The Calling To Awake

Mission Restoration is a property that has been winterized since 2016 and is beginning to be reclaimed by the Sumter National Forest in Newberry County, South Carolina. This 1.78-acre property includes a small home constructed in the 1940s, which requires major restoration. My desire is to utilize this serene retreat in nature to create a space where small groups can regain their confidence through creative and ever-evolving opportunities.  However, Mission Restoration is about more than just restoring the home and property; it is also about restoring our spirits. Here, we will work alongside the tranquility of nature while engaging in the physical restoration of the land and home. Each application of our efforts aims to foster a sense of healthy pride and confidence that individuals may have been lacking, helping them take the next step in their lives.  The ultimate goal is to make Mission Restoration a continuously growing initiative. Each visitor carries a lost dream or sup...

When you're sick of being inside, stuck to a screen    Hello Family and Friends,         Please forgive my lack of updates. As mentioned briefly in my last post, the property is a legal entity known as Mission Restoration. Where typically I would have waited until I had a few more “To do’s” checked off my list, there is an opportunity arising that requires these things to be done when they were.       I have been working with a gentleman since February of 2023. His project is a very extensive job that will require thousands of large tiles to be produced and shipped out of the country. In early 2023 two sample tiles were sent to the lead architect and to the building team. I am honored to know that my employer loved the sample so much that he has one hanging in his personal home. Due to some changes, a new architect was acquired for the job, and now we are starting fresh. New sample tiles will be produced here at the property and shipped overs...

       I really enjoyed having Shawn here again last week! Again, he was a huge help and quiet the woodsmen considering we didn't have electricity the entire time he was here. The power was restored Thursday afternoon - minutes before getting ready to take him back home to Columbia, SC. We were just shy of a week without power due to Hurricane Helene. The county workers and linemen did an amazing job supporting and restoring our community back to functioning order. It hard to believe how much got done in just a short amount of time, as the damage was pretty extensive. Our prayers and thoughts continue to go out to our neighboring towns and states. There are many still in need of assistance and will need continue support to help rebuild.       Shawn, completed a product I produce for, The 3D Print Barn. It is a Ennis House - A Frank Lloyd Wright Tile Design or Blade Runner Inspired Vase. Every part of these cement vases are handmade. Shawn took the...

I had a chance to thank God’s Healing Springs Baptist Church this past Sunday for their donation. I was also asked to give my testimony. It was a whirlwind of emotions. Where I know God orchestrated this whole encounter - it didn’t make it any easier to follow in obedience. But God gave me strength in a situation I know was not my own. Not many know why I’m well suited for the vision given for this creative mission community. I understand the chain reaction and ripple effect of misunderstood and unresolved trauma. I can empathize, relate and help encourage those still stuck within the cycle of shame & guilt filled repression.  I am one of those individuals who was molested at an evangelical church by a church member. From about 9-12 each Sunday morning. Like many abused children, I didn’t come forward right away, because I was told and felt like I wouldn’t be believed. The first time I voiced the abuse - I wasn’t believed by those in spiritual authority. I was threatened b...