Dunford Women's Retreat

I don't know how many years the Women's Retreat has been going, but I have been able to attend several, and our family was even in charge a number of years ago.  It has gone from an attendance of 50, and included an overnight stay as well, to about 25 and just on a Saturday morning.  But it continues to be a special time with my sisters-in-law and my nieces.

This was the first activity to let us get to know another person.  It was fast moving and fun.

This one was called "Come Into the Light" and began with a wonderful video about the Statue of Liberty and how she was called "The Lady of Light" by those coming into the US and being able to live in a land of liberty and light. The torch represents enlightenment and leading the way.  The crown symbolizes divinity.  The seven spikes represent intelligence and the principle of liberty.  The robe represents Libertus, the Roman goddess of liberty.  The chains around her feet represent the freedom from oppression as they are shown breaking off.  The tablet shows the establishment of the law - 4 July 1776.  It is in the shape of a keystone that cohesion keeps others together and this nation is based on law.  The active stride shows that she is moving forward, leading the way.  C.S. Lewis said, "There are far, far better things ahead than you have left behind."

We all received a darling bracelet made from copper piping that was removed during a renovation of the Statue of Liberty.

Carolyn told about Grandma Irma Felt Bitner and sang a funny song that she used to sing.

Annette shared the tender mercies she has received in the past two years since Doug and Izzy passed away.  She is such a neat woman and special friend.

Jennifer Adams, who is married to Annette's son Bill, shared her latest book - I am a Warrior Goddess.  She writes the Baby Lit books and does such amazing work

Liz, Ryan's wife also sang a lovely song.

We had several other speakers and wonderful food.  I was able to bring Emily, so it was fun...  (Heather, unfortunately, had school that day)