Mission Trip Adventures

Oakdale Baptist Church on Mission at Salvo

2012-02-13T08:38:00.001-05:00

Click here to see their pictures and report.

The Teams Have Arrived

2012-02-11T22:14:00.001-05:00

This week we had four different teams come to Salvo to work. We have worked on rebuilding existing homes, building a new home, reinstalling a fence and moving furniture. As the saying goes, the LORD works in mysterious ways and on each job this week I feel He was present and active. Also met Gabe a local resident who has been working in Jeniffer & Wesley's home with us. He as many others out here are doing what they can to help each other.

At present time we do not have any volunteers scheduled to come and work on the week of Feb. 20th.

Feb. 20th is President's Day so if you have off it would be a great day to come to the OBX. If all plans hold together we will start the floor system for Elsie Hooper's new home that week.

OBX Rebuild Officially Started This Week

2012-02-02T20:16:00.001-05:00

After a few days at home and a trip to Camp Caraway for Blue Hat training we are now back in Salvo.

Charles Aultman is our only construction volunteer this week. Billy and Charles have been helping Tony frame his house.

Charles has also been helping to repair Paula’s house.

Hayden and Sonny from Cool Springs Baptist Church in Sanford brought us 2 freezers and a load of food from Raleigh.

Ann decided this trip that she wanted to do the cooking for the teams. Linda Skinner is here helping her and we have been enjoying these chocolate covered strawberries she made.

We have five jobs going on and as you can imagine we need more construction help. We also would like witness teams for some community activities. Please consider coming out to OBX to serve our awesome God by giving us a hand.

Back to OBX and Getting Ready for Volunteers

2012-01-20T22:04:00.001-05:00

Wednesday was the day set for us to travel back to OBX for our new assignment. We fell in love with these people back in September when we were here after Hurricane Irene and are excited to get to come back. Billy went to Colerain early Wednesday morning to meet the steel door people about fixing a problem with the safe room doors. We also needed to pick up the camper there. When I arrived after lunch I found Billy under the camper because one of the slides would not close. It took awhile but Billy finally got it closed and we were on our way.

That’s the camper up ahead crossing the Bonner bridge. At least this trip we did not have to go over by ferry.

We arrived in Salvo late Wednesday afternoon. Thanks to David Earley for pulling the Baptist Men tool trailer for us. We are setting up at the Salvo Fire Department. With the backing of NCBM we will be here through the summer rebuilding flooded homes as well as building new homes to replace some that were or will be torn down.

This is Tony’s house. He is trying to do most of the work himself. He was very receptive to having our volunteers give him a hand. He has to move his wife and toddler out of their rental by March and will probably move into a small camper until the house is finished.

This trailer is one that we gutted back in September and will be helping to restore.

This house will probably be torn down because it will cost lots more to restore than to build a new one. An elderly lady, who has lived on the island all her life, and her two daughters live here.

This cute little house is scheduled to be demolished next week after the fire department uses it for a training exercise. The inside doesn’t look as good as the outside.

Many more here need help and the word is spreading that the Baptists are back to help. Our prayers are that many of you will come to help. Housing and meals will be provided.

Happy New Year

2012-01-09T21:07:00.001-05:00

We’ve been home for a couple of weeks. We enjoyed Christmas in Momeyer and have been to a wedding in Richmond. Ann is doing tax and office stuff and some clean out and organizing. Billy has worked on his shop roof and replaced the 1st of several windows at Momeyer Baptist.

We will hopefully be announcing our next adventure soon. Stay in touch and prepare to travel as we join to serve the LORD.

House #4 Dedication in Colerain

2011-12-22T21:26:00.001-05:00

What a glorious day in Colerain. Today we did what some thought was impossible. What was forgotten was that GOD sent us to Colerain with a purpose and it was time for His glory to shine. We dedicated the 4th home and turned over the keys to Mrs. Annie Mitchell and remembered her late husband William Mitchell. I don't know about the others present but I felt the LORD's presence at the dedication. In closing I want to say THANKS to GOD for the grace and guidance He has provided for us as I have drawn much closer to Him than I have ever been. Also a big thank you to Ann for her support along with all the volunteers that have served with us in GOD's kingdom.

Keep watching the blog to see where God leads us next.

Billy

It was sad to leave Colerain and the friends I have made there but it is good to be home for Christmas.

Ann

Three Down and One To Go

2011-12-21T20:49:00.001-05:00

This week the push began to finish the Bond house. Billy set the dedication for Wednesday at 2:00. As usual, I had my doubts that we could meet the deadline but God sent the volunteers we needed and we actually finished on Tuesday, a day early. God is so good.

Dedication Day went great for the Bond home. Even though it was drizzling rain we had a good crowd.

Some days I feel like I am missing Christmas. You know, the baking goodies, decorating the house and Christmas shopping. But then we get the privilege of dedicating a brand new house to a grateful family and handing them the keys to their new home. Then I know that we are where God has placed us and just where we belong.

Meanwhile work continues on the Mitchell house. Will it be ready by dedication time Thursday at 2 pm?

A Glorious Week and Billy Was Right

2011-12-16T21:48:00.001-05:00

When I got back here on Monday night and saw how much more needed to be done on the Earley and Williams houses I just did not believe that we could have these homes complete and ready to dedicate by Friday but Billy fully believed that it could be done. Well I am happy to report that he was right. We had many volunteers coming and going all week and the work was complete. Even got Christmas trees decorated thanks to the Colerain Baptist Children’s group and the Flanagans.

On Friday afternoon at 2:00 just as the cold front came through we had our dedication ceremony and turned the house keys over to the happy but tearful owners. Dot Earley commented that she had always wondered how God worked and now she had seen how He worked. Dot, her daughter Crystal and some of their friends had prepared refreshments for everyone so the celebration continued.

Crystal Earley and David Earley – No relation but friends for life
The Williams house- We were told by Dot that Mrs. Williams liked to decorate this tree in her front yard with clear bottles with colored water in them so we decorated it for her homecoming.
The Earley house-I think Dot and Crystal may be spending their first night there tonight.
A few of the many volunteers we have been blessed with on this project.

PS This project is not over yet. We still have two more houses to complete. Billy thinks we can finish them next week. Will he be right again? We need volunteers to help two more families have a new home by Christmas. If you would like to share in this blessing please contact us.

Earley House Almost Finished

2011-12-11T22:10:00.001-05:00

The big teams have disappeared but the work continues. Rex & Dana did tile work on two homes. Billy, Allen, Ben & David did flooring. Charles and Tom finished the steps and rails at the Early house. The ladies have been caulking and painting. The first house is almost done but we still need help completing the other three before Christmas.
To the volunteers who have helped on the Mitchell house, James William Mitchell went home to the Lord this week. Please remember and pray for the family.

New Dental Unit

2011-12-06T13:19:00.001-05:00

We left Colerain on Thursday so we could pickup the new Dental ~~Bus~~ Unit. This was our first trip on the new unit and our first dental trip since March.

On Friday and Saturday we worked on the unit at Trinity Baptist Church in Hollister. Praise God that there was one salvation.

The new dental unit is great. It is first class and even has digital x-rays. Hopefully we will be able to make some more trips soon but who knows because God seems to have other plans for us.

We Have Been Blessed with Many Volunteers

2011-12-06T11:55:00.001-05:00

We had 41 volunteers to come in Sunday of last week so they could start early Monday morning. It was a beautiful day and lots of work got done. I admit I had concerns about Tuesday due to they called for rain all morning but it lasted almost all day. However GOD ruled again and supplied a place for everybody to work all day. I actually made the mistake of wondering what they were going to do when the rain kept coming , but GOD worked His miracle and lots got done. We all dressed for the cold on Wednesday and again thank you everybody for the amount of work that has been done.

Still working on sheet rock hanging and finishing, building of ramps and steps, siding, and cabinet installation.

Our wonderful volunteer teams.

Next week is looking kind of slim so we need you.

Thanksgiving Week and Blessings from the Week Before

2011-11-26T20:46:00.001-05:00

These are the groups that we were blessed with last week. 1st Baptist Mooresville, Oak Grove Baptist from Boone, Sandy Plains Baptist from Gastonia and Kingdom Builders from Fletcher. Debbie shows the church ladies how to make potato candy.

Sheetrock finishing began, more siding was hung and steps were built.

The number of volunteers has been few this week but GOD's work continues. Even Ann took most of the week off to spent time at home with our daughter Kim and her husband Brandon. They were in from Ohio for Thanksgiving. This week we finished hanging sheet rock in the third house. The siding is complete on two homes. The electricians began finalizing the wiring. Lots of clean up has been done and supplies moved around in preparation for the large number of volunteers expected next week.

After next week we don’t have any teams scheduled to volunteer. Please consider coming to Colerain for a few days to help finish these homes in time for Christmas.

Two Weeks in a Row

2011-11-16T20:31:00.001-05:00

Last week was great and this week is also going good with 44 volunteers. We have volunteers from Gastonia, Mooresville, Boone, Asheville, Clayton, Durham and Momeyer. Sheetrock is being hung in two homes. Vinyl is being installed on three of the homes. Exterior trim is being formed and installed. Plumbing is being worked on in two homes. It’s good to see so many volunteers coming together for meals in our dining hall in the Colerain Fire Dept. Training Center. The food has been delicious too.

Please continue to pray for the work and volunteers as we try to follow GOD's call and witness to the people in this area. We have had two new local volunteers to start helping this week and another today asked how he could get involved.

A Good Week in Colerain

2011-11-11T20:49:00.001-05:00

Another blessed week in Colerain.

As of Friday volunteers have finished the Mitchell house framing and started the shingles, plumbing and electric.

The shingles at the Early house were completed as well as more of the vinyl.

Insulation has been installed at the Williams house.

Doors and windows have been installed in the Bond house.

