A Grace Filled Sendoff

After much anticipation and packing, Monday morning brought the big sendoff. I could lie and say my darling girl clung to me for one last hug, returned the I love you called to her upon departure, and waved sweetly as they drove away for camp but there's just one problem with that little scenario...

...that whole thou shalt not lie thing...

Yes, I realize it's already Thursday and I'm just now getting to these pictures but, honestly, my man and I have been busy. There were closets to organize, dresser drawers to clean out, Chick-fil-a spicy sandwiches to be eaten, multiple episodes of Family Feud to be played in tandem on Facebook, etc. We had to prioritize, y'all.

The pictures clearly don't lie. Tay was out of the car, suitcase in hand, and ready to hit the road running. As you can also see, my man was ready to cry at the thought of being childless for a week...

She wasn't really happy about the presence of my camera but....

...in typical 'tween fashion, perked right up to the notion once one of her friends thought it would be fun to take pictures together. :-)

And when you add a few more friends to the mix, picture taking actually becomes fun!

Ah, so many things to discuss before leaving. Who to sit with? Which vehicle should we ride in?

Sweet Savanna gave all of the girls precious notepads to take note on during the week.

There were group photo attempts that were somewhat successful...

...and somewhat not...

After one last potty break, it was time to hit the road. The road to lifelong memories and friendships forged through experiences with Jesus. I can imagine no greater joy than watching your child grow in the Lord. To have God-loving friends and a precious church in which to thrive. 

We are amazingly blessed in this sense and, after spending many years in the world and away from God, I am always overcome with great joy during experiences like we had on Monday morning because the sins of the parents do not have to affect the children.

Amazing grace...it saved a wretch like me...and that grace has allowed my daughter memories like church camp...how sweet the sound...