a refuge that will be dearly missed

The refuge I'm referring to is our life group, home team, Bible study group, or whatever else you might want to call it. It is a few families that have great fellowship, deep study, tons of laughs, random outings, and whatever else comes up together. Our group is small. For the last few years it has just been 3 couples. We actually got a new couple in November, which we have so much enjoyed but wish we had met them sooner. 

At some point I realized that life group was like a refuge for us. No matter how the week went, we had those few hours that would be set aside. We study the word, have good debates and discussion, enjoy a meal, laugh, and share in the journey of life. Sometimes we finish our study intending to head home, and find ourselves all in the house for several more hours. We just enjoy each other's company. 

Here are some picks and the highlights of our last time with our group. We know that we'll stay in touch, but we'll deeply miss our frequent gatherings.

We were so surprised by this cake. I love the use of the verse. And the misspelling of Genesis just added to the fun.

They wanted a family pic but Raegan left early, so we represented her with a screen shot. :)

Me with the youngest of our group. She is adorable. I remember when she barely spoke and now she is full of words and songs. She's a doll!

The adults. Our dear friends! We're missing the Sweets but everyone else is here. I see this pic and have so many fond memories! This is part of our family. 

My youngest and the youngest Benson. They are both pretty awesome!!!

Once the Cowboy game ended, all the boys and dads had to head outside for a game of their own.

Fun was had by all!

We could not end our last group time together without rectifying a small problem. Trudy had never seen The Princess Bride. So we ended the night with a movie. :)

Of course, we had to get one last group shot. Again, everyone is here except the Sweets because I had picked up Raegan. 

This was all on Sunday, January 11th. Monday had a great surprise as well. 

Everyone joined us for dinner at Cotton Patch. Raegan had requested it for one of our final meals in the US because she loves chicken and dumplings. Monday night, they have some great specials, so I had planned that to be our dinner. Then it turned into a little party!

We are looking forward to seeing everyone at our sendoff party on Saturday (technically today, since it's after midnight), but it was nice to have so much time together before our departure!

Irwins, Bensons, Sweets, if you're reading this, know that WE LOVE YOU!!!!