It's Time to Make that Dream a Reality (Yeah, I'm Talking to You!}
Some of us talk the big talk about changing our lives, or
pursuing our dreams or doing something new…and then we stagnate month after
month or year after year.
Some of us even whine
from time to time (ahem), about how we can’t go after what we want because it’s
too hard or too tiring or too complicated or too overwhelming or too daunting
or too ___________ [fill in the blank with your favorite excuse...the ones listed here are all mine].
But some of us? Some of us [like the super-awesome go-getter
Deidra Riggs] talk for a little while about it [and maybe hyperventilate just a tiny bit]…and
then they make it happen.
I remember the day a couple of years ago when Deidra said,
“You know, I think we need a retreat right here in Nebraska.”
I nodded my head,
all enthusiastic.
“Oh yeah, totally, we need that, we do.” {thinking to myself,
“Yeah, you get on that, woman”}. And then, of course, I didn’t give it a second
thought.
But that was the day Deidra started planning, envisioning and
strategizing. That was the day Deidra started dreaming.
She got on it, all
right.
This coming April 19-21 that dream becomes
reality, with the launch of the first annual Jumping Tandem: The Retreat,
hosted by Deidra Riggs right here in beautiful Nebraska! And this retreat? It’s
all about pursuing your Big, Amazing Ridiculous Dream. Not just the dreamy-dream
part, but the practical, how-to part, too (which really, really appeals to this
pragmatic girl!).
Early bird registration officially opens October 1, but pop over here for a sneak-peek and a few more details. And start dreaming about
visiting Nebraska…and taking one small step toward making your God-given dream a reality.
Picture of Deidra by Curt Brinkmann of Life's A Story photography.
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Deidra's so freakin' awesome that way. I hope I can come. It'll be tricky with editing, but I already put it on my calendar (even though I stopped dreaming).
Michelle, that retreat sounds INCREDIBLE! Unfortunately, I'll be speaking at a retreat in Arkansas that weekend, so I'll have to miss out. RATS! I'm praying God blesses Deidra and the whole leadership team as the planning continues and God prepares hearts to attend. Hugs!
I am blown away by the group that will be there. Everyone I have wanted to meet plus some neat learning too. mmmm, will have to count my pennies as I would have to fly there. And have travel plans the week before already. Can I do back to back wild trips? mmmm. will pray. Can you tell I am excited though?
Laughing out loud at that comment, "Yeah, you get on that woman." And she does, doesn't she? There's no stopping Ms. Deidra Riggs. She's the Dream Queen.
Hi Michelle...Love the way you put it...I am one of those that loves 'other people's' fantastic ideas. There are the 'movers and shakers' (like Deidra) and then there are people like me. Not all of us know where to even 'begin' to bring ambitious ideas to fruition. But Deidra obviously does! I'm more of a 'background' kind 'o gal. With all this talk lately on these blogs about 'dreams', I have dared anew to question God about it. I prayer-journal, like my friend, Lynn Morrissey, and so I have begun to ask Him to plant a new dream in me. But I want to thank all of you for instilling in me the desire to dream again. I'd given up. My life is pretty basic. Rather boring. Routine. But I have so many things running through this mind of mine. Slowing down to breathe, and write, is helping me to focus. I think you are fantastic! The very real way in which you express yourself...I so relate to you. You never come across as all self-assured. You rely on The One who gives us all, for He is much more capable than we. You speak to me every day. Keep on doing what you're doing. You're 'reaching' me.
Oh my word, Jillie, you are the sweetest.
And I am SO glad this recent talk about dreaming has inspired you to start praying about it again - to ask God to plant a dream right inside your heart. Because He's got a dream for you; He wants that for you!
{by the way, my life is super basic and routine, too - I kind of love it that way!}
I know, I know. I heard her talking all about a retreat and I was like, 'Are you kidding me????? We don't have enough going on?!" But that didn't stop her, no way!
I am going to pray with you and for you, Jean. I, too, am away the weekend before at another women's ministry retreat, so I know what you mean about being overscheduled at that time. Luckily both are in Nebraska, so I don't have to spring for airfare. But I will pray that God reveals His will for you in this. {totally want to meet you in person, though - not to put more pressure on you! :) }
One of these days, my dear, we will meet in person, I just know it!
Ok girl, we need to talk long and hard about this dream hiatus in Texas next week.
I've got the registration opening on my calendar. I'm at the head of the line with my blankie...waiting. Can't wait!
appreciate the prayers for wisdom. I know myself too well - I get excited about doing things then overcommit. will take some time to ponder and pray, then decide. sounds so good!
I have thought about it for months, coming from Oregon it would require plane fares, and brave hats for me.When it comes to leaving my familiar space it is hard to think about flying that far and alone. My brave hat might not fit me anymore.
So, according to those photos, you have to be pretty to blog in Nebraska.
What a beautiful bunch -- not just model writers, but could be models --- writing.
I've missed you. I've been on a long journey, with only one hand. God knew I needed two.
Hugs.
My Dad used to say, "If you're going to dream, you might as well dream big." He and Deidra would get along well. :) It's not possible for me to go that far to attend, but I'll be supporting the dreams with my prayers (and maybe working a little harder to accomplish my own dreams).
This is so awesome Michelle!! What a ministry you all have there!!! I would love to participate but I live in Virginia and preparing to move to Tennessee. Pray that God will open the door and make provision for a future visit with you all. God Bless and my prayers are with you!!
Love Always,
Dolores
Yeah, I know that a simple, basic, routine life also gives a sense of peace and security, for which I'm also working on being much more thankful. I'm always working on something. :)
Michelle, I am so excited about this retreat. I love the speakers. I've been reading most of their blogs for some time. And I love that you're going to be there. :) I've been trying to decide which conferences to attend next year. (There are so many I'd love to go to, but I have to be practical too.) If I had to choose just one, it is this one! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help get the word out.
Oh...I am very drawn to this ... I will start praying about
it.
Fondly,
Glenda
ps. it is a shame you are never included in anything ... now I am just teasing you. :)