Roller Coaster

First of all, thanks for the prayers for Monty's back injury.  He went back to the chiropractor this morning as getting out of bed was more than difficult due to the pain.  He missed work today and will hopefully be doing better tomorrow after some major icing of the areas. 

I started the morning at Don's.  I was going to finish the flooring since Monty loaned me his jigsaw but decided to get the major portion of the master bedroom painted instead.  Mark is working on the sheetrock in the newly rebuilt area and I knew I could get the old part painted and then hopefully can have the new part done before the carpet installers arrive on Wednesday morning. 

My main problem was getting all the furniture out of the bedroom for the carpet installers.  I made a quick call to Don and since he was off work today he was able to get out there and remove everything from the room!  How awesome this was for me since that furniture was big -- and way too much for me!

Maybe tomorrow I can get the flooring done or I may wait until the carpet installers are there and work on that at the same time?  Depends on when the rest of the bedroom is ready for paint.

Don is planning on moving back in as soon as the room is done so hopefully that can be Wednesday.  Pray for us all.   :)

When I finished with the painting I needed to help Monty with some things at home.  No lifting for him so here I was . . . and we got everything done.

As I went to take care of Ms Gladys and walk her little dog I was glad to see that one of her granddaughters had taken her to lunch!  She was so excited when she got home --- until she got a phone call.  (now remember that she is nearly 89 years old and blind).  Someone called her home phone and told her she owed a substantial amount of money and that if she didn't take care of it right there on the phone the police would be at her door to arrest her!  She was so very upset and told me that the Holy Spirit told her this was a scam.  Her granddaughter was still there and tried to call the number back and talk with them.  All she got was someone with a foreign accent who told her not to call there again!

Satan is such an ugly and vile thing and reaching out to try and bring fear and confusion into this little elderly lady's life just makes me so upset!  I am thankful she realized it was a scam but realizing that didn't calm her down -- the fear was already there!  As I took my walk to take her trash to the dumpster I once again (outloud) cursed satan and his plans and in the name of Jesus blessed her and her house!  (I think other neighbors may have been ready to call the men in the white coats to come and get me)!!!

And now I prepare for this evening -- 2 important meetings.  The first one is a question and answer meeting about the possiblity of getting a grant for the COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster).  This is something that would be a major blessing and so please pray that God will intervene and put His hand of provision into the works.

The second meeting (thanks to Bev scheduling for me) is the Town Council meeting where I will be able to share about COAD.  We need more organizations involved and in order for them to consider it they need to know who we are and what we do and plan to do.

Both meetings are extremely important and back to back.  I pray God will give me the words I need and take away the ones I don't.  Please join me in that prayer!

Until next time . . . as our Jersey team always said, "yea God -- boo devil"      Susan and Monty

98% there

The men from Heaven Nevaeh working on Don's flooring on Thursday. 

Today when I finished.  I am 98% there and just need to borrow Monty's jigsaw to finish the last row.  The base trim is also nearly complete and hopefully Monday I can say it's officially done! 

It was a productive day.  Sheila returned and focused her efforts in the kitchen and after being there for hours she was still working when I left.  It's looking amazing and when I sent Don a text (he was working) he was thrilled beyond words!  He won't recognize the place!

So the carpeting is rescheduled for Wednesday morning and hopefully Mark has the mudding and texturing done by then -- and maybe I can have the painting done also.

If we can get this bedroom finished and Don moved back in it will be the first time he's been able to sleep in his own bedroom since May 24th of 2011.  That's my goal so pray we can make it happen!

I am also asking for prayers for Monty.  He really injured his back over the past few days and had to make an emergency trip to the chiropractor this morning.  Even the chiro said he hadn't seen a back that bad off before!  He's having difficulty standing up straight and getting in and out of the truck is a real challenge.  Hopefully the adjustment will hold and with each passing day he will be feeling better.

Until next time . . . let's all take tomorrow as an opportunity to join our church family and do some praising to Jesus for all He's done for us!                                                 Susan and Monty

Flooring and cleaning !!!

No pictures this evening but maybe tomorrow.

Yesterday the men from Heaven Nevaeh returned and concentrated on installing the laminate flooring.  They made great progress and had the most beautiful weather day to do so.

Today Sheila returned to continue cleaning the bathroom and I have no doubt that it is the cleanest it's been since before the tornado!  Don will be so thrilled.  She admitted she is a perfectionist and after seeing her work -- no doubt!  Just what you need in a cleaning person!  An angel for sure -- and she is coming back tomorrow!  And bringing help!

I worked yesterday with the crown molding and got it all done.  I also got more base trim and got it stained and some painted to put in the dining room.  Again, the weather was perfect and almost immediate drying time.

This morning I had a blast attending my granddaughter's preschool for Grandparent's Day!  It was so fun watching them sing songs and work on poems and absorb knowledge like dry sponges!  Priceless.

From there I headed back to Don's and did more trimming.  After I got as far as I could I decided to tackle the flooring myself.  I admit I have not physically installed it but have seen it done a thousand times and had such fun learning and getting it done.  The men got it started, which is the hard part, and all I needed to do was follow their lead.  Hopefully I can finish it tomorrow.

Near the end of the day Mark came to my rescue in the mudding of the master bedroom area!  He is an expert at this and can make it go so smoothly and so perfect and so quickly that I was happy to step out of there and give it all to him! 

We also had the students from the newspaper, The Indiana Daily Student, return this afternoon.  They did a great article in the beginning of our rebuild and spent hours with us that day.  They called yesterday to see if they could do another article and once again spent the entire afternoon with us.  They were amazed at the progress and stayed to watch the flooring being installed and the cleaning being done.  The photographer and her mother were still there visiting with Mark when I left at nearly 5pm.  And they want to come back tomorrow morning!

I made it home just in time to get our grandkids and take them to dinner with us.  Always a hoot and such a blessing to us both.  They each ordered pancakes -- as usual.  They came back here and played for a long time before their parents came to pick them up.  It gives their parents some time for themselves and we have such fun.

Tomorrow is Saturday and I will be at Don's all day.  In my own little world -- with the Christian music playing -- God and I having some fun.

Until next time . . . blessings to all.                               Susan and Monty

Bringing a bit of "Heaven" to Don's

Yes, the men from Heaven Nevaeh returned this afternoon and brought a bit of heaven to Don's.  Not only did the clouds and heavy fog leave, the sunshine broke through and they were able to work in great temps and accomplished way more than I had dreamed -- and they will be back tomorrow afternoon!  They started by clearing out the other side of the family room, which was literally packed floor to ceiling with furniture.  The carpeting under all that still needed removed and they made haste in getting it all cleared out.  As they removed the carpeting in the small hallway area they discovered an area of subflooring that has been wet and must be replaced.  Their comment was "well, we already have the materials on site so let's get it done." 

