Company B Family Day

On a hot summer day in August for a few hours families came together, they put the hardships and demands of work and recovery on hold to celebrate life. The Fredericksburg Wounded Warriors at Nebo  helped bring relaxation and spiritual mending to some of our most deserving service men and women.


 
On August 14, 2015 approximately 35 veterans and their families converged on the Lazy U Ranch located in Seguin Texas. Nestled under majestic pecan and cypress trees is a piece of heaven. Families took part in archery, fishing, kayaking, self defense classes, swimming, and board games. Some braved the old fashion rope swing and others sat back and simply enjoyed the peacefulness of children's laughter and the bond only blood brothers and sisters could understand. There was also bingo, bike riding and a good old fashion Texas barbecue. 


The true art of service is to give without expectation, through the hard work of many, families that have sacrificed so much were blessed to at least for this day come together to enjoy what being a American hero is all about! 

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Company A's Day Out aka Expanding the Ministry

In the beginning of this ministry we believed our mission was to minister to the wounded, injured  and ill.  Then, through experience and talking with the soldiers, care providers and chaplain, events were expanded to include the warrior's family.  You see, there were numerous offers of hunting & fishing trips, activities like bowling, skiing, golf, etc. all directed at the warrior; but very little for the family to experience as a family unit. So we started focusing on the entire family when planning events.  It is amazing how many times we have heard "It's great to be able to do things as a family" or "It's so seldom we get to getaway and play as a family", etc.  Thankfully we never stop learning and listening to God.

Over the past couple of years it has become apparent that the warriors are not the only ones needing a break and to be "loved on". Chaplain Ginsburg has helped us to understand that the Warrior Transition Battalion (WTB) staff  need a break now and then also.  You see, they walk side by side with the wounded, injured and ill through their physical and mental healing, therapy, frustrations and victories.  They insure the warriors get to their appointments, help guide them through the WTB maze and offer moral support and friendship. Staff share some of the stress and frustrations of the warriors especially those who were once wounded themselves.

While the wounded, injured and ill have priority for attending WWAN events, we have been including staff to fill events.  Then last September we sponsored a "Chaplain's Day Out".  Recently some of the WTB commanders asked if we would coordinate an event specifically for staff and their family members.  After much discussion and prayer we agreed.

Stacy Johnson & Nancy Russell with breakfast items

On July 31st at least forty (40) staff members from Company A, WTB and family members traveled to the Lazy U Ranch, Seguin, TX for a day of play and renewal.  The 100 acre ranch which is bordered by the Guadeloupe River and Lake Placid provides an ideal area for kayaking and other water sports or just splashing around.  There are also lots of trails for bicycling and hiking.   For those wanting something less physical, board games, archery and bean bag toss are available.

As participants arrived they picked up breakfast items and headed to the pavilion to see who was there and what was going on.

 

Cyclists cruising

  It wasn't long before the self defense instructors had a class going, cyclists were cruising around the ranch, archery lessons and lots of games were in progress.

Learning Basic moves for Self Defense

Godly Grilliers

Soon the Godly Grillers arrived and started cooking sausage and chicken for lunch.  The Godly Grillers are a volunteer group from  Community Bible Church in San Antonio (check out their Facebook page CBC-Godly-Grilliers).  They are a generous fun bunch of guys in addition to being good cooks.


  

As we were finishing lunch the kayaks arrived from Olympic Outdoor Center in San Marcos.  Thanks to Ben Kvanli for donating their use.

Brad passing out Koloches

Saying thank you is not nearly enough to express our appreciation to Brad Bowen, Adaptive Sports Military Program.  He arranged for the kayaks, bicycles, instructors for archery and self defense.  There's probably more that I'm missing but it's safe to say that Brad "Made It Happen".  On top of that Brad is simply a nice man who cares.



Of course Craig and Nancy Russell, Lazy U owners, were right in the middle of all the activities making everyone feel welcome and sharing the history of the ranch and memorial.  Thank you for making your ranch available for recreational activities for the military and creating the SS American Memorial. 

