tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28002317075570739022024-03-12T20:14:29.009-05:00The Snow BlowerDon & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.comBlogger141125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-73424373409575458142014-10-03T14:25:00.003-05:002014-10-03T14:25:25.875-05:00Until the Next Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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After 4 weeks of work at Miracle Camp, it all came to an end yesterday, October 2. Some of the items the camp wanted completed were and, others, we had to just leave behind for someone else.<br />
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On the completion side was the paint-ball equipment shed. Soon, it will be filled with the equipment used. It will be a good asset for the staff working with this ministry. Afterwards, some of the men found themselves helping dig a ditch; repair a gas gauge on a pontoon and, even, helped the ladies clean some of the chairs in the chapel. Since the chapel carpet was scheduled for cleaning, we had to cut that short but the results were dramatic with the chairs we did get done.<br />
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As with all our ends of projects, the goodbyes were said never knowing whether we will see one another in this lifetime or not. However, the friendships will last a life time. Since we elected to do only one project for the fall (wanted to celebrate Thanksgiving with family this year), we will be back strong and ready to go come the new year.Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-10620700716667349242014-09-28T15:07:00.003-05:002014-09-28T15:07:36.735-05:00Work Hard, Play Hard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">This has been indeed been a work hard and
play hard week. With week 3 of this RVICS
project we have worked ourselves into a routine. At the end of the week, we are tired but it
is good to stop and do other things for a few days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">As far as the work hard, the men have come a
long way on the shed and it now has walls, is under roof and are in the later
stages of work. Of course, as I have
found over the years, some of the finish work on any project can take as long
as the “big” work. With just 3 ½ days
left, they are hoping to get it totally finished in a short time. The ladies are still cleaning, With 3 buildings totally done from top to
bottom, we are working on the chapel.
There are a few more windows to clean and chairs to “dust”. One of the ladies has been working in the
office doing some filing. Even though
that is taxing physically, the camp is just as pleased to have that done too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">RVICS has built into our schedule times to
stop and interact with one another. With
the weather cooperating, we built a fire, cooked hot dogs and had a carry in
for our evening meal one evening. As a
guest, Dale Boone, camp director, was able to come and gave a good devotional
to end our evening on the topic of Be Still and Know that I Am God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">One of the things we personally like to do,
is take a day on the weekends and see the sights in the area and just
relax. On Friday, the weather was, once
again, perfect and we headed to Lake Michigan for the day. Everywhere we looked was a picture to
remember. Since the trees are getting
some fall color, we enjoyed the drive also.
On Saturday, we headed about 3 hours away to western Michigan to visit
close friends. What a great way to end
the week!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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here is coming to a close. On Thursday,
we will pull out and head for our home.
Along with our trip home, we will take many, many memories with us.</span>Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-32580423353996456072014-09-20T16:05:00.003-05:002014-09-20T16:05:49.252-05:00Mid September-Half Way Done<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Mid September is upon us.
With this time of year, it seems we have one foot in late summer and the
other foot in fall. When we first
arrived at Miracle Camp was definitely summer like but in the matter of a few
hours, it became very evident it was almost fall. This week, fall weather definitely won out
with very cool morning and, occasionally, with frost on the ground. It made for very pleasant working
conditions. Here and there, we are
beginning to, also, see the trees thinking
about changing their leaves.</div>
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Being the middle of the month means we are in a fairly good
routine with our volunteer work. After
two weeks, the shed is taking shape and will soon be of some use to the
camp. The men enjoy building things and
gives them much satisfaction when they seeing it getting closer and closer to
the finish. The ladies did “fall”
cleaning and 2 ½ buildings are much cleaner than before we showed up. Where
does dirt come from? Sometimes items
walk away from kitchens and other places in camps. An inventory was taken of what was in one
kitchen. Surely, there was not much
missing from there! One of the ladies
did some sorting of receipts for filing.
Sometimes work, such as this, is pushed to the back of a desk because of
time restraints. It is good to have
many diverse jobs available for our different abilities and strengths of our
team members.</div>
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Never fear, after work our hours are spent in
socialization. Once again, we had a
game night (Crazy Uno) which is perfect for a group our size and our brains
when we are tired after hard work all day.
We took a tour of a local museum the first of the week. Then, we had the last of the week free. One couple has never visited Michigan before
and set out for a three day trip of exploring.
A couple others of us toured cities a bit closer. We love the structure but the free time is
precious too.</div>
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If the weather forecast can be believed, it looks to be a
picture perfect week for work and play.
After a restful weekend, we will all be ready for devotions on Monday
morning and the beginning of another week.</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-36241481632199757102014-09-13T17:36:00.000-05:002014-09-13T17:36:36.956-05:00We Are Off and Running<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">A “run and slow down” week is the best way to
describe our first days of work at Miracle Camp. There are certain factors that can never be
controlled but it only serves as a reminder that God is in control and not us!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">The “links” of our team “chain” were a little
late in being complete but our last couple arrived on Monday evening. Yeah!!
This team has representatives from Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana and
Colorado! Yes, RVICS members love to
travel! Now, we are complete.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Rain was a major factor in our work. It was very wet for Monday, Wednesday and
Thursday. Plus, the beginning of the
week was extremely warm, humid but the later part found everyone pulling out
their warm clothes. Fall is coming
early. Thankfully, we experienced the
change in weather peacefully and with no storms as had been originally
forecast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">The men have started on a paint ball
equipment storage shed in the middle of the woods and on a slope. Some of the foundation work has been started
but the rains really caused problems in getting much done. As the picture shows above, it all started
with cutting and removing trees! To
supplement their work, they found a little painting and moving chairs etc.
around preparing for different groups.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">The dining room windows needed cleaning in a
big way. They are now clean and it is
a picture perfect view from them now looking over the lake. Also, a couple of days were spent in
pulling weeds and landscaping. It is so
good to see a big difference in our work.
