Project 365, Week 28

Isn't summer the best?! I love, love having my kids around and having the freedom to choose what to do. We've had lots of camps and the kids are learning and growing and being a part of something.

July 10

The much-loved week of Vacation Bible School finally arrived. My kids have attended VBS every year since they were little and now they are all old enough to serve as leaders, which they do alongside many of their friends and they have a ton of fun doing. Its a commitment, but its beautiful to see many from our church pull together and use their unique gifts that make it all happen.

July 11

As if five hours of each morning was not enough, the kids held their own camp, which they do about twice a year. Jack and Trevor planned, organized and ran the camp of friends, going strong until 10 pm each day.

Its a really special crew and they do a lot of life together. I'm so thankful they have each other!

July12

Day #2 of camp

July 13

My sweet birthday boy, now 14 years old. He is a gift.

For a brief few moments in between VBS and Teen Camp, I sat with Aiden while he ate one of his favorite meals in the world. :)

The kids were so kind to end camp a little early so they could celebrate Aiden's birthday with ice cream and singing. 

Earlier that day I had gotten a call asking if there was any chance we could take a foster placement just through the weekend. (The last time I fell for "just through the weekend", they left more than three years later ;).  I agreed and soon after she arrived. The kids were gone for the evening, so she and I talked for quite a bit and then a second investigator came by to interview her. 

I taught her a couple games because she didn't know how to play any and we were both delighted when she got a Yahtzee her first time playing. I cooked dinner but she preferred to make what she had brought from the visit with her bio mom. She asked about going to urgent care for discomfort in her wrist but we found that a trip to the pharmacy for a brace made it feel all better. My heart breaks for kids all around the world who don't have a place to call home and I was reminded just how layered it all is.

July 14

A call that circumstances had changed yet again and the 11-year old brother now desperately needed a place to stay. The siblings were happy to be reunited and he settled in well. Ginger plays her role well as the ice breaker and uniter. 

It was food and game night at youth group and I stayed so the respite kids would feel comfortable. What a blessing to be part of such a thriving place to bring kids!

July 15

It was a lot to entertain the kids but the weather cooperated to be outside. Watching them be kids for some moments was so good to see.

Shaun and Amanda went to an outdoor Jason Aldeen concert. They had a fun time together even though it was abruptly cut short when he left the stage with heat stroke. Apparently he'll be back for a redo soon. Amanda's Nashville boots served their purpose. :)

July 16

After church we grabbed some lunch and then had a quiet afternoon at home. Later we met for soccer and had the best time playing in the on-and-off drizzle, ending the evening with pizza and an epic nerf war.

For fun and memories, these are a few photos from the VBS, from some combination of me, Amy. or Meg, the photographers for the week:

Can't say enough good things about our incredible children's pastors. Its such a special time of life for influence and they steward their positions with the most vulnerable so well. And they are fun! :)