If you are curious, intrigued, or skeptical about this event, here are answers to frequently asked questions. Any other questions you may have, PLEASE ASK!
The number one question asked,
“Is it an MLM, a business, or are you selling something?”
The answer to all three is No.
It is solely in the spirit and joy of giving that which is a priceless gift.
What is the cost?
It is FREE!
~Optional Contributions~
* Bring an identical simple item, something you love, (ex. freshly baked cookie, homemade card…) individually wrapped x number of attendees
* $12 Mini Retreat Pay It Forward Donation
* $15 Mini Retreat (Seasonal Holiday) Pay It Forward Donation
* $5 Young Women (YW) Activity Pay It Forward Donation
Why is it FREE?
Tender mercies are priceless. Like a testimony, it costs nothing. It is something you develop and it grows continually as you maintain a constant effort to always have this spiritual gift be part of you.
What can I expect?
A warm, inviting, comfortable environment with a small number of attendees (greater number per venue capacity), engaging in enlightening/insightful Spirit filled interaction and sharing remarkable, inspiring, uplifting tender mercy moments with one another throughout, all the while opening up an abundance of gifts during the entire latter half.
What is the purpose?
For you to obtain a priceless, never-ending gift, the ability to daily recognize ever more fully ‘Your Very Own’ unique and individualized tender mercy moments from a loving Heavenly Father who is mindful and aware of you 24/7!
Who is the Mini Retreat for?
All women, prospective sister missionaries, young women 14 and up.
Please tell me about you.
I love being in nature
I appreciate simple elegance
I enjoy reading
I have an itch for traveling
I look forward to time spent with my family.
My husband and I have been married for 27 years. We have 4 kids (3 boys and 1 daughter), a son-in-law, daughter-in-law, 1 grandson, 1 granddaughter, and a labradoodle.
Though I am not a natural writer, I heeded the inspiration over 6 years ago to start a blog,
and shortly thereafter
post daily Tender Mercy Moment Cues via social media,
Facebook page ~ Tender Mercy Moments
This is an interview that was published about my Tender Mercy Moments blog, Tender Mercy Moments Facebook page and the exceptional “Uncover ‘Your Very Own’ Tender Mercy Moments” Mini Retreat,
What qualifies you to host/present this Mini Retreat?
This Mini Retreat came to me through divine inspiration. Heavenly Father qualifies me. I am extremely grateful to Heavenly Father for the opportunity to host/present this phenomenal Mini Retreat that encompasses so many of my gifts and talents. He knows me—my heart, my desires, my abilities…
I love people
I love hosting
I love giving gifts
My gifts and talents are spiritual in nature
I do what I LOVE and LOVE what I do
I have a degree in Family Science and this career path has been my passion for over 25 years.
I served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day in the Sendai, Japan mission.
I have been hosting incredible occasions for over 20 years.
The invite description is vague. I am interested, intrigued, curious. Please provide more detailed information.
Upon asking at the close of the Mini Retreat what to add or change about the invite, attendees have shared that the description is spot on.
Liken it to yourself looking at a flower that catches your eye and desirous to describe it to a friend. As you reach out to them and in detail, describe what you are seeing, the image in your friend’s mind is incomplete. As they come to you to see what you are seeing, they nod and say, yes, concurring your description they were unable to initially visualize in their mind is exact.
Invite Description ~
“Recognizing in a tangible way Heavenly Father’s hand, “tender mercy moments”, daily in your life is a beautiful, never-ending gift, joy immeasurable, to help you know you are not walking life’s journey alone.
This exceptional 3 hour Mini Retreat is~
*a fun
*hands on (utilizing the five senses)
*interactive, spiritually uplifting, engaging event combined with an abundance of temporal gifts
designed “Just For You” to uncover the ways, means, and experiences Heavenly Father has been and is mindful and aware of YOU 24/7
Lean in to your interest, intrigue, curiosity, nudge to come see for yourself.
The 3 hour length of time is long. Is there an intermission?
Yes, during the transition portion between the first segment and second segment of the Mini Retreat.
The spiritual portion (first segment) is defining and adding to “What is a tender mercy?”
The temporal portion (second segment) is the receiving of an abundance of tangible gifts, described as Christmas.