And, there was a big difference in both of the jobs. Also, “fall housecleaning” was done on a
dorm type building. Yes, we have fun
doing all of this.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">There are bonuses to our work. Yes, we work hard but the benefits are
abundant. This past week, we have seen
lots of deer (all ages) and turkeys.
When we were washing windows, beside the lake, we saw pairs of swans and
blue heron fishing—even in the rain.
One day, walking from one location to another I saw a red fox in my
path. This is different from home and we
are enjoying it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">One of the requests RVICS asks of the host
camp is for them to provide some type of Bible study for the team one evening
during the week. This week was very
special and a perfect evening to do it because we had a pontoon ride on the 280
acre lake on Miracle Camp. After the wonderful ride, he stopped the
boat for a devotional and history of the camp.
(Interesting because this property was purchased in 1965 from the
University of Notre Dame).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Next week will see further advancements even though it might not be steady upward progress. Time will tell.</span></div>
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Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-56204791842698583882014-09-07T14:19:00.001-05:002014-09-07T14:19:22.439-05:00Starting Anew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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September signals the end of summer and the beginning of a
work time with RVICS. After several
months of “leisure” this is always an exciting time for us. This month finds us in familiar territory,
not because we have done a project here before, but because it is the camp for
our church denomination at a place called Miracle Camp, Lawton, Michigan.</div>
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Even though we are just a few hours from home, the scenery
couldn’t be more different with thick woods, many lakes (many covered with lily
pads) and acres of grape arbors in the neighborhood. It is a lovely area which we plan to explore
in our spare time.</div>
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Since this is our first time here and RVICS is new to the
camp director, it has been fun working with him. Right now, it looks like the men will be
putting up a building for the paint ball equipment. The ladies will find many, varied jobs to do
during the month. All of our skills will
be put to use, as well as, learning of new ones.</div>
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Since this is a mix of old acquaintances and a first time
couple with many different interests and past histories, it is fun to see the
commonality we all have. Friendships
will be developed that will last the rest of our lives.</div>
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Although updates are a challenge because with the thick
trees overhead, internet, cell phone service etc. is a bit weak. However, stay tuned for updates.</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-48723226193295359762014-02-26T16:32:00.002-05:002014-02-26T16:32:24.920-05:0054 Doors---and More!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Yesterday marked the end of another month of RVICS work. It is hard for us to believe that this project is now over! Major upgrades were accomplished but the to-do list was still long. However, other camps, churches etc. have needs also and help is needed there too.</div>
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The ladies work can be abstracted into one work---Painting!! We all have the clothes to prove it too! But, that isn't the full picture of what the 4 ladies did. Doors seemed to be large part of our assignment. Out of curiosity, a count was made yesterday with the actual total coming out to 54 doors and frames with a brand new coat of paint. This was not the total of our work. Painting the outside of the lodge and all the trim on the lodge was done. To finish off our work, the inside of the newly remodeled room was given a couple of coats of color too. New, fresh paint is always a good welcome to any place. It was a joy and lots of fun to work with these ladies.</div>
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Not to be outdone, the men have a nice list they were able to mark off as done. Painting was there too because they painted the very higher spots. A variety of electrical projects were repaired and a room was totally remodeled into a beautiful new spot. Old lightning was pulled out and new lights installed in two of the rooms of the dining hall/meeting. It was a hard job as they were working from scaffolding. The men meshed well together and used their skills they have picked over the years. It is hard to believe the men didn't make a living doing this but that just isn't the case.</div>
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Laughter was at the heart of this group and it flowed freely. That always makes for a good time when the works gets hard and everyone is tired. In some cases, strangers became fast friends. AT the end of each project, it is difficult to say goodbye and each of us went in a different direction. This was no exception.</div>
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As for the Snows, this ends our winter projects for RVICS. When we are away from RVICS for a little while, we are anxious to get started again. Come September, we will be excited, refreshed and ready to pack up and head out again! We love retirement and are thankful to God for the experiences He gives us.</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-11887603696011195172014-02-14T18:22:00.000-05:002014-02-14T18:22:38.950-05:00Continuing our Ministry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This has turned into another busy week that sped by much too rapidly. It was another time of worship, play and work. What was different about this week (for Florida) was how cold it was! We can't say we say any snow but the temps we very close to it. However, we are well aware of the terrible winter up north and at all our homes, we can't complain for the short term.</div>
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Back to the work, the ladies painted all week long with just some touch up spots to finish the Lakeview Lodge. The men made major headway on the porch conversion to a motel room. That job will carry over to the coming week plus, some other jobs will most likely be added to the schedule. It is wonderful to see things taking shape for the better use by the camp.</div>
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Play was fun again this week. We toured a neighboring town's murals. For the northerners, many towns in the south paint large murals on the sides of their buildings depicting its history. What a way to relax and stroll the streets at a leisurely pace. Also, we had a lasagna supper for the group and one of the staff with a 5 month old baby joined us. Yes, we are all grandparents and loved the time with the little one. Yes, one of us even tried to coral some wayward chickens coming into where the RVs are parked.</div>
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Every week, we spend the first half hour sharing in group devotions. What a great way to begin our work day. Once a week, a member of the staff comes and shares a Bible passage and, often, a testimony. It is always an enriching time sharing together.</div>
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It is hard to believe but we are down to 5 1/2 work days. Once again, Monday will bring smiles to our faces and we start the work, worship, play cycle all over again.</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-26048706132606269012014-02-14T18:05:00.001-05:002014-02-14T18:05:27.747-05:00Lakeview LodgeAfter alluding to the work we are doing here at Lake Swan Camp, finally, we are on the last "lap" of this project for RVICS. This past week, the ladies have been doing the finishing work on the outside painting. Come Monday, with just a few random spots to finish, we will probably be able to say the job is done.<br />
