Wednesday, March 26, 2008

From Hllhouse Retreat, Wednesday, March 26

Hi everyone. Sorry it has been a while since I have been able to get to a computer. I may be able to get a couple of photos on the post, but will not be able to do the slideshows for you. I may be able to try those when we get to London, but will have to wait and see what access we have to a computer.

Monday: We were up bright and early for our trip to Warwick Castle and Stratford. The weather was again - 3 seasons weather with rain, snow, sleet, hail, and some sunshine. I won't say 4 seasons, because it definitely was not warm! We had a great day touring and shopping. By late afternoon we were hungry and ready for a nice hot meal. The kids wanted a little comfort food, American style, so we ended up at TGI Friday's. Even though it was very expensive compared to America and half us didn't get our meal for a very looooong time, it was a great time sharing together and enjoying the evening.


Tuesday: What a beautiful day! We slept a little later and then left Enderby Church around 11AM on a coach bus to Hillhouse Retreat. The landscape changed to mountains in the distance and rolling hillsides. We arrived at Hillhouse around 4PM and had some relaxing time to walk around the property, play "football", and just enjoy time getting to know one another before dinner. The kids did a great job starting with worship in the evening session, followed by a "trust walk" and "breakout groups". After the session, we had games and snack, devotions, and bedtime.

Wednesday: The morning session began with worship and a Nooma video (don't know if I spelled that right) - Dust. Then testimonies. Joey (with the help of Ben) sang his bump on a log song. He was quite amazing and everyone cheered. The afternoon session began with a "trust FALL" - and we even had Mr. Stouff participate in that! This afternoon is a "football" match about a mile down the road. Instead of the Brits vs. Yanks. , the teams are mixed, but you would think this was a national championship! I am anxiously awaiting the results of the match! Others are playing games, talking in the lounge, and taking walks - or naps :).

I will try to update you tomorrow on our activities. Please keep our team and those we are serving in your prayers. God is truly working in the lives of all of us as we seek to learn more about how to "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."


Joey H. is doing well and his tooth seems to be feeling much better! Thank you all for the prayers.
To our friends in SA and DC, please know you are in our thoughts and prayers each day!

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Hi - this is Lorraine Scaffidi and I need to get some information to Tess re: her phone card. She asked me to reactivate it but the information she gave me was insufficient - not enough numbers. The phone company gave me two toll-free numbers that she can use to activate the card from England. Would it be possible for you to give her this information? The two numbers are 0800890877 and 0500890877. She needs to call either one of those numbers and just follow the instructions. Thanks for your help.