I had a wonderful surprise helper today.  Ms Sheila came over to do some cleaning!  I was concerned that she might feel overwhelmed when she saw all the work that needed done but she just smiled and started working in the bathroom.  I had to make a run to get her supplies and by the time I returned she had already found some things and just worked with what she had.  She did smile again when she saw I brought her a bucket!  She cleaned the furniture as the men brought it outside and never stopped working the entire day.  She said she might be able to come back tomorrow and would for sure be back Friday and would be bringing a helper!  Now that's my kind of volunteer!!!

If you take a closer look at the above photo you will see the color that Don selected for the exterior wood siding.  It's a bluish color and looks really nice with the gray shingles.  He hasn't gotten alot of it stained due to working and the rainy weather but he'll get it done.  All we need to do is get him moved back home and he'll be right there every hour he isn't working and so he can still be working - at home!    :)

I worked on the crown molding trim and painting windows all morning along with making sure all our materials were on site and ready to go for the men.  We had 52 boxes of the laminate flooring and once again --- thank goodness I have a big truck with a full size bed!

It was a really good and productive day and once again all the volunteers were smiling as they were working!  I love days like this one!

As I was coming home I stopped by to check on Ms Gladys and take Benji for his afternoon walk.  She had trashed piled up by the door and so I gathered the rest of her trash and loaded it into my truck.  Just as I was returning with Benji I heard her screaming from the kitchen!  I thought she fell but she had dropped a glass into the sink and heard it break.  Now remember that she is blind so broken glass in a sink is a disaster waiting to happen.  She was okay and so I got it all cleaned up and safe for her.  She was upset as this is the first time she's done anything like this but all I could think about was what if I hadn't been there?  She promised she would call me if she had any other accidents.  I have grown to love this tiny little elderly lady.  She has stolen my heart and I hope you will join with me in praying for her health and safety!

The Heaven Neveah men will be back tomorrow and I have a bit more to do with the trim.  Mark will be finishing up the sheetrock mudding that I started the other day and with him being a pro I have no doubt it will be ready for me to paint sometime over the weekend to be ready for the carpeting on Monday.

Busy, busy, busy and I love every single minute of it!  Things are getting done, God is being glorified and THAT is the ultimate goal!

Until next time . . . to God be the glory!  Let's keep working!                 Susan and Monty

A Special Family Day

Yesterday was one of those days that we just don't get enough of!  But thanks to one of our dear church friends we were able to take a day of complete fun -- spending it at Holiday World.  It's only about 2 hours from us and we had not been there.  Our friend got the tickets for us a few weeks ago and we just had not been able to schedule the time.

Our daughter, son in law and both grandkids joined us and it was such fun to watch the faces of grandkids ages 7 and 4. 

We covered the entire park and Luke (7) rode everything he could.  In the end he even rode (with his dad) one of the roller coasters that caused us all to hold our breath just knowing he was riding it!  He made it through but probably had nightmares last night!  He did have fun and by the end of the day the "melt down" was in full force.

Liv enjoyed the last part of her day the most because we were in the little kids rides and she just went from one to the other and laughed with each one.  But in the end she also went into "melt down" mode.

It was perfect timing as it was time to head home.

We had such a good time.  God provided the perfect weather day and thanks to a very special friend we were able to leave work behind and be kids again --- for the entire day!

Until next time . . . thank you Lord -- for fun!                                     Susan and Monty

Starting crunch time

With October just around the corner and Don needing to be back in his home by the 10th we are trying everything we can to push things along.  It's been a tough road with the lack of volunteers but today was a great blessing!

A local men's rehabilitation center in the county to the south of us came and worked this afternoon and will return for 2 days next week.  David is running an amazing program where the men residing there volunteer their time every afternoon.  David said today he has so many people needing their help that he can hardly keep up.

They did great work this afternoon finally getting the ceiling insulation in the family room.  The intense heat all summer kept us from getting this done since it had to be done via the attic.  Today was a perfect day with cooler temps and partly cloudy skies.

They also worked on the sheetrock in his bedroom and made some much needed repairs to the front door area.

These men are such blessings and please remember to hold them up in prayer as they each are going through tough times in trying to turn their lives around and follow Jesus.  David (the minister) also needs prayer to keep on keeping on in this calling on his life.

Until next time . . . our thanks to the HeavenNevaeh men!             Susan and Monty

She gave her whole weekend plus

This morning I put together the list of everything needing done at Don's in order to get him moved back home by October 10th.

By the end of the day I was able to remove 2 of the items.

Rich worked on Friday and Saturday in the master bedroom and has wall insulation in with most of the sheetrock.  He texted me very early this morning saying he would be returning this week to finish with the ceiling insulation and sheetrock.  He's determined to get it done.  I love that kind of dedication!

Shelley gave her entire weekend, her 3 days off work -- to tackle the painting of the dining room.  And she also remained dedicated and got the job done!  It wasn't easy as the trim around the top is a bear not to mention the trim at the bottom!  She did a wonderful job and this afternoon I stopped by and was thrilled to see the outcome!  Don did a good job in picking out his own color (most men refuse to do so) and I know he will be thrilled when he sees it.  Many thanks to Shelley for spending all 3 of her days "off" working harder than if she had been at work!!!!!!!  Don't you wish you had a neighbor like her?!

My morning got a bit de-railed with a dead battery in my truck that left me stranded in the parking lot but just one call to Monty and he had me back home so I could take his truck.  I was on my way to paint the treehouse for our grandkids and even though I got a later start than planned I did get it done.  It looks great and is now ready for the cedar trim that we can hopefully get done this Sunday afternoon.  Luke relayed his thanks via the phone this evening as he was on his way to his gymnastics class.  He was excited because he said at last week's class he "got a muscle" so his mom and I both hope he gets another one this week to help balance him out!!!!!     :)

Monday with it's more than usual last minute change of schedules and yet so much accomplished!  A great day with sunshine, cool temps and the best volunteers!  Thank you Lord!

And at the end of the day --- we learn our dearest friends --- the family with 10 kids --- are expecting baby number 11 ---- praise the Lord!  Please cover this family in your prayers!  God knows a great set of parents when He sees them and we are so excited that He has chosen to add to their blessings!  The entire family is beyond thrilled and we join in their joy!!!!

Until next time . . . God is oh so good --- and still doing miracles daily!        Susan and Monty

The "hits" just keep coming . . .

I realize I hadn't posted any pictures from Monty's birthday celebration.  These were taken at the Maui team cookout at Becky's on Saturday night.

This was his cake -- sock monkeys!!!  Priceless!

I also realize it's been a few days since I last wrote and I am sorry.  Once again the time goes . . . well, I'm not exactly sure.

I can't believe it's Friday already but in one way I am glad.

