his goodness knows no bounds.: Live at the Creeksides.

How can I put this summer into words? I find it easier to avoid thinking about it and hard to be still before the Lord. Imagine that. I know it is quite surprising but I think I don't want summer to end. Coincidentally today is the first day of fall and there was a thunderstorm. We have been having these all summer but now throw in crisp mornings and leaves changing colors, that makes it pretty difficult to deny the natural changes occurring around here.

The hustle and bustle has slowed to almost nothing. Staff are making up comp time with family vacations and it seems as the world may be standing still for but a brief moment. Can you picture that? Every time I get on Facebook I am reminded that life out there continues to move on. Despite popular belief, the Ranch isn't always in "go" mode. Summer is our Prime Time. We train all year to have a three month long marathon. Now is the time to rest. Now is the time to ponder and process. Now is the time to be still.

That being said, I have been trying to do just this. Be still. I am trying to reflect on who I was going into this summer, who I was during and who I have become. Obviously trying to inform you on every little thing is not the best use of your time or mine so I will just say this. Many things happened and were experienced. This has been one of the most challenging summers I have ever had but that doesn't mean it wasn't great. I cried almost daily because I was trying to comprehend just how blessed I am.

I am learning to surrender daily my pride, selfishness, and desire to do everything myself. I am learning patience and grace. I am learning that being present is the only solution to find joy. I am learning that bad stuff happens and letting it define you won't get you anywhere. I am learning that Jesus wants an active, present relationship with us.

Here is to the start of twelve more months (yes 12!) of taking advantage of this place. Here is to diving in wholeheartedly because I don't want to miss anything it has to offer. I will continue to be removed from Facebook because I don't want to spend my time in the outside world when I have a very present one to be part of.

If you need to reach me write me a letter: Kaila Gibson, PO Box 220, Antelope, OR, 97001. Or send me an email: kaila.gibson08@gmail.com. Either will suffice to check in, share some encouragement or even a little financial support. (Checks can be made out to Young Life. Insert plug here.) Until you hear from me again, take some time to Be Still. Enjoy the life you live because it's the only one you get.