Girls Camp 2011

Girls Camp 2011...Rose Summit Ward...is finally over! With over 6 months of planning it's unreal to think about, what on earth am I going to spend my time doing?? Seriously, what a GREAT week. We had a small crowd in number this year, but not small in Spirit. Our girls were a complete delight to be around, to teach and inspire. I had the best time and so spiritually rewarding. I have many tender feelings towards this week and how many blessings I personally received. With a few pregnancy woes as of late, I was concerned how I would handle being up at camp. But as always, the Lord blesses us so abundantly. Honestly, it seems almost impossible to say, but for 4 days straight, I didn't have one issue relating to pregnancy. For some that may not seem like a big deal, but let me tell you, for me, who has a few difficult/annoying issues, this is a blessing that brings tears to my eyes. I gave much gratitude for the prayers Jared was saying for me back home and for the pleadings of my heart the entire time I was there. With these issues put aside, I was able to give, love and serve these amazing girls and leaders for four days. It truly was an absolute delight and an experience I am looking forward to again for next year! Thank you to ALL who helped this week come about! That goes for all my family who watched my kids, my neighbors who helped with so many little things for camp, friends who gave me great insight into amazing camp ideas.
The testimony night is always "the night" that as leaders you look forward too. It's a quiet personal time that the girls are able to share their feelings and insights into the gospel. I was so overwhelmed with gratitude for the thoughts of these girls. Sharing our testimonies can be difficult and uncomfortable. But these amazing girls gave my heart a reason to grow with love and compassion. This night it was reiterated to me once again how the Lord truly guided me with inspiration on our theme. All 7 of these girls come from different backgrounds and family situations. Our theme this year was, "Once Upon A Time" from Elder Uchtdorf's Talk a few years back, titled "Happily Ever After." Each day we focused on writing our own life stories, and filling our pages with the good adventures the Lord wants us to do. The first day was focusing on our premortal life, then current life, then our future life. Each day was filled with spiritual activities that gave great insight into how they can deeper apply the Lords counsel and guidance in their personal choices and lives. Many wonderful devotionals were given bearing testimony to the truths of the gospel and how the Lord truly loves us all. I couldn't be more pleased with the direction and guidance I received as I submitted myself to the Lords quiet promptings. Everything truly was so wonderful. We had many laughs, tears and great memories. I hope that this week was as rewarding to these young girls as it was to me. Until next year, I'm just totally happy being back home with my three wild monkeys, my oh so comfy bed and a bathroom in my room! :)
I am glad to be back in my own bed sleeping and having a bathroom with in walking distance at night time!