Vacation and Back to Colerain

2011-11-07T14:19:00.001-05:00

Last week Ann took some R & R with Marsha and Debra. They went to Massantutten Resort where they got to see snow on the fall foliage. I joined her on Wednesday afternoon. We took a trip to Natural Bridge, rode on part of the Blue Ridge Parkway and went to see the movie Courageous.

While we were gone the work continued in Colerain. The Bond house is framed waiting on front porch and shingles.

The Early house has siding started, is rough plumbed and is waiting on insulation and shingles.

The Mitchell house has the walls framed and is waiting on the walls to be wrapped and trusses to be set and sheeted.

The Williams house is waiting on rough in plumbing so the inside can continue.

GOD has been good as we knew He would be. He has sent lots of great volunteers who have shown this area how much GOD loves them. We still have a lot of work to do and need your help so these families can celebrate CHRISTmas in their new home this year.

Progress on Houses

2011-10-25T11:16:00.001-04:00

The last of the block and brick have been laid. The ceiling of the last two safe rooms are being formed and will be poured Wednesday morning which will complete the concrete work. Two homes have been framed and sheeted however we still need to finish the porches and overhangs so shingles and vinyl can be done.

Lots of thanks to Mike Layton for listening to GOD and following the call to come to Colerain and help us out. He knows how to build a house!! He gave up working on houses he was building along with fishing for 2 weeks. Hate to see him leave, however I know God will send a replacement. Also want to thank all the others who have come to help share God's love by giving of their selves to help build these four homes. We still are in need of volunteers for several more weeks and would love YOUR help.

Thanks to a great feeding team last week. Two days they served a full house when the Friends (Quakers) had lunch with us.

Back in Colerain

2011-10-18T08:04:00.001-04:00

Wonderful day in Colerain. In case you didn't know, we arrived back in Colerain last Monday to continue working with NCBM building four houses for GOD's people who lost their homes in April's tornadoes. Sunday I made the mistake of wondering if GOD would send only a few people to work. But as the sun rose, and over the next couple of hours, 27 folks had arrived to work. THANK YOU GOD and all who came, not only yesterday, but also last week. With the preparation work done last week, yesterday we were able to put in the floor system for two houses and almost covered both of them.

Last Nights in Rodanthe

2011-10-12T16:52:00.000-04:00

On Tuesday, October 4 we got on the ferry and headed home. We were replaced by JE and Betsy Skinner so that we could get a few days at home before reporting back to Colerain for the rebuild project we were part of before Hurricane Irene came along. We really enjoyed our time and work in the Rodanthe/Waves/Salvo villages and were sad to leave. We met so many nice people that we will always remember.

Pictures-clockwise starting at top right

Billy and Jerry talk to Shelia-a homeowner we helped “paying it forward”
Ken Davis’s feeding team
Jerry Barbee’s feeding team
Robert Taylor’s feed team
Linda Skinner
Recovery team from Greensboro

Pictures-clockwise starting at top right

Salvo Fire Chief Jimmy Hooper with wife Jenny and daughter Elaine
Our luxury accommodations (thanks Midgett Realty and Jenny)
Glad this isn’t our camper
Jim working at the Really Free Store
Brian and Sharon on their anniversary
My new friend Liz the Energizer Bunny
Judy helping to unload a trailer at the Really Free Store
Jim and Judith Hale, our chaplains for almost 3 weeks
Chicamacomico Fire Chief Mike Daughtery with Billy

Two Weeks at the Beach

2011-09-23T13:57:00.001-04:00

For the first time in our lives we have spent two weeks at the beach. Most people think of sun and fun when at the beach. Well we have had lots of fun serving GOD and he has sent us several storms. Most of all we have reunited with old friends who came over to help and made many new friends as we work side by side serving our LORD. The residents are working right along side our volunteers. Even though we have only seen the beach a few times it’s been a great trip. Ann did get to climb Cape Hatteras Lighthouse one night and she really enjoyed that. We’ve had some delicious seafood too.

On Saturday, the 10th, there were only three work team members here so we joined in to help do a tear out in Shelia’s home which is next to Top Dog Grill where we stopped to eat 5 years ago. On Sunday we moved from Frisco to Salvo and set up the DROC at the fire station. On Monday another team from the Gastonia area arrived along with our cooks, Iva and Judy from Momeyer. Elsie, with the Gastonia team, helped cook too.

The Gastonia team accomplished a lot of work. It was fun getting to know them. They were planning to leave on Saturday morning but when the Stumpy Point ferry closed on Friday due to lack of water in the sound after a storm they panicked and made 10 pm reservations for the Ocracoke/Swan Quarter Ferry. They packed up so quick and left mid afternoon to make sure they had plenty of time to get there. The funny thing is that the Stumpy Point ferry opened back up at 6 pm, long before they got on the Ocracoke ferry. Arrival and departure from the island is by ferry or medical helicopter only so they pack the ferries.

Our Trip to Hatteras

2011-09-19T10:08:00.001-04:00

On Thursday morning we headed to the ferry. Since the road was washed out by Irene the ferries are the only way to get on or off the island. We were blessed and only had to wait in line for one and a half hours before boarding. Others have had waits up to six hours. Sharon had gone over the day before to meet with Pastor Russ with Cape Hatteras Baptist Church and find us housing. Operation Blessing was using the church so one of his church members let us use a second row beach cottage in Frisco that he was caretaker for.

Once we arrived on the island we were greeted with piles and piles of debris that had been removed from the homes of full time residents. They have been helping each other but are so grateful for any help we can give them. The wind damage was minor here but the flooding was major. I have made friends with the sweetest lady. Her name is Janie and she was born here 92 years ago and has lived here all her life.

Hurricane Irene

2011-09-18T06:19:00.001-04:00

On my last blog post I told you we were monitoring Hurricane Irene forecasts. We decided to leave Colerain on Thursday, Aug. 25 so we could prepare for the storm. We didn’t get much damage at our house but as you probably know by now Eastern North Carolina took a pretty hard hit. So on Sunday, August 28 we headed out, first to deliver a bunk trailer to Kinston and then on to Williamston where I was to do Admin work.

I was happy to be joining our good friends J.E. and Betsy Skinner at their church, Memorial Baptist. Other friends working there were Jimmy and Pam Lawrence, John and Peggy Gore, Jo Davidson, Bill Fogerty, Brian Moser and many others. Gary, the White Hat from Arkansas was great to work with. He brought a 31 member chain saw team. While Billy and I both spent our nights in Williamston, Billy spent most of his days transporting shower and laundry units to Hatteras Island.

We spent one week in Williamston and then actually got a whole day at home before being transferred to Manteo where Billy was to Blue Hat the recovery operation. We were only in Manteo for two nights and closed that site down. Billy had seen so much need for NCBM’s help in the Rodanthe, Waves, Salvo and Avon villages when he was there the week before delivering the shower/laundry units that he knew that was where God wanted him to go next. He was given permission to go and take a team with him. There was a team from Icard in Manteo and they gladly accepted the call. Also our good friend Sharon Chilton-Moser had been released from the “secret bunker” and she was ready to get her hands dirty. Stay tuned for more on our trip to Hatteras Island.

Colerain

2011-08-24T14:37:00.001-04:00

There were many homes and lives lost in this area as a result of the April 16 tornados that swept across Eastern NC. NCBM volunteers are rebuilding four homes. Last Wednesday we traveled to Colerain to set up a shower/laundry unit and a bunk unit in preparation of the rebuild start. On Thursday and Friday we laid out 3 of the 4 foundations for the homes to be built.

We are being hosted by Colerain Baptist Church. Their secretary Sheran has been a big help to us and so have some of the other church members. The leadership team is housed in their church parsonage and the DROC is in the church fellowship hall. Our cook team, from Elizabeth City, is using the fire department training building right down the street.

After a quick weekend in Momeyer we were back in Colerain on Monday. Along with 10 other volunteers we dug, installed rebar and then poured the first foundation footing. While waiting for the concrete trucks we dug most of the second footing. We are planning to pour the third foundation today and hopefully the fourth tomorrow. The LORD provided the help we needed and then helped us work together great. Please continue to pray for us as we work this week. We need masons and labors to help get the foundation laid so framers can start soon.

We are closely watching the Irene forecasts so we will know when we need to head back east.

A Week Ago in Minot

2011-08-06T16:10:00.001-04:00

We have been home from Minot for over a week and I am finally getting to our final pictures for this mission. I don’t know if I get too busy or too tired at the end.

On Thursday morning we were told we would be moving the laundry unit to the new city shelter sometime that day. We decided to stop accepting loads after 42 and finished them all before we moved.

Pictures from top left: Ann waiting on one of the last loads. Three heads are better than one. Billy wondering where to put more bags. Lots of people brought their clothes in Tide bags. Billy telling the power company people where we were moving. Billy had to retrieve fingernail clippers from a dryer. Our replacement team came in just in time to help us move and setup in our new location at the Cameron Indoor Tennis Center. This was a victim shelter run by the city. It was quite interesting watching this group put the tent up.

My Animal Shelter Adventure

2011-07-27T21:52:00.001-04:00

On Wednesday morning Billy and Trevis were kind enough to let me have some time off to go to the animal shelter. It’s not only people who are being affected by the flood, but animals as well. The NDSU extension office is now being used to house animals that have been dropped off by flood victims. My friend Debbie and I volunteered there. We walked dogs and helped clean the cat kennels. That dog I’m walking in the center picture was a bit hyper. He wanted to bite on the leash and then he found my shoestring and tried to pull it in two. It was a fun morning. Back to work. This is what our days are like. We did 33 loads of laundry on Tuesday and 61 on Wednesday.

Clockwise from top left:

These are the ladies that fix our lunch and supper plates each day over at North Hills Baptist Church where the Kansas/Nebraska Baptist Men are cooking with help from Arkansas.

The Texas shower team has been so helpful writing bible verses on laundry bags. I just love them. They’re like family now.