Walking Ms Gladys's dog, Benji, has been keeping me a bit busier than normal.  Each day I have taken her meals and always take some time to sit and visit with her.  It breaks my heart that she is so alone.  Today she asked me to help her with her washing machine.  Her grandson in law had put some tape on the dials so she could feel where to set them but the tape had worn down to where she could no longer feel.  So with a little creativity I had her able to do her washing and drying once again.  I also made her a pan of scalloped potatoes (from the box) like she had mentioned in one of our conversations.  She laughs when she says Benji has more energy than ever and next week I plan on reading the Bible to her.  She has brought such joy to my life and I thank God for bringing her to me.

Today a friend from our church, Rich, went to Don's to do some work.  He had one of his friends come also and John came to lend a hand so this morning was a busy one.  They did a bit of electrical work in preparation of hanging the sheetrock on the ceiling of his bedroom.  They got the wall insulation installed and will be returning tomorrow to continue.  I had the plan of getting his dining room painted but that didn't pan out.  My day got "rearranged" and so . . . my neighbor, Shelley, may be going over and doing it on her day off tomorrow. 

With the men's team coming next Thursday and Friday afternoons I hope some real progress will be made.  October 10th is getting closer and closer and each volunteer makes a huge difference.  I was able to return quite a few things today and get a good credit -- so I can turn around and spend it on something else!  I like it when I get to take things back.

This evening we will be taking our grandchildren to dinner.  We love doing that and let them select where they would like to go.  I wonder if it will be the pizza buffet again?  They are so funny and it just makes our day to spend time with them.

I did go over to their house and planned on painting the treehouse yesterday -- until the skies turned dark and the rains started falling.  So . . . another day rearranged for me.

Tomorrow we will be spending time with my son and daughter in law at a local fall festival.  I pray the rains will stay away and love the idea of needing a sweatshirt!!  I have so waited for these cooler days and am thankful for each one!

With everything going on in all different directions I still have been taking "hits" from satan --also from every direction!  Scripture tells us that his one and only goal is to "steal, kill and destroy" and I have felt those "goals" daily -- each day with a bit more intensity!  Last night I found myself outside behind my neighbor's house (she wasn't there) and out loud shouting at satan!  I have thought about doing it so many times but last night brought me to the brink and I shouted!  I called out the name of Jesus and pled His blood over everything and told satan to pack it up and get out of here!  I am so over him and have enough bruises to last awhile!  Will you join me in those same prayers and statements of faith!?

I pray all of you enjoy your weekend and have many things to praise our Lord for when you are in your local church on Sunday morning!  No matter how many "hits" -- the blessings out weigh them and by reading the end of the Book I know we ultimately win!!!!!!!!  

Until next time . . . blessings to all.                                         Susan and Monty

Monty's Birthday

God has shown me divine appointments many times over the years and Friday afternoon was one of those. 

We live in a subdivision of nearly all elderly people, most being widow women.  Between Monty and I it seems we are always doing something for one or more of them.  We've lived here for so long that we know nearly everyone and they know us and what we do and watched over our home while we were away for nearly 5 years.

One little woman and her husband used to sit on their front porch each evening and as we walked our dogs we would stop and visit with them.  He loved telling Monty his stories of his military days -- the same stories over and over again!  When we returned from Texas we heard he had passed away.  I have often wondered how she is doing but would see her granddaughter's car there on weekends so I just assumed . . . and we all know the results of doing that!

On Friday afternoon I was walking my dogs when we saw her little dog outside and so we went to the fence to say hi to him.  She popped her head out the back to see who it was.  She told me she was completely blind and thus couldn't see me but she remembered who I was and what we do.  I asked her if she was doing ok and if she needed anything.  She said her little Benji missed going on his walks --- nothing for herself!  I told her I would be happy to take him for a walk and would be back shortly.

I took my crew home and walked back to her house.  Benji is 12 years old and yet jumped for joy when he saw me coming toward him with his leash.  We walked the circle around her street and he was done for -- quite out of shape from not being walked for such a long time.  When I went back inside to let him in and talk with her a bit more we got into alot of conversation.  My main concern was that she had gotten so thin and frail so I asked if she was eating okay.  She said a friend brings in Golden Corral food once or twice a week and she makes that last!  "Makes it last?"  That nearly sent me over the edge!  I asked her if she would like for me to bring in food every other day or more.  She smiled and said "that would be wonderful."  She then asked me if I ever went to Walmart?  Do I go there?  I practically live there and our neighbor, Shelley, works there!  She broke into a huge smile and I told her I would make sure I spoke with her daily and walked Benji every day the weather allowed.  She said her granddaughter still comes on weekends so she would be okay then. 

Her next comments brought tears streaming down my cheeks and guilt pouring over my entire body!  She asked me if I knew what she missed the most in loosing her eyesight --- "reading the Bible!"  She told me how she used to get up in the middle of the night, fix herself peanut butter with crackers and sit and read her Bible.  The tears were also streaming down her little wrinkled cheeks!  She said she even has the entire Bible on a CD series but can no longer use the CD player since she cannot see!   So . . . God nearly hit me over the head with a 2 x 4 in saying, "read to the woman!"  I almost heard His audible voice on that one!  

When I got ready to leave she handed me her garage door opener.  I looked a bit puzzled and she answered before I could say anything.  She knows we don't have a garage and thought we might be able to use hers!  After her husband passed away she got rid of their vehicle and said it just sits there and thought we might be able to use it!    God and His divine appointments!!!!!!!!  And the blessings He brings with them!!!   I get to walk her dog, bring her food now and then and read the Bible with her and she gives us the use of her big garage ---- happy birthday Monty!

That evening we were invited to dinner by friends of ours that we met years ago, when we first started our disaster relief ministry.  Their church welcomed us in and actually had a couple of services for us where they opened their doors to the whole community and we shared a bit of what we were doing and how God was working and they took an offering for us.  Bob and Debbie were huge players in both of those services and have also been attending our COAD (Community Organizations Active in Disaster) since I became the director.  They said they had something they wanted to talk with us about and thus the dinner.

God has called them to start a ministry where they go into disaster situations immediately following the disaster  -- and serve meals.  What an amazing calling!  They had a few questions and it was an opportunity for us to encourage them!  It's going to be so exciting to see where God takes them in this whole thing!  One thing for certain --- they are about to embark on a journey where they will see and experience God like never before and their lives will be forever changed! 

Our Saturday and Sunday were spent at the shooting range again.  It was awesome!  The weather was perfect and the event was so packed that yesterday we had to divide everyone up into 2 groups when it came to shooting targets.  Alot of kids this time and seeing fathers bring their sons to something like this where they learn the proper way to handle firearms and to respect them is great. 

