Harp and Violin

Introducing . . . Beth and Lydia Serven.

In the St. Louis area, we have unique resource that is a blessing to many. The Family Vision Library is a home-school library. Yup. That's right. Run by home-schoolers for home-schoolers with tons of books designed to equip home-schoolers.

The library is a blessing to many people, including our family. So we were thrilled that Beth was able so serve in providing harp music for a recent "open house" they hosted. Lydia accompanied her on several songs.


Background Music.


Visiting.

Fight Boys, Fight!

Future Men.

Fighting is a good thing. It just depends who you're fighting.

We certainly should not fight each other in the church or family. We are brothers and sisters in the Lord. "Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!" Psalm 133:1

However, the Lord has called his children to make war against the world, the flesh, and the devil. These concepts are important in the raising of sons as well as daughters, but the sons in particular have a special role in fighting.

Borrowing from Rushdoony, my father says it this way; a man is called to be a Provider, a Protector, a Patriarch, and a Priest. Not until a man is fully equipped to fulfil these responsibilities is he ready to begin a family.

One of the points is Protector. This is the "defensive" side of fighting. Being a Protector is not just talking about physical protection of one's family, though it definitely includes that aspect.

A man as a husband and father must protect his family spiritually, guiding them through the wiles of bad doctrine that seeks to subvert the truth; emotionally, by knowing with wisdom what books, activities, movies, etc., will be beneficial to the health of himself and his family; mentally, by directing himself and his family to things that are true, right and holy; and physically keeping and training his family in positions of safety.

A man is also called to fight the war. This is the "offensive" side of fighting. He must charge out into the battle of life with sword upraised, M-16 loaded, arrows in his quiver, hunting dog at his side.

Metaphors aside, he must prepare even when a boy to wage war against the world. The antithesis will only grow stronger over the coming years. Be strong and courageous.

Young men should also learn to fight the flesh. This includes understanding one's own sinful heart, how to repent and forgive, mortify sin and discipline one's self in godliness.

Lastly, boys must learn to wage war against the seed of the serpent. We know how the war will end--Christ is the victor over sin and death and hell! But the battle still goes on. Encourage your sons and brothers to valiantly fight the good fight, even now preparing to be warriors for Christ's Kingdom.

“Do not be afraid of them.
Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome,
and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”
Nehemiah 4:14b

All Church Day at the Farm

Peter climbed up a ladder balanced against a tree to capture this photo.

One week ago, marked the day of a long anticipated event--an All Church Day at the Farm. The Knibb family, our gracious hosts, welcomed anyone from our church who was able to come. Though the Farm could be classified as the "boonies" with the long drive, windy roads and semi precarious bridges, the welcome we received was wonderfully hospitable.

The day's events were varied depending on the inclination of the person. We had fun doing many things . . .

Riding Horses . . . .


Mr. Knibb leads the way.


Andrea facilitating fun.


Horses in the mix.


Swinging along the open road.

Playing Volleyball . . .


Alyssa: "Service!"


Samuel, all smiles.


Ready for battle.


Ouch.


The playing field.


Hey--look at that. It's a picture of Peter. : )


Hit it Ryan!


Knibbs and Muzzys.


Through the net.

Cooling off . . .


Stock tanks are always a good thing.


Down to the river to play.


Refreshing streams.

One whole group went up river in boats to explore the terrain. They ended up on a mud slide with an exciting mud fight to top it off. The rest of us had a tamer experience playing in the water and chatting.


Fellowship.

Time for a Group Picture and a Happy Birthday . . .


Singing Happy Birthday to Nathan K.


Preparing the cake made by Mrs. K.


Hunting . . . uh . . Feasting season open.

Time for Lunch . . .


An Ample Spread so kindly provided by the Knibbs.


Mr. Kohler.


A gracious young hostess.


This stuff is good.


Sleepy girl--Sarah captured this picture. Aren't you impressed? : )


Content from a yummy meal.

Tractor Rides to a Water Balloon War . . .


Up the hill, preparing to do battle.

Another load of warriors arrive to join the first.


Ready for battle.


Explanation of rules: Capture the Flag with Water Balloons as Weapons.

Now, who do you think was supposed to take pictures of the actual war? Not our photographer, he was in the thick of the battle. In fact when I was walking back down the hill (it was a good long walk) I was handed the camera with safekeeping instructions to place it in the car, out of reach of the impending water drops. Of course the balloons were one threat to the workability of our camera, but also a large thunderstorm was blowing in.

