A Time to Reconnect

This past week, thanks to the generosity of Byron's parents, we were able to take three days and get away from life (as we know it) and spend time away from kids, from our church, from our responsibilities and from phones. Being in the pastorate has a way of monopolizing the "Rev's" time and add on top of that all my "teacher duties" and just everything else, Byron and I just needed to re-connect and get back on the same page. Byron started it all out by surprising me with a wedding vow renewing ceremony complete with a bouquet (arranged by Marilyn Muir) that was almost like my original wedding bouquet. It was beautiful and meant allot to me. He did a wonderful job suprising me with all his plans. After the renewing of our vows we headed out for our little mini honeymoon. We started it out by eating at our favorite - Chef Peng's in Niles, OH. Mmmmm.... good. We then headed for Holmes County, Ohio. We spent til Thursday reading, driving through the country side, relaxing and talking, talking, talking. I don't think either of us realized how long it had been since we really talked. Not "in passing" talk or "necessary" talk but just talking. It was wonderful to not have to set the alarm..... clean up the house...... wash dishes...... do laundry........ share my husband..... answer the phone.......... It ended all too soon. Thanks Mom & Dad Gurnee for such a wonderful gift!!

The renewing ceremony with the honorable Rev. Daryl Muir officiating. (BTW... Daryl & Marilyn thanks for being such faithful friends!)

My dear husband being crazy about reciting his vows. He was trying to decide which parts to leave in and which ones to add.

The chef cooking our meal.


Breakfast at the Carlisle Inn

On the deck outside of our room.