And, combining both the spiritual and the temporal to “Uncover ‘Your Very Own’ Tender Mercy Moments.
It is a fun, spiritually uplifting, interactive, engaging, gift-filled 3 hours. Time flies.
What is the approximate number of attendees per Mini Retreat?
It varies, per venue capacity. An ideal number is 3-8 attendees per 3 hour block timeframe to experience the full circumference of engagement—sharing and receiving.
For a Relief Society activity, Young Women’s activity or such, the presentation is formatted for a greater number of attendees and less allowable time, approximately 1 1/2 hours.
Where is the Mini Retreat held?
Most often, either in my home or in an attendees home. May also be held at a park, in a church building, event center, etc.
When I host at my place, the 3 hour block timeframe is selected by me. If you host at your place, you decide on the 3 hour block timeframe within my date availability.
If held at your place, I bring the entire event to you. All that is needed to be provided by you is a couch, kitchen table, and countertop.
May I invite my friends and family?
Yes, Absolutely! It is welcomed that all women, prospective sister missionaries, and young women 14 & up who would love to attend, come and experience this phenomenal Mini Retreat.
Is there food?
Yes, during the transition between the first and latter portion of the event.
May I come again?
Yes, Absolutely! Like anything you have attended time after time because you love it and look forward to returning over and over again!
What is your contact information?
tendermercymoments@gmail.com
Facebook~Tender Mercy Moments~DM
TESTIMONIALS
I had the opportunity to attend a mini retreat on discovering my own tender mercy moments. It was a great retreat and I felt very comfortable with the smaller group. It was easy to get to know each other. We had a great time sharing memories, also exploring creative activities and discovering the tender mercies that have come our way. Our host Jennifer was an amazing leader, sharing her experiences and thoughts with us that have helped me recognize the tender mercies in my life. We were also surprised with mini gifts along the way as we explored creative ways to enhance our days and recognize the tender mercies that come to us. I would highly recommend attending these mini retreats. This retreat energized me, enhanced my sensitivities, and was a very positive and motivated retreat. ~ Karen S.
My evening at Jennifer’s event was unexpected and wonderful! So many aha’s, and I felt completely safe and loved as she guided us through the experiences. I was very touched by the thoughtful and generous object lessons she used, and felt the spirit strongly. I would highly recommend her events to you! ~ Shiree B.
Jennifer and her retreat were wonderful. I had a great time, felt the spirit, and enjoyed it very much. I much recommend it to anyone. She has a sweet spirit and a great way of bringing information and love to those that she teaches. ~ Elaine P.
The Tender Mercy Moments Mini Retreat was unlike anything else I have experienced. Jennifer was able to help us recognize different tender mercy moments in our lives through our senses. We live in a world where we are constantly surrounded by noise and never ending to-do lists. It was good to sit down and ponder all the times Heavenly Father has been and continues to be aware of me. I loved the challenge Jennifer gave us to write down the tender mercy moments we see each day. I have been able to grow my testimony of the love Heavenly Father has for me. ❤️ ~ Maria P.
I have attended several Tender Mercy Moments retreats and have come away a better person each time. Jenn creates a safe place of love for participants to be open and share. No two retreats are alike with new insights gained and people to meet. These retreats leave me feeling uplifted by others and better able to ask for, recognize, and appreciate the small, everyday tender mercies the Lord gives ME. ~ Stephanie V.
While I have not attended a “Tender Mercy Moments” mini retreat, I have been to plenty of Christmas Girls’ Nights Out that Jennifer hosted when we both lived in Ohio. Jennifer always goes above and beyond to share her spirit along with items that thoughtfully supplement any event that she hosts. I know that her intent in holding these events is to lift others, to share the light of Christ, and to help people recognize His hand in their lives. ~ Amie C.
Christmas Girls Night Outs with Jen – as if Christmas wasn’t magical enough on its own, Jen found a way to help us all feel the holiday spirit even more. Jen has many gifts – some of the many I will mention here – long term planning, organization, creativity, thoughtfulness, and mysteriousness. Every one of these played a part as we walked into a beautifully decorated, welcoming and cozy home with attention to every detail. For Jen, Christmas planning started for the next year before this year’s tree was down. She spent countless hours creating, designing, and crafting together handmade gifts for each of her guests. She even let us choose which gifts we wanted as she designed at least 3-5 different ones per year and she always had more than plenty. She was extremely thoughtful as she designed things that would be just what we needed at this stage and time in our lives, and her cute mysterious smile and eyes let us to always wonder what would be revealed next as it was always a surprise that she kept for many months, greatly adding to the fun of the evening. Jen had a wonderful agenda for each one with fun bonding activities, yummy food, and of course a white elephant gift exchange that left us laughing in stitches. Jen truly knows how to put together magical events, whether Christmas or any time of the year. ~ Mindy N.