The game barely finished when the clouds broke and the storm let loose. The rain pounded, the thunder rolled, the lightning lit up the sky. People ran to their vehicles, laughing and dripping. It was an unexpected end to a wonderful afternoon.

As we drove home in the van watching the streaks of yellow and orange color the night, the Lord's power and love were continually displayed before us. What visible reminders of His truth. We were thankful to arrive home safe and sound and flop into bed, tired, but glad for the day at the farm.

Second Semi-Periodical Gathering of the NCFIP

The lovely venue for our second gathering of the NCFIP.

A few weekends ago, we had the delight of spending some time with members from the Hayden family. We first met some of the Haydens in 2004 when Nathan was working down in Texas. Over the past years, we have treasured the time to get to know their family better. The Haydens were able to visit Missouri last summer, so this summer after connecting in Jamestown, we all decided to meet them in Kansas for some wonderful fun and fellowship.

Regrettably, both our dad and Mr. Hayden were busy with their respective responsibilities, but all the moms and kids had a grand visit together. We took off from St. Louis after Nathan's work on Friday and rendezvoused halfway at the home of the Hayden's gracious Uncle Gary. We talked late into the night (yes, some people were a little bleary eyed), and the next morning awoke refreshed. It was the day of the Second Semi-Periodical Gathering of the NCFIP [Editor's Note: National Center for Family Integrated Picnics]!


Lydia and Beth making scones.

We commenced the day's activities with a delicious breakfast prepared by the kind ladies.


Mrs. Hayden cooking breakfast.


Nathan and Caleb in early morning discussion.

Talking was a common theme during the weekend. Nary a topic was not alluded to without seeking to bring the Scriptures to bear upon it. Economics, law, daughter's roles, blogging, church dynamics, eldership, discipleship, and many more topics too numerous to note filled the air.


Breakfast al' fresco.

We shared our meals with Uncle Gary, Mrs. Hayden's brother. We had some wonderful discussions regarding weighing the benefits vs. downsides of a college education in contrast with the challenges of an apprenticeship model. Uncle Gary is a very successful Christian businessman and a man with a heart for discipleship.


Austin.

Uncle Gary has a passion for discipling young men who don't have fathers. He brings young men into his home for days at a time, giving them training in life and the things of God. He has a tough love approach, expecting much from these boys who are learning to be men, and at the same time showing them a fatherly affection.

Uncle Gary had recently been laid up with knee surgery. As his wife was out of town for a few days, the "boys" had come over to care for him. It was amazing to see the tough and tender way the boys thought of Uncle Gary's needs, and how they respected him. Watching the interaction between these guys was a highlight of the trip for me. Amazing picture of the love of our Heavenly Father has for his adopted children.


Titus 2 moments abounded: Beth, Rebecca, Lydia and Mrs. Hayden.

Another precious part of the mini-weekend was the many times of the older women instructing the younger women. Mrs. Hayden and Mom are both wise women. It was a treasure to spend time with the mothers.

The delight of joining in sisterly conversations was another joy. We Serven girls have really enjoyed getting to know Lydia and Susanna. Many honest conversations were shared speaking of the challenges and joys of sister- and daughter-hood.


Someones in trouble now! : )


Summer kitchen.

The surroundings of our environment for the NCFIP were very gracious and accommodating. : ) We had a TON of space and it was a joy making use of the various aspects of the home. The summer kitchen was quite handy in preparing for the official "picnic" part of the NCFIP.


BBQ Chicken and Hamburgers for lunch.


Mmmm, Mmmm, Good. Thank you ladies!


Benjamin, Josh, and Peter chatting.

We moved indoors with the afternoon heat and visited in the cool of the basement.


Former pin-ball champion.

That's right. When Dad and Mom were getting to know one another 28 plus years ago, Dad was a poor seminary student. They would go out, split a order of soup, then find a pizza parlor that had a pin ball machine. Because Dad would only bring a few quarters, if Mom wanted the after dinner activities to last longer than a few minutes, she had to get pretty good at Pin-ball. So, she did. : )


Transitioning our activities towards the finer things in life.


Lydia S. on violin, Beth on harp, Susanna on violin.

The ladies serenaded us with a variety of musical genres and instruments. We also enjoyed a violin solo from Nathan Hayden [Editor's Note: You can see a picture here].


