RS Retreat--Day 1

Our Stake, Highland Hills, had day one of our Relief Society Retreat last night. Normally, it is held in the mountains, but for some reason the mtn was closed so we had to have it in our stake building. Thus, our theme became "There's No Place Like Home." Our leaders did a really great job with their program because they mimicked everything like the Wizard of Oz, but inter-mingled some great lessons in the mix. They put on a skit that starred a modern day Dorothy who lived in reverse. She was at home, but wished to go back to Oz. Her chaotic life was overwhelming her and she desperately wanted the Good Witch to send her away. She met Visiting Teachers who tried to direct her and help in her trials. Eventually, she realized that the power was within her to make some changes and ultimately she became content with her life as a mother and homemaker. It was very comical and thought provoking. I would love to get the script.

Later, we broke off into wards. This was where we spent the rest of our evening. We planned activities until midnight. We decided to decorate our room like a home to coincide with the theme. Don't you love our fireplace? We had throw pillows, banana chairs, all sorts of homey items to create our ambiance. Some other wards chose camping themes to represent the mtns. Others, had King Arthur and the round table and misc focuses. I personally think ours was the best. ;) Additionally, we provided fondue and the sisters brought things to dip. YUM! This is our RS Presidency:

Me (1st C), Amy (P), Suzanne ( 2nd C), Adrianne (S)

We played several games. We started off with get-to-know you activities that were a lot of fun. Then, we led into more active games. This picture is of The Venom team. They beat my team, The Gladiators. We were having a fierce competition but, unfortunately, we couldn't pull it off.

We had a great turnout. We had almost 40 for our ward. Our sisters were having such a good time hanging out and socializing that most of them stayed until the end. We ended up being the last ward to leave. I think that says a lot. Today we will have a service project, seminars, and a keynote speaker. Can't wait!