The 2009 Landmarks of the Faith Tour to Scotland was a powerful blessing to our family. We learned so much, were inspired so much, were humbled so much, and cried so much. Clearly these were "times of refreshing" for us all.

Dear Little Bear,
I'm writing to share some wonderful news from my life over the past few months since the great 2009 Landmarks of the Faith Tour of Scotland. When I mailed my application for the tour back in January, I really didn't know why I was going on the tour -- perhaps it sounded like a "fun vacation" for my sister and me. However, after returning from the weeks overseas, I could see God's hand at work in my life (through your teaching) in two specific ways. The first was an encouragement to memorize Scripture, especially after our time in the Whig's Vault of Dunnottar Castle, and your exhortations to prepare today for the persecution that will likely come in the future.

I am deeply thankful to our Lord for allowing me to be a part of this adventure by His provision and direction to you as the group I was to travel with. As a young lady making this trip "alone", I continually felt included, valued, secure, and watched out for, so thank you!

You should definitely "require" any future tour to participate in the Celtic Tour of the Royal Mile. This morning I finished reading "A Spiritual History of the Royal Mile (the book written by Paul James-Griffiths who portrays "Cuthbert") for about the 5th time since I've been home. Every time I seem to be drawn to a new insight, or think of another Scripture passage that relates to these historical accounts. As I finish today I read the following in the acknowledgments for the first time:

We have been talking about going on this tour for several years. As a family we have a passion for history and get excited about seeing how God has worked through families and peoples of different nations. Each year there was some reason why we couldn't make the trip.

I love Scotland and the new friends I met on our tour.
Scotland is  "tickety-boo!" :o) ~Hannah B. (6 years old)

[In case you're wondering, "tickety-boo," is a whimsical Scottish term meaning fine, excellent, going smoothly, which became a favorite expression we all learned from our wonderful "tickety-boo" coach driver, Brian.]

The tour across Scotland was for Becky and I the tour of a lifetime. As the oldest dad on the bus, I am so blessed by the fellowship and by observing younger families as they interact within their families and with other families who have chosen to homeschool and who have made the (so worthwhile) effort to be a part of this incredible time together. The rich history and the breathtaking beauty of Scotland are simply magnificent.

The interesting thing about this tour was that my wife and I have this thing about vacations. She says that when we travel, I always want there to be a "conference" with a program and speakers, "Why can't we just go to enjoy ourselves and not have to have a conference?" This tour fit the bill for both of us. I got all the history and material I could ask for, and my wife enjoyed the landmarks and also felt it was a great vacation.