Bachelorette Party

In case any of you didn't know, my best friend Gretchen is getting married. As her Maid of Honor, I've been collaborating with the other bridesmaids to throw her a bachelorette party last night. Many thanks to Kaylee, Claire, Abi and Molly for their help... I think everyone had a good time. I know I did. 

We went to dinner, made a craft (such a Gretchen thing to do,) played a few games, opened lingerie, prayed for Gretchen and Josh, and took a bunch of pictures. 

Other than the prayers, the pictures were by far my favorite part of the night.

I threw up a sheet on the back wall of her house and took pictures of each of the girls there, holding a chalkboard that says one of the reasons they love Gretchen. I loved getting to see all the reasons her friends love her... there are so many reasons to pick from. She really is an incredible person. 

I couldn't fit everything I wanted to say on the chalkboard. (I won't be able to fit it all in my speech, either...) so here's what I would have written if I could have. 

She has taught me most of what I know about being a woman fully and wholeheartedly in love with Jesus. She is incredibly patient with me, and is encouraging in absolutely everything that she does. She is intentional and consistent, and so beautifully confident in the love of Christ. She is honest, and will never pretend to be anything more than she is. She teaches me what it means to have Christ-like strength, and so gently reminds me when I am being too strong again. She genuinely loves everyone, and has the gift of joy unlike anyone I have ever met. The way she lives her life everyday both challenges and encourages me. She is an incredible woman, and incredible sister, and an incredible friend. 

Thanks for letting me share the moment with you, Gretchen. I am so thankful for you.