Although the (in)courage beach house exists primarily in the virtual, sometimes it gloriously comes to life: the (in)RL meetups; online friendships that become face-to-face; a late-summer weekend when this site’s authors gather to relax, to know each other better, and to plan ways to bless this community.
For me, the trip started in my driveway with Robin, Deidra, my kids, and a sweet Sorento that Kia loaned me for the trip. Don’t let anyone tell you that your online friendships aren’t real, that they couldn’t possibly survive transitioning to face-to-face. These girls are dear to me and we enjoyed our time together on the road, solving the world’s problems, drinking sweet tea, and eating chicken.
Now let’s visit the beach house!
We ate chocolate.
We shot video segments for (in)RL. (I can’t wait to see the blooper reel.)
We practiced our mad dance skillz.
And because we wanted to participate in a service project together, we worked with Habitat for Humanity. This was my first experience with them and I had some misconceptions. I thought their volunteers were primarily socially responsible 20-somethings; however, we learned that most of those who worked on this house were retired.
They were thankful for the arrival of twenty helpers!
Here’s a bit about Habitat for Humanity from their website:
We are a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian ministry founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a decent, safe and affordable place to live. We build with people in need regardless of race or religion. We welcome volunteers and supporters from all backgrounds.
Signing up to volunteer was easy; click here to find out how.
We laid sod and spread mulch and our efforts made such a difference!
The new owner worked side-by-side with us. We gave gifts for her new home and shared hugs and tears.
Then we loaded up our dirty, sweaty selves and drove to Starbucks. Yes, we did. But first we walked next door to Five Guys and put away a serious amount of burgers and fries. We’d worked up a healthy appetite and glowed with the satisfaction of hard work for a good cause. We shone with something else, too. I’m sure the locals wondered about this ragged, smelly crew of joyous women.
The good news is you don’t have to travel to bring God’s beach house to life.
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. ~Matthew 18:20
How can you connect with women in your area? What are some ways can you serve and bless others by working together?
Have you downloaded October’s desktop calendar?
It’s just peachy (bad pun intended).
Join me on my blog this month for 31 Days of Before & After Shots. Today I’ll show you the original of this beach shot from Hilton Head and the edits that transformed the final image.
by Dawn Camp at My Home Sweet Home, lover of beautiful images
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Great post! I worked with Habitat for Humanity when I was in college, it was quite rewarding. Looks like you all had fun. Because it’s a pet peeve of mine…. The scripture you posted Matt. 18:20 is being used out of context. It is in the context of church discipline that that verse is used in scripture. Many times I see it used to promote prayer gatherings and in this case weekend getaways with friends. Let’s not be a people that throw verses here and there to promote their agendas. Gods word is powerful and not to be taken lightly. 2Timothy 3:16 ~ praying you take this correction in love.
Heather, that’s great that you worked with Habitat in college. Have you found opportunities to work with them as an adult?
Dear Dawn,
WOW, I LOVE your real-life Beach House with the girls!!! What a wonderful time it looks like you all had!! Lots of great fellowship, good food, and awesome friends–the best! And I love how you all wanted to do a service project together–that’s the best way to bond with friends, for sure! That truly speaks of the deeply Christ-centered hearts which you all have!! I’m sure Habitat for Humanity was extremely grateful for your help. What a wonderful way to connect with your friends (in) RL–you are an example to us all! Thanks for sharing! Many blessings!
Katy, yes, it was a fun weekend. Have a blessed week!
Great post! Wish I could have been there! Habitat for Humanity is a fun organization to be a part of. I love hammering nails, sweeping floors, painting walls, etc. It is a good feeling to know that some deserving person will get a home.
You gals looked like you were having fun–real honest open fun. Just chatting about God, life & sharing stories with each other–making friends. Something I would love to do!@
Beth, you sound like you’ve got some experience with Habitat! I think working together with friends is a great way to volunteer and serve.
I supersize love this. Like LOVE it! Had completely forgotten about my insane leaping on the beach. Can NOT believe you actually captured it and that I will now never live it down. 🙂 Love it.
Lisa-Jo, it looked good on the back of the camera, but I’m thankful I actually caught you in focus. Your form rocks!
I love Habitat for Humanity. I did some work with them when I was in college. I love hearing about your relationships that have developed online and remain constant offline. It is encouraging me to comment, which is something I never do. I am trying to step out a little and not just be a blog stalker. 🙂 Thanks for the fun post..
Jennie, yay for stepping out and leaving a comment. I’ve loved getting to know you this year. 🙂