Saturday I left a bit early to come home and get ready for our Maui team cookout.  Becky had us all come to her place (where I have now decided I want to live -- she has 5 acres of log cabin and beauty) where she had BBQ with all the fixins.  I brought a birthday cake for Monty since his birthday was the next day.  We all had such a good time remembering and getting to know everyone even more. I brought the 2 big picture books I made and they enjoyed looking at them since they were usually busy working when I snapped the picture and sometimes didn't even realize I was doing so.

Sunday morning at the shoot was one of those divine appointments for me.  The gentleman giving the Word is the same gentleman who has the team of volunteers who will be working on Don's  house next week and the following week.  I met him when his team volunteered to build the handicapped ramp and deck at Michael's.  I also got to meet his crew.  We are all excited to see what God has in store for them when they come to Don's.

I also brought a big birthday cake to the shoot and everyone had fun wishing Monty a happy birthday.  Our dear friends, the family with the 10 children, called and sang the best happy birthday song ever to him!  It brought a smile on his face that spread from ear to ear!

Alot going on --- Lowes coming to measure for Don's flooring in the morning --- my son coming down in the morning to check out another elderly widow woman's heating and air system --- God's hand in so many places and I am so blessed to just be the empty hose laying on the ground that He selects to flow through! 

Life truly is good!  And God is even better!

Until next time . . . where is God pointing you?                    Susan and Monty

The Ups and Downs

Yesterday we buried a dear friend.  Carla was only 55 years old.  Less than a year ago she discovered she had cancer.  Life just isn't fair sometimes!

Yesterday I got a reply email from a local rehabilitation facility -- the one who built the deck and ramp on Michael's trailer for us -- and they are going to come and help on Don's house!  They work around 3 hours in the afternoons and will be able to get us on their schedule for a couple of weeks in row.

Yesterday I asked another friend of ours, Rich, if he would like to hang the sheetrock in Don's and he said yes, possibly the end of next week.  Monty offered to help him.

Yesterday I continued receiving responses from the COAD members saying they did receive my emails.  We have had continual issues and problems with this so I decided to take matters into my own hands and so far -- so good!

Today it's rainy and cooler than it's been in I can't remember!  So cool that I had to close some windows!!!!!!   Indiana!  I love this weather!

Tomorrow and Sunday we will be back at the shooting range.  Monty is trying to achieve Rifleman status.  I might be bumped from actually shooting since I've already achieved that and there might be too many folks signed up?  No problem --- either way it's a great weekend.  My brain can use that "down" time.

Sunday is Monty's birthday!  Now we've all heard the saying that "age is just a number."  Well, Monty isn't good with numbers (unless it's a tape measure) and just the other evening he came home from a job saying how they had had a conversation about his birthday coming up on Monday (he isn't good with calendars either) and how he would be 50 years old?  I looked at him rather funny and first said that his birthday was Sunday, not Monday.  That was ok.  But then I told him that he would only be 48  -- not 50.  He had a shocked and puzzled look on his face.  I tried to explain that since he was born in 1964 he couldn't be changing into a new decade without the year also ending in a 4 --- none of that clicked at all!  So then I tried to re-explain that since he is 10 years younger than me most all the time and since I just turned 58 then . . . do the math.  He still looked a bit dishelved but did the math and then --- this huge smile came over his face and he said, "boy, do I feel better!"     MEN!!!!

I will be bringing a big birthday cake to the shooting range on Sunday --- with 48 candles on it!

Ups and downs . . . all of which map out life itself.  Something we should all be much more thankful for --- especially when attending the funeral of a friend younger than yourself!!! 

Blessings . . .                 Susan and Monty

The push is on . . .

Don's . . . with his new front bedroom windows, new roof completely done and the new siding all across the front.  Since this was taken Don has chosen the color for his siding and started the staining process.  He chose a blue gray that goes really nicely with the gray shingles.

And now . . . Don must be moved back into his home by October 10th.  If we all do the math correctly that means less than 30 days from today. 

He has been living with his brother since we started this project and his brother is being relocated with his job.

So the push is on --- big time!  We need volunteers to get this house back to a home for Don!

What needs done, you ask?  

In order to get him back home (we are leaving the back 2 bedrooms completely gutted with nothing more done until we get him home -- he doesn't need those to get back home) we need to put up a small amount of insulation (wall and ceiling), sheetrock in his bedroom along with finishing it and painting it, paint the dining room, install laminate flooring in his family room and carpeting in his bedroom.

Not alot of work --- one good team of volunteers could have it all done in a week!

But . . . getting those volunteers has been more difficult than pulling teeth (as the old saying goes).  Yesterday I made a poster and sent it to the Amvets facility hoping to get some help.  They were huge in the immediate aftermath of the tornado last year and just maybe there are some who would like to be in on the final project?  Am praying!!!!!

Don has had the patience of Job on this project.  He had planned on doing so much of the work himself --- and then he got a much needed job!  Work must come first and even with working he has already done soooo much!

If you -- or anyone you know --- can help out in any way with bringing this project to a close PLEASE let me know!

"Rebuilding lives by rebuilding homes"  --- it's time!

Until next time . . . "as you did for the least of these, you did for Me."          Susan and Monty

I didn't even know it was Grandparent's Day?

It wasn't until I looked at Facebook late last night that I realized it was Grandparent's Day!

We celebrated it all weekend.

Our grandson has had a dream of a tree house for quite some time.  His dad found a great design in one of his magazines early last year.  When they moved into their new home this January Luke patiently waited for his dream to come true.

All summer we talked about building it but with the extreme heat that seemed to last forever this past weekend was our first opportunity to get it done.

My son, Ryan came down and helped us on Saturday.

We started with the digging of the 4 holes to set the support poles.  Monty took advantage of Ryan and Tyler's youth and muscle!

Ryan checking to see if it's deep enough?  Nope -- it had to be deep enough for only the handle of the spade to show!  Keep digging!

Tyler and our ergonically correct post hole diggers.  No matter, his shoulders still felt the burn!

After getting the posts set we were on the way.  We got the floors in and the rail around the "deck" of the house.  So cute!

 With the rails up and everything ready for the actual house part and the darkness setting in we decided to enjoy the pizza dinner Stacy brought in for us all and continue our plan tomorrow morning.  Ryan wasn't able to make the trip back and we knew we would really miss him.  We had so much fun all day Saturday.  Luke and his friends couldn't even wait for us to get it finished before asking if they could take a look from up there.

Sunday morning got started with trying to figure out the design for the house part.  The magazine wasn't too detailed in their plans and Monty has studied it all the night before and even into Sunday morning trying to figure out just how it was to be built.

His idea --- sidewalk chalk!  Yep, draw it out on the driveway to make sure we had the right angles in the right places.  And guess what --- it worked great!  I love his creativity!  (among other things of course)

With Ryan not there we needed Tyler's muscle even more and he was up for the task!  He learned to use all sorts of power equipment and told us at the end of the day that he was going to get one of those impact drills -- no matter if he couldn't think of anything he needed it for right away!  He used it all day long putting the screws in everywhere.

