these are our moments...

the chronicles of Murry.


we camped on the Victoria side of the Murry river. but the moment we stepped into the water for canoeing, swimming or floating we were on the New South Wales side of the Murry.

"there is nothing that could make this day better: it is perfect. There is nothing that could ruin my day. it is that perfect." these are the words that wandered in and out and through my head as i leisurely paddled down the Murry river in new south wales, Australia. ah, what a wonderful day. I sit over looking the Murry the second morning of the trip. there is a still silence that was desperately missing from the bustle of the Sydney streets. the boys are still asleep and there is a quiet peace. creation. oh how marvelous. the warm breeze and the redundant dip, turn, fan of the paddle are my constant companions: my dear friends.

it is in these moments of still, silence, and solitude in and out of the water; with, around, among the boys i am confronted by the majesty and unconditional favor of the Lord. i feel at rest. i feel at peace with myself and those around me. i have no worries. i have no pain, no shame and no regret. the river has been redeemed back to myself, bought and given back to me by a gracious LORD who loves and lives and breaths life into me and the river.

while on this journey, i have been filled with the wonder and awe seen in the eyes of the children in Narnia the movie. i have savored the moments, and the memories. it was on the first day that i was found to have mused, "it is not so much the destination as the journey.... the getting there."

i started the trip stating that i had the best group. and how i had the awesomest boys. in the power of expectation they lived up to my expressed appreciation and surpassed even what they thought they could do. i was always speaking out how much enjoyment and fun i was having. and as i sought to get to know my traveling companions i took time each day to specifically notice their kind and valiant actions in preparation to share and encouragement them on the last night. as well, i sought moments. with my trusty little camera i sought the moments that captured a special memory for each young man.

i have written each article to include a photo, appreciated action, a memory and a Scripture reference to each of the young men who journeyed with me. i have formatted this blog so that these tributes will appear after this entry. please be patient. it will take some time to get them all up.

these are our moments...