Singing in parts from the Trinity Hymnal.

Lydia H. was sweet to sing a song that our Beth and Lydia knew (in Gaelic, no less!). We then joined in an hymn sing, learning new ones the other family knew, and also singing the old stalwarts.


Nathan H. all tuckered out. Time for a . . . .


. . . Mid Afternoon Snack of Root Beer Floats.

Before we started packing up to go home, Caleb delivered his recent sermon to us. It is exciting to see the Lord raising up a new generation of men who declare His truth. Unfortunately, we did not get any good pictures of this . . . as we sat out of doors under the shaded canopy, talking about things the Lord was doing in His Kingdom, visiting with stories of laughter, earnestly discussing concepts important for the days to come, we were reticent to leave. But like all good things, this day too must come to an end.


Taking a picture of taking a picture.


The Whole Crew at the NCFIP Gathering (minus the photographer).

We were overjoyed to spend time with the gracious Hayden family. Thank you Haydens for your friendship and for making the time to meet with us for the Second Semi-Periodical Gathering of the NCFIP ! : )

P. S. Don't forget to visit Lydia's, Caleb's and Nathan's blogs!

Summertime at the Servens

Future Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil and Garlic.

This summer the Serven Clan has kept pretty close to home. Though the frequency of blog posts with content in other states points to the contrary, except for a trip to Jamestown in June, and a wonderful weekend hop to Kansas City, the rest of our days have been spent here in St. Louis. Since we are not used to the humidity, we tend to stay in the house going out of doors in the cool of the early morning or evening.


Beth Preparing her harvest.

Beth's garden continually delights us with abundant produce. Most recently we are harvesting a windfall of tomatoes, watermelons, and pumpkins, with a few late green beans to boot.


Early Autumn Bounty.

We have harvested 20 pumpkins from only 6 plants, plus more than 30 additional winter squash (spaghetti, turban, and butternut). Someone passed along a tip for easy pumpkin/winter squash preparation that we have been enjoying:

Wash the outside of the squash, pop it in the oven at 350 degrees for 1 hour or so, when soft to the touch, let cool on the counter. The peel will come off much easier, and the flesh can be scooped out with out much labor. If you want, save the seeds from the pumpkin pulling them out of the pumpkin "strings", and roast on a cookie sheet at 350 degrees for 20 minutes with butter and salt, stirring occasionally. Delicious!


Nathan trading stocks.

With those hot summer days upon us, we decided to start lessons with the younger children in July. The big kids, though not officially "in school", have also been focusing on learning new concepts and skills. It seems like a good number of us have been working to learn more about various financial aspects (Nathan, Peter, and Rebecca), plus a sprinkling of educational philosophy (Beth), and electricity and physics (Mom).


Sunblock: A necessity for those Scottish freckles.

Of course, in the middle of the hot days of work and school, we will occasionally take time for a cool break. : )


Ready for a dip.


"Watch Mom, watch!"


"Here I go!"


"I'm holding my breath!"


Rocketing upward.


Smiles and drips.


Fun in the sun.

Covenant Family Children

At our church, there are many children . . .


. . . all darling . . .


. . . some musically inclined . . .


. . . many small in stature . . .


. . . and a few big. : )

Psalm 78: 1-8
Give ear, O my people, to my teaching; incline your ears to the words of my mouth!

I will open my mouth in a parable; I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us.

We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.

He established a testimony in Jacob and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers to teach to their children, that the next generation might know them, the children yet unborn,and arise and tell them to their children, so that they should set their hope in God and not forget the works of God, but keep his commandments; and that they should not be like their fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation, a generation whose heart was not steadfast, whose spirit was not faithful to God.

Adventure with the Hamanns

The intrigue of little boy's adventures.

We enjoyed visiting on the Hamann's property few weeks ago. The Hamanns are getting ready to break ground on a new home. Ben has done a little work for Mr. H. over the past month with odds and ends of jobs. One afternoon, we made plans to join their whole family for lunch up on the property. The land is a child's dream with hills, trees, fields, critters, and creek.


Under the tarp, trying not to get sunburned, eatin' lunch.


Lunch break for worker Ben.


Three in a row.


A thoughtful young lady.


A bubbly baby.


A giggling girl.


The barn.


Walking the Line.

After lunch, we took a hike around the property lines. Mr. Hamann led the way and all of the rest of us trooped along behind.


First Corner stake.


The neighbor plants huge patches of sunflowers to attract doves.