Okay --- I have no idea what happened to this picture as it uploaded here.  It doesn't look like this on the computer?????  Blogger has it's own mind sometimes?  Anyway, you can see the frame start to take shape.  Luke smiled when he figured out how the A-frame house got its name.

The end result?  Success for sure!  Those smiles tell it all.  It still needs a bit of cedar trim, a coat of primer and paint but the kids could care less.  They were thrilled.  We even "borrowed" a ladder that a neighbor was getting rid of to fill in until we can build one. 

The finishing touch was adding the hammock underneath!  Priceless!

The highlight of the weekend for us?  A picture is worth a thousand words!

So Happy Grandparent's Day to us!!!!  It couldn't have been any better!!!!

Until next time . . . it's such an amazing blessing to become grandparents!!!!    Susan and Monty

Heaven Rejoices

Yesterday morning Carla went where she knew she was going --- and heaven in rejoicing! 

I went to see her Friday afternoon and . . . we received the news before noon yesterday.

When I went to visit I was able to share and talk with her mother and mother in law who had been by her bedside continually.

I shared how I remembered one of the first times I saw her -- her physical beauty and the beauty within that shone bright enough to light up the room.  She sat with the single girls in church and I was more than shocked when she told me she was 41 --- only 3 years younger than me at the time!

We shared how she had a love for life and for people and how her smile was contagious! 

I remember the day she told me she and Todd were getting married.  She said she finally found her soul mate --- just like I had!!!!  She was right.

Todd is understandably struggling with all this and even though she and he had already made all the final arrangements --- we're never ready to let go of a loved one.  And especially not our soul mate!

Please cover this entire family -- and extended family -- in your prayers.

Carla always said she wasn't afraid and she was excited to get to meet Jesus.  I know it must have been quite an introduction and the celebration will continue for quite some time!

I loved you Carla -- you were such an inspiration to me in so many ways -- and I will miss you more than you could imagine.  The front row of church will never be the same!

But I also know you are with Jesus in heaven and will be front and center when it comes to praising Him!

Until next time . . .  give your loved ones a special hug today!                  Susan and Monty

Home . . . thoughts

Leaving for home . . . the long flights ahead . . . tired and yet filled up . . . lives changed forever!

Our flight home took us from Maui airport into Dallas.  With the time change we somehow completely missed Thursday night.  Sleeping on the plane was nearly impossible as Bobby, Hannah and I had the very very last row of the plane -- the 3 seats in the center of the plane where you can see absolutely nothing!  Bev was 4 rows ahead of us.  Not only were we freezing cold during the entire 6 1/2 hour flight but we were next to the bathrooms and I have concluded that no drinks should be served while flying at night!    :)

We did have a 3 hour layover in Dallas where we tried to figure out what time zone we were in and also eat something.  When you've missed a nights sleep not much of anything sounds good to eat.

The flight from Dallas to Indianapolis was a little over 75 minutes and we were all way more than ready to get off the plane.  The hour drive home was quiet as we were all just numb.  It was good to see our families as we pulled back into the Sam's Club parking lot.  I felt like I didn't want to let go of Monty.  Bobby's dad was there waiting for him and Hannah's mom followed within minutes.  We didn't spend much time with goodbyes as everyone was tired and hungry and confused as to what day it was.

I will admit that it took me a full week to recover physically.  Sleep evaded me for nights but it was all worth it.

As I think back (and got to spend all of yesterday afternoon with Bev, Sus and Jess reliving so many of the things that happened) I realize each day just how much our lives have been changed.  I know I expected it to happen with everyone else but not much for myself.  After all - we've been doing this  for 7 years now but . . . I was surprised.  I feel such a connection with each of the team members! 

Becky made it to Bible study yesterday morning and it was like seeing a family member.  Bev gave me a ride and all we could talk about was "this" and "that" constantly.  Folks listening to us could only say they wished they would've gone!

Becky is planning a cookout "reunion" this month and I already know that we will all be telling stories and laughing and talking about how God did this and how He did that!  Each team member felt God's presence like never before and since God is all about relationships --- well --- we all know that even better now!

I have seen many, many miracles over the years and stood in amazement at each one.  My week in Maui brought even more and I still stand in amazement --- and thanks --- and wonder that God would use a plain old person like myself to work His wonders through! 

None of us knew what to expect on the trip.  All of us just said "yes" and left the rest to God. 

Aren't we glad we did!  God is the perfect planner and I love the surprises He had and the blessings He poured over all of us.

Moral of the story --- as each one said in their presentation in church this past Sunday --- "if you have the opportunity to go --- go!  And if you can help send someone else --- send them."

Until next time . . . God is such an awesome God!!!!!                               Susan and Monty

(one last view from our window)

Sunday Testimonies/Day 7

This morning was the morning our Vineyard team gathered on the platform of church and shared with the entire congregation what God had done in their lives in Maui.  It was something they had asked to do.  They wanted to speak from their hearts, no script and I decided on no pictures on the powerpoint.  The picture books were on a table in the lobby if anyone wanted to scroll through them.

This was the time for each one, Hannah, Charles and Bobby to share from their hearts.  And share they did!  We were thrilled that both Bev and Becky from the Bedford church came to support the team.  Each one shared something different, something personal and the congregation hung onto every word from each one!  God spoke through them and it as an honor to stand with them. 

And now back to our week . . . day 7 was Wednesday, our last day on the mountain.

It was also our 14th wedding anniversary and the very first one we've ever spent apart!  Not an easy day for me.  I called him first thing and from there knew we had to get started working.  This was the day we set aside to clean the entire facility and both vehicle.

I thought today everyone would need a jump start.  We had seen a little Bistro restaurant just a couple of blocks down the road and decided we would treat ourselves and go there for a good and hearty breakfast.  It was amazing and it was fun to have us all together filling our tummies!

When we got back I was ready to jump into work but the team got all together and asked me to sit down?  Here they came with an anniversary card and a bouquet of the local flowers!  It was priceless to me and brought a flood of tears!  They said they knew just how difficult this day was for me and hoped the card and flowers would help.  Bev even took pictures and texted them to Monty along with words that I couldn't even read through my tears!  This team touched my heart so much --- they cared enough to do that for me!!!!!!

After gathering myself I got busy and made a very long list of everything that needed to be accomplished.  All I told them was where the list was and as they finished a task they were to check it off the list.  Never once did I say anymore!  They actually got a kick out of checking things off and telling how many more needed done.  Hannah jumped in and tackled the cleaning of not one but both vehicles that had been for our use all week.  That little girl worked and worked and I have no doubt the van hadn't been that clean since the day it was purchased!

We cleaned bathrooms, swept floors, arranged the shed, moved and arranged tools, swept some more, cleaned the showers and the entire sanctuary!  You name it and it was cleaned.  All our beds were stripped and the sheets washed and folded, along with all our towels that we bought when we got there and left them as donations to the cause.