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For past pictures as to how far we have come on this (this is our third time to work on it in 2 years) see other blogs posted when we were at Lake Swan Camp. However, the following are a sampling of the final results.<br />
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When the work started on this old building, there was nothing but a flat wall. Now, the porch etc. takes in the full view of the lake ----aptly called Lakeview Lodge.</div>
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This is the example of one of the dorm rooms. Doesn't look like the typical camp room, does it?</div>
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One of the motel rooms located in the Lodge.</div>
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The best part of the project is seeing it being used. Every weekend we have been here this month, it is being filled. It is wonderful to know RVICS fingerprints show up in the work. However, the best part is seeing it being used for its intended purpose. Right now, cars are filling the parking lots across the street and that is a very good thing.</div>
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Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-20220579184350384972014-02-08T18:55:00.001-05:002014-02-08T18:55:59.538-05:00A Normal, Busy Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our team of 4 couples just completed our first week of work at Lake Swan Camp. This is another good team of hard workers who are all in the second straight month of work for 2014. However, we have come in from different locations in Florida to make up this team for February. For 2 of the couples, this is there first time here. We are another diverse group coming from Michigan, Ontario, Canada and, a couple of us, from Indiana!</div>
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Normally, during our work hours, the men and women work at different jobs and, mostly, in different locations of the property. However, for a couple of days this week, all of us got out our paint brushes and began the job of painting the outside of the "new" Lakeview Lodge. Wow---what a difference the paint made. (Now, we want to paint all the buildings this color but that is far down the road!) The women finished the walls on Thursday and are ready to start of the doors and trim work on our second week. When all the painting is complete, I will put all the pictures of the building (both inside and outside) on a blog. It looks sharp in both areas.</div>
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The men now have undertaken a larger project in transforming an old porch into a motel room. The demolition is complete and the relocation of the wiring has been started. Now for the hard part, putting in windows, walls and such where the roof line varies by 3 inches or so. They will figure it out though. Also, some electrical repairs were done on the property. In a camping situation, there is always electrical work.</div>
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On Tuesday evening, the camp director met with our group and shared the history and future of Lake Swan. Lake Swan, also, is a part of Billy Graham's history. Not too many years ago, through no fault of the camp, the future looked bleak. God had different plans and it is flourishing again. It really made everyone want to work even harder.</div>
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It wasn't a week of all work. On Friday, RVICS groups from 4 different projects in Florida traveled to The Villages for a winter reunion. In RVICS, we work very closely for a month and, in a way, the team becomes family. When we go on to other work or back home, it is hard to say goodbye. These reunions bring hugs, smiles back and laughter as we gather together and celebrate our time together. </div>
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Once again, come Monday we will start all over again. Yes, the women with their paint brushes and the men their building tools!</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-13852089489793012862014-02-01T20:28:00.001-05:002014-02-01T20:28:32.277-05:00Memories of Lake Swan Camp<div style="text-align: justify;">
With a new month, comes a new assignment with RVICS. This may be a new assignment for 2014 but this is our 5th trip to Lake Swan Camp, Melrose, Florida. I knew we had been here many times but was surprised to find it was 5 times beginning since our first one in February 2008. Over the years we have seen immense changes for the physical facilities. Many times we work at a project and never return. Just for curiosity, we pulled out all our pictures of the different couples we became friends with and the difference we have made in helping them to minister. These are just a highlight or two from our time spent here.</div>
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In February 2008, we made our first trip here as "greenhorns" with this just our 4th assignment. What we found was a beaten down RV campground. Money was given to its improvement to benefit those volunteers to follow us. At the beginning, at the end of the "line" of RVs (6 total) there wasn't enough power to run a toaster. The electrical (and some other utilities) was totally made over to 50 amp service! (With all the tree roots extra, the digging was done with much hard labor.)</div>
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2/2008</div>
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In 2011, we returned with RVICS. The large job for the team then was to remodel the kitchen. </div>
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2/2011</div>
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The following year, RVICS assigned us here again. The main assignment on this trip was totally remodel the gift shop. After it was done, we started what for Lake Swan has been a 2 year "re-build" of building for lodging. Originally, it was 2 buildings brought in that had been used somewhere in WWII. RVICS were the first to work on this "re-build" with some demolition. Also, we were here when the youth from our church (UCC) came for there spring break. They, also, got into cleaning up the mess the RVICS had made.</div>
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Gift Shop 3/2012</div>
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Beginning of Lakeview Lodge 3012</div>
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Last February when we arrived, much had been done on the Lodge but it was still a long ways from being completed. More was torn out but, also, the men put in ceilings, women painted etc. and it didn't even resemble what had been the original building.</div>
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2/2013</div>
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2/2013</div>
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The Lodge has now passed the final inspection and is being used. However, the final picture will have to wait a few days. Because, there is one last things to do. The Camp told us since RVICS began the project that they should be able to complete it----that is paint the outside. It is a very, very nice addition to Lake Swan and is being used as I write this blog.</div>
