Ladies Retreat

(Mandy, Amy, Jeanie, Cassie, Me, Leandra, Hannah, Terran & Anna at the World Ice Art Championships, Fairbanks AK)

I spent this past weekend in Fairbanks and North Pole with 7 lovely hospitality house ladies, retreating. It's still quite winter-y here, which lends well to enjoying good company and ice sculptures.
We left Friday morning, drove 6 hours and settled into a nice Bed & Breakfast. Saturday we rose leisurely (a much needed break for lots of these busy women) and ventured out to see the ice art. We enjoyed dinner at a fabulous little small town joint called the "Cookie Jar". And yes, I saved the cookie for dessert. Then we went back to see the sculptures all lit up at night. A truly beautiful experience.
Much of the "meat" of the retreat happened in the 12+ hours we spent in the car, counting the miles til the next wilderness potty stop. (A comical side note: we tried to prepay at the first gas station, since the pumps were obviously older than me. The little old man was confused with this concept. Asking, "How will you know how much to pay if you haven't pumped your gas yet?" A question I've always wondered myself, and was glad to see someone else had the sense to ask it too)
Each of the two cars were equipped with a handful of conversation starter questions, some serious, some light, others funny. I think both cars really enjoyed this time for good, meaningful conversation. It's good to reflect on how God is working in our lives with others.

Thanks for your prayers for our safety and our fellowship. I'm slowly learning the planning process of retreats, a concept that regularly stresses me out. I know that asking for help is not unreasonable. I just have to do it. The ladies were great about pitching in, reminding me to ask for help ahead of time next time!

More updates on our busy month soon!!

This ocean scene was a group favorite, check out that fish!

God bless,
Elaine