It was dark. It was loud – at times. There was lots of activity. We had to carry water from the spring. Washing dishes (of which there were not a few!) became a very interesting experience. There were nine children ages 10 and under . Eight young adults. Four adults. But most of all, there was abundant joy and enthusiasm in every heart!

Where were we and what was happening??? This last weekend, we had the joy to host the Stelzl family at our house! After their arrival on Thursday evening, we had an absolute blast getting to know this dear family better, even though we did go over 30 hours without electricity (caused by a rain storm :))! We filled the precious time with playing games, talking, doing electrical work, 🙂 talking, having a few picnics,  making music, talking, carrying water from the spring up to the house, enjoying delicious meals together (some of which were in the dark :)), talking,  taking hundreds of pictures, talking, breathing deeply of the beautiful, crisp fall  air, fellowshipping around a bonfire, talking, and many other things. (Do you get the picture of  what we did the most of anything?? :))

On Saturday morning, we left our without -electricity house 🙂 and went to view the moving Vietnam Veterans Wall, which was passing  through our area at the time. How precious to see list after list of all the soldiers  that willingly gave up  home, family, and future to go to another world and fight so that we, a few generations later, could have those things that they sacrificed!! It was an excellent reminder that freedom is not free – many have fought and died for it on our behalf!

On Sunday evening, we loaded up and drove to Brasstown Bald, the highest mountain in GA, for a refreshing hike and time of fellowship around a picnic supper. When we got to the top, we were greeted by an exhilarating breeze and a clear view of the surrounding mountain ranges. At the excellent suggestion of Mrs. Stelzl, we did something we have never thought to do up there: we lifted our voices in one accord in  many a song of praise to our Creator! Songs like “How Great Thou Art,” “Amazing Grace,” “It Is Well With My Soul,” “Trust and Obey,” and many others filled the air and reminded us of the Almighty, Unchangeable, Loving God that we serve! That will stand out in the memories of all who participated for years! Thank you, Mrs. Stelzl, for  the great idea!!

After their departure, we were left with a too empty, too quiet house (though by then the lights were working again :)) but we treasure the memories of all that was said and done! We praise the Lord for opportunities, like this, to be encouraged by sweet fellowship with like-minded believers!