Jennifer, I remember your party! It was so fun and so well planned! You made special treats for all of us! You made it special for all of us that attended! ~ Andrea H.
It’s been almost 4 years since I attended Jennifer’s Tender Mercies Christmas Party, but I will never forget the warmth and friendship associated with that experience. If you have a chance to experience it for yourself, please DO! I’ve never been one to attend parties, but I was so glad I made an exception. The thought and prayer she puts into these activities is so evident. You will be glad you can add a memory of her Tender Mercies events to your heart. ~ Carla B.
The retreat was refreshing! It rejuvenated my soul! It was fun and exciting remembering all the many ways HF has blessed me and cared for me. It was definitely worth taking a break from the world to do this. Jennifer is happy and positive and makes this a wonderful experience! ~ H Darrow
Jennifer, thank you so much for the gift of uncovering my very own tender moments! It was like an oasis in a desert 🌵. And it IS really like we are living in the desert if we are not present to our own tender mercy moments constantly. You have reminded me that we are so loved by our heavenly parents that they send us these moments and often delivered by our family and friends and by people like you…like as I write I’m experiencing tender mercies—and it’s this simple! Mahalo! ~ Elsa
Attending the tender mercies seminar, lead by Jennifer, was a very insightful and spiritual evening. It was a time of reflection and remembrance of the many blessings and gifts we have been given. It was a comfortable setting, the activities were fun, and it was a very comfortable, safe space to share and support each other. You’re in for a treat! ~ Jan M.
When I’m in the midst of overwhelm, what I really need is space to reset. I’d like to think I’m really good at managing my free time to set that up for myself, but I’m human. I’m easily distracted! So even if I have a free hour or two, it’s rarely as restorative as I’d hoped. Jens retreat has all the things my soul needs to feel renewed, good conversation, spiritual insight, and snacks! Jens creativity and attention to detail transform a day out, into something healing. ~ Jeanne S.
I loved attending Jennifer’s annual Christmas gathering and they were always filled with great joy, laughter, and fellowship. Strangers became friends while sharing time together. It was the small details that Jennifer paid attention to that made the gatherings special. The love and time she poured into her special Christmas gifts was obvious and appreciated by all who attended. Every Christmas, I am reminded of the special person Jennifer is when I hang her handmade ornaments on my tree. Her love of Christmas was contagious and helped get everyone in the holiday spirit! ~ An B.
I gained increased ability to recognize the Tender Mercies the Lord sends to me through my participation in the Mini Retreat. I felt the points Jen made in our discussions were enlightening and directed me to improve my daily gospel study habits and my relationship with my Father in Heaven.
Participating in the Tender Mercy Moments zoom calls held me accountable. They helped me practice and improve my ability to be more consistently able to recognize and talk about the tender mercy moments that happen in my life and realize more fully my Heavenly Father and the love he has for me. ~ Becky T.
This was a really lovely experience for me. It allowed me to disconnect from the world, while at the same time connecting me with other women. It also helped me to identify the tender mercies in my life that would otherwise have passed by me unnoticed. ~ Amanda M.
I attended the “Uncover Your Very Own Tender Mercies Mini Retreat” last year and it was such an incredible and spiritual experience. It was so nice to get to sit down, make some new friends and find ways to find your own tender mercies. It helped me shape the way I look at the things happening in my life and it made me look for those special moments. It’s one of my favorite things to do now and really helps you look at the positive and also look for god’s hand in your daily life. This is an experience I highly recommend to anyone! Jennifer is the most amazing host and really makes your experience wonderful and welcoming. ~ Keali G.