Sunflowers.


Down the hill.


Miss Sarah.


Down by the creek.


What a cutie.


Setting off plane.

After exploring the property, the little ones had a glorious time playing with an air powered model plane.


Through the fields.

Thank you so much Hamanns for your invitation to share time with you on your land. We are excited at what the Lord is doing in your lives!

Company's Comin'

Summer vacation means that people are a travlin' through. And that is one of our favorite things. We are always honored to host a family whether it be for a meal, a night, a week or more.


Pedersen Family: Fun with a Wide Angle Lense.

We were so happy to enjoy the Pedersen family in June. We met the Pedersens in 2002 on our first cross country Serven Clan vacation. We actually connected with them through a homeschooling girls magazine. : ) We placed an ad saying "Family of 11 traveling through these states. We would love to meet your family. Please contact us." Though some of our family members were rather dubious that anyone would write back, we got more offers than we could accept.

On our 4 week long trip, we stayed with families we had never met for over 75% of the nights. A few evenings we stayed in a hotel (at a conference) and the other nights we camped. What a wonderful experience to experience and be blessed by the hospitality of the saints. We hosted the Pedersen family when they came through CA and were thrilled to see them visit us in MO.


Pedersen Family: Folk Music Session.

Providentially, the dear Pedersen family had some unexpected adventures during their visit to the St. Louis Arch. We were glad that though their vehicle was broken into and things had been stolen, they were safe and sound. We had wonderful conversations, musical jammin', bonfire extraordinaire, and just a plain ol' good time. Thanks for coming!


Pedersen Family: Campfire and Star-watching.


Stout Family: Bed and Breakfast.

The Stout family is a dear young family from California days. As they were travlin' through the area late one night, we were happy to detour their route to the Serven Clan Bed and Breakfast. They had tracks to make as they were traveling across country, but we were so happy to see the sweet children (growing so fast!) and visit with them at least a little bit--why is it always too short?!!


Stout Family: Ready for a cross country drive.


Garrett Family: Lessons in Christian Business.

This past June we ran our first Genevan Foundation booth at a local home-schooling conference. One of the families we met were the Garretts. We hit it off with them, visiting for a long time at the booth, then set up to have them out for dinner at the homestead. Mr. Garrett is a godly Christian businessman currently involved in franchises. A servant's heart, stewardship, and following the Lord at any cost, were common themes to every story he told.

As the Garretts are new home schoolers we also had a whole other conversation about family worship/devotions, discipling ones children, home educational philosophies, etc. : ) What a privilege and delight to visit with this sweet family.

Garrett Family: Harp "Lessons" with Beth.


Zes Family: Concert in the Park with Picnic before hand.

Of course, sometimes our "company" is not so "company". Or rather, we become the "company" . . . or . . . ummm . . . I guess this does not technically fit in the "company" category, but spending time with families we know doing stuff together is another joy of the summer time. The light evening hours make it possible to attend free concerts in the city of which there are an abundance in St. Louis. The Zeses are our regular concert buddies, but we also enjoyed attending one with Anna Price who was in the area for a conference.

What a delight it is to fellowship with the saints of God. Thanks for being such wonderful friends and coming to visit us!

Hay!

Bikers

Some people get to bike . . .

A few weeks ago, the Knibb family invited Peter and Ben to join them for a 37 mile bike ride along the Katy Trail. They rendezvoused at 9 in the morning, and were finished by 4 in the afternoon with many adventures to recount.


. . . while others get to ride.


On the trail.


Lunch break--the whole bike crew.


Resting after lunch.


Jump Rope.


Peter's turn.


Now, this is fun.


Down the steps.


Bikers.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame

Going to a game.

The Boys were given some tickets to the new Cardinal stadium--what a fun adventure.


The new stadium.


"Sweet seats."

The View.


The wave.


Smiles all around.


Watching the plays.


Serven Brothers at the game: Peter, Nathan, Andrew, Ben.

