Back in the swing of things

Our family at the HEB Foundation Camp; Leakey, TX.

The water was sooo cold. We didn't even have bathing suits, but Conleigh braved the cold, swam in her clothes & went to the platform with the other 7,8 & 9 year olds!

We are tired. Is that the way spring break is supposed to end? It was a wonderful break for our family. Six nights in California then two nights at home before we hit the road to South Texas & the annual Family Retreat with our church. This year makes seven in a row that we have attended. Our kids just love it, and it is a real reminder of God's natural beauty. The weather was wonderful and the breeze at night felt great through the screen windows.

Playing Bunny, Bunny, Googley googley googley goo. Campbell was close to being the champ!

It was really neat to see the friends that the kids found to play with. Alex's leg hurts from scootering around all weekend. He was a part of a boy scooter gang that just rode, and rode and rode some more.

We all played kickball. It was super fun! Alex originally didn't even want to play. Of course, he loved it.

Campbell found three friends from her Sunday school class that she got to play with. They danced in front of everyone during the Saturday night sing a-long. Precious!!

Conleigh found three other second grade girls and they pal'ed around, played games and ate together.
This year was the first that I felt I could open the reigns for the kids and not always be watching them. How free'ing that was. I even went for a hike for the first time, and only one of our kids went with us.
Conleigh, Peter & I went canoeing, and we didn't even capsize.

There was a wedding too this year. The two leaders of the retreat were married on Saturday afternoon. It was a touching and very casual ceremony. They have dated for about five years. Between them, they have five teenagers. The groom's wife died about 6 years ago. All of their parents were there, and their children stood up for them.
I spent some time getting to know people I didn't know well before the weekend. It makes such a difference to reach out and learn about people. We love our church.

Conleigh decorated a cookie for Pastor Tom.

Peter showing off his hula-hoop skills. That's our friend Enrique with the hoop going around his neck.

me & my love

Last night when we returned home we were all B.E.A.T. I fell asleep listening to Conleigh read. That was at 8:15! So, tonight we are still trying to catch up, but the adventures we had were definitely worth it for the tired Hardin crew.