After another wonderful lunch at the Firehouse, we had free time this afternoon. We had a few hit the exercise equipment. Some hit the pool. It was hilarious to see all the 6th grade boys (or as they like to constantly remind me... rising 7th graders) hanging off of Connor. He had his work cut out for him. Tyler and Jonathan came over to help out, though. I reminded Connor of a Drastic Measures Tour where the three of them as 5th and 6th graders were hanging all over Brian in the pool. It's so neat to watch these youth grow up. We had a few watching World Cup Soccer and others finishing their round of putt-putt in the hotel hallway.
Some of us ventured to the mall. I went along strictly for chaperoning purposes. :-) Hannah enjoyed checking out the iPad (I'm sure that will end up on a wish list at some point). Yates lost a tooth. Kyle, Collier and Blake went into a store, and didn't realize at first it was a Christian store. They were talking with the staff, and they asked asked the guys if they had been in the store before. Kyle told them no and that we were a youth group from Mt. Holly doing mission projects and singing concerts to tell others about Christ. The guys working there offered to pray for our group. It was a pretty cool experience for them, and I was so proud of them for telling others about what we were doing.
Tonight's meal was a Red Robin (YUM). The kids had been pushing hard all day to go there. I'm glad it worked out! Good food, great times! Ashley was a little embarrassed because the staff found out it was her birthday. But, she got free ice cream, so it worked out okay!
Tonight's concert was at The Hermitage at Cedarfield. What a nice place! One of the things I was impressed about tonight was how the ENTIRE GROUP helped unload all of our equipment (bells and tables included) without having to be told. They all dug in and helped. Exodus II rang so well, which is saying a lot since we hadn't practiced in two weeks. The kids sang extremely well. I can't wait for you to hear them on Sunday! You are going to be so impressed.
Tonight's devotion was led by Erica. She used Exodus 4 and the example of Moses of how challenges in ours lives help us grow in our faith. We then spent time in small groups praying for the needs of others. You know, their ringing and singing always impress me. But now that I think about it, it's their sweet spirits that impress me the most. Man, I love these kids!!!
Enjoy the photos!!