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Our team has assembled and are ready to begin. It is going to be another exciting month and we will make a difference!</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-38356027048024305042014-01-26T18:52:00.000-05:002014-01-26T18:52:41.594-05:00Looking Back On the Past Month<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yes, as the title suggests, we are nearing the end of our assigned time here at Florida Baptist Children's Home and will bid everyone goodbye on January 29. However, this is unusual for RVICS, since most of the couples we worked with here during January will be staying for the month of February with an addition of 2 more couples. It is unusual because normally the RVICS only come for a month and leave for a different location. <br />
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This has been such a good month in so many ways. Much was accomplished in the physical needs we came to help with. Some of the larger assignments of work are not quite completed but will be in good hands with those working next month. Our time of devotions as a group is rewarding and we gain new insight many times. <br />
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As a group, we play together too. At the end of last week, our group hosted another RVICS group from a neighboring town. What fun to see old friends, talk, eat and play games! The bocce game was particularly interesting with men vs women with 8 per team. Did I mention all the women threw their balls at the same time and vise versa. Sometimes, we are creative to make it work!<br />
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To finish our work the next couple of days, we will be helping setting up for a banquet that we are invited to attend. This will include the children located here. We had the opportunity to do this last year and it was a special evening. This will be a good way to end.<br />
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Come Wednesday morning, we will once again hook up the truck to our 5th wheel and travel north about 3 hours and start this all over again. The rest of the group will consist of old friends and a couple who will become friends over the next month. Even though goodbyes are tough, we have much to look forward----------<br />
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-21757384549461174492014-01-19T14:35:00.003-05:002014-01-19T14:35:33.112-05:00Continuing At Rapid Pace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The month of January is getting shorter and shorter by the calendar but it doesn't seem possible that two weeks of work are now history! Time is flying by quicker than a person can believe.</div>
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If we look at our accomplishments the twelve team members have done in the last couple of weeks, it is huge!! The list of "assignments" for this group to do during the month was quite long. Since this is a two month project for RVICS much (if not all) of it will be done plus additional jobs the end of that time frame. </div>
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The men have numerous larger jobs that are a work in process. Since of items on the to-do list require drier, warmer days, they have been jumping back and forth this week between inside and outside work. A couple of the houses needed windows for the parents to see into their game rooms quickly and quietly. One house has been finished and second one started. These are older buildings with the usual surprises which take additional time to correct. Another house required a small wall to be removed so tile could be laid and this job is done. Yet another home needed and unsightly/unused closet removed along with electrical and plumbing changed in a porch area and finished off and this job was completed. Still in process are the trimming of many of the trees on the property of dead limbs and some Spanish moss removed. There are a couple of houses that needed power washing and total painting. one of these houses should be completed (weather permitting) this coming week and a second one started. In between some of these jobs, there were trucks to load and unload of food and furniture. Needles to say, the men were very tired when Thursday noon rolled around.</div>
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The ladies weren't to be outdone. Once again, we spent much time in the donation center. The rooms are now much better organized and the new donations that are continually being dropped off were put away. A fence was "spot" painted. Translation, dogs are now residing behind it and trying to dig their way out. The fence had to be lowered and, thus, there were unpainted places that needed some black paint. It is interesting painting with dogs between a person and the fence! Our final job for the week was totally cleaning the library and all of the Learning Center. It is fun to do a variety of different things. Oh yes, all of this has been done with one of the gals using one arm because the other is broken and immobilize.</div>
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It isn't all work and no play. Come Friday, most of us headed to the Tampa Fairgrounds and the largest RV show in the US. It is fun to dream. While there, we saw "old" friends from other RVICS projects of the past. It is good to catch up with one another. On Saturday, we had dear friends from home but now residents of Florida come for a visit. What a fun time!!</div>
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Tomorrow is coming rapidly. When the end of the week arrives, all will probably once again say "where did the time go this week?" However, we are all looking forward to that. </div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-59201177977867155692014-01-12T14:56:00.001-05:002014-01-12T14:56:42.459-05:00Tool Time<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The team for January had traveled to Florida Baptist Children Home, here in Lakeland, from Michigan, Pennsylvania (2), West Virginia and Indiana (2). Once we are here, all are anxious to get busy with the ministry at hand. It is always an exciting time because RVICS are not the "sit at home" type individuals!</div>
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The RVICS are a "come along-side" ministry to help our host ministry to do their job better. For our first week of work, we helped a couple of different faucets. </div>
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One of the missions when it was organized many, many years ago was to help children. Continuing that today, they have ranch type homes with house parents and 8-10 children that need a stable home. The homes operate like families were designed. They attend public school and have all the activities of a child in a normal environment. Having seen it in operation, we are very impressed. A definite hole is being filled in their young lives.</div>
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This past week the men have been working on windows in the game rooms in a couple of the homes. In another home, a closet was torn out on a porch and the space is now being redone to be better utilized by the family. The power washer has been brought out and work has been started on re-painting of a couple of the homes. Also, four of the men drove to a location off site to repair a house being sold that had been donated. Yes, the tool boxes were brought out and about everything was used!!</div>
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A second (sometimes related ministry) is the huge, two story building used filled with donations. The donations are used for the families here and throughout Florida. Every room is filled with a specialty, for example maternity, housewares, supplies, diapers, clothing and this just skims the surface. They are used by parents here, foster families, those they are helping set up an independent life in an apartment and even ministries overseas. The ladies worked on organizing, sorting and stocking a couple of the rooms. This is an unending process and keeps many hands busy.</div>