Everything looked 100% better than when we arrived = our goal was met!

Our next step was getting to the hotel.  Yes, when we booked our tickets through Expedia the gentleman told us we were eligible for a "promotion" which we gladly accepted.  We had one room for our last night -- at the newly constructed Courtyard Marriott at the airport.  It had just opened in June.  When we originally booked our tickets there were just 4 of us so one room with 2 double beds was perfect.  By this time our team had grown to 7 needing to sleep so we were blessed to get an adjoining room. 

When we arrived in the very early evening and got all checked in and our jaws picked up off the floor from seeing how beautiful it was --- the younger ones headed straight for the pool!  They were there for a couple of hours before coming back and were more than ready for dinner.  We took a vote and the nearby Italian restaurant won the vote. 

The food was amazing and the fun even more.  Afterwards we took a short walk around the area and then headed back. 

For me -- sitting by the gas fire pit in front of the pool was just what I needed.  Relaxation and beauty in a place I never even dreamed of being!

When everyone made their way there also I asked them to gather round and play "high - low" which is just telling what was the high point of their week and what was their low point.  For nearly every single one the low point was having to leave!  High points were all over the place and it was a great way to close the week.

Just as we finished Alton and Linda came by to thank us and spent some time with all of us.  It was tough to say goodbye for all of us.

Tomorrow would have us all flying out at different times.  Becky in the morning.   Hannah, Bobby, Charles and I late afternoon and Mary and Charles late night.  Tonight was a great way to close the week.

Having the hotel room for the last night was such a treat and just one more time that God reached down and touched us with a great blessing!

Lord, we all thank you for being such a loving God!  Just wish we could love you back half as much!!

Until next time . . . Thanks to everyone for such an amazing week!              
What an awesome God we serve!                                               Susan and Monty

Day 6 = Alton's gift to us

Before we get into the rest of our trip I need to update you on Carla.  She did indeed have a stroke yesterday, caused by the cancer which is now in her spinal column.  It was devastating news for everyone.  She is still in intensive care awaiting the next move.  Please continue praying for she and Todd.

Today I spent most of the day at my parents house.  I had a great uncle who was an Indiana State Policeman.  He was shot and killed in the line of duty one year after I was born.  I have heard the story many times over the years.  Today a section of highway in my hometown was dedicated and named after him on the anniversary of his death.  That brought family to town that I haven't seen in who knows how many years and some I have never met until today.  Rather than have everyone try and get into some restaurant my mother decided to have everyone back to their house for lunch.  She had everything prepared ahead of time -- no surprise!  Us girls showed up to get everything out and placed and ready for everyone to eat after returning from the ceremony.  It was great to see the family members I do remember and even better to meet those I did not know until today.  They were all still there when I left and they all had to travel back home to Ohio, Michigan and Wisconsin!  I know this meant alot to the entire family!  It's just a shame families don't get together like they used to!

And now --- back to our "story" . . .

Tuesday was day 6 and the day set aside by Alton to take us all snorkeling.  This was his gift back to all of us and we were really excited.

We got busy early in the morning and continued our work.  Charles, Bobby and Becky upstairs working on walls and electrical issues.  The women were painting the kitchen and it ended up looking beautiful. 

Alton had planned on coming up and fixing us hot dogs on the grill but had the clutch go out in his truck so we took the opportunity to clean out the refrigerator and had way more than enough food.

By the time he got there he was ready to load up and go but it was hard to get everyone to come to a stopping point in their work!  They finally did and we loaded up coolers of drinks, boogie boards, skim boards and extra clothes because we were also being treated to a special evening at the condo where Sus and Schel were staying.  They were gathering a group of their friends and having a big meal brought in for all of us.

Off we went and stopped at the place where Alton thought we could see alot of fish.  The wind was so strong and the waves equally as strong that we weren't able to really see fish.  It took all our strength just to work our way through the water and waves.  Charles admitted he isn't a good swimmer and was concerned about snorkeling.  No problem -- we just put him on one of the boogie boards and he was set!

Realizing we were battling the wind and waves Alton decided to take us to another location.  So we loaded up everything once again and this time the place was heaven on earth!  Way at the end of a road that literally ended in the water!  The water was super calm and after making our way across the black rock and getting our gear on we watched what had to be the best show on earth -- or atleast under the earth!  Huge fish in every color imaginable were everywhere.  They would brush against us as they passed by, not at all concerned about us being in their territory!  We didn't want to leave and continually came to the surface and forgot about the equipment on our faces and in our mouths as we got so excited and tried to tell someone else what we saw!  Alton just stayed on shore and smiled!  His perfect thank you was indeed perfect!

But time ticked by way too fast and it was time to head to our special evening dinner party.  We ended up at one of the most beautiful resorts I have ever seen in my life!  That just had to be a corner of heaven in preview!  A feast awaited us along with a bunch of people who quickly became friends.  We enjoyed wonderful food and afterwards Sus asked a few of us to share a bit about our trip.  When Bobby and Charles spoke the entire place was in awe!  Their words were priceless but their hearts were poured out all over each one of us! 

By 8:30pm we were packing up and heading back.  We were all worn out not realizing how physical the snorkeling was.  Once we arrived back we just literally unloaded everything inside the door and headed to bed.

Each one of us realized that tomorrow is our last day and the day we will be cleaning the entire building.  Our actual "work" is done -- there has to be a stopping point and no one wanted that point.  Each person commented that they wished we had another day or another few days . . . the ultimate compliment for a team leader and the realization that God reached in and touched each heart, each life and they will never be the same!  Success!

So we all slept with the goal of leaving the place in better condition than we found it.  I had no doubt we would meet and surpass that goal!

Be sure and stay tuned . . . the last day is a good one!

Until next time . . .   good job team -- good job!                                        Susan and Monty

Charles trying to take it all in.

The cove where all the fish were -- along with the black rock and coral -- which many of us cut our feet on!

Time Out

I know I said this blog was going to be about our snorkeling trip but God has changed things up a bit today so that will hopefully be tomorrow.

For today . . . let's back up a bit. . .

Last fall a dear friend of mine from church, Carla, thought she had pulled a muscle in her chest while working in the garden.  She put up with the pain for awhile before a friend convinced her to go to the doctor just to have it checked out. 

That trip to the doctor changed her life forever.

The diagnosis was stage 4 lung cancer, a mass behind her heart and cancer in her adrenal glands.  Surgery was not an option!  Now talk about having your world turned upside down!!!!!

And that wasn't the end of the news.  After an MRI she was told she had numerous cancerous brain tumors!  No warning signs!

So for the past months chemo and radiation have become a part of her life.

