Unexpected

It's hard for me to sum up my Colorado trip. My default mode is always chronological order, detail by detail. But just because it's easy for me to recall things that way doesn't mean that's the best way to read about it.

So I tried to think of a theme that would encapsulate the trip, and "unexpected" came to mind. Maybe this word was on my mind because it is the theme for our church's women's retreat that is coming up a week from now. Or maybe that's just a temporary theme for spring, but it fits this trip perfectly.

Unexpected Beauty
As found in the chapel at the Air Force Academy,





the Garden of the gods,







and the grounds at The Broadmoor.



Unexpected Fun
As demonstrated by the Family Improv Night at the hotel and the Safari Adventure presented at the hotel where a skunk, a porcupine, and a boa constrictor were all on display.




Unexpected Reward
After driving northward toward Denver through blowing snow, we made it to clearer weather and were able to explore Castle Rock and parts of the Mile High City.




Unexpected Costumes
During afternoon tea at The Brown Palace Hotel, these ladies caught a lot of attention, including ours. When asked what group they were with, they responded, "This is just our family."


Unexpected Snow
The weather forecasters predicted rain, but two hours after we woke up on Easter morning, the weather chose to deviate from the forecast.



Unexpected Music
From the incredible worship at Fellowship of the Rockies (which included a very talented worship leader and soprano saxophonist) to the pianist at Easter brunch to the harpist during the tea, we were entertained with wonderful music throughout the trip.


Unexpected Rest
Even amidst our sightseeing, we managed to find time to rest.


Unexpected Refreshment
The tea at The Brown Palace Hotel and the Easter brunch at The Broadmoor gave little glimpses of what banquets in Heaven must be like.




Unexpected Understanding
The best part about being with my family is being understood and being extended grace. Laughter abounded as I proclaimed one too many times about how I was going to have to tuck my pajama pants into my socks because I was so cold.


Unexpected Sacrifices
My friends went above and beyond to make my trip so smooth. From taking me to the bus station at 4:30 a.m., to providing me with muffins for the trip, to giving me a recommendation for a restaurant near the Amarillo bus station, and for picking me up at 2:15 a.m., I'm deeply indebted to my great group of friends.

May wonderful unexpected blessings come your way!