGI/Awaken_2010.html

February 26-27, 2010
The Belcher Center, Letourneau University
Macedonia Baptist Church
Longview, TX
http://www.macbc.org/SpecialEvents/Feminar/tabid/74/Default.aspx
903/758-6785

March 4-5, 2010
Florida Baptist Children's Homes
Women of Compassion luncheon
Fundraising event
Lakeland, FL
jboyd@fbchomes.org
Invitation only

March 5-6, 2010
E-Women Conference
Tulsa, OK
http://www.ewomen.net/conference/2010-03-05/mabee-center

March 12-13, 2010
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
Mount Vernon, OH
H. Tracht
www.mvnu.edu/womensaux
740/392-9000 ext. 4282

March 18/20, 2010
Life Line Pregnancy Center
Fundraiser/Women's breakfast
Wilmington, NC
910/799-0270
http://www.lifelinewilmington.org/

March 25, 2010
Care Net Pregnancy Center of Southern Maryland
Lexington, MD
301/737-4604

March 27, 2010
Westfield Evangelical Free Church
Westfield, MA
413/562-1504

April 9-10, 2010
E-Women Conference
Pensacola, FL
http://www.ewomen.net/conference/2010-04-09/pensacola-civic-center

April 16-17, 2010
Ridgedale Baptist Church
1831 Hickory Valley Rd
Chattanooga, TN 37421
http://www.ridgedalebaptist.org/
423/499-0994

April 23-24, 2010
E-Women Conference
Greenville, SC
http://www.ewomen.net/conference/2010-04-23/bi-lo-center

April 30-May 1, 2010
E-Women Conference
Johnson City, TN
http://www.ewomen.net/conference/2010-04-30/freedom-hall

May 14-15, 2010
E-Women Conference
Birmingham, AL
http://www.ewomen.net/conference/2010-05-14/bjcc-arena


June 4-6, 2010
Crossline Community Church
Calvary Chapel Conference Center
Murrieta, CA
http://www.crosslinechurch.com/
949/916-0250

July 27, 2010
Northwood Baptist Church
Greer, SC
864/877-5417
http://www.rightdirections.org/

July 30- Aug 1, 2010
She Speaks Conference
Concord, NC
http://www.proverbs31.org/

November 20-21, 2010
East Side Tabernacle
New York, NY
212/673-9815
www.eastsidetabernacle.org

Lysa's Bio

The Real Me...

Okay here is the deal... there is a right way that bio's are supposed to be done. So, I've pasted my standard bio below. It gives my credits and credentials but to be honest it makes me sound way more polished than what I really am. I've included it in case you need to read it for whatever reason.


But this is who I really am...



Lysa TerKeurst: Yes, my mom spelled my name that way at birth. She named me after a soap opera character...and a mean one at that! But she loved the way the name sounded so she changed the spelling. My maiden name was King which I would love to keep as my middle name but Lysa King TerKeurst sounds a little lofty for a simple country girl.

My husband: My husband Art owns a Chick-fil-A restaurant and is the most patient man I know! Three weeks out of the month he loves me and loves to do whatever he can to help me do ministry. One week out of the month he simply puts up with me and my bout with the Princess Must Scream syndrome. But hey, three out of four ain't bad! One of the greatest things about Art is that he lets me stick my cold feet under him at night and never complains. He is a great leader who teaches me something about leadership every day by simply watching him live his life.

My Kids: I have 5 kids. Me! The woman who struggled to keep goldfish and hamsters alive when I was a kid and now God has entrusted me with 5 children. I do feel incredibly blessed with my three biological kids and two adopted kids. I love them to pieces. They are the most fun part of my life! But they also challenge me in the deepest ways. The best parenting tip I've discovered is pray, pray, and pray some more. I can't be an effective parent without a whole lot of the Lord and some daily doses of chocolate.

My Ministry: I work with the most incredible team of women at Proverbs 31 Ministries. What started as a simple newsletter to encourage moms has now grown beyond my wildest dreams. The effectiveness of Proverbs 31 Ministries can't be attributed to slick marketing plans and flawless leadership. We are simply a group of women sold out to saying yes to God and He truly does the rest. I'd love to for you to get connected to Proverbs 31 Ministries by visiting http://www.proverbs31.org/.

My Everyday Life: I feel like a success in my everyday life if I get through the day having spent time with the Lord, exercised in some way, had a laugh with one of my kids, had clean underwear in my husband's drawer when he needed them, made a friend smile, and limited my chocolate intake within my weight watchers points!

Now for the standard bio...

Lysa TerKeurst is a wife to Art, mom to five priority blessings and a nationally known speaker. She is an award-winning author of 12 books including her newest release from Zondervan titled 'Becoming More Than a Good Bible Study Girl'. She has been featured on Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, Good Morning America, Woman's Day Magazine, “O” Magazine and on the Oprah Show. (To see an interview of Lysa on Life Today with James and Betty Robison click here.)

She is the co-host of the Proverbs 31 Ministry’s national radio program, which airs daily on over 1,200 stations as well as a writer for the ministry’s e-mail devotions called "Encouragement for Today," reaching more than 300,000 subscribers every day.

Her greatest passion is inspiring women to say yes to God and take part in the awesome adventure He has designed every soul to live. But she always chuckles when people call her the Proverbs 31 woman. While she is the president of Proverbs 31 Ministries to those who know her best she is simply a car pooling mom who loves Jesus passionately, and struggles like the rest of us with laundry, junk drawers and cellulite.

Whether she is speaking, writing or simply sharing coffee with a few friends, Lysa delights in making Biblical truths come to life in a way that every woman feels equipped to become who God intends her to be. In her life changing messages, Lysa teaches women how to infuse new life into their Christian journey by saying yes to God’s divine appointments each and every day. But this isn’t just a message that Lysa teaches, it is one she lives out in her own life.

Whether you are a woman looking for a book to inspire richer daily quiet times for yourself and your Bible study group, or a women's ministry director looking to book a speaker, Lysa would feel honored to spend some time with you. You’ll laugh, you’ll be inspired, and you'll come away changed. Her greatest desire is that long after you forget the name Lysa TerKeurst...long after you forget the stories she shares and the messages she teaches...that you'll never forget how God personally touches your heart.

If you are interested in booking Lysa TerKeurst for an event, please contact her assistant Holly Good at Holly@Proverbs31.org

The Hesitant Blogger

Sometimes I feel as though my lack-of-modern-technology life could be a bad country song. Add the twang of a banjo and a hee-haw accent and it might go something like this:
I ain't got no bl----og
I cast fishing poles not i-pods
I like a paper letter
so much better
but everyone is sending me e-mail,
g-mail,
im's, and texts and who knows what's next!

Smiles!
Alas all you techno saavy chicks...
I am trying to enter into the modern age of the blog world. But, I am a hesitant blogger. I don't know the language and fear the world of bf/gf, i<3u, lol, bbl, brb, omgsh, omw, idk, ttyl... and all the other alien sayings of computer chatting. But then again, my teenage daughter just informed me that all that is for IM's not blogs. Hmmm... see, I told you I'm behind the times.

Here's what you won't find on my blog... someone who knows anything more than how to push the basic buttons (and I had to have my friend, Marybeth, help me do that)!
But, what you will find is an honest look at life through the ponderings of my heart. So, here I go... and I promise to leave the banjo and hee-hawing behind.