Dear Family Member:
As we eagerly embrace the arrival of Spring and the longer, brighter days brought by daylight savings time, we are reminded of the season’s remarkable ability to bring new life and energy to our surroundings. The gentle warmth of the sun, the vibrant colors of blooming flowers, and the sweet songs of birds returning from their winter retreat all serve as beautiful reminders of the rejuvenating power that God has instilled in nature, especially during this time of year.
As previously mentioned, the initial phase of our Master Plan focuses on constructing a storage facility on the southern portion of our property. This facility serves a dual purpose: providing much-needed additional space and generating revenue to support subsequent phases of our plan.
We are actively researching architect and engineering firms to develop a comprehensive package for building these units. Alongside P & C Construction Company, we have received proposals from Brown O’Dell and Partners Architects, as well as J.M. Phillips Engineering, LLC, including preliminary estimates for the storage facility. With a general layout of the storage units in hand, we are currently soliciting proposals from construction companies to erect the structure. Subsequently, we will compile cost figures for this initial phase.
Your prayers and financial support are invaluable as we progress in the Mighty name of God to serve our clients, graduates, and the community.
Cliff and I have had the privilege of getting to know some of our neighbors who have experienced the loss of their spouses and are feeling lonely. One neighbor, three doors down, lost his wife. We visited her in the hospital and made efforts to console her husband during this difficult time. Sadly, a few weeks later, she passed away, leaving him heartbroken and feeling alone. To bring some cheer into his life, we invited him and his next-door neighbor out to lunch. Tragically, a few weeks after our lunch, he also passed away. We felt a deep sense of sadness, wishing we could have done more.
Inspired by these experiences, we decided to organize a luncheon for our widows, widowers, singles, and friends in the Belmont community. We sent out invitations, and the response was overwhelming. Nearly 40 neighbors and friends joined us for this special event.
As many of you know, the ‘one red rose’ is a symbol of our marriage. We displayed a ‘one red rose’ picture on the wall, and each guest took a picture with it.
The room was decorated in red and white, with a fresh garnished red rose as the centerpiece. The delicious lunch was catered by David and Karen Smith, and our DAP sons graciously served the guests. Pastor Crissa Letson, our friend and associate pastor of the Asbury Church, delivered an inspiring message. She commended the past generation for the legacy they have left for this generation.
During the luncheon, we played a game and awarded monetary prizes. We gave away our books, Cliff’s biography, DeathDance, and my conversations with God, Yours, Truly. We also shared our love story and invited others to share theirs. It was heartwarming to see neighbors getting to know each other better, exchanging phone numbers, and making plans to meet again. The afternoon was filled with laughter, love, and joy.
The outpouring of appreciation we received in the form of thank you notes and phone calls afterwards was overwhelming. Our hearts were full as we witnessed the love and joy on the faces of our neighbors. We believe in giving people flowers ‘while they can smell them,’ and we are grateful for the opportunity to bring a little light into the lives of those in our community.
Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this luncheon a memorable and heartwarming event.
We would also like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to our generous and steadfast family. Many of you have been by our side for a very long time and we appreciate your prayerful and faithful giving. The journey has been long, yet, God continues to provide the strength and courage to move forward. Your continued support and generosity continue to make our work more meaningful and possible, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership in our mission. As we spring forward into this season of growth and renewal, we are filled with hope and excitement for the future that God has in store for DAP, our clients, and the community at large. Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our cause.
