Twenty of us (11 adults, 9 kids under 7) spent 7 nights at a beautiful farm stay/Olive grove in Kangaroo Valley. It was wonderful, with many special memories made. We weren't too sure how long we would stay or how David would go but thanks to God, he did well and we were all able to stay the whole time. Beyond grateful for this blessing!! It was a bittersweet time but also just a precious time of togetherness and memory making. It was so good and healing to be together as a family.
The days were quiet and peaceful. We spent pretty much the whole time just hanging out at the camp as there was plenty to do there and it was such a gorgeous relaxing venue in the bushland. We spotted wombats and echidnas too! The kids had a blast running around and playing and feeding the farm animals. There was lots of laughter and of course noise from the many little kids!
David did spend most of his time sleeping/resting in his little cottage. At times one of us would go in and spend a little quiet one on one time with him, and once or twice a day he would come out to the common area of the camp (an undercover area with dining table, couches, ping pong table, campfire etc) to hang out with the group which was really special too. We had a wheelchair which was a huge help to getting him around and helped him conserve his energy for chatting! We shared a lot of laughs, stories and yes, tears too.
Sitting around the campfire together one night was a really lovely time. Roasting marshmallows and potatoes and damper! He also ate really well for most of camp (each family group would make a big meal for everyone each night, so there was plenty of delicious variety to motivate him!).
On the day we were leaving he had quite a bit of pain but we were thankfully able to get him home with various driving configurations to make him most comfortable. Home now, settling back in and will see where the days to come take us. I know David was so grateful to be able to go on family camp and we so appreciated all the love and support that made it possible.
Will update tomorrow on 'the state of things' now we are home, just wanted to get this post up ASAP as I know many lovely folk are eager to hear. It was SO sweet to know so many dear friends, family and church were hoping and praying this holiday would happen. It did, woohoo!!! :) We felt you all cheering us on, your thoughts and prayers were so encouraging.
Wanted to also share these stunning family photos taken by my dear and incredibly talented sister in law, Alex. Incredibly precious images that mean so much to us all!
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| Our quirky, wonderful clan xx |
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| Miles climbed onto the couch where his Papa was resting, so keen for a cuddle. |
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| Nine little cousins :) Moments of mayhem and magic xx |
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