Retreat Report

Posted on October 21, 2008 by thebluehutch
24 hours away to learn about hospitality.
It seems a good time was had by all.

Margie Haack led us to Truth through readings, movie clips, small group discussion, and personal Bible study – something for everyone.  The time was so rich.  What a challenge to consider hospitality as more than having people into one’s home – it’s about the heart.  It’s about creating a safe place whether it be in your living room or in the line at Starbucks.

Jean Bronson, Leader of Women’s Ministry and
Margie Haack of Ransom Fellowship

Not only did we learn, we did some playin’!
This is my friend, Jennifer, explaining to everyone that they WOULD be having fun!

Here’s a picture of everyone having fun!

We played human bingo – you know, when you run around and have folks sign in a square that applies to them.  I signed such squares as “Owns a Michael Jackson album” and “Has read all 7 Harry Potter books”.

This is Shannon – she won a gift bag because 17 (more than anyone else) of the squares applied to her – 17!!!! She got up and read us the 17 things that applied to her – what a good sport.
(And, yes, that is my friend Jennifer again – this time with green sparkle hair.  What a crack-up.)

Honey did a great job with the kids.  I arrived back home to all children in one piece, the house no worse for wear, and a husband who looked happy and  rested.  I am so proud of him – and thankful to him for making it possible for me to go away. 
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Becky Stewart or Martha Kicklighter?

Posted on October 21, 2008 by thebluehutch

You too can be a super cool mom in one easy step – buy a pan!

I was in Hobby Lobby last week getting decor for the retreat and saw a silicone muffin pan with leaf and pumpkin molds – adorable! There was no price and no other pans. The woman gave it to me for 50% off of her made up price so I got a steal (I think, literally). The next morning Martha White and I made muffins and this was the result:

Aren’t they ADORABLE!! Little chose a leaf and Bubba was thrilled over eating a raspberry “punkin”. KB was happy to devour 3 mini muffins made with the left over mix. Good Times.

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Torrent Struck and Standing Firm

Posted on October 20, 2008 by thebluehutch

I attend Bible study at my church on Tuesday mornings. This is the second year I have been able to do so and it has been such a blessing. Last year we studied Deuteronomy and this year we are looking at Luke. I try to do the questions throughout the week but the past two Monday nights have found me reading the assignment and answering questions at late hours.

#10 in this week’s lesson reads, “Has there ever been a time in your life when a ‘torrent struck’ and you discovered God’s Word to be a sure foundation? Could you relate that to your group?” My group is SO LUCKY! It just so happens that a torrent struck today at the Blue Hutch and thankfully, God’s Word is our only means of standing.

We took Bubba to Dr. Altman’s office and spent over an hour in discussion. Dr. Altman asked our reason for coming, our observations, direct diagnostic questions, and (bluntly) what we wanted from him. Then he gave his diagnosis. He said nothing I didn’t fully expect him to say.

Words used include mild Autism, speech therapy, occupational therapy, stay hopeful, work hard, and very bright. There is sadness in being told. There is peace in knowing. There is direction from knowing. Can’t you just hear the wind and feel the rains beating down?

Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future.”

Psalm 139, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you, when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance; in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them.”

Our God knows our Thomas and chose to create him just the way he is for the specific purpose He has preordained. Hallelujah, What a Savior!

Thanks to all of you who wrote and called today. That was EXTRA sweet. I have felt very loved and cared for. Amy, I am sorry I missed you – wasn’t up for it tonight but would love to chat later. Keep praying.

“Standing on the promises that cannot fail,
when the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
by the living Word of God I shall prevail,
standing on the promises of God. “

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