We had a wonderful, although exhausting, weekend at the home school conference. We arrived in town early enough on Thursday afternoon that we were able to check into our hotel and then meet my cousin and his family for dinner. This was an unexpected treat for all of us, as we hadn't anticipated having the time or energy for any "extras" on top of the conference.
The conference was very encouraging to all of us. The kids got to see all of the other families who are home schooling, too. So many families in one place, all following the Lord's leading in the discipling of their families. All things considered, Joel did really well. His diaper changing is so much easier now and he was content during the conference as long as someone was holding him. Lydia and Paul did a lot better than we anticipated. This was due in large part to the fact that they were able to play with their friends, Eli and Annie. Eli and Annie's family attended the conference with us. This was a blessing because we were able to fellowship with one another and share child care duties as well.
During the lecture Saturday morning, we spotted some old friends that we hadn't seen for a very long time. We were able to eat lunch together and get caught up on all the Lord is doing in our lives. Matt and I were encouraged and blessed by them. It was definitely a "divine appointment."
We were also able to introduce ourselves to the keynote speaker for the weekend, Doug Phillips of Vision Forum Ministries. This was a thrill for all of us. Upon our introduction, Mr. Phillips went into a Scottish brogue which especially delighted Grace. We were able to tell Mr. Phillips how much his ministry has blessed our family and Matt was even able to ask him a "Matt" question.
As we drove home, Matt and I were able to talk about the different things the Lord had impressed upon each of us over the weekend. It snowed over the mountain pass (in April?), but the roads weren't slick. In honor of Matt's birthday, which we hadn't been able to celebrate, we stopped and got ice cream. We stopped at a 50's style McDonald's and everyone got to order whatever they wanted--no matter how big (even though Mommy and Daddy knew they wouldn't finish it). Of course the jukebox and the Chevy Bel Air booth were big hits.
Yesterday we went to church and then out to lunch in honor of Daddy's birthday. Grace and I picked up a cake at Dairy Queen in the afternoon and then we made soup for dinner. Daddy was delighted to be surrounded by his brood singing "Happy Birthday." We had a little Bible time and then I read to the kids for a bit before bedtime. We all slept well and hard. Today is a "catch up" day--laundry, dishes and school work. Daddy went back to work. For the last four days, Joel has spent most of his time in Daddy's arms, so I expect some fussiness from him. We were refreshed and encouraged by the Lord this past weekend and now we're ready to get back in the trenches and keep doing the work He has for us to do.
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