Home Sweet Home

Trevis must be caught up on the folding.

Our laundry unit sits a the bottom of this stairway. I’ve been running up the steps everyday. It’s not easy.

Helping Friends

2011-07-25T00:25:00.001-04:00

Saturday was a much easier day even though we still did 41 loads of laundry. Lloyd, one of our friends friends from Texas was sick on Saturday so I took him and his wife Barbara to the Convenient Care Center to see a Dr. They said he was dehydrated and wanted to put him in the hospital. Being he was a stubborn man he refused so they sent in back with us with a prescription and orders to drink lots of fluid. He was much better on Sunday.

Trevis, Billy and I went to church at North Hills Baptist on Sunday morning. This is where the Southern Baptist kitchen is set up.We had a pretty quiet Sunday afternoon with only 33 loads of laundry. ARC had a ice cream social and we were invited.

A Very Busy Laundry Day

2011-07-22T23:16:00.001-04:00

The secret is out. The ARC found out we were doing laundry. We washed, dried and folded 63 loads today. I don’t know when I have ever worked so hard and been to tired.

Thanks to the shower team from Texas for helping us fold laundry and write bible verses on the bags. They were a big help. The lady in green is Debbie, a teacher here. She has been cleaning her room this week and has been so helpful trying to make sure we were comfortable and had everything we needed.

Even though I was tired tonight, after supper I decided to run to the top of the 100 steps in the top picture. I made it but had to walk a few of them. You can see the laundry unit at the bottom.

We shut down early tonight because we are under a tornado watch.

Why Not Minot

2011-07-22T00:23:00.001-04:00

Tuesday morning we left home with NCBM Laundry #3 towed behind the Childcare truck, stopped at the VA welcome center on I77 and picked up Trevis and headed to Minot, North Dakota. In two days we drove 31 hours and 1830 miles. I should clarify that-Billy and Trevis drove and I rode.

In June Minot was flooded by the Souris River, which curls from Canada through north central North Dakota back into Canada.

Wednesday morning after breakfast we set up the unit at Minot City Campus High School. The school is being used for American Red Cross staff housing. Texas Baptists have a shower unit at this location also. We got lots of hugs from happy ARC people when they found out we were going to do their laundry. We did 22 loads of laundry and took in 13 more to start on tomorrow.

It was a good day and not too hot.

Finished World Changers and Headed to Minot, ND

2011-07-20T10:39:00.001-04:00

My days and nights with World Changers were very busy with little time for blogging so I am very behind.

Wednesday was another hot day but the kids and adults managed to get lots of work done. Pictured are the Hammerheads and Goofus Roofers. Mrs. Allen not only got a new roof but some cleaning and painting on the outside of her house.

Thursday we were blessed with cooler temps and we got closer to the finish line. Jamie (in pink) stayed on the roof all day because she didn’t like the ladder.

Friday was the last day of work and a day of saying goodbyes. Many of the teams and home owners got very close. I witnessed this first hand with Mrs. Kern and the Monkey Wrenches. Mrs. Kern had enjoyed the crew being at her house so much and didn’t want them to leave. She even insisted that they not use the porta john but come inside to use her bathroom. New Sandy Creek Baptist Church served their lunch at the crew chief’s farm and we had the best corn on the cob I believe I have ever eaten.

Friday night was closing ceremonies with a pumped up crowd and time for more goodbyes.

I enjoyed this week very much and I’m looking forward to doing it again next summer.

Tuesday morning we headed to Minot, ND with a laundry unit. More on that later.

A Hot Send Off Day for World Changers

2011-07-13T07:30:00.001-04:00

This week we are working with World Changers in Henderson, NC. They are being hosted by Rebuilding Hope and are being housed at Crossroads Academy.

We moved into our camper on Sunday to begin preparing for the week. The students came on Monday and got to meet with their crew chiefs, encouragers and adult leaders. They also went out to the job sites to meet with the homeowners. There are 18 different job sites and most of them are roofing jobs.

Tuesday was the first day of work. Most of the jobs they are doing are roofs. The kids are working really hard in this heat (over 100 degrees). Their day starts with breakfast at 6 am and they leave for work at 7 am. Lunch on the job sites is being provided by local churches. At 4 pm it’s quitting time and back to the school for showers, supper, praise and worship and devotions.

Billy is a supervisor over 4 work sites and I am a runner. Three of the sites have Norlina addresses and one Henderson. I have to take supplies needed to the work sites.

Pictured are the Bone Crushers and Brick Bats, two teams put together to work on one site in Norlina.

I drove Steve’s old truck which luckily had good air conditioning. On the way back to the warehouse from one of my trips I spotted a quilt shop. I decided to stop and check it out. While I was looking around the shop and talking to Miss Lou, the owner, the truck started smoking. Billy came and rescued me. It sure was a good thing I stopped at that quilt shop because later at the repair shop the truck caught on fire.

Please pray for everyone involved in this ministry this week. Pray for safety, good attitudes, that we all will be a good witness for our Lord and Savior and that through our works others will come to know him.

Fort Caswell

2011-07-11T19:59:00.001-04:00

Last week I was privileged to be on Oak Island at Fort Caswell for World Mission Week. NCBM Disaster Relief Temporary Child Care was taking care of infants, toddlers and preschool children of attendees. I was in the infant/toddler room and we had 7 children and the preschool had 15.

My Co-workers

Front row: Janice, Sandra, Ann

Middle Row: Ingrid, Teresa, Lowell

Back Row: Marolyn, Larry, Charlene

What a fun week caring for these sweet children.

Friday and Saturday

2011-07-04T22:22:00.001-04:00

Billy, Jeffrey, Doug and Amy built a ramp for the man that lives next door to the church. We had a small dedication ceremony which included prayers and singing of Amazing Grace. Also the first trip down the ramp for Mr. Leon.

Eddie, Iva, Lynn and Toni finished up some painting jobs. Dawn and Cayla organized the storage room. Jeffrey sanded doors. Al and Cory and Doug worked on some electrical jobs. Cayla, Amy, Dawn and Lynn did some cleaning.

We were packed and ready to leave by 10:30. Pastor Roger thanked us for all we had accomplished and send us off with a prayer.

I think we had a very good and productive week at a church that is really excited about serving and worshiping God.

Thursday Work and Fun

2011-07-01T08:54:00.001-04:00

Thursday was another busy day. The library books were sorted. The youth room was painted. Two nursery doors were turned into dutch doors and painted. We did some cleaning up.

Then Thursday night we had some fun. Pastor Paul, Amy and Toni went with the church to see an outdoor drama “The Honey Hole.” The rest of us went over to Mike and Beth Baker’s for some food and fellowship. Mike served as Youth Minister at Momeyer 1991-1992. We really enjoyed ourselves.

Dawn, Al, Cayla and Cory joined us just in time for dinner at the Baker’s.

Wednesday and a Free Car Wash

2011-06-30T09:18:00.001-04:00

Ike started out our day with a morning devotion straight from his heart. Iva and Billy put the final touches on the library. Amy is so happy to have Wi-Fi now. Me too.

Pastor Roger took his kids, a few other church members, Lynn, Eddie, Pastor Paul, Amy, Toni, Vandy and Elizabeth over to Captain D’s to do a free cash wash. Of course they were not only washing cars, trucks and motorcycles. They were sharing the Gospel and praying with those that needed prayers.

Ike, Doug and Jeffrey did such a good job on the fence Tuesday that they formed a team again on Wednesday. This time they repaired that big whole in the floor left from the baptistry removal. Job well done guys.

Are you are wondering what I’m doing here this week beside taking pictures and blogging? I am getting up early to have breakfast on the table at 7 am, lunch at 12 noon and dinner at 6 pm. Billy has been a big help mornings but he thinks I don’t know how to cook breakfast. I can’t imagine why.

Sunday, Monday and Tuesday

2011-06-29T14:30:00.001-04:00

After attending worship service on Sunday morning, we went out to eat with Pastor Roger’s family and several other church members at K & W. Then we came back to the church to plan our week’s work. Vandy and Elizabeth joined us Sunday night and Isaac and Doug came on Monday night .

Sunday night the Momeyer Walking Team went out for a walk.

Monday Pastor Paul led our morning devotion after breakfast and then the work began. Another team had built shelves for the library and they needed to be sanded and painted. Lynn, Elizabeth, Iva, Amy, Vandy and Toni worked on this project all day and nearly finished it.

Ike, Isaac and Doug installed a chain link fence for the playground.

Billy works on the library shelving and more painting is done on Tuesday.

The guys removed the baptistry. They do their baptising in the lake so it is being donated to another church. What a job that was getting it outside.

The church has been having Summer Movie Nights this week. Monday night we watched Pollyanna and Tuesday night we watched The Bishop’s Wife.

Team Bluefield

2011-06-26T14:22:00.001-04:00

Our mission team left Saturday morning headed to Bluefield, VA to spent a week serving the Lord. We started out with 10 members but will be adding more later in the week. Team members are Amy, Pastor Paul, Lynn, Eddie, Ike, Toni, Billy, Ann, Jeffrey and Iva.

We made a stop in Pilot Mountain to pick up some fencing which we will be installing for a playground. Our good friends Brian and Sharon graciously prepared at hotdog lunch for us in their home.

Eddie got a new hairdo while we were there.

This is where we will be spending the week. You can check out their web site.

CrossPoint Fellowship Church

Last night we experienced a different type of worship service called Hype. It is focused on getting the young people out of the clubs and into the church on Saturday night. Crosspoint has their own Worship Dance team and they are really good.

We also got to do some dancing.

