Vacation Update

We had a wonderful week in the mountains of Tennessee last week. The temperature never reached above 80 degrees and in spite of a few nights of rain, our tents did not leak. Praise the Lord! Our electric blankets and heater kept us warm at night--yes, you did read that right. My philosophy of camping is "If momma ain't happy, nobody's happy" so electric blankets and heaters are a must have.

We spent as much time as possible relaxing at our campsite which was right on the mountain stream. I think the mountain stream is my most favorite thing in nature. I love to hear the merry murmur as it dances over the rocks. I dream of having a log cabin in the mountains right by a brook, stream or river.

On Tuesday, we went to Cades Cove and saw how settlers lived. Log cabins, churches, a grist mill, and blacksmith's shop had been preserved. We saw turkey, deer and even a bear cub along the path.

On Thursday, we went to Pigeon Forge and saw the production "The Miracle". It is an outstanding musical drama on the battle of good vs. evil. We had front row seats and loved it. The performers and music were outstanding. If you're ever in Pigeon Forge, it is a must see! It was very eye-opening for us about how Satan is everywhere--from the birth of Jesus to the crucifixion to our homes and world today. It made us very aware that he prowls constantly and takes delight when we make wrong choices.

During intermission, Jaclyn said, "I can't wait to meet Jesus--the real Jesus--and I hope it's soon." I know she is ready to go to heaven. I thank the Lord that my children have accepted Him as their Savior and that we will be together for eternity. We pray the same for your family.

After the show, the performers were available for autographs and pictures which tickled the girls. The guy who played Jesus told Jaclyn he knew that she enjoyed the show just by the expression on her face. She gave him a hug and told him how much she enjoyed the show.

You can check it out at www.themiracle.com.

We left reluctantly Saturday and headed home. Our week was way too short and we could have stayed another week. This was our second year camping at Jellystone Campground in Gatlinburg. The owners are Christians and it is very family-oriented. Jaclyn and Ashley enjoyed going to Bible School each morning. A missions team from Smoke Rise Baptist Church in Stone Mountain, Georgia, led the VBS. Jaclyn has a life long friend in Mr. Bruce...a very special helper at VBS. We have to plan a trip to go visit them in Stone Mountain.

We thank the Lord for a safe trip and that we are home. We are missing the cool mountain air in this stifling hot heat and humidity here! Hope you are staying cool and having a great summer!