To see more photographs of the event like us on facebook.com/ww.nebo 

A Double Easel Card

When we got to WFSC on Tuesday (5/5) for the card class there was no one signed up.  However, not being discouraged we went ahead and set up the table for class.  All the time smelling the wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen.  A special meal of tamales, rice, salad, tortillas, etc. was being prepared in celebration of Cinco De Mayo. I always thought that was celebrating Mexican Independence.  Not So!!  It's Celebrating the Mexican victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862.  I just love the internet!!

Anyway, back to card making.  We ended up with 8 people joining us for class including 3 men.

 Yes, men, you can come & be creative; we love having you.  Sharon had designed two very different cards for the class.

The first was a "Double Easel" Mother's Day card. It took paying close attention to instructions.  That's hard to do since we really enjoy visiting while being creative.

Participants experience level ranged from "never done this before" to Paul & Paula who could teach the class.  As with most classes, the more experienced helped others.  Stacy & I even got to assist a little.

Opened

The second one was a "Landscape" created around the goose with sponges. 

 This photograph doesn't do the card justice.  There is subtle shading that makes up the background.  It's all controlled by the amount of ink on the sponge and the pressure applied when applying the ink to the card. You can really take "Artistic Licence" with this technique.

We bring a light lunch to share after class. Usually there are a few who drop in to join us at lunch.   However, the tamales, etc.won hands down.

 No big surprise there!!

Spring

Willow Loop

I just love Spring!!  It's like everything is coming to life after a Rip Van Winkle siesta.  I especially look forward to seeing the hills and roadsides covered with wild flowers.  Some of the first to emerge are the famous Texas Blue Bonnets.  Those are shortly joined by Indian Paint Brush.  Before long there is a plethora of color that feeds the soul.  I am blessed to live in an area that had a fabulous riot of color this Spring.  Cars and motorcycles come from all over to tour the country side and enjoy GOD's art work.

Willow Loop Roadside

Willow City Loop

Although the Blue Bonnets are fading, there is still a riot of color, reds, yellows, white, pink and more.  Add to that the many shades of green that the newly leafed out trees exhibit and it's breathtaking to put it mildly.These photos don't capture the real beauty of nature but you get the idea.

If you haven't noticed or live in the city where there is mostly concrete, load your family into the car or fire up the motorcycle and head to the country for an afternoon to remember how beautiful Spring is and be re-energized.

Oh, yes, did I say I LOVE Spring??!!!

Family Retreat (December 5-7)

The weather was perfect for a parade!! But I'm getting ahead of myself.  We try to make the December R&R or Retreat a family affair.  Part of the reason is the lighted parade in Fredericksburg is fun and beautiful and main street after dark looks like a Dickens Village.  Last year it was literally freezing.  Not so this year.  It was cool but almost no wind so it was great being outside.  Zion Lutheran Church hosted the families  on Friday night with a delicious meal prior to the parade.  In addition, they set up chairs on the street so the families would have a birds eye view of the parade.

Lisa telling Christmas Story

Saturday morning the couples met with Chaplain Ginsburg for some counseling.  While parents were "in class" the children were taken to the Fredericksburg United Methodist Church (FUMC) where Lisa Davis told them the story of Christ's birth.

Donna demonstrating making a tree

Then Donna Lafferty and Louise Murphy, local artists, taught the children how to paint with water color and make Christmas cards for their parents. After completing the cards, Joel Griffin, FUMC Youth Director, and some of the youth served snacks and led games that ran off some of that kid energy.

Goofy Photo

Families were reunited for lunch at West End Pizza and a free afternoon to explore the town, ice skate, nap, etc.




Saturday evening everyone gathered at the First Baptist Church for "Italian Night" dinner and Sunshine the Clown.  Kids young & old loved her.  The way she involves the children in her magic tricks is great!! Prior to dinner the children presented their works of art to their parents.  It was a nice surprise for mom and dad.

