How can I say thanks?

When we pull all our photos together from the three Canons going at all times, what an album it will be! Our hosts could not have prepared us for such a beautiful mountain cabin with all the comforts of home--and then some. And then there was the lake, pristine and like glass in the evenings, full of canoes, kayaks, boats, ducks, and kids having a blast in the afternoon. Surrounded by beauty, God's very creation, all in the midst of a mission to bring kids to Christ, the tradition continuing with even more fervor today than when it all began so many years ago. I re-dedicated my heart to Christ at that very camp several times as a young person growing up. To my great delight I got to speak to Ken Poure on Sunday morning who had prayed with me when I was moved to tears over my friends who didn't know the Lord after his talk one night at camp when I was only 13.

Our family times were sometimes chaotic, sometimes deep and inspirational, sometimes with a flu bug, yummy food, sometimes forgiveness was needed, but always love for one another was ever present. I pray and believe we all came away from the experience better for having been together. There are many families who never have such opportunities, nor is there a desire to even go to the effort, and so I feel so blessed that my kids love each other and you are building memories and relationships among your own children and their cousins. And to my son-in-law and daughters in law, how could I be more thankful that you are willing to spend time with your spouse's family and be so accepting of this big clan!

My heartfelt thanks to Fred and Charif who really hosted us all, as it was through Fred's colleagues at CHF that made this all happen. And to the Parkinsons who so generously shared their home with us. And to Isaac and Katie who went to the (great) expense to get here from Alaska, and to Annie and Dave who drove so far with little ones and Dave's hurt shoulder to be with the family. God is so good. Let's continue to pray for each other--Dave's surgery is Tuesday and they are apart from Emily and Jonathan for the next 10 days. Isaac and Katie are still very far from home and will need journey mercies. Fred and Charif will be going to family camp together in a week or so at Forest Home and I know it will provide a needed rest and intimate family time together. Pray for Dad and his health and work that is so draining. And pray for me to be a testimony of God's grace to those I work with and especially to you, my family.

Another Surprise!!

I'm not gonna tell you what it is, because it's a surprise. But I've been told that you may react like Lucy when you arrive. Don't get your hopes up for a fruit basket or anything. Just get ready to be blessed.

We are blessed.

5 Days and Counting

This is so exciting!!! Only 5 days left.
Becky, Katie and I went over the menu and sleeping arrangements.

Master bedroom- Fred and Charif
Queen Bedroom- Ike and Katie
Queen Bedroom- Dave and Annie
Basement room- Dad and Mom
Bunk room #1- Penny, Daniel, Sophia, Jonathan and Emily on a cot (maybe)
Bunk room #2- Jolie and Garrett in pack in plays and additional option for Sophia, Emily and Jonathan.

Also we were thinking our trip to Sequoia National Park would be on Tuesday. So plan that in your minds for an all day trip out. I know I really want to do the Rappelling, the Ropes Course and the hikes.

Things not to forget:
water shoes
hiking shoes, these 2 can be combined.
camera
bathing suits
sun block
sweatshirt
sense of humor!!

See you all on Saturday night. We leave at 3.30 pm from Simi Valley.

A Word From The Master Of The House

Our benefactor, Mr. P., sent me the below message today. It looks like we might not have much time to see one another, what with all the activities we have to choose from!

Summertime at Hume Lake can be tons of fun.

We have a Suzuki Samurai 4WD Jeep at the house, please feel free to use it all week as you explore the mountain area. There are maps in the dinning room buffet cabinet showing miles of back roods which are safe and fun to explore. There is an electric GEM Car, seats 4, at the house, another fun way to explore the camp and lake area. There is a Jacuzzi on the back porch, bring your suits. There is a closet full of games and puzzles. Also bring your favorite movies. Use the Popcorn Cart on Movie Night, the popcorn is stored just below the machine. For the "Espresso Gang", there is an automatic Espresso Machine, please watch the DVD for instructions if you decide to use it. There is also BBQ and Ping Pong.

My all time favorite activity remains the "Moring Walk Around the Lake" - This is an easy three mile trail which follows the lake shoreline and provides a wonderful opportunity to see God's creation and reflect on Him.