More Dental Bus Adventures

2009-09-28T22:02:00.001-04:00

There’s not much going on mission trip wise in our lives right now. We are still working with the Dental Bus. On Saturday, September 19 we took the bus to El Centro Hispano Health Fair in Durham. Mema went with us for her first trip on the bus. This NC State student John (or Juan in Spanish) was an interpreter. I enjoyed talking with him and he tried to teach me a little Spanish. See that line of people all the way across the picture? That was part of the line of people trying to get onto the Dental Bus. It was a wild day. Jolema was in charge of the dental part of the fair. Then on Sept 21 and 22 we took the bus to Shallotte for our first overnighter. Here is Jennifer the dental assistant and Phyllis the receptionist.

We Passed the Test

2009-09-15T19:32:00.001-04:00

Monday Billy and I took the Dental Bus to Fayetteville for the Cumberland Co. Fair. Unfortunately the fair was closed that day so we did not get to eat any fair food. This was our last training before being able to go out solo. Joanne, the bus coordinator, worked with us and she said we passed the test. Now she is going to expect to get a lot of help from us. It really is a great ministry and we meet the most interesting people, some of them being patients. The nicest dentists and assistants volunteer their time. Hygienists working the outdoor chair.

Pulling Teeth

2009-09-04T21:03:00.001-04:00

Thursday morning I was called by the Dental Bus coordinator, Joanne with an emergency situation. The bus was in Grifton for the week and the driver had fallen the night before and had to have 6 staples in his head. She needed someone to relieve him so him and his wife could go home. I agreed to go even though I am not fully trained and would be working on my own. Dr. Kawn from Charlotte was the day dentist. Super nice guy. We had two night dentists and one assistant.

One of the night dentists did not have an assistant so he asked me to help him once. I had to assist with with a tooth extraction. I really didn’t like doing that and hope I don’t have to do it again, but of course I probably will if I am asked.

After this experience I am so thankful that I have always been able to visit my dentist regularly.The group coordinating the patients was from Charlotte. They were a great group of people to work with.

Today (Friday) Billy went with me so he could drive the bus back to Cary.

Medical-Dental Bus

2009-08-22T20:58:00.001-04:00

While Billy was in Colorado he got a letter from NCMB about needing Bus Drivers/Hostesses for the Medical-Dental Bus. I thought that might be a good project for us. We could serve on the bus as often as we felt like we could and not have to go too far away from home. Billy said that if that was what I wanted to do he would try it. Today we went for our first on the job training at Love Memorial Baptist Church in Goldsboro . We have to complete three trainings before we get shirts and a name tag and can take the bus out ourselves. I personally think it may take more than three trainings before I will be comfortable with it. There is a whole lot to learn. The main thing I learned today was how to sterilize the dental tools. We were trained by the nicest couple, Edith and Doug Robbins from Cherry Point. They have been working on the bus since 2001. This is Millie, one of the hygienist, with one of our younger patients sitting very calmly in his father’s lap. We served 35 patients today.

To learn more about the Bus click the link-

Medical Dental Bus

We are back in….

2009-08-03T20:10:00.001-04:00

Sunday Drive

2009-08-02T21:49:00.001-04:00

By Ann

When traveling on a Sunday morning I have always wanted to stop at a random church for their morning worship service. We have tried this before but it never seemed to work out that we would be at the right place at the right time. With the help of the internet and a mapping program this was easily accomplished. I calculated that we would be at Cookeville, TN about 10:30. I chose Popular Grove Baptist Church from about 10 Baptist churches in the area mainly because of its proximity to the interstate. Once we sat down in the sanctuary the Senior pastor came over to greet us. He told us he was raised in Wilson, NC. We enjoyed worshiping with them.After church we started looking for somewhere to have lunch. After much discussion and neither one of us wanting to pick a place we finally decided on The Bean Pot Restaurant and Country Store in Crossville, TN. It reminded us a lot of a Cracker Barrel……except instead of rocking chairs on the front porch they had really old washing machines. Billy let me stop and do a little GoodWill Hunting. I picked up a devotion book for free and a small spice shelf for a dollar. We then made it back to North Carolina. It was a beautiful sight.

We are spending our last night on the road at WallyWorld in Morganton, NC.

A Rainy Day

2009-08-01T22:45:00.001-04:00

Not much to report today. We have been in rain most of the day. We stopped at one thrift shop and I bought three books for a grand total of 45 cents. Here we are crossing the Tennessee River with a view of downtown Memphis. Welcome to rainy Tennessee. World's Tallest Three Crosses of Calvary

This is the world's largest set of three crosses. The tallest cross is 150 feet and they are located right on the interstate for all to see. They are very large, white, and built to withstand 70 mph winds. They are at Bellevue Baptist Church, just east of Memphis, the largest church in the Southeast.(27,000 members) Information obtained from Roadside America.com

This afternoon we took a detour off of I-40 to US 64 to meet Billy’s cousin Don Pierson in Savannah, TN. He is the Director of Prayer for the TN Baptist Convention. He was in Savannah for an On Mission Conference. We spent about an hour talking with him at McDonalds. Then Billy and I had a catfish dinner at The Hut since this is supposed to be the catfish capital of the world.

Tonight we are staying at, where else but Wallyworld, in Murfreesboro, TN.

A Bug Ranch?

2009-07-31T21:53:00.001-04:00

The ride today was pretty boring…. but we did see this Bug Ranch…. a small version of yesterday’s Cadillac Ranch. And it was right next door to the Rattlesnake Ranch. We didn’t get any closer. I wasn’t even tempted by the antiques. We could see the Largest Cross in the Western Hemisphere for miles away…. but Billy did not stop even though the sign said “A spiritual experience you will never forget”. I told you he is ready to get home.

We traveled the 330 miles through Oklahoma and I did not see the first thing interesting enough to take a picture of. The roads were very bumpy too. We made it to Arkansas and have stopped in Clarksville at Wallyworld for the night.

Goodbye Bayfield

2009-07-31T00:02:00.001-04:00

By Billy

Last year when Ann & I were in Twin Bridges, Montana GOD let me know I would be a part of NCBM Work & Witness in 2009. Then later in the year while we were in Baytown, TX and David called me to see if we needed help GOD again spoke and I knew I would be in Colorado. Well it was not long before all the pieces came together and I knew our project in 2009 would be Bayfield, Co. However Satin had his hands all over me and the project. The closer the time got the more mixed up life got. Ann's mom’s condition got worse, my mom’s health got worse, some of our family issues continued to grow along with much more. Then came the big issue - Ann would not be able to go due to her needing to stay home and care for her mother. But I knew that GOD wanted me on the Work & Witness project in Bayfield. So after many messages from GOD and encouragement from Ann I followed through with what GOD had called me to do. What a blessing.

From the morning I left home and headed west GOD has stayed beside me. He has helped me meet many wonderful people who believe all is possible with GOD at your side. For the first time in my life I traveled 36 hours straight to reach Colorado. Then when I arrived in Bayfield I saw what would have turned most people back. Doug and a helper were inside a mud covered future slab area trampling in mud trying to finish the rough in plumbing. Where there was not mud there was standing water. With GOD's help the first team helped make a large mud area turn into concrete in 6 days. I knew then it would be an awesome summer.

As the days and weeks went by GOD provided us the team members we needed when we needed them. Word of this project spread through the community and many surrounding states. We had several people come to look at how much had been done in such a short time and most of it was by VOLUNTEER LABORS FOLLOWING THE CALL OF GOD. In addition to the building being built the groups that came and did backyard bible clubs, Upward basketball and cheerleading, block parties and local outreach by cleaning and repairing homes was just amazing.

The building is not complete, nor do I believe we have sowed all the seed we should have, but I do believe GOD is looking down and saying JOB WELL DONE.

Thanks to a great group of volunteers for following His call. I also want to thank the church family of FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH -BAYFIELD, Co. for inviting us to come here and to serve GOD. I feel I can speak for all and say you have made us feel welcome and blessed.

The rest is by Ann I think Billy is happy to be going home. Everyone in Bayfield seems to be sad that he is leaving. We said goodbye Colorado… and hello New Mexico. Which went from this… to this…. to miles and miles of this. When we finally got to Texas…. we saw miles and miles…. and more miles of this. This was the most interesting thing we’ve seen so far…. Doesn’t Billy look excited to be at the Cadillac Ranch. That group on the right was a youth group from a Baptist Church listening to a sermon.

We are spending the night at Wallyworld in Amarillo, TX

The Last Day

2009-07-29T22:05:00.001-04:00

By Ann I got up this morning at 5:00 to go back to the airport. I really was blessed and was able to get on the first flight out at 8:15. Billy picked me up at Durango at 9:30. I sure was happy not to have to spend the whole day at the Denver airport. On the way back to Bayfield we spotted these alpacas. I went for a walk and when I was coming back up the church drive I spotted this doe. She was really close to me and just standing there staring. She did not run away even when I got a little closer to take her picture. Billy worked on his last job before we leave tomorrow.This afternoon we went for a ride…. to visit a church at Vallecito Lake. On the way back I had to stop to take a picture of Billy’s Home Service initials at this ball field. OK it really stands for Bayfield High School.Vacation Bible School this week. Boomerang Express

We will be packing up in the morning and starting our journey home.

Not the Way I Wanted This Day to End

2009-07-29T02:20:00.001-04:00

By Ann

My flight from Atlanta to Denver landed 45 minutes late due to storms so that means I missed my flight to Durango. I have been rescheduled for 3:15 pm Wednesday. That was not what I wanted to hear. They gave me a room at the Doubletree and a meal voucher. I plan to go back to the airport early in the morning hoping to get on standby for an earlier flight.

Oh yeah, when I went out to get on the shuttle bus it was hailing really hard.

New Chairs

2009-07-29T02:10:00.001-04:00

Today (Tuesday) started slow but then it changed. The truck showed up with the new chairs so we got together and went to the storage building to unload them. Glenn, Ronnie, Joel, Doug, Pastor Randy & I unloaded the chairs and then stacked them in the storage building.

When we were almost through with the chairs the gas company called and Doug & I had to go back to the church to clean out the ditch and help put the line in. Then they wanted it covered up before they left so we spent the afternoon filling in the ditch.