Attending the Uncover Your Very Own Tender Mercy Moments Mini Retreat lead by Jennifer has been by far one of the best things about being in Utah. These retreats have given me the chance to really dig into some far back as well as recent moment of my life where God really was aware of me and my very own needs and petitions. Being able to look back and recognize tender mercies is a muscle that I learned I can train and exercise daily. I recommend this self care time to everyone because it is life changing. Also I always go home with gifts that really feel they were meant for me. ~ Myrna S.
Jennifer Dinning’s tender mercy’s activity was such a gift to our girls. It opened up their eyes to seeing how much Heavenly Father loves them. She came with many gifts and helped them to see the gifts that He gives to them, in small ways, everyday. The girls were able to share beautiful, tender mercy moments from their own lives that strengthened each other’s testimonies. They loved it! I am grateful for all of the work Jennifer put into this beautiful evening. ~ Serena S.
The “Uncover ‘Your Very Own’ Tender Mercy Moments” Mini Retreat is a welcome respite to the hustle and bustle of our every day lives. Jennifer truly provides an environment that fosters introspection and personal growth. The mini retreat was filled with a peaceful calm and helped me to be grateful for many blessings I take for granted every day. In short, an extremely worthwhile experience. ~ Poppy M.
I am so glad that I attended “Uncover ‘Your Very Own Tender Mercy Moments” Mini Retreat! I was able to take time away from my busy daily life and focus on the hand of the Lord in my life. It is a night for anyone and everyone wishing to open their mind and heart to the tender mercies of our Heavenly Father!🤍 ~ Kenna S.
I met Jennifer last year and since then I’ve hosted two Tender Merices Retreats in my home and attended one that my friend hosted. All of them have been MAGICAL! I leave each one feeling uplifted and on a spiritual-high. Each time I have been at a Tender Mercies Retreat I have learned something new. Jennifer makes each one different and I find myself doing a lot of introspection and soul searching. I would say that as I have acknowledged, pondered and expressed gratitude for the blessings and tender mercies in my life, it has changed me for the better and I have a had more peace knowing that I am known and loved. Who wouldn’t want that!? It has also bonded me closer to the women who have been at the retreats. My two teenage daughters beg to come too because they have loved them as well. It is for women of all ages! It was beautiful to see the older generations connect with the younger generation and learn from each other and create deeper friendships and bonds. Jennifer does such a great job at facilitating these tender moments. I have been so in awe with how much effort and thought she puts into each one of these. Highly recommend! ~ Sarah W.
The first time I attended a Tender Mercy GNO, I was really curious what was going to happen. It was a wonderful experience that reminded me to open my eyes to the blessings around me. When I attended for the second time, I was excited for my friends to meet Jennifer and have an evening where we could set aside time to reflect on our blessings while also spending time together and meeting new people. There were so many gifts and ways to receive personal revelation in a beautiful and fun setting. ~ Trish H.
I have had the privilege of attending “Uncover ‘Your Very Own’ Tender Mercy Moments” Mini Retreat twice, and each time has been a truly transformative experience. This has been a source of inspiration and reflection for me. I have been reminded of the importance of focusing on the tender mercies in my life each day. Jennifer creates a space that fosters personal growth and self-discovery, which is evidence that she has a deep passion for helping others. If you find yourself needing a reminder to appreciate life’s tender mercies, this is the right place for you. ~ Shamie E.
I wasn’t sure at first of the what this experience was about. I really had no idea what to expect. I went because I wanted to spend some time with a friend who was hosting. I absolutely loved this experience! I loved how we got to hear about each others tender mercies. I loved the little gifts we received that helped prompt us to think about our blessings. It was a much needed spiritual girls night out. If you are questioning if you want to host or go to one of these retreats I would definitely recommend it! Sincerely, ~ Julie H.
I’m usually so exhausted after work so coming to an event later in the evening didn’t sit well. But a good friend had invited me. It sounded kind of fun but I still didn’t know details and wondered if it was something about a sales pitch. So I not only came tired, but I came suspicious. However, there was such a good Spirit in the room. We talked about finding tender mercies in our life… Because they’re there! I felt relieved and uplifted. I loved hearing the other ladies experiences. I loved the care and attention. Jennifer gave each one of us. She showered us with gifts and praise, and love. Love! it turned out to be such a lovely evening. I felt pampered and cared for and surrounded by wonderful people. I write down Tender Mercies on my whiteboard every day now. I notice the Tender Mercies in my life and take the time to see them. I know I’m not alone. Someone is looking out for me! Someone is in the details of my life! Thanks Jennifer for putting me back on the path of Gratitude and reminding me that I have eyes to see!! I was still tired, but I was happy that I came. That evening made a difference!