Jamestown 400: Index Post

Want to read about our whole Jamestown Experience? Follow the links here:

Preparing and Leaving
Jamestown 400: Traveling Cousins
Jamestown 400: Lyddy Bug

Visit to the Creation Museum
Jamestown 400: Creation Answers

Traveling Along the Way
Jamestown 400: Portraiture by the Side of the Road
Jamestown 400: Meditation

Day in Washington D. C.
Jamestown 400: Destination D.C.
Jamestown 400: Break Time
Jamestown 400: Air and Space
Jamestown 400: Sidetracked by a Chef
Jamestown 400: World Changing Documents
Jamestown 400: Jefferson Memorial
Jamestown 400: Visit with the Browns
Jamestown 400: Personalities

Days in Jamestown
Jamestown 400: On the River
Jamestown 400: Island Time

Fun Pictures from the Middle of the Week
Jamestown 400: Excited or What?!
Jamestown 400: Strange Sights in Williamsburg
Jamestown 400: Lectures
Jamestown 400: Lunch Break

Day in Yorktown
Jamestown 400: Lost in Yorktown
Jamestown 400: Supper Time
Jamestown 400: Portraits from the Past

Day in Williamsburg
Jamestown 400: Cousins Playing
Jamestown 400: Letters to our Grandchildren
Jamestown 400: Williamsburg Tour
Jamestown 400: "Make New Friends . . ."
Jamestown 400: ". . . But Keep the Old"
Jamestown 400: Suffering in the Stocks
Jamestown 400: Supper with the Simpsons
Jamestown 400: The End of a Long Day

Culmination of the Week of Celebration at Fort Pocahontas
Jamestown 400: Children's Parade
Jamestown 400: Costumes!
Jamestown 400: Friday Extravaganza of Pictures
Jamestown 400: John Rolfe's Letter of Intent
Jamestown 400: Memorial for the Children of Tomorrow
Jamestown 400: Saturday Fun and Fellowship
Jamestown 400: Clue Culmination

Visit to the Atlantic Ocean
Jamestown 400: Beach People
Jamestown 400: Ocean Bound

Jamestown 400: Ocean Bound

Pulling Mrs. Zes down to the water.

One wheelchair, three cars, representatives from six different families, and twenty-six people made for an interesting spectacle when visiting a less inhabited section of Virginia Beach. Those facts did not keep us from having a grand finale to the Jamestown 400 week of Celebration. What a joy filled afternoon--perfect for making memories that will last a long time.


Refreshing water.


Waves.


A Californian experiences the Atlantic ocean for the first time.


Liberty and Hannah.


Sheer delight.


Cousins on the rocks.


"Hey! What do you think that this would be a good time for a . . ."


" . . . Group picture!?"


A Joely.


Friends: Kathryn, Sarah, Hannah, and Nikkae.


Rock climbing.


Mr. Sand Crab.


Capturing his prey.


Numerous antics later--he caught it!


One last bite on the way down.


Sweet Lyddy Bug.


Silhouette.


"Hey. . . . Are you thinking what I'm thinking?!"


The Birthday Boy.


The Eagle.


The Tae Kwon Do Instructor.


The California Cowboy.


Daniel Cousin.


"Ready . . ."


"Set . . ."


"Go!!!!"


"Uhh, guys!! . . . ."


"STOPPPP!!!!!!!!!"

Shortly after this picture was taken, a slight mishap took place. It came in the form of collisions with bystanders and organic material. Happily, nobody was permanently damaged.


Dear Beth in the surf.


Chariots of Fire moment.


Friends: Beth and Rebekah.


"Wait a minute. This looks strangely familiar."


"I can't believe this is happening!!!!"


"Wow. Talk about . . . uh . . . providential meetings."


Ms. Good Human.


Mom Serven and Mom Zes.


Nathan and Elijah.

Rebecca and Katherine.


Last chance for some ocean.


Posing in the Atlantic.


Wash off all that sand from your toes.


Saying goodbye to the beach.


Back to the cars.


Supper time.


Fellowship.

Jamestown 400: Clue Culmination

Hmmm.


Security in back.


The three finalists.


Make way!


Truckin' along.


Suspense is building.


Movers for hire.

Each lady was called up in turn to try her key (contained in the small chests), but both key #1 and #2 did not work. That left #3 as the last try!!


"You did it!!"


Trying the key in the lock . . . suspense.

The key did not work at first. Wait a minute! Was it a trick? Is there another clue?


It finally opened!!!


Unbelievable.

And the crowd goes wild!!


Presenting the 5th Trustee.


Hugs all around.


Joyful siblings.


Rejoicing in the Lord's providence.


"I can't believe this is happening! Thank you so much."


Liberal coverage abounded. : )


Opening the chest for the first time.


"Would you look at this!?!" : )


"And it's so small!!"


A Glorious End to a Glorious Day.