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This week, we didn't always have a tool in our hand. After hard work all day, it is good to socialize and get to know one another. This month will be no exception. Don and Denny celebrated birthdays to begin the new year. Yes, cake and ice cream were enjoyed by everyone. Plus, this is the season and location for strawberries. A trip to Plant City was in order to enjoy the strawberry desserts!</div>
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Every team member here has a home and family in the north where all the severe weather came through. Even though we missed the experience of the Polar Vortex, we were able to pray and be thankful it has come to an end.</div>
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Tomorrow begins week no. 2 of our time here. Once again, we will be more than willing and able to get moving again. The tools await----------</div>
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-6967004770129158682014-01-03T17:11:00.000-05:002014-01-03T17:11:24.849-05:00And Now It Is 2014<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Happy New Year!!! Those words are still being spoken but it is still hard to comprehend that this is the beginning of another calendar year. After less than 3 weeks away for the Christmas holiday and a quick visit with family, we found ourselves once again on the road. However, in some ways, it was easy to leave because of the snow/ice we had when we were home and (big time) winter was on its way. </div>
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Florida Baptist Children's Home is our new "home" for the next month. Four of the five couples joining us have already arrived. Come Monday morning, work will begin. As another sign of the ending of one year and start of a new year, some of our jobs then will be taking down and storing for another year the Christmas decorations on the campus.</div>
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One of the bonuses of the volunteer work, is the lasting friendships we make among the RVICS family. Since many of them have arrived in the various locations of ministry in Florida, we have a chance to meet and catch up on each others lives. Today was one of those days, when two couples came for a visit---one of them we hadn't seen in a few years. As with many of our projects, we will begin a new friendship with a couple for the first time. Our lives have been impacted by all of them!</div>
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Come Monday morning, we will begin making new memories with this "family". All are anxious to begin the work that we are here to do. It will be a good week and a good project!</div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-47944412036074328002013-11-29T15:02:00.001-05:002013-11-29T15:02:25.080-05:00Closing Days<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As I sit down to write, we are down to our last week on this RVICS project. 2013 is rapidly coming to a close as Thanksgiving is past, tomorrow is the last day of November and Christmas is getting closer. As we look back on this past year, we have once again been blessed beyond measure. God has been extremely good to us and blessed us beyond measure.<br />
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On Thanksgiving day, our RVICS "family" gathered together and had a traditional meal with all the fixins'. It is good to be able to gather and celebrate with friends when family isn't close by to visit in person. We call it a traditional meal but with couples representing different parts of the USA, we find slight variations in the way we prepare them. What fun it is to taste them.<br />
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COLD---this was the theme for this past week! When the temperatures drop in the low 20's that is much too cold for an RV. With the coldness, it certainly makes one think winter is here. Since the weather was terrible, all of our work was done on the inside.<br />
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The team members are finishing a few of the things they started. The activity center/gym is now just about ready to open for use. The ladies are about done painting a good portion of the lodge---main room, hallway and trim. The men cleaned out all the old flooring in the office area and director's apartment. Even battling the damp conditions (drying was an issue), the new flooring is mainly done in the apartment. "Fall" cleaning was done by a few of the ladies in the kitchen along with helping clean motel rooms etc.<br />
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The goal whenever we arrive at a new place/project is to make it a better place for the ministry of Christ. We feel the goal has once again been met. <br />
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Come Thursday, we will move our RV to Florida, enjoy a day with some friends and then head home for a break and family. January 2014, we will be back helping out again.Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-19913560375143179032013-11-23T16:53:00.002-05:002013-11-23T16:53:30.761-05:00A Full Week<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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All weeks have the same number of days, hours, etc. but this week was overflowing with activities both work and fun. With the RVICS schedule we follow, we work for the ministry for 4 days with set hours and we have an official time for a group social (even though we often do other things as well), usually take a tour as a group to a local place of interest and have a Bible study one evening. Time always passes by very quickly and this month is no exception. </div>
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When I was preparing to write this blog, I jotted down the different accomplishments this week and was amazed. The men painted walls etc. in the activity center/gym, moved and installed a new water heater, installed a new vanity, faucets in sink and tub in a house, power washed sidewalks and took off and put back up door to push/pull in the correct directions. The women started and ended in the same room! No, we aren't slow but it is a big room and the wood soaked in the paint. When we begin again in there next week, it will be only to finish some of the second coat. A couple of the ladies helped the staff with cleaning of rooms etc. plus Sharon helped the guys out in the gym doing some trim work there too.</div>
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This is a month of celebrations for the team. On Wednesday evening, we all came together for a pot luck meal. It was complete with a birthday cake and homemade ice cream. The caked was to celebrate Sharon and Henry's birthday. Earlier in the month, we honored the Bolles and Dunmyers in marking anniversaries. Celebrations are always fun and it is good to mark these special times in our lives.</div>
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Christmas is getting close--can we miss the ads everywhere?! On Thursday evening, we drove to Mobile for a Christmas Spectacular put on by the University of Mobile in a large church. Even though it was a warm evening and nothing like it is in Indiana around Christmas, it was a good time by all. These students are real pros with both the music and production.</div>
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Friday was a free day for the two of us. Since the weather was perfect, the timing was right to pay a visit to the Gulf coast. What a great day with picture perfect weather and scenery. The Gulf was beautiful as usual. The villages we drove through had fishing boats in their harbors. Also, this is a large area for building ships. It is always good to see new cultures and way people live that is different from home. This is our third location to work in Alabama and each is distinctly different from the other.</div>
