THE RENEW RETREAT.

I just spent a beautiful weekend in the magical Smoky Mountains of Tennessee with a bunch a women I had never met in real life. Ha! It was so wonderful getting to finally meet friends who I had only ever known via blogs and email.

It was refreshing to sit on the spacious porch, rock in a rocking chair, spend time in the Word, share stories with new friends, and gaze out at the mountains. The trees are just starting to turn, some more than others. I especially love when the leaves have completely changed and the world is on fire with brilliants reds and oranges and yellows, but this part of the season has it's own beauty as some trees change and others hold on tightly to their green foliage. It creates a great contrast of colors. The change is more apparent as you drive through the national forest under the canopy of the trees. I highly suggest taking a trip to see it. :)

We had such a great time hanging out at the cabin, getting to know each other, eating delicious food, shopping in Gatlinburg, and taking a million pictures. You can send emails, like instagram photos, and leave comments, but nothing beats spending time together in person. The stories of you and me come alive when we sit down to have real conversations. I loved getting to hear parts of stories I'd never heard before and sharing struggles and hopes and dreams with one another. That is where true friendship begins.

I'm so thankful to have met the people I know through blogging, and I love that I've been given opportunities to meet those brave hearts in real life as well. Can't wait for more get togethers in the future! Stay tuned for more goodness about our weekend in the mountains! XOXO.