Just in case anyone is still out there, I thought I'd prepare a finale to the trip. It'd be hard to describe in one column all the fun we had and the lessons we learned. I feel especially lucky to have been sitting in my seat throughout this adventure. From my view, I got to experience all that went on during the Tour, and then visit with the friends and family about it on the blog and via your e-mails. In fact, we'd receive e-mails for the kids and they had no idea what you were referring to becuase they had not seen the articles on the blog. I was the only person that saw both sides and feel blessed to have had that role.
The kids could not have behaved any better on the trip. They, as a group, would certainly have gotten in more trouble if they had been at home. They are to be commended. The trip itself could not have come off more smooth. It was excellently planned and that planning paid off. We all were treated to many great experiences for the price we paid. The performances were above average. We certainly benefitted in many areas by having a strong group of seniors. I promise you that makes a difference.
I was impressed with how Jane pulled herself together and made it through the trip. Jane is much more than our piano accompianist. She is really a big part of Spirit. No one was pulling any harder for her than those kids that know her. They wanted her participation because of the bonds they have with her. It was also great to have Diane. She is a neat lady in her own right. The security she added by coming along was priceless and we owe her a lot. I think she is grateful for the experience she had.
I highly recommend the South. Sure, they are different, but in a lot of ways, they are the same. We saw some beautiful churches and learned a lot of history. I'm extremely proud of those kids that stepped up to offer us their devotionals along the way. I'm sorry that the parents don't get to observe that. It would really warm your heart. Our host at the churches we visited were terrific I hope we are as hospitable when we have groups visit our church.
There will always be good memories. If you weren't there, you won't get them. Whether it was Chloe searching for the tracks or Tony yelling at the troops for not crossing the street at the designated crossing area, we'll always remember. We'll remember the 10 minute talk that Cameron gave in 1 1/2 hours or the official vote taken on the bus to see if Sterling or Seth was "hotter." I'll never forget being hit in the back by an ill flung roll at Lambert's in Alabama. It all happened and we shared a laugh.
I'm personnaly grateful to the sponsors. This is not an easy job, although it is very fun. Until you have loaded all the bags under a bus in 95% humidity, you may never know the work it can be. Each of them add something to our group. From Brian May's ability to be a "walking encyclopedia" to Audrey Erlich's assistance with the production, we are blessed by each of the sponsors. Staying in the rooms with the kids this year was also a blessing. Staying with boys when you've only raised a girl is both, delightful and eye-opening. We actually had a great time.
I do believe this Tour was a huge success. Everyone enjoyed it and we became closer as friends. We presented the stories of the Gospels to many people and we certainly heard them ourselves. This trip won't make your kids better than anyone else, but it sure could make them better than they were. I hope they carry on some of the experiences they were touched by. I'll pray that they can feel the emotion of the Senior Service as they get back to everyday life. And, I hope that Spirit will be a part of their lives always.
So, in the words of Grandpa from Christmas Vacation, "If you need me.......I'll be upstairs asleep!"
Little Boze
