The Simple Scents of Life

The 2008 Parade

Wow...I can hardly believe that our Reformation Day Faire has already come and passed! We had a very good turn out last year, but we were amazed when over 400 people registered for this year! Tickets go fast, so keep an eye out for next year's registration!

One of my favorite authors flew in to be our keynote speaker. Douglas Bond has authored twelve books, and each one has been immensely enjoyed by our family. When we first discovered his Mr. Pipes books, we knew we had found something special. From there, we followed his publications and bought each one as soon as they came off the press. His sessions this year were outstanding, and we were so grateful that he came, despite flight difficulties, to share his wisdom with us!

William at the 2008 Faire.

Our dear friends, the Servens, drove up to spend the weekend with us. It was a very special visit since the next time we see them will be at Rebecca's wedding. Being able to spend a few days with her was precious and I was tickled pink to hear that she was able to come! Mr. Serven was also a featured speaker and we were so blessed by what he shared with us. Their family and church family sang for us and taught us some new Psalms. Reformation Day wouldn't be the same without them!! We love y'all!

Charlie Zahm's flight difficulties might have been worse than Doug Bond's. His flight was delayed twice due to lack of gasoline, and a missing plane. Not a fun day in the airport when a few hundred people are waiting eagerly for a concert! When he arrived, there was much excitement, laughter and joy as we looked forward to what he had prepared for us. Not much can beat a two hour concert with Charlie Zahm!

Young Master Bradshaw at the 2008 Faire.

Dad was also a speaker for our event, but he didn't have any Friday sessions, so you'll have to wait to see him as Theodore Beza when I get those pictures up. So, please enjoy Part One of our 2009 Reformation Day Faire!

Doug Bond came over for dinner Thursday evening. Having just been in France for Calvin's birthday, he had many stories to tell us!

Early the next day, the castle wall goes up. Didn't they do a fabulous job painting that?!?

Impressive, huh?

The Four M's were singing for the fifteen minute break, and I was accompanying them on the piano, so there was much to run through before the event began!
This photo was either taken by Jess or a Sanford girl...not sure which. :)

Practice makes perfect...unless we're talking about these three... ;)

Pastor Serven sharing words of wisdom.

The string quartet (I don't believe they have an official name yet) played for another break.

Doug Bond lecturing on the importance of music.

A wonderful family, and very precious friends.

There is a time for everything...and cuddles are important.

The Psalm instruction with the Servens and their church family.

It's a beautiful thing to see children singing praises to the Lord.

So sweet.

Mrs. Serven encouraging young ladies.

Hey look...it's the cutie pie!

Charlie Zahm in concert at last!!!

After all the other songs he sang, we will forgive him for singing that one song...

From what I could see, the audience looked like they were having a wonderful time.

Lost in the music.

The Castle Guards were too...I wonder who was watching the door? :)
Thanks to all those who were part of the "Men in Black." Y'all made our lives much easier and were awesome!

Sweet Rebecca working on wedding programs.

I love the Celtic drum! Caleb has got to learn how to play one of those.

Miss Natalie has a gift for our talented musician.

Jess, me, Meli and Sierra. Jess and Meli decided to be party-poopers and change back into normal clothes. On Saturday, though, all three of them were in costume.

Check back soon for part two!