One family had been living with a burned out room, a leaking roof and bent underpinnings. All taken care of!

Another leaking roof caused the interior ceilings and insulation to be rotted with mold. The roof was sealed, the insulation replaced and new ceilings installed and painted. While there, we saw two windows in need of replacement, which now provide fresh air to fill the home.

A dilapidated back deck has been fully restored and is stronger than ever. As the deck is the main entrance and exit for the family, having a solid structure beneath then is essential.

Another family nearly wept with each rain as the water ran downhill directly into their home. We dug out trenches and installed drainage pipes to redirect the water. No more tears.

We tore down and rebuilt a deck with an accessibility ramp. The family had a makeshift ramp that was not safe.

A leaking water heater caused mold beneath a room rug and a softened floor beneath the heater. Both rug and floor are replaced.

We did various jobs for an older woman living on her own. We replaced her ill-fitted storm door, took care of a leak and beautified the grounds around her home.

Beyond the projects are the blessings we gained. The beautiful connections we make with the families. The lessons of a simpler life. The fellowship with one another. Strangers becoming friends. The good kind of tired after a hard day of work doing something worthwhile.

Sixty of us answered God's call to give. And so much was given back to us. May the Lord bless each of the families whose lives we touched and who touched our own lives so gently in return.