I wouldn't exactly call this past weekend a Milestone, but it definitely was significant. I went with Olivia and 14 other mid-high youth from our church on a retreat. We really had a great weekend! The kids had time for bonding, time for a little trouble-making, and time for learning. We went to a small Catholic church that has statues representing the Stations of the Cross. It is always amazing to see that even though you don't think kids are really listening, they can answer the questions when given the opportunity! We also went to The Passion Play. After our long drive, I was not sure that these kids were really going to be able to sit through this 2 hour story, but THEY DID! They sat there, completely involved in the story that was being told. They didn't even complain about all the rain and lightening we were sitting in. They just watched. Before leaving for home on Sunday morning, we all worshipped together in a beautiful little chapel.Olivia had a great time on the retreat. She certainly deserved a break. She has really been working hard at school, and her grades show it. She is doing really well on her flute, too!
Cooper has finally made a complete adjustment to being at school all day. The past couple of Sundays, he has even told us that he is ready to go back to school. He really is loving it. Today, after he got home from school, he said, "Well, today was a great day!" When I asked him what had made it such a great day, he just said, "I just had a good time at school." Oh, I love that kid!
Drew is still loving college. He came home last weekend so that he could go to the Razorback game. He has a few friends in the Razorback band and another friend that is a cheerleader for the Razorbacks. I know he enjoyed visiting with them, and he enjoyed the game, but he was really ready to get back to school.Last night they did a report on the news about a local cemetary. The story reminded me about the first time Drew had been to a cemetary for a funeral. He was about 9 or 10 when my Aunt Eula Belle died. When we were driving into the cemetary, Drew turned to me and said, "Momma. Why does that sign say "Scared Grounds?". Of course the sign really said "Sacred Grounds", but Drew lifted our spirits during a very difficult time.
With all of this great stuff going on, there have also been a few things that helped me remember that I need to be thankful. And I am! I am very thankful that my kids know to show respect to all adults. I am thankful that they are kind to everyone. And I am thankful that my kids appreciate what others do for them and don't just expect it. Thank you Drew, Olivia, and Cooper for being such great kids!
