WEDNESDAY, AUG. 5

Although cloudy first thing in the morning, the sun peeked out from behind them around 8 AM. We went to our designated worksites directly. At Marilyn's house, Teams Peter and Bob G were greeted by the neighbor's crowing rooster and the cat from yesterday. She decided to stick around while we worked, undisturbed by the sound of the saws and drills. We picked up right where we left off, and the two Habitat volunteers, Walt and John, from yesterday returned also. They helped a little with the ramp, but mainly worked on replacing the trim around the back door. We continued with putting up the railing along the ramp, and because we only worked until 11:30 today, one small section remained unfinished. However, Alex and Noah planned to finish the job in the afternoon. Team Jeff B continued to put up siding and painting. No flooring was done as the cement in the bathroom still was wet.

Wednesday is traditionally a half-work day, so we can enjoy some activity that the area has to offer. Most of the guys went to Hooker Falls to go to the swimming hole.They also hiked to Triple Falls, which was well worth the effort as the falls were beautiful. The weather was nice and warm, with occasional short showers to cool them off. Then, as they were leaving to come back to Lutheridge, the clouds opened up with a torrential downpour. Jeff B, Bob G, Aaron and Joe, along with all of the ladies visited the Arts District in Asheville. There, they walked to various galleries to look at local art and ceramics. Then, the ladies left to go to the Asheville Mall to pick up a cookie cake that Carl raved about and had ordered for the group. Mary Rae and Judy found a two-story Barnes & Noble store, and were in heaven! Back at the ranch, Clark stayed to go birdwatching at the camp. But, fifteen minutes after everyone left, a thunderstorm started with steady heavy rain. He was forced to cancel his plans and did laundry instead.

Mary Rae served us chicken and biscuits with the chicken from Monday's dinner. It was delicious as the gravy was her mother's recipe. We also had mixed vegetables and salad. For dessert, we enjoyed Carl's treat with ice cream or milk. Joe was gracious enough to do dishes when everyone was done eating. There's more dishes to do because we are using regular ceramic dishes and real silverware. Joe has alot more dishes to wash...so thank you, Joe!!

Devotions were led by Pastor Bob speaking about Matthew 26--the woman who anointed Jesus with her expensive perfume. The disciples scoffed at her using such perfume, but Jesus countered them saying that it is her actions that are important. The lesson was how it is just as good to receive than it is to give. Pastor Bob quoted a scholar who said, "the best I can do is not give but to receive." If you pray for others, they may be praying for you as well. 

As Lorene and I are busy writing this blog there is a noisy card game at the other end of the dining hall.  The Towhee and Carolina Wren are singing outside the open door in the light rain.  It has been a pleasure and honor to continue this mission blog for you loyal readers.  Keep us in your thoughts and prayers as tomorrow will be another full work day (weather permitting.)  God Bless and take care everyone, and of course Laurie and Eagle behave your selves and keep up the faith.  Signing off, Lorene and Clark.

Crew at Marilyn's house

Hooker Falls

Triple Falls

Great Hall at the Lodge

Carl's cookie cake

Dining room

Marilyn encoraging us on.

Tim and Clark