Women of Grace Retreat

A couple of weekends ago I attended our church's womens retreat. I went up expecting to receive something from the Lord, and I surely did. I really enjoyed the drive up Palomar Mountain with my sister in law, Natalie and sweet friend from church, Erika. It was a really beautiful day. When we got to the Palomar Christian Conference Center, I just loved the grounds and the rooms were big and the bathroom bigger. Erika and I shared a bunk...been awhile since I have done that.

The food was so good! I couldn't believe just how good! It was a great first night thanks to Mary, our Pastor's wife, and hearing her testimony...along with pictures of our Pastor in his earlier years. So funny! I didn't sleep too well, in that bunk, but I have definitely had much worse nights. We got up early for prayer and that was a sweet kiss from the Lord.



Erika and I decided to go on our very first horseback ride. At this point, I was really missing my husband and children. It was getting cold, and I just don't do cold. My SIL kept telling me how sore I would be, but Erika would not let me give up and off we went to get on a horse. Let me tell you that I can't believe I waited almost 36 years to do this! My horse's name was Hank, and being able to have control over him, like holding the reigns myself, was truly awesome! I had expected someone to be walking him while on the trail, I guess. Anyway, I had also expected the trail to be flat, even, and on some paved road. It is beautiful out there to begin with, so this did not seem like a bad idea. God's idea is always better. Within the first 2 minutes they had the horses climbing up a very rocky hill. We went through the forest and were among such beautiful scenery. We also were able to ride along an area next to the Center that had been burned by the recent firestorms. It was eery, but beautiful at the same time. My horse had no problems trotting when it should walk, and I got a taste of something I would love to do more of! I told Tim that I want a horsie for Christmas!

Then add to my already wonderful time, it started to snow just before one of our sessions. It was absolutely gorgeous! I know I said I don't do cold, but that kind of cold, I will be open to anytime! There is just nothing like it and I spent the weekend really enjoying some of the beauty the Lord has for us here on earth.

So, I went expecting some special 'message' from God...I had thought possibly from the speaker, however, I received it from the horse's mouth and from the weather...God wants me to be still and know that He is God. I just need to take time to spend enjoying all the wonderful things he has made for me, us. I just need to not feel guilty for not cleaning the garage out every month. It is ok for me to want to just relax under a tree and do nothing. That is a message I am really, really, liking! Now to actually listen....