The Day We’ve Been Waiting For

2009-07-28T08:13:00.001-04:00

By Ann

Today is the day I fly back to Baytown, CO. so I can drive back home with Billy. I think he is ready to see me and I know I am ready to see him and bring him home.

I will be flying out of RDU at 3:30 this afternoon and arriving in Durango at 10:57. Please pray for safe travel and that afternoon thunderstorms will not cause delays.

Final Sunday and Monday

2009-07-28T07:56:00.001-04:00

Clyde & Carolyn volunteered to come back and haul Momeyer’s tool trailer back to NC for me. Here they are all hooked up and ready to pull out after church. However, after being invited out to eat they chose to hang around a little longer.

Here are a few views of the inside of the sanctuary.

A view of the pulpit from the kitchen window. A view of the pulpit from the balcony. The seating area and sound booth in the balcony. Joel & Ronnie's son is ready for VBS to start. I understand he got up early this morning (5:30) so he wouldn't be late tonight.

Monday

Today started slow with nobody but Doug & I. Then Gunether & Glen came by along with John.

Most of us worked inside with more wood blocking and additional gas piping.

John brought his backhoe and dug the gas line trench. Next he was to locate the sewer line and dig it also, but this was not the way we wanted him to find it. Not what we needed with VBS starting in 2 hours so Doug & I had to get busy and make repairs. While doing this we started the line to run to the new building. Gunether carrier me out to eat in Durango tonight. We went to the Red Snapper. On the way back to the car I noticed this setting. At the base of a large oak is green moss for the lawn, patio furniture and a plank for a door into the tree.

Preparing to Leave Bayfield

2009-07-25T16:52:00.001-04:00

Since the Sandy Ridge team finished the roof and most of the odd and end stuff on Thursday they packed up early on Friday morning and left to sightsee an then went on to Albuquerque.

Some of the church members came to work Friday so we removed the beds from the kitchen and stored them. Then we sorted out my tools that were all over the new building. At the same time we loaded Momeyer's tool trailer and tied down the ladders so it can travel home with Clyde and Carolyn.

Today (Saturday) started early again. Rex & Lois wanted to leave by 6 or 6:30 so I got up to help Rex and say good bye. Well Satin had to stick his 2 cents in also and wouldn't let their camper's slide out come in. But as usual GOD stepped in and Rex tinkered with it until he was able to jump wire it to work. They did leave around 6:40. After that we had some breakfast and then some quite time which I know I am behind on.

Later in the morning Carolyn went to the laundromat and Clyde & I moved my camper. Where it was set it had a lot to take down and clean up. Now come Thursday morning we should be on the road early. Ann is flying in on Tuesday night to drive back home with me.We were also requested to help a lady unload some VBS stuff. When we walked around the corner what we saw was a big train which we put inside of the church. GOD has been speaking here this summer. We know 10 children have asked GOD into their hearts and a lot of adults are now asking questions and have been watching us as we work. Please remember First Baptist, Bayfield in your prayers next week during VBS.

Metal Roof Finished

2009-07-23T21:39:00.001-04:00

I thought they went up on the roof to install metal not to take a break. But we on the ground don't have much room to talk. Roofing is a hurry up and wait job for sure. Texas needed their shower unit back yesterday so Chap & Bessie let us use their RV for showers. So in return we washed their unit. Roofing must be very tiring . Of course they were up there all day Wednesday and most of today. Last piece of metal roof going down. As the sprinkler crew finished a room we have been boxing in the duct work & sprinklers.

Installing Metal Roof

2009-07-22T23:15:00.001-04:00

This morning the rain was gone so we started on the east side installing the metal roof. Bryan rigged up a guide to sit on my ladder so we could slide the metal up safely By mid afternoon we had the east side sheeted and trimmed.

On the inside the electrical, sprinkler and HVC guys continued.

The ladies have not only been busy cooking but also cleaning out closets and helping get ready for VBS next week.

Fresh Water and Who Is Tim?

2009-07-22T22:52:00.001-04:00

by Ann If you recall the post Our Christmas Gift last year Billy and I choose to purchase a well to be dug in Bihar, India in place of buying Christmas presents for each other and our family.

This week we received a letter from Biju Thomas and pictures of “our” well. His letter explains it much better than I can.

REPORT OF THE BORRE WELL AT MUSLIM TOLA NAHAR VILLAGE SPONSORED BY BILLY & ANN LAYTON

This is a village where there are over 250 people living and they were facing severe problem of clean drinking water. The villagers are poor Muslims who are laborers. They were longing for a bore well for many years. But the local government officials did not give attention to them although they requested for help. They used to go to the nearby personal bore wells and get water. Sometimes the gates were locked and they could not get water.

We received an application from a Pastor who works in this area, requesting us to help the villagers with clean drinking water. Based on the application, we surveyed the village and found that the villagers were really in need of clean drinking water and we helped them. The villagers were very happy that the Christians have come forward to help them.

The well is 180 feet down. At the time of the inauguration, we shared briefly about the living water Jesus offers. As you can see in the Marble Slab, we have inscribed in Hindi, Jesus said, “I am the living water”. I believe this Bible verse will continue to speak to the people as they use water from the bore well. We told them that this is a gift from the Christians.

Thanks a lot to Billy and Ann for helping the villagers with clean drinking water. You have truly helped the villagers with one of their most important and at the same time very basic need-clean water. The villagers were thanking God and the sponsors for helping them with a bore well. Please pray that this village may turn to Jesus. I am deeply grateful to NC Baptist Men for building the bridge and bringing life and hope to the people of Bihar.

With warm regards, In His service for the unreached,

Biju Thomas

Those little guys are loving it. Lined up for the water. Can you imagine waiting in line for this small amount of water? We are so blessed. Look at those precious faces. I was wondering who this TIM guy was whose name was on “our” well. I found out that it stands for Transform India Movement, which you can find out more about at the Baptist Men’s web site.

Thank you God for giving us the opportunity and the resources to help these people with something that we take for granted.

Many Tasks Tuesday

2009-07-21T22:39:00.001-04:00

Today was a day of many tasks. We installed HVC vents and ducting…. ran conduit and wiring in attic…. and cleaned up. The metal for the roof arrived during lunch so afterwards we got everything ready and started. However GOD must not wanted us up on the roof today cause he quickly sent a much needed rain storm with lots of lighting so we moved inside for the rest of the day. After supper two large bucks came by for a visit.

Monday

2009-07-21T07:44:00.001-04:00

The fire sprinkler crew showed up with supplies this morning and then returned after lunch to start installation. Wiley came and worked on trimming out the 1/4 round windows above the entrance way.

Sunday Blessings

2009-07-20T08:13:00.001-04:00

The Sandy Ridge team arrived Saturday evening. Most of the team gathered Sunday morning for breakfast. As the day started to come to an end I went up to take this picture of the cross that GOD put on the building. After a stop in dining area to visit with team this evening I went toward the camper and could not help but to take a picture of the sky so I could share with you some of GOD's beauty he provides for us.

Please remember us this week in your prayers. We will be putting on the metal roof and working in the rafters putting in conduit and wiring.

Call it a Week

2009-07-18T08:34:00.001-04:00

Today we touched up paint on the building and hung the rest of the exterior doors.

We also put up a beam down the center of the ceiling to hang some of the lighting on. Al is always looking up and always has a positive attitude praising GOD. I think this time he is trying to figure out what we are doing.

Beam is up, bracing in place, time to pack up the lift for return and call it a week. Lots of painting both low and high along with lots of ceiling work this week. I set a goal for this week and again the mission team went over and beyond.

Also the youth and a couple of adults went to Debbie's to paint porch pickets. Several of the ladies cleaned another members home.

THANK YOU LORD FOR ALL THE GREAT VOLUNTEERS YOU HAVE SENT AND KEPT SAFE.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-16T21:48:00.001-04:00

The area had gotten pretty messy so three of the guys spent most of the day cleaning and straighting up. Rex & his group are still busy reworking the exterior steps.We are thankful that the outside painting is complete.

Serving God on Tuesday

2009-07-15T07:54:00.001-04:00

Today several team members painted the east wall. Dennis brought his welding equipment over so Rex and a couple of guys started reworking the outside steps donated by New Hope of South Fork.

To help with the sound quality acoustic beams are being built along the walls. The team also started painting the upper part and washing the lower portion of the front of the church.Some of the other team members are casing out the doors and windows. This evening the youth and ladies had another block party this time in Mesa Park.

Block Party Today

2009-07-13T23:06:00.001-04:00

The west wall of siding was completed today. We started hanging the doors so they could be painted. The front wall siding was also completed. Which means the siding is all hung. It has also been washed so tomorrow a little touch up caulking & painting begins. BLOCK PARTY TIME

Several of the ladies and the youth helped Joel with the block party serving hot dogs….supervising the bounce balloon….serving snow cones & cotton candy…. making salvation bracelets….face painting…. and more face painting. I was only there for a short time but I must say the adults - oops children were having fun.

The Weekend and a New Team

2009-07-13T07:59:00.001-04:00

The volunteer team from Antioch Baptist arrived late Friday night. After a nights rest and a hearty breakfast we had a short meeting and then walled through the building to discuss work to be done during the week. Afterwards the team went site seeing and fishing. I stayed around and did a few odd and ends to the building. When I decided to quit about mid afternoon I went to the front door to look out and view the wonderful sites GOD blesses us with. Low and behold He sent one of the local bucks up the church drive as he grazed. GOD knew one of the things I had been missing lately and sent him for my viewing. Sunday brought another reminder why First Baptist needs a new sanctuary. In SS we had about 40 people and the for preaching most every pew was full. What a blessed problem. Then afterwards some of the members fed us another delicious meal with great deserts. The time away from home and family is starting to catch up with me and I will be glad to not only talk to them but also see and hug them. Most of all I know my belly needs to go home where my wife feeds me as I should be instead of a great feast three times a day. Thanks to all the great cooks who have prepared us meals this summer.