Those of us in church have watched her get smaller and smaller by the week.  She is so thin and so frail but yet maintains her smile that lights up a room the second she walks in.  She has always been physically beautiful with this long flowing light brown hair and a love for Jesus that is uncomparable.  Just a year after Monty and I were married she met the love of her life, Todd.  She and I laughed many times that we both married someone much younger than ourselves and how awesome that was!

When she lost all her hair and was a bit nervous about coming to church for the first time with a hat on the entire church surprised her by having "hat day" that Sunday!  Nearly every single person had some kind of hat on --- it even made the front page of our local newspaper!

Week after week she would somehow make it to church and sit in her seat in the front row and raise those frail little arms high in the air praising Jesus.  Sometimes I would see tears streaming down her face as we sang but she always had that amazing smile on her face.

A few weeks ago adding insult to injury she developed Bell's Palsy on one side of her face.  It was frozen in time and heart breaking - but it didn't stop that smile.  It just had a little twist to it now!

This morning Pastor Dave sent me a text saying she was in the hospital, taken by ambulance.  She had a massive seizure and tests showed trouble in the spinal fluids.  The doctors said she has a 50/50 chance of making it through tonight.

I stopped in to see her this evening and even though she is under the influence of some tough anti-seizure meds she still recognized me.  The hardest part ---- her smile wasn't there!

I write this asking for prayers.  God is in the business of miracles and Carla (and Todd) could sure use one right about now. 

I don't understand alot of things and seeing a friend fight so hard and suffer so much is one of those things I just don't understand.

But God didn't give us all the answers and all He wants is for us to trust in Him.  I know Carla trusts and if she can trust through all of this it should be easy for me.  Should be  . . .

Lord, you are the Almighty Healer and we are asking for one of your miracles . . .

Until next time . . . please join us in prayers.                                           Susan and Monty

Day 5, Monday = Double Duty

Even though it was really late when we all settled down and got to bed last night Charles was up and working when I got up at 6:30am. 

Before I could even get done with my usual morning call home to Monty I got a text from Don here at home.  The Hartsville team was working on his house and needed materials.  I had already made a trip to see my guys at Lowes before I left - just in case.  The men went to Lowes to get what they needed, called me from the checkout and the Lowes men took it from there!  Now that is what I call service!

Since the volunteers will return tomorrow we may need to do the same thing.  The 6 hour time difference is a bit tough as they cannot call me during their morning hours.  When it's 12 noon here at Don's it's only 6am in Maui.

Everyone gathered for devotions -- this one came from a book I had been reading since we arrived.  Found it there at the church and it was a good one.  I chose a devotion on life and how we receive it by serving others.  It brought out quite a bit of conversation which is always good.

Bobby, Charles and Becky went back to their loft. Becky continued to mud and finish the walls while Charles and Bobby tackled building a platform in the loft for the closet.  This was a project where I told them I was counting 100% on their creativity and imagination and skills.  They did not disappoint me and by the end of the day had put together their design and finished it!

The women were downstairs learning to texture the kitchen walls and ceilings.  I learned back in Texas that texturing with a roller was the way to go with volunteers who have never done such a task.  The roller is really made to use with paint but I used a bit of my own imagination and by taking drywall mud and mixing it with water, getting just the right consistency, it makes a wonderful texture.  The girls were to practice on scrap sheetrock first, working until they felt they had the hang of it.  Bev and Hannah were quick to get the feel and moved inside to the kitchen.  Hannah wanted to focus on the ceiling since that's where she'd been for a couple of days.  She stepped in and took ownership of it -- awesome!  Bev started on the walls and before long both of them were rolling away with perfect results!

I decided to get in on the fun and worked on the walls.  When I realized I was swaying back and forth as I rolled I challenged the girls to some "texturing aerobics" which they (without my knowing) captured on pictures!  Remember --- we have to learn to laugh at ourselves!!!!!!

We all had a blast and once again were laughing hysterically AND getting work done!  With the Christian music playing in the church it was a perfect blend!  I sure am glad God has a sense of humor!  Sure makes life alot more fun!

Lunch arrived, along with the start of a pot of chili for dinner.  Schel came to do more plumbing work and managed to get the loft shower working. 

Linda arrived by late afternoon and finished the chili.  She also got a kick out of the texturing and was amazed at the progress both upstairs and downstairs.

Immediately after dinner Bobby and Charles headed into town to church for another meeting.  We continued to finish the texturing so we could paint tomorrow.  We didn't even realize how much time had passed till the guys walked back into the kitchen.

I asked Bobby how the meeting was and he told me just how God had showed up -- big time!  First of all he told me that he was planning on going to the meeting alone but when he got into the shower God spoke to him and told him to take Charles.  So he got out of the shower, asked Charles - who agreed to go- and then got back into the shower.  He said God doesn't usually speak to him that way but I said God always speaks to him -- he's just learning to recognize His voice!  He agreed.  When they got to the meeting they each introduced themselves.  When Charles finished with his introduction one of the pastors headed straight for him and said he had a word from the Lord for him.  He said he could see the heart Charles has for his own people (remember -- he is from Kenya and has only been here in the US for 4 years) and he saw Charles back home leading his people as Moses led his people!  I asked Bobby what Charles's reaction was and he said he took in every single word!  Quite an evening for the both of them!

By the time we finished the kitchen it was nearly 10pm.  Showers were taken and as I headed upstairs the young ones were outside around the picnic table discussing the day.  That sharing and laughing and learning and loving is just what this trip is all about!

I read a quote that I feel is "right on" ---- "trips like this aren't vacations.  They are so much more.  These experiences show you what's possible and challenge you to examine the paths you'll take in the future."

Tomorrow is Alton's thank you gift to all of us --- snorkeling in the afternoon!!!!

Be sure and stay tuned --- you won't want to miss that!!!!  Believe me!!!!

Until next time . . . what has God said to you lately?                            Susan and Monty

Sunday, Day 4 = Fun Day

First and foremost --- our prayers are with all those along the Gulf Coast.  We are praying that all the rebuilds we did are high enough to be spared flooding again!  I can't even think about what might be happening!  I did try and call Ms Faye but the phone number I have isn't connected so . . .

Sunday, August 19th was the day our team had set aside for a fun and travel and site seeing day.  The kids were looking forward to it because they knew we would be on a beach somewhere.  Bev was just as anxious as she had never (yes, never) stepped foot into an ocean.

Church that morning was amazing!  Our team was asked to stand and we were told, numerous times, that we were an answer to prayer for Alton and Linda and the whole church.  Those words really had an impact on the entire team.  It's humbling and an honor when someone tells you that you are a direct answer to their prayers!  God really touches their hearts!

After church we gathered outside in front of their beautiful fountain for group pictures.

From left to right on the back row:  Alton, Linda, Becky, Kevin, Autumn, Bev, Schel, Mary, Hannah, Charles --front row left to right, me, Sus and Bobby.

