Recently, we had the opportunity to go to help with our third Regional Homeschooling Conference. This time, it was out in Sacramento, California. Looking at the many ways to travel out there with the twenty or so staff needed to run the conference and noticing the price hikes in all the flights out there, we decided to take a bus the 2000 miles out there. God blessed the trip and used it to draw the whole team together.
We stopped at Cracker Barrel for a nice warm meal. We had been eating snacks, cold cuts, and cold cereal, so it was a welcome change.
We were not out of the bus long when someone brought a soccer ball out and we were able to kick it around a bit getting some much needed fresh air, exercise and refreshing weary travelers.
One of the blessings of working for a ministry is the caliber of young people that we are blessed to work with. Priscilla poses in front of a lake at the beginning of a sunset for a quick picture.
Paul has grown so much in the past few weeks, it is amazing to watch him and see how much he changes and develops.
David’s sister Lydia was able to join us and enjoyed a hike that we took to Yosemite Falls. 
Several other staff girls enjoyed going up to Columbia Rock to view the Falls at a closer vantage point.
Time for a rest! Paul fell asleep soon after we began our hike and David decided after hiking several miles that it was time to sit down for a moment’s rest.
An amateur hiker’s best friend is a camera, because it gives him excuses to stop at every beautiful spot to shoot a quick picture and enjoy taking in the moment.
The views were breath-taking, not just because of the higher altitude, but the beauty of God’s creation.
Priscilla and Becky were room-mates years ago and continue to enjoy spending time together. This hike was no exception. Becky was actually the one who wrote the song, “Together, We Will Serve” for our wedding.
Catching an immediate four or five minute lead on the guys, Priscilla, Paul and David were able to stay ahead of them for several miles until reaching the switchbacks in the broad sunlight. It was quite taxing in the heat.
Reaching Columbia Rock, all the Wallers who came on the trip paused for a picture. 
Not far away, we saw several variety of birds.
Yosemite Falls! What a beautiful sight!
John David Duggar was one of our bus drivers for the long thirty hour drive and enjoyed the hike as well. Here he was attempting to do a video call with his family.
Priscilla and a few of the young ladies stayed below to take some time enjoying the beauty of God’s creation while some of the others charged on up to the top.
Lydia and Samuel were the first to crest the top and view the falls from above.
Finally, David arrived with the camera and was able to take a shot before having to run all the way back down to those waiting patiently in the bus.
Comments
You guys looked like you had a wonderful time of fellowship whilst serving. God’s creation is so amazing! And Yosemite Falls looks like a wonderful place to soak up some of His handiwork.
Little Paul is so lucky to be little enough to be carried on the hike. 😀
Boy! You guys are such a godly inspiration! And you don’t need to do anything for that. Jesus in you does everything.
I really love the little guy! He’s my best friend! Can’t way to meet him!
Paul took ahead of the Apostle Paul. He started his mission trips before even his first birthday 😀
Thank you for your hard work to serve others!
We had so much fun with you guys! We sent you an e-mail, and pictures. If you want us to send it again, we can.:-)
Amazing pictures!! What a beautiful place!!
Wow David, you are so FIT! What with marathons and now taking a mountain !1! I enjoy similar exercise and its a great way to view his creations, though can never decide if I am a top or a bottom guy in terms of views….
‘But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.’1 Corinthians 9:27
Blessings John-Marie
Hello David & Priscilla! 🙂
It was such a blessing to meet you at conference! Your son is precious. We are praying for you and thanking the Lord for your willingness to serve and reach out to others for His sake. 🙂
May the Lord continue to bless you richly in all you do.
Love,
The Maple Family 🙂
Looks like you guys had a great time. What a beautiful creation of God. Paul is so cute. I can’t believe how big he is getting already. What’s height and weight now? Just curious because my son was born in February and I thought he was big I think Paul might give him a run for his money. Ryan was 20 lbs and 28 inches at 4 months.
Looks like so much fun! Must of been beautiful to see…God bless and take care- Amanda
Wow what great pictures I wish I had know you all
we’re coming to Sacramento. I don’t homeschool my
children are all grown!! I did homeschool 1 of them
for a school year and I have taken care of many of my
grand babies until it was time for them to go to pre school
or Kindergarden !! It is a joy to help them be ready for
school!! I surely would have tried to meet you and yours
if I had the time and funds to do so!! I am so pleased to see
young people serving The Lord and enjoying His Wonders
on Earth!!
it looks like you all had such an awesome time!!!!!! :)are Samuel and Lydia your siblings? are they in high school? you all are amazing people and I would love to have the honour of meeting you some time! 🙂 you’re such a blessing to so many!! <3
Yes, Samuel and Lydia are David’s siblings and are doing well in their schooling. They are taking different internships and have done outstanding. Their favorite ones have been in the Public Schools of Oklahoma City with In The Gap Ministries.
WHAT?!?!?!?! NOOOOooooooo!!!! You guys were in my state, and I didn’t know?! It’s only about 5 hours from my city to Sacramento. I hope you all enjoyed your trip and the natural beauty of Yosemite. Maybe some year we can tempt you further south to explore some of the abandoned Borax mines of the Mojave Desert. And you’ve never seen so many stars unless you’ve camped in the open desert! Little Paul is growing so fast. God’s blessing on his sweet head!
Happy 4th month Birthday Paul!!!
It was great to meet you. Lord willing, we will see you again next year!
Love,
The Maple Family
Just sent you an e-mail, about something we made for Paul! Just letting you know so it does not get hidden in the back.:-)