Base56 Retreat

A couple of weeks back we had our annual Base56 Retreat.  Last year I didn't go because Sophie was still so young, and typically I hang back and out of certain activities because I have the girls to take care of.  However, this year, the Zachman's (our dear friends) offered to watch the girls for the weekend so I could also go to the retreat.  What a blessing! 

 For those of you who don't know I started working for my hubby in June, very part time as the volunteer coordinator for the 9am service.  This amounts to only 8 hours a week, but it's been a blessing both financially and for our ministry to 5th and 6th graders. Over the years, I have always been there for Gabe and supported his work, but I have never felt very involved or included in the ministry which was completely my fault.  I didn't make the extra effort to get to know the other volunteers, I connected with the students to a certain extent, and most the time, I just assumed I would have to miss an event because of caring for the girls. 

All that to say, I was so incredibly thankful to be there with my husband, serving as a team! The weekend was busy, a lot of work, and exhausting, but we know God worked in marvelous ways in those students hearts! It was a joy also to serve alongside our amazing volunteer team. We were so blessed with strong leaders! 

The weekend was so busy, I could barely even think to take a photo, but I did capture a few. Most of them are from Gabe and I climbing the 65 foot wall to do the 900 foot long zipline!  I had it in the back of my mind that I wanted to attempt the zip-line, but I knew I had to climb that wall in order to do that. So, towards the end of "free time" on Saturday afternoon, I told Gabe I just wanted to go look at the wall.  Sure enough, there wasn't a line. All of the students who wanted to do the zip-line had been able to do it. So right away, Gabe says, "we're doing it" and before I knew it I had a harness on! 

I want you to know I had never rock climbed before and I never knew how scary that feeling is to be that high! I did make it up the wall, but not without my legs shaking like crazy. I wouldn't have made it up that wall without the encouragement of Gabe and all the sweet people below cheering me on! My goal was to go as fast as possible to alleviate that scary feeling of falling. Once I made it up the wall, the zip-line was pure fun! So happy Gabe and I did it together! 

Ok, now for the photos. We took 120 students and 35 volunteers up to Golden Bell Camp. It was an amazing weekend of ministry!

 Friday night worship!

Beautiful morning chapel, surrounded by Aspens!

Students responding to the Lord at the foot of the Cross!

Gabe 

Our friend Brooke zip lining!

Brooke and Laura are both incredible women! Brooke is on staff and Laura is my sweet friend who has been volunteering in Base56 for years! Thanks to both of you for all you did over the weekend!
 

I was so happy to see these girls at the end of the weekend!