After all the pictures everyone was ready to hit the road.  I gave the map to the kids in the back of the van and we headed to the city of Lahina.  What a beautiful area.  We found a shopping area and it was there that we discovered the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company Restaurant.  It was a unanimous decision to eat lunch there.  In my opinion that's one of the best movies ever made and it was fun to go in and see the signs and remember all the parts of the movie.  Out front was the bench where Forrest's tennis shoes, suitcase and box of chocolates were made out of concrete.  You can see that we all had fun taking a seat!

Everyone needs the chance to be a kid again!

Our food was delicious and after a bit of shopping we all decided that we should hit the beach and return later to shop.

Bev got her chance and stepped into the ocean for the first time in her life!  She was not disappointed.  The water was beautiful and you can see the cloud on top of the mountain in the background.  The kids had a blast and built sand castles and Charles made a shark in the sand as you can see below.

After a time of swimming and playing in the sand we headed back to the shopping area.  It was fun watching each one trying to make that just right purchase for their parents or kids or special someone.  I watched as each one purchased something for themselves only after they had purchased for others in their families.

It didn't take long and everyone was hungry once again.  They all decided it would be great if we could find a place where we could sit near the water as the sun was setting and they all wanted pictures.  It didn't take long and God took us to the perfect place.  Our table was directly over the water and God provided us with a view that had to be straight out of heaven itself!  See for yourself!

We have many, many pictures of the sun setting and each one doesn't begin to do it justice but it's all we have to share. 

We continued shopping, taking pictures and just walking and enjoying the views till nearly 9:30pm and we still had nearly an hour drive back to the facility. 

Our ride back was a blast.  Bev and I got to laughing about the oncoming lights and how they changed shape in the windshield of the van that was loaned to us.  I don't know when I have laughed that hard and I think if someone looked not so closely one would find atleast a dozen golden eggs underneath Bev's seat!  The joy of the Lord was pouring out all the windows and doors making that little van unable to contain it.  And that joy brought healing --- lots of it.  From that night on Bev was healed and whole and working and working and healed and whole!

When we did arrive back and get things unloaded and I sat to write in my journal all I could think about was how well this team was becoming family.  When one person was looking to make a purchase they would ask the others what they thought about the item.  Conversations were all over the place with everyone and I just marveled at how awesome God is.  He called each and every member of this team to go and each one obeyed the call.  I watched the blessings pour out on each one and knew God was going to continue pouring them out!

As each relationship grew and was strengthened I knew all the glory was going to God and how He must be smiling from ear to ear!

Thank you Lord for that wonderful, carefree day that we could all spend with You.  You orchestrated each moment, each meal, each picture, each person and each blessing.  We are all so thankful to You!

Tomorrow it's back to work and the day of fun today just spurred each person on to do more work and be more of a blessing!

We will go into tomorrow with great expectation Lord!

Until next time . . . what an honor to serve such a loving God!                   Susan and Monty

Day 3 -- Saturday

Saturday morning I awoke to find myself not only sleeping in my pajamas but also my hooded sweatshirt -- with the hood over my head!  Yes, it was that cool in our room!

During the night Mary had gotten up and covered me with a comforter on top of the sweatshirt too.

This morning we were on our own for breakfast so each one got up at different times and did different things for food.  We decided to hold devotions till lunchtime when we knew Schel and Sus and Autumn and Kevin would be able to join us.

Bev was really struggling this morning.  The drive the night before had pushed her tummy over the edge and it was just too much for her.  Try as we may to convince her to take the day off it wasn't easy to finally convince her.  Her heart was there to help and resting wasn't helping -- in her eyes!  But she did give in and went upstairs to rest in front of the fans and beautiful view of the mountains.  Different women went up to check on her and spend time with her throughout the day.  When I made my morning call to Monty I told him what was going on with her.  He said God didn't bring her up there to work but to rest!  God loved her that much that He took her all the way to paradise to get some rest!  She had been under an enormous amount of stress at work and also had been diagnosed with an ear and sinus infection 2 days before we left.  I immediately went upstairs to share this with her and she was shocked!  The love God has for her was a bit overwhelming and although tears streamed down her face she did rest for the remainder of the day and it worked! 

Autumn decided to take on the sanding of the kitchen ceiling. 

Yep, sanding a ceiling means all the dust has to come down directly on your face!  The stylish sunglasses just set the entire scene.  Even though she was a mess all I could hear was her laughter.  I texted her mother and told her I had not seen Autumn that happy --- ever!

Hannah, Mary and Linda put the finishing touches on the painting of the pantry and went to work planning for the flooring.

Schel and Kevin started the rough in plumbing for the kitchen and the closing in of the double doors in the kitchen.

Sus was cleaning and getting things organized to put back into the pantry.

Bobby, Charles and Becky were busy upstairs in the loft with sheetrocking and framing and taping and mudding.

Lunch was brought in by another church member -- homemade chicken salad that we all agreed was the best we've ever tasted.  Devotions finished the meal and it was back to work.

The entire afternoon was fast and furious with work and laughter.  The girls were working on the peel and stick tiles for the pantry and Autumn was learning how to cut the angles.  She got the hang of it quickly and did an amazing job!

Linda was getting them all layed out and it ended up beautiful and an amazing improvement!

Mary decided to tackle the job of stucco on the outside of the building where the double doors had been removed and framed in.  None of us had ever done it but all it took was reading the directions and getting the feel of it and she had it down.  Sus decided to jump in and help her and between the 2 of them it was perfection.  You could not tell where the doors had been.

You can just see the joy of the Lord shining through each of their faces!

Dinner arrived and it was a true Hawaiian feast!  Everyone had such fun trying and tasting and laughing.  Charles really loves vegetables and so he really enjoyed this meal.

After dinner the guys helped unload 1 of 3 truck loads of kitchen cabinets that had been donated.  They are beautiful and yet will require someone good at solving puzzles to get them all lined out in the way they should be.

Hannah and Mary wanted to make a Walmart run so I drove them and was thrilled to find souveniers inside Walmart. 

It was getting late by the time we got back and decided team showers were in order.  Somehow -- showering in a facility with no roof and outside made us laugh.  Modesty has no place in a situation like this and soon it had spread throughout all the women.  What happens in Maui stays in Maui!!!!!!

As I sat on my bed and began journaling I realized just how well this team is working and living together.  What a blessing to be a part of.

Tomorrow is church and we have to be ready to leave by 7:30am so lights went out fairly early

Autumn and Kevin will move into their condo and spend the rest of their time celebrating their anniversary.

Sus and Schel also moved into their condo and although we will see a bit of Schel, probably not Sus.

So our number of workers gets smaller but the growth of the family gets stronger.

The outside showers!!!  How brave would you be?

Until next time . . . "giving trips always change me in some way.  But seeing the expressions and experiences of the people that join me on the journey is equally, if not more, powerful."

Susan and Monty