Retreating

Although it was supposedly gorgeous over the weekend in Minneapolis, we packed up our little hatchback and headed north where there was still snow on the ground.  We spent the weekend in McGregor, MN with about 40 other couples from our church for a marriage retreat.  

The theme was stories of marriage on mission, which was so great to hear about and learn from.  Different couples ranging from about 10 years of marriage to 49 years (!!) shared their experiences of marriage, struggle, joy, sin, grace, and hope.  Although each couple's story was so different, God's faithfulness was evident in each one.  

It gives me such encouragement to hear from other couples, wise with experience, who have endured trials and triumph in their marriages.  We're so new at this, and learning so much.  God's grace is covering us now, and He will continue to prove himself faithful for years to come.  

I'm so grateful for other couples who have walked ahead of us, and can offer guidance.  I'm also grateful for the couples who are in the same place as we are, walking through similar seasons, trying to navigate this new experience.  

It was a good getaway for Zach and I.  We came home yesterday to a very messy house, tons of laundry that smells like a campfire, no groceries in our fridge - but nonetheless lots of thankfulness in our hearts.  (And our nice neighbors made us dinner) :)

    

Speed walking/run backwards race 

Puddle reflections  

Pro packers