The house is unusually quiet under these overcast skies. Twenty-four hours ago, loved ones’ voices filled our home as we sang “Happy Birthday” to my SIL We had cake, then went out for ice cream. Once adequately filled, we sat in a circle in our living room and talked about our favorite memories of the past few days.
We were blessed with a visit from Daughter, SIL, and five special young people who I consider my grandkids. They come from all kinds of backgrounds and are all amazing people. They spent four days at our house . . . well, not really at our house. We spent four days traveling and exploring through the middle of the Black Hills and playing tourist.
The first day, most of the group went hiking to the top of Black Elk Peak, a 7-mile round trip. The trek might have been the wrong thing to do on the first day. By the hikers got back, they were all complaining of aches and pains. Those who didn’t go welcomed them back with sandwiches, which were later claimed to be the best sandwiches ever.
We toured Mount Rushmore, drove by Crazy Horse, took helicopter rides, talked, shopped, flew down alpine slides, saw the bears, visited dinosaurs, talked, at Bear Country, shopped more, ate out, talked more, and otherwise had a wonderful time together. We had out pictures taken at an old-fashioned photography service. The various ethnic backgrounds of everyone came out in great style. In general, we made a great deal of happy memories.
As everyone left to go home, we all affirmed our love for each other and recognized the importance of the family group we’ve formed. Blood may not connect us, but our hearts and minds do. It’s enough to make a special kind of family.
But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Joshua 24:15
