A Needful Retreat

Took this silly picture last weekend when a group of my friends, my parents and Mike and I went camping to Twin Rivers, Colorado. Of course I was corrected for using the word "camping" since, we didn't really stay in a tent. I guess I could say, "we went cabining." (giggle) Anywho....I saw this little critter digging a hole and thought it was a mole, a gopher, or possibly a ground hog, but it looks like neither. It just popped it's head out and I snapped this picture. It actually looks like those creatures from that old 70's movie "Tremors." Yikes!

My Mom is 82 years old and you wouldn't know it...she is so active. We believe she is going
to out live us all...here she is playing ball with the grandson of our friend Barbara. She had so much fun. It was amazing to see her running and throwing that ball for close to an hour. Her energy level and joyful spirit is so amazing!

Dad is a self taught harmonica player. He learned to play as a child and later figured out he actually plays backwards...but you wouldn't know it with the incredible music he makes. It is always such a joy to hear him play all the old familiar spanish songs I grew up with, but to hear him play hymns like, "How Great Thou Art," is a pure worshipful experience!

What is it about the sound of running water that is so soothing? This stream was close to our cabin and hearing the sound of this babbling brook was so relaxing. Sitting and listening is like having a conversation with God...it just ministers to my soul.

Our friends...are such joys in our lives. The Lord has blessed Mike and I with an incredible group of friends who have been an incredible blessing. We thank God for how He has knit our hearts together. After going through such a difficult time last March when we had a break from our Church, the Lord has healed our hearts with the love of true friendship. "A friend loves at all times." Proverbs 17:17a
This weekend was a needful retreat - sometimes we just need time to get away and enjoy what is really necessary...spending time with God, family and friends! And it doesn't hurt when you spend it at such a beautiful place either.