One more State Convention story

As the buses resumed their journey after a rest break in Burns on their way to state convention Mark spotted a green piece of paper on the road. Then he saw a zero and implored Mrs. C to stop the bus. He hopped out to find a $20 bill on the roadside. His farmer eyes for details served him well this day. 

He of course was happy to share his spot with Mrs. C's son and to be in front of the bus. 

This was Reed's first solo trip from home, well solo with siblings. I'm so thankful for the willingness and braveness of Mrs. C to take my children and give them independence to care for themselves for a few days. To be obedient, respectful and to see and experience new things and places. These trips are foundational to their confidence as young adults and to learning how to interact and handle many different personalities for more than a few hours. These are good lessons to learn. 

Part of the Ag Marketing presentation was a strawberry lemonade drink. They were tasty and refreshing. I'm very pleased with my kids willingness and acceptance of doing extra work to learn more and experience more of what FFA has to offer. 

The kids passed time on the way home playing uno. They had a great time. I credit their grandmother for taking the time to play games with them. 

More life experienced. How thankful I am for their opportunities. We are truly blessed by so many kind and good people. Yesterday in church the discussion turned to how we just have to trust our kids and let them figure life out. In our home we don't exactly follow that. We keep our kids close, having high expectations for work, learning, service, and faith. They spend most of their time on those things. Yet we work with intention to surround and introduce them to adults who will foster more experience, and depth of understanding of the good things in life. Mrs. Worley, Mrs, Chamberlain, Mr. Barnes, Coach Aldred, Mr. Bentz, these are people who have helped develop my children's' personalities and skills. We are very thankful for their service and integrity. Life is good and it happens fast.