Search
Close this search box.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight”

22nd Annual Women’s Retreat: “Relaxed”
Friday, March 14 – Sunday, March 16, 2025
Lake Huron Retreat Center, Burtchville, Michigan

Why “Relaxed”?

God never intended for us to be in control. When we intentionally lean away from our own understanding and into a relaxed spiritual life, we join Jesus in trusting a God who knows what He’s doing—and isn’t worried about a thing. This year’s retreat is based on Relaxed by Megan Fate Marshman, a pastor and teacher who challenges us to set aside our constant need to figure everything out and embrace a slower, more compelling, and more powerful life with God. Word by word, Relaxed explores Proverbs 3:5–6, helping us discover:

  • The joy of a continual, intimate relationship with God
  • What God calls us to do with the burden of shame and guilt
  • How to stay relaxed in the midst of grief, financial stress, mistakes, and fatigue
  • The freedom and forgiveness of being found “in Christ”
  • Practical ways to incorporate rhythms of walking with God into our daily routines

Retreat Highlights

  • Fellowship and Fun: Gather with other women from Berkley and Birmingham First, along with friends and family, in an atmosphere that fosters both spiritual growth and meaningful connections.
  • Peaceful Venue: The retreat will be held at the scenic Lake Huron Retreat Center, where each room features a private bathroom and individual thermostat control. Enjoy outdoor space (weather permitting) and quiet areas for personal reflection.
  • Schedule:
    • Friday, March 14: Arrival between 5:00 and 6:30 p.m.
    • Sunday, March 16: Closing worship and communion from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Registration and Rates

  • Registration opens February 1, 2024
  • Single Room: $288 (limited availability)
  • Double Room: $230
  • Triple Room: $200

Space is limited, so reserve your spot early for this transformative weekend of faith and fellowship! Click the button below to register

We look forward to journeying together and discovering how to relax in the presence of a loving God. If you have questions or need more information, feel free to contact us. All women are welcome—come and be part of this incredible experience!

Chelsea-Rose Jabboori

My name is Chelsea-Rose and I am excited to be teaching in the Turquoise Room.  This is my first year teaching at First Kids.  I have many years of experience in child care and as a nanny.  I started my education with OCC and finished my CDA with TeachStone.

I come from a large family.  I am the oldest of six siblings.  We had many wonderful adventures over the years, traveling to most of the United States and some of Canada.  I have a love for nature and adventure.  I really enjoy long road trips, outdoor activities and camping.  I am an artist who enjoys painting, poetry and doing crafts.  I love to study children’s psychology and herbology.  With gentle guidance and compassion, I encourage children to explore and learn.  Children have always been my passion in life.

I am an active member of Berkley First and am happy to now be connected with Birmingham First.

I am looking forward to learning and growing with your children this school year.

Brooke Lynch

My name is Brooke Lynch, and I am excited to be your child’s classroom teacher!  This is my fourth year as a parent at First Kids Preschool and I look forward to joining the teaching staff this year.  I have a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Miami University.  I taught first grade for seven years in Chicago.  I then worked for five years as Director of Operations for a charter school management company here in Michigan.  I decided to take some time off from work once my husband Joe and I welcomed our third baby.  After two years at home with Kyle (6), Grace (4), and Griffin (2) I am thrilled to return to the classroom.  First Kids is such a special place and I feel so honored to now be part of the community as both a teacher and parent.  I can’t wait to partner with you to provide a wonderful year of fun and learning for your child!

Jillian McDonald

My name is Jillian McDonald and I am thrilled to be teaching in the Green/Orange Room.  This will be my first year teaching at First Kids Preschool.  Previously, I taught three and four-year-old preschool in the Birmingham Public Schools for six years.  Before that, I was a first grade teacher in Detroit.  Between teaching positions, I took time off to raise my three children, Madelynn, Riley and Delaney.  Madelynn and Riley are twins and will be starting their first year of college in the fall.  My daughter, Delaney will be a senior at Groves High School.  In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, reading, and going to my cottage in Northern Michigan.  I am so excited to be working with the four-year-olds.  As an early childhood educator, I love to make my students’ first experiences with school very memorable.  I enjoy helping them build their independence and self-confidence.  I like to encourage the building of a classroom community to promote social skills and conflict resolution.  I am so happy to begin this journey of learning with you and your child!

Gloria Fulton

My name is Gloria Fulton, and I am very excited to be teaching at First Kids Preschool.  I also work in childcare for Children and Family Ministries at Birmingham First United Methodist Church.  I am a member of the Garden of Faith Missionary Baptist Church where I currently teach Sunday school and assist with the youth choir.  For two years, I was co-leader of the Brownie troop at Upton Elementary, where my daughter attended school.  I have a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Central Michigan University and am currently working towards my Child Development Associate.  I  enjoy miniature golf, walking, traveling, and spending time with my family.