T.G.I.F.

2009-07-10T23:10:00.001-04:00

Today Pastor Randy joined us as a cut man. He helped cut siding, eave boards & blocking timber inside. We worked on siding, eave trim and some blocking inside while 2 men from Valley Sheet Metal worked on the HVC.

New team of volunteers coming in tonight.

Thankful Thursday

2009-07-09T22:18:00.001-04:00

Today we started back on the west wall siding. For lunch the ladies fixed ham, potato salad, baked beans and lemon pies. Sure makes it hard to go back to work. Jerry & Gunether continued caulking. The south end and east wall are complete and ready to paint.

The LORD has began to answer our prayers for more groups to respond in Aug. & Sept. Please join us in prayer and if GOD speaks to you or your group please respond.

Wednesday-East Side Finished

2009-07-09T07:19:00.001-04:00

With only local volunteers work is moving at a slower pace this week. However today we finished the east side and got with-in 10 feet of the north ( front) before we ran out of scaffold reach area. We have set up on the west wall already and will start back there in the morning.

It still amazes me at how many faithful members show up day after day to work on the building or bring us food. I know I am well pleased at First Baptist’s response and I am sure GOD has written in His book JOB WELL DONE.

Almost to the Top

2009-07-07T23:56:00.001-04:00

It was kind of quite here today. Just a few volunteers and a couple electricians. The electric is now roughed in. The rest of us worked on the siding on the front of the church. It is high and awkward due to front entrance roof so the siding goes slow. The crew will be small again tomorrow but we hope to finish the front. But the main thing we know is we are here for GOD's work and as long as we work at his pace all will be well.

It’s Monday Again

2009-07-06T20:52:00.001-04:00

There are no NC volunteers here this week but the church members have again turned out in force so we started back on the siding across the front. Then came the rain and a lot of it for an hour or so. We moved inside and started boxing around the duct work. When the rain quit we left Rex to continue on boxing…..and we moved back outside on siding.

The 4th of July Weekend

2009-07-05T16:35:00.001-04:00

by Billy Saturday brought a big change. The Carpenter's Hand's group left and no group has signed up to be here next week. So this leaves Rex, Lois & Me here alone for the week-end. However it's the 4th and many came to park at the church while they went to view the parade. Then it was a lazy afternoon (nap time). As dusk grew near several people again came to park and sit in the parking lot to view the fireworks. As I watched the fireworks I thought of my family back home who were also watching fireworks from our lake house @ Lake Gaston.

Sunday seams to be starting slow with only 3 of us around. However I know that GOD had a reason for the quite time and I look forward to figuring it out. I also know GOD will send the local members out in force this week to accomplish what he has planned. As we all go through life we get in a hurry and want thinks to get done in a hurry. However we must remember GOD had all our lives laid out in His time before we were born. What we need to do is listen to His word and calling and respond as He directs us to in His time.

Please continue to pray for GOD's work in Bayfield, CO. The children are listening, the adults in the community are watching and asking why we are here. What we all need to do as followers of Christ is to make sure not only in Bayfield but through out the world that we share GOD's love to all people. The best way I know to do this is " when GOD calls you to do whatever, respond then”. Don't put it off until you have time cause it would not be good to get to heaven and when GOD look's in the book of servants you hear the response " I meant to write your name down but I didn't have time.”

Friday

2009-07-05T15:55:00.001-04:00

by Billy Pastor Randy showed Mike an entrance roof he would like on the front of the new building. you know Mike that's all it took. Carolyn likes to work in high places especially for GOD"s calling. She is painting the bolt heads. After lunch, instead of a much wanted nap for all, a group picture was taken and then back to loading and siding as the Carpenter’s Hands group was preparing to depart. The pulpit area floor is now framed and sheeted waiting on Pastor Randy to deliver a message. It's Friday afternoon again and tomorrow is the 4th so we have cleaned up.

The more time I spend here in Bayfield the more GOD shows me. We have been here serving for 6 weeks now and other than the fire sprinkler system being installed the building is basically ready for a rough in inspection. For the one's who don't know what that means it is the next thing to do before insulating and then hanging sheet rock.

I know I am, and I believe everybody else is amazed at the amount of progress that has been made already. One thing I do know is the church members are very thankful for each and every person who has listened to GOD's calling and responded to HIS request to help with the building project of a new sanctuary, worked at the Upward Camp and taught at the Backyard Bible Club.

Ann’s Last Day

2009-07-03T12:14:00.001-04:00

by Ann My final day in Bayfield was very busy. It started off with Backyard Bible Club featuring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and of course the Angel of God. We did sidewalk chalk painting…. and played 4-square. Pastor Joel always makes sure we have fun during music. He presented the plan of salvation in a very interesting way.This sweet child accepted the invitation. It made the whole week worthwhile. After lunch Peggy, a church member, took Syble, Sake and I for a mini tour and some shopping in Durango. She rode us past Vallecito Lake. This wood carving was at the entrance to the Lake. It is one of many that were carved from burned trees after the fire of 1990.The entranceway at the church is coming along good. For dinner all of the volunteers were hosted by church members and taken to the Bar D Ranch. It is a chuck wagon type show. Dave and Linda were our hosts. The Bar D Chapel A wagon of beautiful flowers. Peggy is always having fun. Me and BillyRex and Lois our Texas friends and honorary NC Baptist Men. Lois has been doing Shower and Laundry duty since May 24 and Rex is a great fixit man.Marianne, Jan & Melinda Gore with MikeYouth Pastor Joel and RoniThe Willinham (sp?) family The Bar D Ranch Wranglers. They were great entertainment. It was a fun evening.

Today (Friday) I am on my way home. Please be in prayer for safe travel. I will not see Billy again until July 28.

Wednesday

2009-07-01T22:10:00.001-04:00

by Ann Today our Bible Hero was Noah. Since God sent the animals two by two we played games that involved pairs. In this game the blindfolded kids had to find their animal partner by the animal sounds. We paired up for three legged races. Some of the little ones had a hard time. Janice and I did pretty good. We paired up for wheelbarrow races. We ended up by playing dodge ball. I know, this one did not have pairs but the kids enjoyed it. Music was fun today. After lunch I served God with a caulking gun. I tried to stay in the shade as it was pretty hot today. Carolyn got brave and climbed up on the scaffolding. Janice was busy staining boards. Work is continuing on the siding. Billy and Al supervise from below. We’ve made lots of new friends this week. This is Larry and Janice. Janice has been my one of my Backyard Bible Club buddies. Wednesday night’s service started out with singing led by Pastor Randy, a lesson in Galatians, and then small group prayer.

It’s really been a great week and it’s ending much too soon.

Silverton Train Ride

2009-06-30T23:32:00.001-04:00

by Ann Today Billy… and Ann went for a ride on the Silverton Train. The train took us from Durango…. along the beautiful and clear… roaring Animas River… over bridges…

past waterfalls … and old silver mines… to the town of Silverton. We traveled 50 miles in 3 1/2 hours. Our first stop was the Shady Lady Saloon a former brothel…. to have lunch. We then took a stroll around town… to shop and find some ice cream.We then boarded the train for our 3 1/2 hour journey back…

past waterfalls.. beautiful mountain scenery… and glorious river views.

It was truly a day of marveling at the beauty of God’s creation.

Backyard Bible Club

2009-06-30T00:00:00.001-04:00

by Ann Today I served God by helping with a Backyard Bible Club. Our bible story was David and Goliath. We had 20 kids. Here they are lining up for snacks. We played some games. Pastor Joel led the music.Here I am with my new friend Emma. She, her three brothers, one sister and her parents are serving here with Carpenter’s Hands from Henderson, NC.Billy worked on the siding of the sanctuary. Clyde helped.

Tonight Guenther took Billy and I out to eat at the Palace in Durango.

Sunday to South Fork

2009-06-29T00:12:00.001-04:00

by Ann What a wonderful day the Lord has made. We started out with Sunday School. After morning worship we were served a wonderful lunch of salad and lasagna by the church.This will be the third work week for Carpenter’s Hands. This is Mike and Beth, their fearless leaders. Syble and Don Roy and Juanita Carolyn and Clyde After lunch we traveled over the mountain to South Fork to visit our friends David and Sharon White. David is the coordinator for the Colorado projects. They are building an addition onto a church there. On the way we went past Chimney Rock… and through Wolf Creek Pass. This is the view going up the mountain and looking back where we came from.We saw this water fall coming out of the rocks right next to the road. We were invited to join David, Sharon and the volunteer team for dinner up this mountain in Willow Park subdivision…. at Ron and Rebecca’s beautiful home. They had a table in their kitchen that sat 16. Wow! I loved it. We had a great meal and good fellowship with the team from David and Sharon’s home church in Lexington.

San Juan Skyway

2009-06-28T00:08:00.001-04:00

by Ann Since Billy arrived in Bayfield on May 23 he has worked six days a week. Whenever someone was going sightseeing and they invited him to go along he would say “I’ll wait until Ann gets here.” So today we went on the San Juan Skyway Loop and the Million Dollar Highway. The views were beautiful. I’m always on the lookout for waterfalls. Our second stop was at Molas Pass with an elevation of 10,899 feet. When we drove up we saw some of the Carpenter’s Hands group. Here is Clyde and Jimmy. Our next stop was Box Canon Park where the water flows down through a narrow canyon. You can walk into it and it’s like being in a cavern.

The water is really rushing through and it is very misty.

When we hiked up the High Bridge Trail.

The view from the top. Me on the bridge. We went into town of Ouray for lunch. We decided to stop at a outdoor taco stand. Guess who was there? Carpenter’s Hands. We had been told you could get a free gondola ride in Telluride so we did that. The gondola was the public transportation from the town of Telluride over to the large ski resort, Mountain Village.

