Things I learned on a 3 Day Mom Retreat

For the first time all three of my teens, my youngest children, left together for 8 days with their youth group.  At first I felt a little lost, but then I decided to seize the moment.  And head west for a MOM RETREAT.  There are a few things I learned on this trip.

 If you find yourself facing a few days alone, and an open calendar, AND  there is a place you have wanted to visit…GO!       As I quickly considered, then planned this trip I knew there was one place I wanted to go, the North Rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison.  I’ve wanted to visit this National Park for a couple of years, but because of the distance from our home we haven’t been able to schedule the amount of days our family would need for such a long road trip.  But guess what?  I gathered some camping gear, filled a little cooler and headed off.

Hiking alone, might not be advised, but it is GLORIOUS.    Making my way to the North Rim early in the morning, I got to do a 3 mile hike, alone.  I did text my husband before I took off  on foot, letting him know where I was and when I planned to be back to my car.  It was about 6 am and there was NO ONE else on the trail.  I couldn’t believe it and thoroughly enjoyed the solitude.

Support is good, but facing fear when it is just you and God is faith building.  I have struggled with FEAR all of my life.  Every once in awhile I discover that while I’ve taken back much ground, there are more deep places where fear resides in me.  FEAR tried to cloud my view that morning, but I did battle with the thoughts in my head.  By reciting Scripture and audibly giving thanks for every little thing that I saw and heard on that trail, I had the most marvelous time.   I had to draw from the Well by myself, and I am changed, strengthened.

The next adventure I take like this, I am hoping to do with a friend.  There is nothing I would change about my 3 days exploring alone, but now I want to go on an adventure with one of my girl friends!

How about you, have you taken a Mom Retreat alone?