I want to introduce you to some of my friends.  They have become dear to me in about six weeks.  We all have something in common, something none of us wanted, none of us expected.  We are single moms.  But we have something else in common.  We are all home educating our children.  I have grown to really respect and admire these women.  In just six weeks they have taught me so much, like what it means to really sacrifice for your convictions, how much you can be hurt, but still turn to God to care for your needs, and how to look at the best things that the church (Christ's body) is doing to meet your needs.  For those of you who haven't met them yet, please visit them.  Leave a comment and tell them I sent you.  I promise, you will learn something from each one of them.  They are amazing women of faith, with amazing stories about an amazing God.  Now, here they are:

My friend MaggieRaye is the new editor of TOS Single Parents Newsletter for single homeschool parents and those who would like to encourage them.  She is such an encourager and has a burning passion to help single moms and to teach others how to do so also.  Keep your eye on her!  The Lord is about to do some amazing things with her!

 Mary Jo  is a voice of wisdom in my life.  She is the accountability partner I can count on, and the best source of information that Google can provide.  I think she and I share the same sense of humor (Lord, help us!).  We also share an obsession for books!

Another friend of mine is Beth.  She has such a sweet sprirt and is using her story of God's faithfulness in tragedy to encourage others.  I was so touched by her story, and it is well worth reading.

 Theresa is another friend, and from her I have learned of gratitude.  She has struggles that would definitely have me considering quitting, but all I hear from her is gratefulness for what the Lord does for her. She is also a fabulous web designer and is the reason I have been able to get to know these wonderful ladies! 

Janet is my neighbor, and the one friend I actually hope to meet face to face in the near future.  She is so thoughtful, and sensitive to the feelings of others.  She is so full of joy that it radiates from her.  She also has her own cottage businesses--a bookstore and country gifts business.

There are several other friends I am just getting to know.  If you read Tawanna's blog, you'd never know she's from Texas (except that she starts every entry with Hi Ya'll!--makes this southern gal feel right at home!).  She inspires me because she is bright, energetic and intelligent.  She teaches Internet courses--a wonderful way to expand your education inexpensively.  Kristin and Katie are also new friends.  I am enjoying getting to know them, and have really appreciated their honesty, vulnerability, and insights. 

I have people ask me all the time how I manage to homeschool since I am a single mom.  I answer that question the best I can, because in truth it is a mystery to me as well as to you!  Each of these women have helped to answer that question, some of them more brilliantly than I could answer it.  They have shared so much with me.  They are each so unique, bringing with their friendship qualities that I need.  I love having "real" friends, but I have found this group of ladies to be as real as the friends I see every day.  They make me long even more for heaven where we will be able to have coffee (I'll be able to drink it then!) and chat face to face!