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Thanksgiving will be this coming week. We will begin the week working but will have time off to stop and remember all we have to be thankful for too.</div>
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-12477374365331251572013-11-15T18:05:00.000-05:002013-11-15T18:05:34.329-05:00Using All of Our Talents<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Even though we are a group of retirees, most of us are still learning many new skills. Also, many of us had jobs totally unrelated to the work we do with RVICS. For example this team has a former architect, engineer, store manager, retired military, office workers etc. With each new skill we learn, we say we are adding to our resume. Needless to say, we are are still learning from good teachers (other team members). </div>
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Over the years the ladies have become very proficient at painting. When joining RVICS, many women have never painted a day in their lives but find they are really good. Painting is going to be central to our work at Whispering Pines Camp. This week, we painted a dorm room and walls in a new gym/activity center. Office work was done as well.</div>
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The men were found scattered about in different locations working in small groups doing many odd jobs. Plumbing in a sink, installing walls in the gym/activity center, building a double door for a shed, power wash walks, resolved and repaired electrical problems at a paint ball pavilion, removed old carpet from a house were some of their accomplishments. Not too shabby for the first week on the job!!</div>
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One evening after work, we gathered for our "official" team picture. For Don and Sharon, we have worked with every other team member somewhere along the line. While others, this is the first time they met. We are a very diverse group from New Hampshire (2), Pennsylvania (2), Florida and Indiana. When our month here is finished, we will all head out in all directions for our winter work.</div>
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-29898042943967356142013-11-09T19:17:00.005-05:002013-11-09T19:17:55.649-05:00"Sweet Home Alabama"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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New month, new location and a new RVICS team! After a month at home, once again we traveled to another RVICS project. Five other couples have, also, driven many, many miles. Two of the couples drove around 1500 miles to come. Actually, at 850 miles, we are "close" to home. With many projects, we work with "new" to us couples but this month we have worked with each one previously. It is good to meet up with old friends again. One member of the team, actually had retired from RVICS a couple of years ago and have returned to work this month!<br />
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This November finds us at a ministry and place that is new to us at Whispering Pines Camp in Citronelle, Alabama, which in a half hour north of Mobile Our RVICS "village" is now all set up on the spacious lots and the hosts have made us feel very much at home. In fact, there is a red maple tree we can see from our RV that is loosing its leaves---just like home. (However, fall is very late in our part of the world in Indiana and our maple trees were still green when we left HC.) The centerpiece of the drive is a magnificent magnolia tree that is estimated to be 200 years old. Oh, the stories it could probably tell of the storms etc. that have gone through. This weekend we have seen the camp in use when about 100 girls arrived Friday evening for a retreat. What fun to see the 3rd & 4th graders (I think) out enjoying the facilities here and hear them singing praises!<br />
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Come Monday morning, we will begin working. The men will start with a house on the property that needs some major renovating. Paint brushes will be pulled out by the ladies to put some green paint on some dormitory walls. Let the fun begin-----Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-41349338621245577762013-10-03T15:58:00.000-05:002013-10-03T15:58:34.412-05:00It's October---<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A month has passed and today marked the last day of our official work here at Village Creek. It is hard to believe because these 4 weeks have flown. During this time, we saw many ministries in action and, today, learned of even more ministries. The friendships we made with both the staff and fellow RVICS will last a lifetime. We came as strangers and leave as friends. Even though, our paths may not cross again here on earth, we will be guaranteed to see one another another day in heaven.</div>
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Even though it was our last week of work, that didn't mean we didn't get anything accomplished. Far from it. The men saw the fruits of their labor being pulled to its new home on the camp. Tim, maintenance, even took a ride in the back end of the shed, waving out the window as it went flying by. Yes, it held together perfectly. Yeah!! They started and finished another large job this week in designing and building 5 large feeding troughs for the horses. Also, they did some wall patching in a man's bathroom. Two of the other men worked on tractor and did some electrical work. Busy week.</div>
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The ladies donned their paint clothing and spent most of their week in a ladies' and men's bathrooms painting. Oh, what paint can do for a room! For our last day, we cleaned a room and sorted many library books, puzzles and games that had become disorganized through use. It feels good to look back and see things better than before.</div>
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No matter where we travel, there comes a day when we have to pack up and head home. Tomorrow is the day, we move from this location. It was a great month of beauty and work for all of us. Along with the normal memories, we will take the special beauty of this place and visualize the soaring eagles flying above.</div>
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In about 4 weeks, after a month of rest (?), we will start another adventure all over again with smiles on our faces-----</div>
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Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-16508650276575301732013-09-28T17:09:00.001-05:002013-09-28T17:09:23.502-05:00Making Memories<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Like every RVICS project that we serve, we make all kinds of memories. Many of our memories are the work we did and the ministries we serve. However, many of our memories are of fellow RVICS members on our team and, just plain, being tourists in areas we don't call our home. This location near Lansing, Iowa, is no exception. RVICS is structured so we may get to know one another better other than our work skills, as well as, tour nearby sites. One night is set aside for a "social" for our team and Friday's are "tour" day. Neither has to be elaborate or expensive but all end up being special.<br />
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This month, since we didn't know much about each other when we began, we had mixer or get to know you games. Another social, we viewed a video. This week, Milo had gone fishing (they certainly were biting and he was hauling them in) in the pond and we had a fish fry (grilled). The weather was great and a perfect evening for eating out and having a camp fire!<br />
