Glory Days

Summer. Is. Here. 

These days are what we long for the other 9 months of the year. 

Our summer staff have arrived, the weather is PERFECT, the creek is running, wildflowers are popping out, we can cruise around on the ATV,  families campers are milling around, small group at our house with college kids --- these are glorious days. 

And as we all know, they will be our last here at 'ol HC so it makes them all the more endearing. 

Each one of us is trying to really soak in each moment of every day. 

The girls are very aware of the finality of our time here,
yet jump into each day with total enthusiasm and adventure.
 No time to be sad, Mom. 

Below are snapshots from the last few weeks, of life here in the woods, on the side of a mountain.

Time with our neighbor boys

Emily pogo sticking on her way over to the neighbors - hillarious

Our campsite for a night.

We are trying to take advantage of what's outside our back door

Switching gears...

Two of our small group guys trying to prove their manhood - who could handle the most clothes pin pain.

Of course, western night...

Hanging out with Pip and Tink...

... our last two chickens. 

We have given the others away.  Ttrading in country liv'n for civilization.

Don't think the town of Golden allows these critters.

Jeff led a week of youth camp for this crew from Phoenix. 

Underpriviledged kids from the city. 

Their stories were inspiring, humbling, and saddening as they shared about their

 lives surrounded by violence, poverty and discrimination.

It was a true joy to get to know them, and give them a taste of God's wonderous creation.

The girls enjoyed their time getting to know these Phoenix girls,

despite their many differences,

they found much they had in common.

We are very much thinking about our next chapter but are also very present where we are.

It is an interesting spot to be in, but one we are trying to embrace.

The details of moving will kick in soon enough, but for now - carpe diem!