Jamestown 400: Saturday Fun and Fellowship

Visting the Fun Tent . . .


A future Warrior of Honor.


Target practice.

Lectures . . .


Have a feather anyone?


Little guys listening to lectures.

Chatting around with people . . .


Dad visits with Christopher Berkompas . . .


and Michael Billings.


That extraordinary photographer. . .


. . . and his lovely sister Lydia.

And what have we here?!? . . .


Evans lad: "Now, this is serious stuff."


Sam and Joey, conspirators.


Boffers ahoy.


"Be careful!!"


Looking on with amazement at the warriors.

Jamestown 400: Memorial for the Children of Tomorrow

Crowds of people. Now think for a moment--how do you think we got this picture?


Luke 19:4 in action.*


A rare photograph of Peter.*

*Please Note: These extraordinarily exquisite photographs were captured for eternity by the skilled and cunning photographer who is best known by his nom de plume, The Greatest Photographer in South Central Kansas.


Will this little girl live to see the time capsule opened?


Reading Psalm 78.


Pastor Morecraft, one of the speakers at the Celebration.


Shaking Harrison Tyler's hand, grandson of President John Tyler.


Autographs are in order. How often to you meet the grandson of the 10th President?


Posing for Posterity.

Jamestown 400: Friday Extravaganza of Pictures

Friday "dawns" for the culmination of the Jamestown 400. But in all actuality, this picture was taken at night with long exposure and then touched up with photo editing. : )


The Setting for the Jamestown Celebration.


Welcome to Jamestown!


What a joy it was to see some Carpenter Boys.


David Botkin with news media.


Lunch break with Mrs. Renaud.


Some Resounding Voice guys.


A singing family.


Rebekah Zes with some Brownies.


Mrs. Ford's impeccable Jamestown Era Costume. To show how big the event was, I did not actually get to see her costume in person--just now in pictures!! : )


Kollers (what is your blog address??!), Browns and Renaud men.


Chatting with Mrs. Botkin. This is the only picture that shows my hat from the side/back. There are three types of feathers, all of which would have been period accurate for Jamestown--Ostrich (imported), Turkey (native), and Chicken (native).


Balloons. We did not have a chance to ride in them, but it looked fun!


Words in the Sand. And how did these get here!?


Charlie Zahm.


Friday evening found the Erbers giving their famous re-enactment. Here is Josh as Patrick Henry.


The Delegates of Virginia. Check out their Liberty Day website!

Jamestown 400: Children's Parade

Costumes anyone?

Early Friday morning, men and women, boys and girls, spread all across the Virginia's historic triangle arose to prepare themselves for the day. But it was not a normal day with modern clothes to work and play, this day we clothed ourselves in the raiment of yesteryear. It was the day of the Children's Parade!


Mrs. Thomas finishes her costume preparation.


Chatting in the Maiden's line.

Three lines were assembled in preparation for the parade--the warriors (the boys), the maidens (the girls) and the flag bearers (anybody else who wanted to join in the parade).


Serven ladies posing with Mrs. Bringe.

Though the parade was termed "The Children's Parade', adults were welcome to join too. : ) I was glad for the inclusion as I've never been in a parade before--I know, it is a silly girlhood dream, but it was fun to march with everyone around the property smiling to the people who were watching.


Manteufels in the Warrior's line.


Whoops. A cheerful defection to the Flag Bearers.


John Smith a.k.a. Justin Turley.


Phillip Bradrick, "master of ceremonies".

Once everyone was lined up, a larger task than you might think, Phillip explained the ropes. We would combine the three groups into one giant line and march our way around the property. I don't know exactly how many people there were, but my guess is about 500 people, so it was a big group to get organized.


The parade commences. Bringe boys on the right!


Hey--we know these guys!

Andrew and Joel started together in the Children's parade, but Joel didn't quite last the whole time. ; ) That did not dissuade Andrew who valiantly walked along by himself and had a marvelous march with the rest of the young lads.


Thomas men . . .


. . . and ladies traipsing along in the parade.


Serven Sisters in costume.


Bringing up the rear were the Flag Bearers. Thomas Delauderanty on the left.


Winding our way through the woods.


Photographers abounded. Michael Thomas captured Peter and vice versa.


"Over the River and through the woods . . . "


Wesley Strackbein leads the way.


Capturing memories across the eras.

After walking through the trees of Sherwood Forest, we burst out into the sunshine and the crowds of people who were watching the parade.