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Since we are an "older" group, we aren't always able to do lots of climbing, hiking etc. This team was certainly an exception to the rule. After visiting a museum and eating out the first week, we literally hit the trails for the last two tours. During those hikes we found burial mounds, cliffs that overlooked the Mississippi River, among other things. For both hikes, we packed lunches and literally "ate out" and it was wonderful. How often can you picnic next to waterfalls with no one around?<br />
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An additional treat has been the eagles in the area. There are none in Hartford City!! One afternoon from our back window, Don watched an adult bald eagle "encouraging" another eagle to fly. The little one was on a light pole and jumped back and forth on it to avoid getting knocked off. They soar over the neighboring hills and occasionally come lower where we can get a really good look.<br />
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As an additional treat for the RVICS team, the camp set up a time for us to ride the horses on a trail that included woods and creek crossings! Since it had been 45 years or more since I had been on a horse, when Sharon was starting out, her thoughts were "Why am I doing this?" As they say, " all's well that ends well." We did survive but it was an experience. Don's horse was pretty jumpy and not the calmest one there---but he was large and fit him! One time, the horse jumped sideways a good distance when a deer spooked it. Fortunately, Sharon's was an old, slow moving one.<br />
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Since we have just one more week of work here, we are closing in on some of the things we have started 3 weeks ago. The shed is now done but may require a second coat of paint. A "bin" which actually is used for housing in a ministry was dismantled and will be shipped to Africa. The vacated house is now ready for new occupants. The week, also, found the women washing, drying and putting away many lost an found items left behind. The men have been doing some repair work on a paddle boat, vehicles and farm implements plus installing a hot tub that was donated. In this last week, the ladies will do some more painting. The men will probably be building some feed troughs for the horses. <br />
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More memories will be made in this last week here, we are sure!<br />
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-1554139209775470372013-09-20T18:44:00.000-05:002013-09-20T18:44:41.416-05:00Changes <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Week number 2 at Village Creek Camp was a different experience than our first week here. It is QUIET!! After all the hustle and bustle of families attending a conference our first week, our time felt (yes, there is a feel to it) very peaceful. The scenery is becoming very fall like in many ways. The leaves are rapidly turning something other than their summer green. Behind our RV, the water bubbling in the creek is very visible since some of the brush is becoming bare and very relaxing to watch. A team member just showed up with lots of fish he just caught, not from the creek but somewhere else! Plus, can I add, we can see eagles occasionally soaring on the hills out our back window!! How pleasant fall is becoming.<div>
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I guess my mind is on the beauty as I write. On Fridays, the RVICS team takes a break from their work and "tour" the area. Today, we spent our time at the Effigy Mounds National Monument and had a picnic lunch at Pikes Peak State Park, both right on the scenic Mississippi River. This time away helps relieve our muscles for a day and puts our minds on other things.</div>
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YES, we did get work accomplished during week 2. The men are making progress on the shed but often get discouraged in what they think is the slowness of the work. It won't be long before it will be usable for what it was intended. Once again toward the end of the week, we experienced hot temps with high humidity. Sometimes, that makes everyone move slower.</div>
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The women moved from one kitchen to another. Well, we weren't cooking but painting and cleaning. A house on the property has been vacated and needs preparation for the next incoming occupants. In all, we painted in 3-4 different areas. Also, when it wasn't raining, the much neglected flower beds were spruced up. Next week, we should be completing many of these assignments too.</div>
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Already plans are being made for a productive and exciting week 3. With RVICS there is always more work, more fun and new experiences just around the corner.</div>
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Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-33157218022516910482013-09-15T08:14:00.001-05:002013-09-15T08:14:13.876-05:00Hot to Cold--Week 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Our first week is history but one word stands out in describing it---HOT!! Record temperatures in the upper 90s were set for the first several days of our work. Water (while we were working) and AC (after work) were some of our best friends. However, all things come to an end and the low temperature on Saturday morning was 55 degrees colder than the high of 2 days previous.<br />
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Since our arrival, this camp was been abuzz with activity for all age ranges. This week families overflowed all areas of the camp for a home school family camp. After they left, the weekend found a more advanced age group enjoying what the camp as to offer. With RVICS, we don't always get to see the ministry of the camp but that is not so this month. Village Creek offers both just rental of the facilities and, then, they have a staff that minister to other groups. They have a wonderful, productive ministry.<br />
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On Monday morning, as we began our work, the men were directed to the maintenance barn to draw up plans for a shed for the storage of archery equipment (the original one was destroyed in flooding in the spring). As the drew the plans for a 8'X12' building, others rummaged through the supplies looking for what was on hand and what would have to be ordered. Finally, the construction began and is well under way. Hopefully, this coming week, it will be completed.<br />
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All of our ladies have done their fair share of cooking over the years. This week, we learned a different way of baking etc. as we spent our time in the kitchen preparing food for over 250 people. For Ann and I, we both have baked our share of breads but not for more than a couple of loaves. Yes, it is different when preparing multiple loaves at a time. We would we had much to learn in baking cookies in large quantities too. Linda and Loretta spent their time on the vegetable line chopping and dicing. They nicknamed themselves Lucy and Ethel (not sure who is who) as they related to the I Love Lucy show in the candy factory!<br />
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Today is Sunday and a day of rest. Tomorrow, we will begin a brand new week with brand new experiences.Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-39742945085183286882013-09-08T07:41:00.001-05:002013-09-08T13:12:09.878-05:00Dirt, Unbelievable Beauty and New Friends<br />
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The calendar now says September (How did it happen so quickly?!) and, for us, that means beginning another season with RVICS. We love the summer and being at home, visiting with our family and doing many fun things but it is always good to reconnect RVICS.<br />