Sunshine's Arrival

Admiring Their Child's Art Work

Admiring Their Childrens Art Work 

The success of this retreat and all of the events organized by the Wounded Warriors at Nebo is dependent on the generosity of the Fredericksburg community.  It takes many volunteers and donations to bring everything together. Many Thank You's go to the following food providers, kitchen help, volunteers, merchants who discounted rates, other donors.  
Zion Lutheran Church                              Fredericksburg United Methodist Church
First Baptist Church                                 Donna Lafferty
Louise Murphy                                         Joel Griffin
Will Cooke                                               Esten Cooke
Sadie Eidson                                            Sloan Ball
Clear River Pecan Company                    In on Baron's Creek
West End Pizza

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Summer's Over

Susan with grandchildren

Vacation was wonderful but now it's over.  It was great being able to travel and get in quality Grandma Time.  But in the same respect it's good to get back to serving those have given so much for us so we can celebrate family and travel freely through this beautiful country.

A day out at Lazy U Ranch, Seguin, on August 22 was the beginning of a new exciting year of events designed around criteria addressing needs identified through discussions with the chaplain, company commanders, enlisted personnel and recently retired veterans.  While the wounded, injured & ill have been and will continue to be our primary focus we will be including more staff.  For example, the September 5th event was for chaplains who can suffer from compassion fatigue in addition to the challenges of everyday life.

Company B Outing 8/22/14

It's going to be interesting to see where GOD leads us.  Wondering what I mean?  Well several things are happening.  First, the Caron Foundation has approached us about helping them with couples' retreats in this area.  Caron is well established in Pennsylvania as a drug and alcohol rehabilitation center.   They have developed a new couples counseling program open to veterans (both active and retired) focusing on challenges unique to them.  We have at least two couples scheduled to attend the first Texas retreat this December. Their evaluation and feedback along with that of a local counselor will help in our decision making.  Second, when the ministry first began we hoped for 6 - 8 wounded warriors at an event.  Now, depending on housing and funds, we have to limit the numbers to 30. The ministry is also looking at possibly increasing the number of day events hosted as that would increase the number of people we can give a break and expose to the love of GOD.  Several medically retired soldiers who experienced R&Rs and other ministry activities while in treatment have encouraged us to keep in contact with participants who've retired.  They may be retired but they still need love and stress re-leasers.

The support and generosity of this community is what enables Wounded Warriors at Nebo to continue the ministry. Each time there is an event it is a reflection of you all.  Thank you seems inadequate but it will have to suffice.  THANK YOU and GOD BLESS YOU!!!

Like us on http://www.facebook/ww.nebo and see photos and information on all our events.  

Words From The Heart

We all get those "Do Not Delete" "Pass On" emails.  If your like me practically all of them go in the trash.  There are exceptions and I just finished reading one which I feel compelled to share through this blog. This is just one of several poems written by Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert , US Marine Corps
USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF

Although it was written by and addresses the Marines it applies to all of those brave men & women serving their country so we Americans can live in the way to which we have become accustomed.

Following the poem is the letter that Corporal Gilbert sent to his father.  Enjoy!!

Hooah & God Bless!

THE MARINE

We all came together,

Both young and old

To fight for our freedom,

To stand and be bold.

In the midst of all evil,

We stand our ground,

And we protect our country

From all terror around..

Peace and not war,

Is what some people say.

But I'll give my life,

So you can live the American way.

I give you the right

To talk of your peace.

To stand in your groups,

And protest in our streets.

But still I fight on,

I don't bitch, I don't whine.

I'm just one of the people

Who is doing your time.

I'm harder than nails,

Stronger than any machine.

I'm the immortal soldier,

I'm a U.S. MARINE!

So stand in my shoes,

And leave from your home.

Fight for the people who hate you,

With the protests they've shown.

Fight for the stranger,

Fight for the young.

So they all may have,

The greatest freedom you've won.

Fight for the sick,

Fight for the poor.

Fight for the cripple,

Who lives next door.

But when your time comes,

Do what I've done.

