Spring Break and other random things

Here we are at the Above Rubies retreat a few weeks ago. Above Rubies is a ministry to women (and families) based on Proverbs 31. It was started by Nancy Campbell (my hero) about 30 some years ago in New Zealand. I've been to several of these retreats, but this was my first time to take my precious girls. We had a wonderful time together! Here we are with my Mama (Bailey taking the pic). I am grateful that Mom has jumped in and worked so hard to support my efforts as a mother. Her encouragement and prayers are INVALUABLE!!! She is a special grandmother who prays not just for me and my brother, but for our children, and their children, and theirs... A legacy of faith. :)

Here is Nancy praying over some women at the retreat. She took the time to have individual prayer times over mothers, pregnant mamas, women who desire to be pregnant, the teen girls, etc... It was AMAZING!!!

This is a fuzzy (sorry) photo of Nancy teaching. She makes the word of God come alive! I especially appreciate her thoughts on praying for our nation, as well as the encouragement that motherhood is a woman's glory. I left feeling so "fed" and blessed.

Another rare and special treat. The homeschoolers of Wimberley got to meet with Mr. Bill Johnson in his home and hear all about his experiences in WWII. He has an amazing story to tell of faith, courage, and true heroism. He shared some inspiring thoughts to our children and I am so grateful for this experience. Taylor is a WWII history nerd and it was so fun to get to do this on his birthday.

Mr. Johnson had many saved newspaper articles from the war. Wow! It was so neat! A couple of quotes from him that I wanted to share: "Courage is not the absence of fear. We were all scared, but fought anyway." AND "There are a lot of bad people in the world. War is not the answer, but sometimes it cannot be avoided." While hearing about the war was such a treasure, it does not compare to hearing about his faith in Jesus. He shared how he came to know God, some of the things in life that's built his faith, and even admitted that he still struggles to forgive some of the things from the war. I felt thrilled that my kids got to hear this hero share his life.

Here it is... Joshua got bit by a donkey (or as my little brother used to say - a konkey). And his jerk-of-a-mom let it happen! I felt so bad. This picture is obviously just before the torrent of tears!

Bailey Jo pet sitting for friends. This was her first time to care for Farm Animals! She did a fabulous job.

Isn't she adorable?!

This was the only 10 seconds he let me set him down after the donkey incident. :0

Here's the beauty again.

Pedernales Falls State Park!

Joshua hiking with his buddy Makenna. She is soooooo good with him and he loves her!

Casey, Ethan, Colt, Taylor, Emily, Bailey, Makenna, and Autumn. A very fun day!

Doodlebug and Mama

Emily just came flying down the rapids and was holding on to Taylor for dear life! She had wrapped her arms and legs around him to stop herself when he started shouting, "get off of me you random girl! Who are you?!" It was hilarious!

These were some really good times........... lots of blessings. :)