The Willisamsburg Fife corp provided stirring music to keep us marching in step.

While marching along, I found myself wondering if any of my forefathers had celebrated God's work in Jamestown at the 300th or 350th events. Or furthermore, if by the Lord's kind providence, He would bring my progeny to rejoice at the 450th or the 500th? There is no way to know. We are called to be faithful and declare the works of God, trusting Him to change hearts and minds for His glory.


Mr. Phillips watches as the marchers make their way into the tent.


The Tent--several thousand strong.

Jamestown 400: John Rolfe's Letter of Intent

The Marriage of John Rolfe and Pocahontas.

If you journeyed to Jamestown, you heard reference to John Rolfe's letter to Sir Thomas Dale, 1614 asking for permission to marry Pocahontas. I found a copy of it today on the web! Though the English is quite old, the vision of discipleship and honor he communicates are wonderful. Take the time and read this beautiful letter.

Rolfe asks for Sir Dale's blessing "for the good of this plantation, for the honour of our countrie, for the glory of God, for my owne salvation, and for the converting to the true knowledge of God and Jesus Christ, an unbeleeving creature, namely Pokahuntas. "

Jamestown 400: A Very Special Link

Dearest Blog Readers,

I had sincerely hoped to post the last of the Jamestown 400 pictures today . . . but they are still on Peter's computer awaiting transfer to the family PC. I had forgotten about how we would all be busy yesterday and today moving a family in our church (local move). Unfortunately you will just have to keep waiting for more Jamestown 400 pictures.

But to thank you for your patience, I decided to give you a very, very special link. Click here to see a few wedding pictures from Josh and Katie Ritter's wedding in which Peter was the photographer. Enjoy!

In Christ,
Rebecca for the Clan

Jamestown 400: The End of a Long Day

Patrick Henry himself.

After having a wonderful time in Williamsburg, we rounded out the day with a dramatic presentation done by the world class Patrick Henry reenactor from the streets of Williamsburg. The actor gives a stirring representation of Mr. Henry, inspiring us to fight the good fight where it most matters--ultimately with your children. If you ever have opportunity to meet this particular reenactor, don't miss it up.


Bobbsey Twins--we actually did not realize we were matching until we had left the house in the morning! : )

What fun to visit with Colin Hunt, a sweet girl from our local area. She had kindly traveled with a young family and assisted with the children. Amazingly, we had run into her at the Creation Museum earlier in the trip too!


The after conference crowd.


Two sweet young ladies.


Visiting within the younger set.


Tired out cousins.

Time to go back to the condo, catch some sleep and get ready for tomorrow's festivities at Fort Pocahontas!

Jamestown 400: Supper with the Simpsons

We children picnicking out of doors.

What an unexpected delight it was to run into the Simpson family while in Jamestown. We had met their family in 2002 when we were taking a trip across the country. We had been traveling somewhat unconventionally, staying with people we had never met (though a homeschool magazine, church connections, and mutual friends). While in Louisiana, on the last day of a conference we had attended, as we were walking out the door, the Simpson family approached us, introduced themselves and asked if we could come by their home on the way home and stay a few days! Wow. Talk about hospitality to strangers! We had a wonderful time on their property and many adventures.

The Simpson family is one of the most hospitable families we have ever met. No matter where they are, they graciously welcome you into their hearts and lives. What a blessing they are to everyone the Lord brings across their path. Visiting with them during the week of Jamestown was no exception. Their hospitality as they invited us into their home-for-a-week (a.k.a RV), was so very kind and we had great joy renewing our friendship.


Sarah and Susanna, two lovely young women.


Moms and Dads visiting inside the "house".


Game of volleyball anyone?


Cozy up for Ice Cream.


Mr. Simpson delivers us all to the conference while we eat our dessert.


Our first RV ride. : )

A visual way to search Amazon.com

Hey, I thought this way of searching Amazon was kind of nifty.

Give it a spin.

-Peter

Jamestown 400: Suffering in the Stocks

Mr. Weather Man, Suffering.

We had a ball with the gracious Hayden family in Williamsburg--deep discussions on theological matters and it's practical outworkings, mixed in with a good round of lighthearted joy. Here are some pictures from the latter side. : )


Joyful in Persecution.


Daniel Cousin.


Lovely lady in the stocks.


Smiley.


"Hey, let's try this . . . "


"Looking good."