When you get there and are settled, take a trip down to the Administration Office and let them know that you will be on campus for the week. Tell them the ages of your kids and other Family members and they will let you know what activities you may want to consider.

Here are a few which may require you to ask about at the Administration Office:

Ponderosa Pool
Paint Ball
The Blob
Skate Board Park
Frisbee Golf
Kayaks and Row Boats
Sandy Cove Beach

Day Camp for Kids
This is a really fun opportunity and includes a Morning and Evening session. No Advance Reservations are required, you can sign up when you get there. This program is something all kids really look forward to and it gives mom and dad a little time to themselves while on a family vacation. http://www.humelake.org/content/yc_daycamp.php

Summer Preaching Series
Robb Williams will speak Sunday Morning at 10:45am, you all will get an opportunity to hear him speak and decide if you would like to hear more from him. This is also open to all, no Advance Reservations, He will speak each Evening Sunday through Friday.

Tuesday Morning Pancake Breakfast
7:00am to 8:30am on the top of the hill at Inspiration Point - Free Breakfast and a great time to meet the Staff and Locals - Follow the signs

School House Rappelling
Monday, 9:00am-11:45am, $20 per person - Hume Lake’s new adventure. We will travel minutes from Hume Lake and a short walk out to a rocky tower precipice. Our guides will help you rappel into the canyon (okay not all the way). There are spectacular views of Kings Canyon and the High Sierras both on top and during your rappel. Equipment, snacks and transportation are provided. You must be at least 12 years of age to participate. Sign up in the Administration Office.

Epic Mountain Bike Adventure

Tuesday, 9:00am-11:45am, $20 per person - A fun filled eight-mile downhill mountain bike adventure. Starting at the ridge west of Hume (7200 ft) you will have a one-of-a-kind view of Hume Lake. After a brief orientation, ride through evergreen forests, passing streams and a small dogwood grove, finishing at Hume Lake (total descent 2000 ft). Equipment, snacks and transportation are provided. Space is limited to 20 riders. You must be at least 12 years of age and have moderate mountain bike experience to participate. Sign up in the Administration Office.

Family Ropes Course Adventure

Wednesday, 9:00am-11:45am, $20 per person - For the first time, you and your Day Camp kids (age 8 +) can experience High Adventure together. Hume is combining the forces of High Adventure and Day Camp to produce a Family High Adventure experience! The High Adventure Course is super fun and will sometimes push your limits (not too far). It’s a blast to watch and even more fun to do. Elements include: The Screamer, Tree obstacle course, Pamper Poles, and Climbing Wall. Sign up in the Administration Office.

Boole Tree Experience

Thursday, 9:00am-11:45am, FREE - Hike the 2.5mile loop and see the largest Giant Sequoia tree in the National Forest. The Boole Tree is the 6th largest tree in the world. It is amazing to stand next to this tree and see the size and beauty of this incredible creation. This is a moderate hike. Sign up in the Administration office.

Tour Under the Stars

Thursday 8:30pm-10:00pm, FREE - It’s back! The High Sierras are one of the best places on earth to lean back, relax, and enjoy the stars. This classic tour of the night sky, includes stories, legends, and reveals some of God’s awesome mysteries. Bring a flashlight, a blanket, and binoculars if you have them. Sign up in the Administration office.

Call with any Questions,

Have Fun,

Rick

Talent Night

Get your skit/song/dance/joke/impression/lip sync ready for the big talent show! Nobody is exempt so no excuses. Start thinking about it now!

I want to see Mom and Dad doing "who's on first" or some old vaudeville act or something like that.

More Fun Stuff

I sent in the form to the Parkinsons and told them about this blog. Mrs. Parkinson added more to the picture!

Here's what she said: How cool!!! I checked out their blog and noticed they had a question about beach towels. We can tell them we have plenty. Also we might want to let them know that we have 8 beach chairs in the garage closet and an "easy up" for the Cove (sand buckets and a few rafts are in the mud room closet as well). I am so excited for them!!!!!!!
-Now off for my walk...

It looks like we're going to have a family blast!

Becky and I decided....

that we would go to Dream Dinners and take care of most of the dinners....menu planning to follow.