Thankful

Over Ben's recent school break, we were able to go two places. First, our organization was able to get permission for our personnel to gather for a small group time of training and retreat. It was supposed to be held near us, but at the last minute, that was not possible because of the lockdown status, so they got permission for us all to be tested and travel to another island to meet, provided we had all the right paperwork. It was a blessed time of fellowship and encouragement. We were so proud of how Ben helped with all the younger kids, and how he set such a great tone for the time as families (as the oldest, all the kids were looking to his example). He even helped lead worship one of the nights on his ukulele (he's taught himself to play during online classes). 

The day after getting back from those meetings, we headed to a campsite about an hour from home with some friends. The lockdown means that kids still aren't allowed in most establishments (like beach resorts or hotels), but we found a local campsite that allows them. And since we were traveling "door to door" from private residence to private campsite, within our same province (kids weren't out in public places), we were able to get through checkpoints. I'm avoiding posting too many pics of faces since there are definitely some who do not agree with allowing kids out at all whatsoever, so we try to be sensitive to those who feel differently about how to interpret the current restrictions.

While we weren't able to go to a beach like we hoped, we were very thankful to be able to get out and get some fresh air and enjoy some time with friends. We're praying that things will loosen up again soon and allow the kids to once again enjoy "exercise slots" up on campus together. But in the meantime, we will be thankful for what we do have.