Fall Retreat

We went to Storybook last weekend for Fall Retreat. It was a relaxing long weekend and we enjoyed the speaker, the good food, hanging out with friends, and the beautiful scenery. It was also fun to do a road trip as a family and we were very thankful for the van with a DVD player.We didn't get as many pictures as I'd hoped due to some problems with our camera. We are checking into getting it repaired but it may just be time for a new one.

The speaker shared on Hebrews 12:1-3. He had lots of great insights and I would like to listen to the CDs to catch some of the portions I missed. He reminded us that the race is a conflict/a contention/ a fight. It's not going to be easy to run it well but we have to put all of our efforts into it to finish well. Don't give up, keep going, and make your motivation Christ. Life is tough and serving Him will be the only motive that will keep you going. He also emphasized running according to the rules which means doing things God's way. His way is best and if we value Him, we will do it His way because he asks us to. He also touched on the weights that entangle us which I've been thinking about. What things hinder us in running the race? Recreation, comforts of life, family ties, jobs, hobbies, etc. They are not worth our efforts in comparison to serving Christ. How easy do we let go of them? Great verses to meditate on further.

Emma loved craft time with her friends

 

The Dream House




On a hike



The merry-go-round (Emma spent the majority of her time here and Ethan was elected merry-go-round pusher by the kids)

Emma and Chloe by the lake



The lake



Noah out exploring



Loving the outdoors




My wandering boy finally sat down for a break



Noah playing house with sticks and rocks



Watching Emma run around with her friends in the gym



All showered and clean

Our canoe ride (the camera trouble started)



Noah found his sister's candy stash



Thanks for the poncho Aunt Amanda!