Shelter from the Storm

Last month we had heavy winds and (although it hasn't officially been called) a tornado. Or maybe two or three.  Every little town and lots of country in a 45-mile path was damaged in some way, usually with fallen trees and an occasional part off of a roof. 

Except for a few places that were hit very hard.  Like Grandpa's place!

See those tractors?  There used to be a building over them.

 See the tin roof in the tree?

 Barns down, sheds blown over...my brother's farm was hit a little like this, too (on a smaller scale).  Lots and lots of clean-up!

 Fun family clean-up time!  Thank goodness no one was hurt.  Buildings can be replaced!

This came on a Monday morning, and that night we were supposed to start our 11th annual Potosi Vacation Bible School.  We called it off for that night because there were threats of more storms coming.  None came, but we felt better safe than sorry!  Three very short nights later, we had our family worship time on a beautiful summer evening.

Unbelievable that we only have one child "young enough" to be in VBS now...."My God is so big and so strong and so mighty; there's nothing my God cannot do!"

This year's theme was very fitting for the stormy weather....STRONG TOWER.  God is our refuge and strength, no matter what storms we face!

Our 4 older kids helped with chaperoning, games, setting up, cleaning up, distributing snacks, and making castle-themed carnival stuff like this horse-scooter jousting challenge!

The highlight of the carnival this year were these 2 attractions.  Duh!!!

It was another great week of learning, playing, and worshipping God.  It's always fun to reunite with the families who participate  and some very special friends who help staff it, year after year.  Very gratifying to me to have my own kids helping with it now.  Truly a family project!

Now hopefully our children will remind their parents not to use the Lord's name in vain, exasperation, or disrespect! (I know I certainly need reminders from time to time!) God likes us to call on Him in love, worship, and prayer--not throw his name around in trite expressions or cursing.  We tried to present this important commandment in a fun and tangible way....God did the rest :)

The name of the Lord is a strong and mighty tower;
    the righteous run to it and are safe.--Proverbs 18:10