We have finally taken the plunge and started the process of joining a co-op for the fall.  Not being a "joiner" by nature, it was very hard to make the decision, find the "right" group, and make the contacts.  I'm very excited.  The extra opportunities for my children, and the support for me, will be great!

I don't know why "joining" has always brought extreme terror and  trembling to my person, but it has.  Definately not my comfort zone, however, I've never regretted taking the "plunge".  I have met some of my dearest friends, grown more spiritually, and had some of the most incredible learning experiences (ie: blogging!).

The best example of joining was that upon joining a singles group, I met my husband!  Another great example was when I began attending MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) at my old church.  My firstborn was 3 months old and I had no voice.  But I joined.

Within a year, my voice had returned and I was coordinating the entire program!  Having never been much on public speaking (the terror thing again), I was now leading meetings and giving talks on all kinds of encouraging subjects to 50+ moms, on a regular basis. I did this for three years.  God used this incredible time in my life to develop some things in me that I never could have dreamed of!  Isn't He awesome! 

It's still hard for me to recognize that I'm not a "joiner" by nature, but I'm finally beginning to see that taking the initiative and leaving the results to God, is a good thing in all areas of life, joining included!