we went to church retreat last weekend…i feel like i set myself up for frustration…my notion of a retreat wasn’t realistic. my head knew it all along, but my gut longing for retreat took over.

curious, i looked up the definition of retreat:

the act or process of withdrawing, especially from something hazardous, formidable, or unpleasant: oh, now this was true…as we sat around the fire late at night…definitely more pleasant than the crap i watch on tv.

a place affording peace, quiet, privacy, or security: um, privacy from the world beyond the camp fences, yes…not privacy for myself…except for a walk with aimee. thank you, ruby.

a period of seclusion, retirement, or solitude: it was different than home, sunday morning with coffee and children cared for elsewhere was wonderful solitude…for them, too, i hear.

homemeade face paint…butter, food coloring and cornstarch…mmmmmm.

treasure found

a perk of retreat…pick up truck rides

girlie game power

projects taped down not to blow away

so there were moments for me of eyes-wide exhaustion and head-spinning needs chanted, but then the sweet moments of community. the children had a wonderful time…running the show, scampering in water, finding treasures. jerry worked and seemed to appreciate that role…i will remember the moments of being held and cared for. of having others take over. of learning from each other. the joy and work of life. the grace and mercy of christ.