Renewal, Rebuilding and Hand-holding...

We went away---just us five. 

We renewed our spirits, rebuilt the core of our family and held hands with our Savior and one another the whole trip.  I actually wrote a whole blog on the sweet, yet deep lessons we all were taught through his gentleness yet steadfast devotion to our family.  However, it was accidentally deleted instead of published.  

 I was ill, upset, mad, angry.  Okay, point made I think.  Moving on...

Then, I realized that one of the major lessons of the trip was taught through the testimony of the lighthouse on the island. 

we are told to let our light shine, and if it does, we won't need to tell anybody it does.  lighthouses don't fire cannons to call attention to their shining-they just shine.  

Our brightest light shines forth by what we do rather than what we say. 

So, I will keep all the revealed truths and grace tucked deep in my heart and trust that God will imprint them on your hearts too, my precious daughters.  

The sweetest treasures of the week are unexplainable anyway.

The connections and friendships that were reestablished between you three girls is so precious to mommy.  Without me realizing just how much, the school year and specialized hobbies had stolen so much of your fondness for one another.  This week, we learned how to battle the world against this attack.  You three came out on top with a renewed devotion to "sisterhood."

Sisters were meant to be best friends.  Mommies were designed to always be there to hold you up and hold you accountable while constantly loving  you through it all.  And, Daddies were created to be your first love and model you what true love is.  I am so thankful for the core strengthening we experienced this week together.  We realize that little girls don't stay little forever.  BUT, the devotion to family will keep the foundation solid as the world attempts to chip away at our greatest treasures---family!

Investments in those we call our own will never be wasted.  We gave God the reigns this week.  We handed over the "pen" used to write our story.  We rested in His deep love for us and the discoveries we made went far beyond seashells, island life and the history of one of the most beautiful cities in the South.  Although those were all cherished memories of the trip, we cling tight to one another and the love of our Father that shines through our family.  

{notice the tongues-despite the ruffles on the uniforms, it was a very serious game}

This little island made from shells was only visible at low tide.   You girls were awe struck.

Waking up to this view from my pillow each morning was nothing short of perfect.

{here is where I must input deep heartache and longing to go back}

 I snuck up on silly, young-hearted conversations that portrayed playful versions of who you both truly are.  I treasure it still. 

Daddy and I tried to embarrass you by being the only one to shag to the tunes of the DJ on the pier.  It backfired on us and you each one wanted your own shag lessons.  It was full of extreme laughter and entertainment for Mommy!

The trip started in Savannah. 

 We spent two days visiting the squares and all the gorgeous landmarks of the old city. 

(of course, we found a cupcake shop)

 

Voted the Most Beautiful street in North America, Jones Street was a favorite destination for us girls. 

We visited so many parks with such pretty water fountains.  Finally, after dinner, we went to the City Market and let you girls fully enjoy the fountains in the last square of the night.  Nothing says "true freedom" like not a care in the world when walking home with completely drenched clothes.  Guess which sister was too cautious to get totally soaked? 

 Wow...had no idea they would be so intrigued by a telephone booth. 

River Street was fun!  Ailee and I shared her first candied apple.  It was, well, NOT my first:-)

and, we met some new friends at one of the parks too. 

A mother's happiness is like a beacon, lighting up the future but reflected also on the past in the guise of fond memories.  Honore de Balzac

(this old lighthouse was mommy's favorite)

We came home to jump straight into enjoying one of the best July 4th weeks I can remember.  

FREEDOM..we celebrate multiple meanings this year!  So grateful.