For if you stand up for freedom,

You'll stand when the fight's done

By: Corporal Aaron M. Gilbert , US Marine Corps

USS SAIPAN, PERSIAN GULF

July 23
Hey Dad,
Do me a favor and label this 'The Marine' and send it to everybody on your email list. Even leave this letter in it. I want this rolling all over the US and Canada and The World. I want every home reading it. Every eye seeing it. And every heart to feel it. So can you please send this for me? I would but my email time isn't that long and I don't have much time anyway.
You know what Dad? I wondered what it would be like to truly understand what JFK said in his inaugural speech. 'When the time comes to lay down my life for my country, I do not cower from this responsibility. I welcome it.' Well, now I know. And I do.. Dad, I welcome the opportunity to do what I do. Even though I have left behind a beautiful wife, and I will miss the birth of our first born child, I would do it 70 times over to fight for the place that God has made for my home. I love you all and I miss you very much. I wish I could be there when Sandi has our baby, but tell her that I love her, and Lord willing, I will be coming home soon. Give Mom a great big hug from me and give one to yourself too.
Aaron

Breaking the Silence

WOW, it's been a while since we posted. Guess I need to bring you up to date on what's happening with the ministry.  Based on the lack of participation last summer, 2013, we decided to suspend R&R weekends until September.  By doing this it has given the ministry team and volunteers a much needed rest.  

Card classes at WFSC continue on the first and third Tuesday of each month.  If you haven't been in a while or have never participated please consider joining us. Class begins at 10 A.M. and is usually over by 11:30-12.  We then visit over a light lunch.  Everyone makes two cards which they take home with them. Incidentally, this class is NOT exclusive to women - many men have joined in the fun.

Three of the team members design the cards and teach the class.  Just as personalities are different, so are the designs.  Lisa's cards are whimsical. Many are designs specifically for kids.  Jackie loves bold color while Sharon leans toward softer hues.  All three designers are talented and provide beautiful fun cards for us to make. They never repeat a design.

Inside Blank

The ministry continues to work with Chaplain Ginsburg identifying needs and planning events.  The ministry is also expanding, but more on that later.

Be Blessed!!

Marvelous May

I love being involved with this ministry. People are always thanking the ministry team for what we do, but  they have no idea what a blessing and joy it is to be with our wounded warriors.  When we see the spirit and bravery with which they are handling the many problems they are encountering as a result of serving us it humbles us and encourages us to face our own difficulties with more grace.

AND they are so much fun and that was not more evident than at our last two May events.  Friday, May 2, started, with an R&R for care providers.  The team arrived first at El Milagro's restaurant. The room was deadly quiet when we arrived.  The early morning customers were having whispered conversations and looked liked they desperately need a shot a caffeine right into their veins.  However, when our ladies arrived the room was immediately filled with laughter, giggling and tons of energy.

Rhoda Reynolds, Debbie Campbell & Stacy Johnson

That set the tone for the second event that began the evening of the same day, our May R&R.  The Evangelical Free Church hosted the dinner.  A host of their members helped cook, set up, and serve a delightful meal.  We were able to catch three of them in the kitchen.

Stephen & Stacey York Calling Bingo

Stephen and Stacey York collected many gifts from our wonderful and very generous businesses in Fredericksburg to make a night of bingo possible.  We will list all of their names in another blog.

Waiting for the Next Number to be Called

At Museum

Saturday the families were allowed to sleep in if they chose, but most decided to take advantage of the many things our area has to offer.   They went to The National Museum of the Pacific War, the Lavender Festival at the Becker Vineyards, the LBJ Texas White House and the Sauer Beckman living history farm. They went through  art galleries and, of course, hit the many shops on Main St.

At lunch we all gathered for great food at West End Pizza.  They started off with our choice of salads

and then brought us out a great variety of pizzas.  To top it off, if one of our guest had a favorite that was not already out they would make one especially for that person. WOW!

Wyatt Hams it Up While Mom & Dad Watch

After lunch our families continued their excursions in the area.  They met us for dinner at Cultures Bar and Grill. Good food and great company.






Afterwards, Sloan Ruth, the owner of Fritztown Cinema, treated all of our guests to a free movie AND free popcorn and a drink. Double WOW!!!

The Amazing Spiderman Crew

All of our families were provided with Sunday breakfast. Some of our supporting congregations were thrilled to have several of the wounded warrior families in worship with them!

This weekend seemed special to us.  We fell in love with our guests and they seemed to have such a good time and really bonded with each other.

Like us on Facebook and see a lot more photos of the weekend in the May R&R Album.