Taryn's Adventure in Odyssey!

Our first stop this morning was Focus on the Family. We were so blessed by our visit there. Focus has three very impressive buildings that sit on 81 magnificent acres of prime land. Hearing the full story of the ministry from it's beginning in 1977 to now was a wonderful testimony to God's grace and blessing. It is also a testimony to a man who dared to say "yes" to God. What would happen if there were more men and women willing to do the same?

Focus employs 1300 people and enjoys the service of 300 volunteers. Every part of the facility is top notch. The spirit there is so positive and encouraging - they just want to be servants. They see great need and brokenness in families and in our culture and step up to provide hope and help to thousands each day.

I was greatly moved by the tribute given to Dr. Dobson's father James Dobson Sr. They say he was known for having no leather on the toes of his shoes. He spent so much time in prayer on his knees that the toes of his shoes were regularly worn down to nothing. What a legacy.

A great highlight of our time there was seeing Taryn enjoy finally seeing Whit's End. She loves Adventures in Odyssey and that is why Colorado Springs was on our travel agenda. She went thru every inch of this place and enjoyed it all. She could relate everything she saw and did there to the characters and episodes she has listened to.

But the best part was she could "act" in a recorded episode, and don't be shocked but she jumped at the opportunity. She was given a time slot and a script and had to report to a real recording studio at 1 pm. While we ate lunch in Whit's End she reviewed her script and practiced her lines.

It was such fun to watch her sitting in that studio in front of a studio mic completely into her role. She actually did really well. The technician and production assistant said she is an obvious natural. She was so pleased and is now sure she has a grasp on her calling in life. We celebrated back at Whit's End with ice cream sundaes all around. Oh, and she received a cd of her performance with her name on it! How cool is that? I'm sure she'll let you hear it.

I did squeeze in about 20 minutes at their amazing book store. Gary's only comfort was that I put back at least ten items for every one I bought.

We then made the short drive to the United States Air Force Academy. The bbow had to be searched to enter and I was glad the beds were all made. We spent time in the visitors center and then took the 1/3 mile walk to the Cadet Chapel. There was a wedding inside so we were not able to enter and that was disappointing. We walked around it and could hear the organ playing. Quite an impressive structure.

We got back in time to enjoy a real outdoor country bbq at our "resort". What fun. They had quite a menu and it was delicious. They also serve a breakfast in the morning and Gary instantly decided we were going there for their green chili omelets in the morning before we pull out.