Late last night, I returned from our annual Coeur d’Alene Retreat, a wonderful five-day weekend with a group of writers who have become so precious to me over the past 22 years. They’re among my dearest friends, and I’m grateful for each of them.
This weekend’s retreat was especially meaningful. Because it was our last formal gathering in CdA.
Only 7 (out of 11) were able to make it this year. Personal/family health issues or the loss of a loved one prevented the others from coming. And oh we missed them! It just wasn’t the same.
As always, there was lots of brainstorming novels, recounting God’s blessings, worshiping together, tons of laughter, reflecting and reminiscing, fabulous food…and I’m still holding the memories close.
Robin (Lee Hatcher) and I have been rooming together for years (missing you, Robin). I used to sleep in the “dormitory” in the basement on a blow-up mattress until a mouse ran across me either that 2nd or 3rd year, then I moved upstairs to Robin’s room. LOL (Plus it was COLD in the basement and my feet just would not get warm. 
) Robin and I are great roommates. We both rise early, love to visit, and we both sleep with white noise.
Here’s a glimpse from a recent year when we were all there . . .
These CdA Sisters have shaped not only my writing—honing me, challenging me. But they’ve shaped me for eternity. I cannot imagine this earthly walk without them and am thankful to Jesus that we have an eternity with Him to continue to grow in our knowledge and wisdom of Him together. Because He is what it’s all about.
It takes time—and the Lord Jesus—to develop these kinds of deep, eternal relationships. I’m praying you have these kind of friendships in your life, too.
What’s a special gathering or event you’ve had to “say goodbye” to? One whose ending you grieved even as you realized that seasons change and that endings are also part of new beginnings.
Love from my corner of Nashville where Tuesday means GramTam Day. We keep our two grands every TU/TH. Talk about the highlight of my week. Precious.
These are snapshots from lunch today. FUN day still in progress!
Love from my corner of Nashville,
Tammy
Tamera blogs every first and third Tuesday at Inspired by Life . . . and Fiction, a group blog she shares with a wonderful community of authors. If you'd like to join the conversation on this post, Tamera would love to see you there!