Duncan's Stuff.

So I am back from a weekend spent at a retreat in Wicklow with 13 10-12 year olds. That age is the Irish 10-12, mind you-- these kids know more cuss words and subject matters than I did when I was 16. They'd be spanked quite often in the US.

Not to say they aren't great kids, because I found them all to be wonderful to be around. It is great for them to have a chance to do a camp, as well, and be part of a family, get affirmation and support, validation for their achievements; many of them are lacking such necessary developmental resources at home.

We had a really full weekend, with canoing, rock wall climbing, an assault course and zip line, a bonfire, a pitch-black midnight walk, and various team-building activities and God lesson (which most of them only grudgingly sat through, but that might have been for image's sake rather than disinterest).

I loved working with these kids. I loved being able to be someone they look up to and befriend, to get to know each of their personalities, to see them having fun and truly enjoy being there, and to see them just be kids. I kept thinking throughout the weekend, I can't wait to have a little one of my own. To be able to rear and shape a child, to see them grow into themselves and have them love you might possibly be the most validating thing that will ever happen to me in the future-- I have to wait a few years, but I know I will be up to fatherhood, and will thrive in it.

I am sad that I couldn't be with Whitney this weekend, but I am glad she had some time to just relax, and to bond with another friend and just be happy and laid back. She needed a weekend like that, with beautiful surroundings, SUN, and seals, and I am happy that it set her so at ease.

She's feeling a little unwell now-- I suppose it's just her turn-- but hopefully it might just be one of those flighty day-ills that will leave without a trace in the morning.

I am tired... here's a picture to leave you with, of the group I was part of this weekend.