The remainder of the loop was uneventful and really sort of boring. We stopped for dinner back in Durango at Serious Texas Barbecue.

Friday Rainbow Morning

2009-06-27T09:27:00.001-04:00

by AnnFriday morning before we got up we heard some comotion going on outside. When I looked out the window we saw a herd of sheep going by. Someone estimated that there was about 1000 of them. Here’s one of their shepherds. “A few minutes late we heard “Look at the rainbow”. If you look closely, you can see that it was a double. Then for the rest of the morning we got lots of rain. These ladies in the kitchen… let me help just a little bit.

Billy spend most of the morning in high places putting in blocker boards. Then he took me to a couple of thrift stores. I found three sandwich glass sherbet dishes. Some of the girls made these cupcakes yesterday. I thought they were so cute. They have a mini vanilla wafer face, a marshmallow pillow and body & jellybean feet. Their blankets are made with a Starburst which was softened in the microwave and rolled out flat. All hair and facial features are decorator icing.

Ann Arrives in Bayfield

2009-06-26T11:13:00.001-04:00

The siding group has finished the rear of the building so the painters have moved in. They didn't get far due to rain this afternoon. The siding crew has moved to the east wall and are making good progress. Mike & Doug went to an old wood planning mill and picked up some material to make supports for a canopy being added at the front door. The gas piping rough in is completed.

Ann was suppose to arrive at Durango at 9:04 pm Thursday but her last flight was delayed. The plane finally touched down at 12:01 am Friday. GOD has again allowed to me to see and hold the human love of my life. In case you don't know, I am VERY thankful to GOD for placing Ann in my life.

I’m so proud of Billy for remembering to bring the camera to the airport. While I was waiting at the Denver airport I met a very nice Christian couple that attend a Baptist church in Bloomfield, NM. They are also trained Baptist Men’s Disaster Relief members. I enjoyed talking to them and it sure helped the time to pass by more quickly.

Wonderful Wednesday

2009-06-25T00:11:00.001-04:00

The electrical wiring is continuing…….. along with supervision. Actually she also pulls wire & is taking a break. The shed the 1st group built is now painted. Looks good too. Heating and air condition duct work is also continuing. Lots of hornets around here and some have already started making the new sanctuary their home. But hey the bible says to witness to all.

Two prayer requests: On Thursday morning a group from my home church, Momeyer Baptist, will be going to Henderson, NC for a three day mission trip to work on homes as needed.

Also Ann will be traveling to Bayfield to spend a week with me and meet some great people. So Thursday's posting may be late but it will be done.

I will be flying out of RDU at 2:17 on United. Please pray for traveling mercies and that things will go smooth at home while I am away. I can’t wait to get there! Ann

Terrific Tuesday

2009-06-23T22:18:00.001-04:00

Work on the building is continuing at a steady pace. As for the UPWARD basketball & cheerleading camp nobody but GOD had any idea how great of a turn out there would be. They had 80 at camp today and have shared some touching stories including a young boy who thought camp was dumb but was happy to find a person to talk to. The paint crew is now working on the shed that was rebuilt by the 1st week group. The siding on the rear of the church is getting close to being completely hung.Sure is going to be some tall ceiling . Mike says he can cook as well as build. We'll see . Georgia stops by with fresh flowers to brighten up the eating area.

Sunday School & Monday Work

2009-06-22T23:12:00.001-04:00

On Sunday we had around 50 people in the class. I am glad Dave is flexible. This class & church is very prayer motivated and care about the needs of people. I miss Momeyer Baptist and look forward to returning home in August but it will be hard to say goodbye to First Baptist of Bayfield. I pray GOD will help me be a better person when I go home. A group has started the siding on the rear of the church.

The balcony beam has arrived and it is big and heavy (3,400 lbs). All we need is an inch of clearance to get the lift inside. Ever since I met Don I have heard he enjoys equipment and is good at it so guess who gets to drive the lift. The massive beam is in place with any problems. Lots of young guys and girls this week. They are eager to learn and more than willing to help. Thank you GOD for young blooded CHRISTIANS. The girls are done with UPWARD's for today so they have gone up into the rafters to paint sealant on the ductwork. I’m glad that’s not my job. Don thinks this duct fixture might fall so he's going to hold it. Lots of wire was pulled and fixtures hung today . The work day is over and our youth are joining the First Baptist youth for a night of putt-putt. Each night we have devotion and sharing time. A report was given on the Upward basketball/cheerleading camp. Joel the youth/children minister thought maybe 20 to 30 children would show up. They had 70 on the first day. How great is GOD’s power. It is obvious that lots of these children do not know GOD and they are eager to listen and learn. It was also noted that many of the parents had stayed around to see what was happening which gives us another witnessing opportunity.

Please pray that the leaders can continue to plants seeds in Bayfield as Upward and backyard bible studies continue. Also please pray for GOD to keep his hands of safety around the construction workers. Most of all we pray that we are following GOD's guidance here and that everything we do and the way we act is to His glory.

Happy Father’s Day

2009-06-21T08:46:00.001-04:00

To my husband Billy,

You are truly a great father, husband and servant of God. I love you.

Ann

Tyvek Time

2009-06-19T23:41:00.001-04:00

Looks like Don & Roy may be have a little difficulty with keeping the Tyvek straight. Kelsey & the girls finished staining the current sanctuary so now they have started paining the trim boards for the new building. Hey, I think that’s my job! Gunther is still cutting God's trees into short pieces for fire stops. Alex is still working on the duct work. He reminds me of an old friend & employee - he doesn't seam to get in a hurry but it amazes me how much work he gets done. Finally, they have figured out how to install the Tyvek on the building. Looking good guys.

As another week draws to an end I am still amazed as to how GOD has led his children to get so much work done. I want to say THANKS to all who have come to work and the ones who wanted to but couldn't, so instead they prayed for us. Please continue to pray that a team will listen to GOD's call and come to Bayfield the week of July 5th to help out.

It’s Thursday and Everybody’s Working

2009-06-19T08:02:00.001-04:00

The ladies finished the restaining of the sanctuary today. Lois has been busy this week doing laundry. Not only do the men have fun working, so do the women in the kitchen. Don & Jerry are finishing up the ice & water shield on the roof. We are now ready to work 6 days a week, rain or shine. Glen cut the window weather flashing while Billy & Gunter put it up.Mike started hanging windows. All of the 1st floor windows are now hung. For entertainment tonight we had picking & grinning to gospel by Glen, Randy & Scott.

A View From the Top

2009-06-18T08:53:00.001-04:00

Several of the volunteers went site seeing today but the rest continued to work. The ladies & youth continued with the back yard bible study. They report the children are so eager to hear the word and for some it is the first time hearing GOD's word. Please pray for the children and the teachers.I went up top for a little while to help with ice & water shield. What a change in the view from the top of the new building. From the far left is my camper, then Rex & Lois’s, then the Texas shower/laundry unit. Starting back on the left is the building First Baptist is replacing, then the tent for men to sleep, then Carpenter's Hands new cook tent and on the right is the current sanctuary which has a basement with kitchen and ladies sleep area. Pastor Randy came by to help some today. His is helping to set up the scaffolding. Jerry, Don & Roy cut out plates to mount the exterior lights and receptacles. The heat duct has begun to arrive and assembly has started. Looks like the design and color committee has cornered the pastor and he is trying to get his two cents in. These ladies are doing a great job and they do ask for a lot of support and input.

Lots of Work Going On Tuesday

2009-06-17T08:46:00.001-04:00

The current sanctuary has been cleaned and some of the ladies have began the staining process. Some of the guys are starting the installation of ice & water shield on the roof. This will dry the roof in so we can work even on rainy days. Them plumbers keep on drilling holes. GOD has been so good on this project. He knew we needed a good plumber so he sent us a Colorado licensed plumber so all we have to do is supply him with parts and food.Wives not only support their husbands but also make good plumbers. The ladies of 1st Baptist / Bayfield decided on the front door design so we were able to finish the framing around the front entrance today. Who says staining isn't fun? But then anything you do in GOD's name can be fun. Reminds me of a state work site - 1 person working and 2 supervisors.

A New Week Begins

2009-06-15T23:10:00.001-04:00

Rex installing bridge blocks in the balcony. Max & Jeremy finishing the last of the overhang framing. The sidewall sheeting is now complete. The roof is completely sheeted.

Now that we have finished the framing inside the HVC & plumbers come and start to cut & drill holes everywhere. Today another ring formed around the sun. Must be a plumbers convention. With all the sheeting done it time to remove all the braces and pull lots of nails. Then comes clean up time. Amazing how much larger the building looks with the braces gone.

Carpenter’s Hands Arrive

2009-06-12T22:53:00.001-04:00

If you look back on the blog two weeks ago today they were pouring the concrete slab. What a difference. Today the last rafter caps were hoisted up. The sheeting of the roof is almost complete. Rex, Gunter & I continued to work on the balcony area. Amy and Al worked on removing braces and pulling the nails out of the boards so they could be reused. Carpenter's hands group has started to arrive and are putting up tents for sleeping and cooking. Sibble, Beth & Cheryl doing the wife thing - supervising and telling the men what to do.

Thankful Thursday

2009-06-11T22:22:00.001-04:00

Today we were blessed with only seven workers, however the roof is getting closer to being sheeted. As Jeremy and Max continued on the roof and overhang work I took the others and started on the balcony. We won't be able to finish it for a few more days due to this is a last minute change and we are waiting on a special order beam. It weighs 3400 lbs so I know the day it arrives and is installed will be fun.

A Rainy Day

2009-06-10T23:07:00.001-04:00

It started raining around midnight and lasted until about 1:30 today. But as the rain started clearing the deer came out - two big bucks and young bucks also. Jerry came by after the rain left and with Donna's help we swept the water off the floors so it would be dry and we could go back to work in the morning.