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Our adventure this month brought us to Village Creek Camp, Lansing, Iowa. Adventure is the very fitting word because you can't get here (easily) from Hartford City, Indiana. There is a very long bridge (over islands etc.) that crosses the Mississippi River to get into Lansing but it is under repairs with a 9 foot width. You do not want to drive an RV across and we didn't. The final 3 miles was done of the dirtiest gravel road we have ever driven. Everything we owned was white when we arrived.<br />
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However, the drive here was spectacular. Old Muddy looks totally different in the north country than it does in the south. It is wide here but dotted with marsh, islands, water lilies, etc. Our camp is nestled in a valley between hills as this area is known as Little Switzerland. We are even provided with a little creek running directly behind where we are parked. With fall coming, the leaves turning should just add to the scenic quality.<br />
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As with nearly start of every RVICS project, we are meeting new couples we have never met before. This is always a treat and soon they become permanent friends. This team is smaller than some with just 4 couples but 1 of the couples being new to us and another couple brand new to RVCS. Already, we are getting to know one another and it will be a good month. We are the "outsiders" being Hoosiers with all the others having Iowa roots. Also, the staff have been not<br />
hing but helpful is getting us settle in. It will be good to come along side them to help them make this place better.<br />
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If you think of us working, please pray for our safety and health. It appears we will be beginning our project on Monday with highs in the mid-90's. <br />
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-81001339976147703832013-02-24T14:20:00.002-05:002013-02-24T14:20:46.370-05:00Where Does the Time Go?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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February 2013 is nearing its end. We have no idea how it has disappeared so quickly! However, we do have many visual reminders of the work we have completed and many memories to carry with us.<br />
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When we arrived for our assignment just a 3 short weeks ago, Lake Swan was wanting floors and ceilings completed in 5 rooms with them all painted by the women. With a dozen hard working (albeit old and in worldly terms, elderly) individuals, this goal has been met and exceeded! The men have now branched out with framing for doors and windows, some more demolition of some inner walls, rebuilding of some inner walls and hanging of a couple of doors. Plus, they have 2 more days of work yet this week. The women, still with paint brushes in hand, tackled a chapel in the main building, utility room and office in the snack shop. The next couple of days will find them competing the final coats on all they have started.<br />
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Along with the familiar aches and pains we accumulate from our work, there are so many fun times we wouldn't miss for the world. Along with our work skills, we bring our individual personalities with us. With every group, there is a different mix in what we enjoy and how competitive we are. This week, we all showed our very competitive nature in a couple of games provided by our social committee. For the first time, we witnessed a rousing game of Chinese checkers. Yes, it was a rousing game with all the men involved. This was after DeGals and beaten DeBoz in a game of Guesstures.<br />
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Every winter in Florida, a reunion is planned for all RVICS that might be in the area. This past Friday, 55 retired and active RVICS, met for lunch and an afternoon of catching up with new and old friends. This is such a special time for everyone as we become very close with each other working, worshiping and getting to know each other in a way that doesn't help very often. In the end, we share much in common.<br />
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This March, we begin our 7th year with RVICS and look forward to many more years of service. However, this March we felt the need to step back and take the month off. We are looking forward to a little bit of relaxing and visiting with friends from home. However, there are more RVICS projects just waiting to be done, new friends to meet on down the road----------<br />
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<br />Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2800231707557073902.post-50608617901453595102013-02-15T17:41:00.001-05:002013-02-16T17:02:22.587-05:00Fun TImes<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">All
of our group of 12 were here this week!!
This has been an unusual project, in that, we have been missing 1-3
people the first week of work due to family needs. However, we finally were united as a team
and even got a picture of all of us.
Yeah!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It
is hard to believe but we are over half way done for this assignment. This is a hard working group and the “to-do”
list has shrunk a little bit. (The list
will still be long when we have to pack up and leave.) But, the men are working on the flooring
and framework for the new doors. Every
day we see progress from the day before.
The ladies have just a little bit of painting to do in the bathrooms to
finish up their work in the building.
For a couple of days this week,
the ladies had a nice break and got out their sewing machine to make some
curtains to cover some doors/windows to block out light. Those are now done. On Monday, we will be pulling out our paint
brushes etc. once again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It
seems in my blog I highlight our work more than our play. We do have more than our share of fun. It is amazing how strangers can come
together and, in no time, be enjoying, sharing one another company. This week was no exception. Valentine’s Day was celebrated this week by
a carry in and newlywed game. What hilarity
when you think we have been married more years than most people think possible.
I guess it is so hard because we have
too many things to choose from for the answers.
Believe it or not, the Snows won---for the first time ever, I
think. The following night, Lake Swan
hosted a dinner for us. During our time
together, a gift was presented to us by the camp director (We are sure “he”
arrived via a couple of other RVICS couples and had traveled hundreds of miles
from home). Inside, a stuffed
spider!! There is a looong story there
about how this spider has been passed from us to another RVICS couple of the
years. It is never known when/where he
might show up. The men have found it
enjoyable to relax doing a game of horseshoes but the rules seem to go out the
window but there is always a winner. To
add to our excitement this week, a ‘possum decided to call our trash can
home. Is that fun or not??<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">Even
though, we have experienced cooler and wet conditions this week, we are still
thoroughly enjoying the beauty around us.
A couple of sand hill cranes can been seen quite often eating near where
we are working. A trip to the lake in
the evening is very relaxing and calming.
After the men’s work, weather permitting, we often pull up chairs and
have “pop on the patio”. This is a good
way to relax the tired and very sore muscles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif";">It
is good the weekend is now upon us. For the next 3 days, we have we no official work are good to relax---and, yes, look back and
remember the good week we have just had.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Don & Sharon Snowhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16748690786711193913noreply@blogger.com0