The Tender Mercy retreat was lovely. And I asked Jennifer about presenting to my 10-year-old primary class. She would only have 20 minutes. How can you pack three hours of all the wonderful information into 20 minutes. Well, Jennifer did it! She introduced, finding tender mercies to our little group. She planted a seed and gave the kids a fun activity to do. Thank you, Jennifer! Thanks for spreading joy, gratitude, and love! ~ Karen J.
First would I recommend this. YES. I didn’t know what to expect when I went but was so pleased when I did go. This experience brought to my attention how many times a day I see God’s tender mercy for me and how present he is in my life. I see Him. For this sweet person❤️Jennifer❤️ to take the time and share and give of herself to the people who go to this retreat is really an angel on earth. Thank you❤️. This has been a true blessing. I am so grateful to have the experience. ~ Marci L.
I have had the opportunity to attend two of Jennifer’s Tender Mercies girls’ retreats, once as a guest and once as a host. What wonderful experiences! Jennifer quickly felt like a dear friend. It was evident throughout the entire experience how much Jennifer truly loves serving women and helping to draw them closer to their Savior through these choice events. More than feeling pampered by her gifts and food (all provided by her!), I felt strengthened by the tender Mercies each of us recognized and shared with one another. I highly recommend participating in one of these events if you have the chance. You will leave feeling uplifted, better connected to the other attendees, and best of all feeling God’s very personal love for you. ~ Suzanne S.
I was invited to a Tender Mercies Mini Retreat held in a neighbor’s home. I was very curious (and a little nervous) about what it would be like, especially since I knew only a few of the people who were invited. I was so glad I attended! Most inspiring to me were Jennifer’s insights, the plentiful material gifts, and the prompts that helped me recognize the many times that I have been blessed with tender mercies. I also gained so much from the insights of the others attending. Jennifer makes each retreat unique, with different activities, gifts, and prompts. When invited to host a retreat, my mind immediately went to my group of high school friends. Though it has been 52 years since we graduated, we have stayed close. As we participated in the activities and prompts at this retreat, it became even more evident that we have all been recipients, as well as givers, of many tender mercies with each other. It was truly a wonderful evening of friendship! Jennifer possesses such a generosity of spirit. She plans each retreat, wraps and puts together the gifts, presents everything at the retreat, and even does the digital invitations for the hostess to send out! ~ Annette A.
I just wanted to give a HUGE SHOUT OUT to Jennifer Dinning !! She traveled all the way up to Tooele to give her presentation and it. Was. Amazing!!!!!!!!!
Jennifer brought so many fun gifts for us all, both spiritual and tangible gifts. The spirit she brought with her was soooo very strong and inviting.
She spoke in a way that was clear to the girls and personalized to their very specific lives. I will forever look at sour patch kids with a spiritual eye 🥰💖
Ladies, her message needs to be heard. She’s incredible. She’s the kindest, sweetest, most thoughtful person and the girls LOVED EVERY SECOND!!!! THANK YOU JENNIFER DINNING!! We were uplifted and strengthened by your loving, Christ-like message. 10 stars!!!! You ARE exceptional my friend!!
We HIGHLY recommend her and her presentation. It is life changing.
Do yourself a favor, book her, you and your YW won’t regret it!! ~Alex O.
Jennifer has one of the most generous, giving hearts I have ever met ! She worked closely with me to ensure that this activity would be pulled off seamlessly for our YW in VA. From undaunting shopping lists, IT troubleshooting, helpful check-ins and reminders – she was supportive and positive in executing this activity even from afar. Our YW felt pampered and loved by all the gifts that she showered them with – and which she was able to tie in beautifully to the theme of Tender Mercies from God. Thank you, Jen! We would highly recommend your activity to all. ~ Tiffany T.
I have been to the Tender Mercy Retreat twice. Both times were amazing! I left there feeling so much peace and happiness. It has really changed my life. I now find tender mercies everyday, and feel of our Savior’s love. I highly recommend it! ~ Sue C.