The Work Goes On

2009-06-09T22:19:00.001-04:00

Today was another catch up and finish loose ends day. The guys evened up the side rafters and extended the front overhang. Jeremy & Max sheeted about 1/4 of the roof.

A Long Day With the Crane

2009-06-09T00:00:00.001-04:00

Monday started @ 7:30 getting tools out and getting everything ready for the crane. After the crane arrived and got set Dan & Wiley began sending up decking to be staged on 2nd floor. During the 1st part of the day I nailed rafter brackets and Guenther handed supplies to Max who worked the east wall. That’s Billy in the green hard hat. Isaac & Mark worked the center while Jeremy worked the west wall. About mid morning a ring like a rainbow formed around the sun. They told me it meant a lot of moisture was present. All I know is it was beautiful. So Billy where is the picture? Rex nailed the rafter brackets on the west wall . After lunch a director was needed inside the church building for the crane operator to see so I choose to direct and Doug began to nail rafter brackets on east wall. 5:00 has passed but finally the last base rafter is in place . Isaac continued to install rat bracing . The last section was the front end wall and was tight, but hey that's the way Max and Eddie built it. If you notice, Max is working hard to make it go and it did. Tighter than a glove. It's 7:30 p.m. base rafters set and secured. Crane packed up. QUITING time finally - 12 hour day and we are all tired and hungry. I am sure most everybody will hit the bed early tonight.

End of the the Week

2009-06-06T20:42:00.001-04:00

Today we are trying to clean up some, and remove some temporary bracing and work on end walls. One more section to go and rear wall will be up. Get ready. Chris laid out the stairs this afternoon and Steve, Ronnie & I cut them out. I think Ronnie was getting tired. He has been lifting walls, removing braces and cleaning up all day. Thursday quitting time. What a big difference - last week we removed mud, filled in and then on Fri. concrete was poured. Six days later most of the walls are up. How great it is to see what GOD can do with a few. Have you ever wondered how great this world would be if we all worked this hard to promote His word everyday. During work Thursday Chris asked us to come visit him & his family that night. They have a very nice home out in the country near the airport. The view is worth a million bucks. And the sunset is “awesome” as Chris would say. I know you will see and read this Chris "THANKS". Just before lunch on Friday the roof rafters arrived. This is a full load of rafters delivered right on time. However when unloading they got way too close to the building. The brakes on the trailer malfunctioned and when the rafters hit the ground they slid into the building. Max & I worked on the removal and repairs for about an hour. I guess it was GOD's way of saying I am in charge here and if I wanted to the load would have hit a little higher up or a little further east and the structure would have been seriously damaged. But no, he allowed the damage that happened and kept us safe while sending a message. It's Friday afternoon and time to call it quits. Everybody gathered to say good bye. I sit here tonight writing and wonder who meant the most to who this week. The Cool Spring & Momeyer volunteers, the framing crew, the FBC - Bayfield volunteers, church members or Rex & Lois. All I know is everybody left safe & happy under GOD's guidance. What a difference a week can make when we allow GOD to use us. Walls framed and sheeted.

Thank you GOD for bringing this group together for the week of May 29 through June 5 to serve you and work on your house and kingdom.

Wednesday

2009-06-03T21:46:00.001-04:00

Walls continue to rise on the 2nd floor. At the end of the 3rd day (Wed) it is obvious that GOD is blessing this project. All of us here had no idea we would have made this much progress in just 3 days. I myself thought we would have done good to get this far by Friday, but there again I forgot to figure in that we have an ALL MIGHTY GOD as our leader and protector. As a plus we have all of Chris's crew talking about GOD with us and I can see GOD working in their lives. Please continue to pray for the ones of us here in Bayfield and the ones coming over the next several weeks.

The Beginning of the Second Floor

2009-06-02T23:37:00.001-04:00

Chris has asked for a meeting before we start so he can discuss what will be going on during the day. I have closed each meeting with prayer and his crew has joined in. We can feel GOD working through us to touch each man. Today we started by putting the 2 side walls in the sanctuary together. and putting in 2nd floor floor joist.

The walls in the sanctuary are tall and take several men and one GOD to stand them. After lunch some of the guys started decking the 2nd floor. Take a look at that sky. We thought our afternoon break was arriving. But as usual we guessed about what GOD was up to and he showed us it was not time to quit yet. It amazes me that until we arrived 1 and 1/2 weeks ago this was a muddy place. Since then GOD has send most of the rain around us and allowed us to work just as we have prayed for. Several of the guys have moved the stud beams to the rear so we can put the back wall together tomorrow. Looks like Ronnie and Eddie to me. Tools do break down and as usual it takes two men to repair it - 1 to hold and 1 to operate on the tool.

I know GOD is on this site. He has made awesome progress. At the end of today He had the 2nd floor decked and ready to start building 2nd floor walls tomorrow. He also has the 2 rear side walls up and secure along with most of the rear wall laid out.

Then without a dought he was beside me this morning. I was using an air gun to install window headers when I allowed gun to bump the edge of the timber and shoot a 2nd time. I felt the nail hit the side of my hand and I laid the gun down and reached to pull the nail out. That is when I knew GOD was with me cause the nail was not there. It did puncture the skin and the area is sore but there was no hospital visit as I was expecting. Continue to pray that GOD will stay around me and all the others and keep us safe.

And yes I will try to be more careful because I believe that was His message to me today.

The Walls Go Up

2009-06-01T23:55:00.001-04:00

It's Monday morning and the team is ready to start. First wall ready to stand - UH OH camera battery dead. Tying walls together. The outside walls of the front lower half are up so sheeting starts. Floor joist for 2nd floor arrive. Interior walls are up and being secured. Sheeting is installed on the lower floor of the front half of building. Chris's crew left at 4 so we called it quits also. What a great day. GOD has kept us safe, helped us learn and made an impression on many a person. It all results from listening to GOD and working in His time.

Tomorrow's plan is to stand back walls and start on 2nd floor. Remember us in your prayers.

Maybe I will work tomorrow instead of taking pictures. After we had quit work and finished eating supper Eddie noticed he had a splinter in his arm. In a matter of moments surgeon Rex assisted by nurse Pace sprung into action and 30 minutes later Eddie was recovering from the removal of a 2 inch splinter and placement of a band aid.

Sunday

2009-06-01T07:55:00.001-04:00

We had a new team to arrive on Friday night. From Cool Springs Baptist in Sanford, NC: Terry Lineberry, Mark Revels, Ann Revels, Duane McCartney, David Ward, Steve Bristow & Bill Nunnery. From Momeyer Baptist in Momeyer (Nashville, NC) : Eddie Finch & Ronnie Pace.

After Sunday school & worship we were fed lunch by the church. Afterwards the team had enjoyed site seeing so much yesterday that they went again today. However by being gone they missed a great singing by Russ Murphy.

The congregation of First Baptist is on fire. GOD is without any doubt at work here. They are so grateful for the volunteers that have been here and look forward to the ones to come to help them fulfill GOD's plan in Bayfield.

Pray for us to have safe working conditions and most of all that we don't forget why we are here - TO SHARE GOD's LOVE AND MINISTER TO HIS CHILDREN . There will be several contract workers on the site this week and I pray they will see GOD through us and receive him as their savior.

Saturday

2009-05-30T20:30:00.001-04:00

The volunteer team went out sightseeing today. First Baptist hired three framers to help us get the walls up and off to a good start so Rex & I stayed back and helped them today. We have the walls laid out, holes drilled, corners built and headers cut. Monday morning we will put walls together and start standing them up.

The guys that have been working on excavation, concrete and framing all seam to be good guys but lack the faith we have in GOD. Pray for us to make an impact on them that will help change their life and beliefs.

Got Concrete!

2009-05-29T22:43:00.001-04:00

Today is starting early. Carey's Taxi service to NC left at 6:15.

Comment from Ann-“They’re looking kind of rough. I think Billy must have worked them too hard.” The concrete crew arrived at 6:00 to double check and set up equipment. Pouring of the floor slab started around 6:20. The last cement was poured at 9:00. The rest of the day will be putting the finish on the floor as it starts drying, along with the new team arrival this evening.

Another Beautiful Day

2009-05-28T22:58:00.001-04:00

The guys put the roof decking on the shed this morning. Progress on foundation looking good. I spoke too soon. The packer is broke down. However a replacement in on order. JD , Rex & Billy put rubber on roof of shed.

Picture of team less Randy, somebody had to cook supper.

Rex, Carey, Billy, Billy, Garlin, JD

Wednesday

2009-05-28T07:56:00.001-04:00

We are located only 4 blocks from downtown and we still get visited by the deer. We spotted them today in the meadow across the street. Billy Roy is cutting rafters for the shed under the supervision of JD & Carey. The compaction fill is 80 % complete and the concrete prep will be done on Thursday. If the Lord is willing concrete trucks arrive Friday morning @ 6 a.m. and timber that afternoon. Therefore we should be able to lay out wall locations on Saturday and start framing Monday morning. Rex, Billy, Carey & Garlin built rafters for the shed and installed them today.

At the church,s Wednesday night service everyone circled around and prayed for us and the construction of the building. I reminded them that GOD is in charge of the building process and we are here to be his hands and share his love. Therefore, when they come by at later dates remember to praise GOD for the building and all he does. I also request they do as I request of each of you - WHEN GOD CALLS RESPOND THEN, don't wait cause all things need to be done in GOD's time not human time.

Pray for the team leaving Friday morning and driving home. Also pray for the team that is flying to Bayfield

Beautiful Lake Vallecito

2009-05-27T12:28:00.001-04:00

Last night we road out to the lake and viewed the snow covered mountains. The excavation crew is working today so we are doing other things. JD pulled the short straw and cut grass. The others worked on rebuilding the shed. After the plumbing passed inspection we helped with backfill. Pray that the rest of the backfill and compaction will be completed tomorrow.