for the Lord our God is holy.” Psalm 99:9 (NIV)
Whoo–eee…we are getting ready for what has become our favorite annual family summer vacation…here we come Camp of The Woods! COTW is a Christian family camp nestled in the Adirondack Mountains of New York on Lake Pleasant. It is the perfect vacation destination for enjoying the simple and wondrous pleasures of life. God’s beautiful creation surrounds us as we delight in a week of soaking in His Word, VBS for the kids, afternoons on the beach, sports, miniature golf, meals in the dining hall and evening worship/concerts by an amazingly talented team of musicians and singers. Our entire family loves this week each summer.
“Send forth your light and your truth, let them guide me; let them bring me to Your holy mountain, to the place where You dwell.” Psalm 43:3 (NIV)
We were introduced to Camp of the Woods by the Doyle Family. Winnie Doyle (Joshua and Gabrielle call her “Aunt Doyle”) has been going to COTW every summer for over 6 decades! The Doyle Family first invited us to COTW when Josh and Brie were tots. This is now our 5th summer at COTW. Thank you, Winnie, for sharing this meaningful family vacation legacy with us. Our COTW memories are treasures.
We will really miss our niece, Lindsey, who has gone with us for the last 3 years and who will just be getting home (in Texas) from a youth retreat/missions trip. (Go Lindz! We are proud of you!) And Billy, Laurie and Aaron, the camp fires just won’t be the same without you this year! We will make and eat some Smores for you. We will really miss you, too. Billy, Jimmy is especially going to miss late night coffee talks with you!
Joshua and Gabrielle are great packers (they get that from their Daddy, who can perfectly pack a vehicle). They love helping me pack their suitcases. They are cooperative and happy while doing it, which makes if fun and pleasurable!
OK, this picture has nothing to do with COTW, but this scene made me laugh. I told Josh and Brie to play nicely and quietly while I took a quick shower this morning. When I came out, this is what I saw. How funny! Webkins, Build-A-Bear creations, various stuffed animals. How about Mickey hanging on there!?!? So funny! We’ll keep it there as long they’d like…it makes us smile.
Off to tidy up our preparations for COTW. Our hearts and bodies sure are ready for this genuine and deep time of refreshing! Come and join us next year!
Heather says
Have a wonderful retreat at COTW – I cannot wait to hear more.
Love the picture of the stairs…so funny.
Enjoy your family/friend time, what precious memories for you, Jim and the cherubs. I’ll be looking for pictures!
Love,
Heather