Community all around

The next morning we hiked to overlook the stunning Jasper Valley. As we walked, we marvelled at the big horned sheep, the quiet white Aspen forests, and the wonder of new friendship. We walked slowly and deliberately, and drew out our time with Gabriel before leaving him, through tears, for Grande Prairie.

(Ben employing the safety "rule of thumb" for wildlife viewing)

In Grand Prairie, we visited The Salvation Army Community Church. One of the beauties of sharing a faith is the community we find as we travel. We were welcomed with open arms by complete strangers. After church, we were invited to stay at the pastors' home.

We caught up with laundry and showers and had great conversation around the table late in to the evening. Victor and Peter discussed social service and faith, and how to serve others in a way that truly empowers, gives dignity, and brings hope. Grace and I discussed the struggles of parenting, and how we can parent through the challenges in a way that woos our children into deeper relationship with us. She likened it to the way God loves us. He doesn't control us or force his ways on us, He graciously shows us the way and lovingly woos us toward relationship.

"I have loved you with an

everlasting love; I have

drawn you with unfailing

kindness" Jeremiah 31:3

It's only when we know we are loved that obedience becomes easier. This conversation gave me something to ponder as we begin living out some pre-teen parenting challenges.

The next morning we had a chance to serve at the Salvation Army food bank.

As we take time to re-establish our family mission, we want to find more ways to help others together. This was a fun starting point. Our kids took up the challenge of preparing food boxes with enthusiasm and afterward we were able to share a meal in the soup kitchen with the community there.

It was moving to see the camaraderie and care for one another by the community within the dining hall. Absolutely everyone has something to bring to the table, and I loved watching this play out in real life.

After an oil change and stocking up with groceries and water, we buckled in for the 22 hour drive to Whitehorse that we had hoped to accomplish in 3 days…(Spoiler: it didn't quite go as planned).