Wall of Wine Rack

For all the Wine Lovers, The Essential Wine Rack

Today I am presenting another custom project by the team of Pro356 LLC and Baylor Atelier Design Studio. This beautiful wine wall display was recently installed for an executive home in McLean, VA.  

(I personally refer to it as the Great-Wall-of-Wine .)

Located in the dining room on the main floor, to the right of the foyer,  easily in view of those who enter the home.

The following images are from step one during the fabrication of this unique wine wall in the Pro356 workshop, to installation in the home.

Designed by Baylor Atelier, this wine rack will hold the vast display of the homeowner’s wine selections.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Construction of Wine Rack

At the Pro356 workshop, each panel was constructed of three-quarter inch plywood.  A sheet of 16 gauge cold-rolled steel is glued to the plywood. A metallic paint was applied to each panel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

For the finishing touch, the panels were edged with walnut wood which was then beveled slightly on the edge to give it the appearance of a floating panel.

The wine pegs for the three panels, 72 each panel with a total of 216 pegs, were purchased from Richelieu Hardware online, one of the many wine peg distributors that are available.  All 216 holes were drilled by Marc Shaw with a power drill in the Pro356 workshop!

 

This wine rack is one of many projects which Pro356 LLC and Interiors by Baylor Atelier are collaborating on for the executive home in McLean, VA.

 

 

Great, inspiring minds, with many years of experience in construction and remodeling of homes throughout Virginia, together these gentlemen create outstanding custom pieces whenever they have the opportunity to be on same job site.

 

 

Marc Shaw, Craftsman/Owner of Pro356 LLC

703/776-0924

LivePro356@gmail.com

LivePro356

Located in Oakton, VA

Vincent Baylor, Interior Designer/Owner of Baylor Atelier Design Studio

Based in Washington, DC

Baylor Atelier Studios

 

If You Can Dream It

If You Can Dream It, We Can Make It Happen

Designer Furniture 

At PRO356, our vision is to create the special, custom piece that is functional as well as a piece of art.

 

We  achieve this by having our clients tell us their concept of how this will be utilized and what materials they prefer to have in their home or office. We are committed to delivering quality service to our clients. 

Custom Cabinetry 

Our Pro356 team is comprised of highly skilled craftsmen and consultants with extensive experience in various industries.

Custom cabinetry for your specific needs, be it a home library or home  office. Or, your office at your place of business. Each, a place where you would pride yourself in entertaining your guests and business associates.

 

Accent Wall

 Our approach at Pro356 is highly customizable to meet the unique needs of each client.

An accent wall in your master suite or a welcoming guest room enhances any style home. Accent walls upgrade the look of any room, including a dining room, large kitchen, or any room you wish to magnify your personal style. The choices are unlimited.

Connect with Pro356 at link below!

Pro356

 

Contractors Sell Sheet

Small Construction Businesses

I am a Freelance Content Writer and Web Content Consultant who has worked in the design/build industry. I am familiar with many of the challenges you face.

I would like the opportunity to help you spread the word about your business by creating a one page introduction for you to use with digital and conventional mailings. It will be similar to this first page of my introduction to you. A brief paragraph of the services you offer and all your contact information along with key pictures of some of your favorite projects.

If you’re a small construction company with two or three great people working on your crew, how to market your craft may be the furthest thing from your mind!

You’re busy running to the lumber yard, estimating jobs, rushing off to the site, meeting that new client, and closing everything up at day’s end. Maybe once in a while you thought about marketing, but told yourself, “I swing a hammer! I can frame up a house, shingle a roof, install windows & doors, build a garage, an addition and a great deck, but what do I know about marketing?”

 I know about marketing!

“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.”  St. Francis of Assissi

As much as you enjoy building, I enjoy helping small businesses get a leg up in the industry! Many of the most gifted craftsmen are in a small business atmosphere. They love it! But, now and then, have dry periods thinking “no one is building ANYTHING!” We both know that’s not true!

There’s always someone who needs a reliable, reputable small businessman. A proud owner who will show up when he says he will be there, without the client having to leave messages with four different gatekeepers before reaching the builder! YOU need to let people know YOU are out there!

 

I can present your contractor business in a simple format that anyone, with two minutes free, can read!

“When a work lifts your spirits and inspires bold and noble thoughts in you, do not look for any other standard to judge by: the work is good, the product of a master craftsman.” Jean de la Bruyer

 It could be you already have a website that you or someone created for you but you find you don’t have half an hour each night to update it. If you are not pushing your information out there, your next potential client will find someone who is easy to locate. That’s why I always believe in a printed mailer someone can literally hold in their hand. Whereas, using the internet people often forget on which site they found the information. You know it’s true as it probably happens to you at times.

 I remind all my clients to try to keep in mind there still IS an entire generation out there who do NOT depend on their mobile phone or laptop to find a skilled, reputable service provider. What alternative is left? There is no longer a phone book to look at.

 Addressing an envelope and putting in your printed, professional introduction piece would take all of 4 minutes! Do it while you’re watching the Celtics game!

You can obviously use a PDF formatted introduction digitally by dropping it in your social network groups and attach it to a personal email if your prefer. And, you will be able to print it to use as a postal mailer.  YES, mailers do still work!

Get The New Clients

I’d like to create a great intro piece for you that will always be in your hands. Keep them in your truck and hand them out to people you see or give one to your current client asking them to share it with a friend. Give some to your spouse to have in their automobile. They can hand them to friends and associates as they go about their day.

CONTACT ME: bfe1948@yahoo.com    508/209-3561

And to put your mind at ease, yes, you can use it digitally by dropping your PDF document in your social network sites and emails.  And, you will be able to print it to use as a postal mailer. If you don’t have a high quality printer at home you can save the PDF to a thumb drive and take it to a local Staples or they can also print it from you own email. They will print you high-quality copies. (I’ve done that numerous times) A very versatile tool for your company. 

Let me repeat: mailers DO STILL WORK!

A TIP I WAS GIVEN YEARS AGO: When sending something in the mail that you want to be sure the recipient opens, ALWAYS hand write their name and address. AND, be sure to put your return address up in the left corner. Digitally printed labels are very often a dead giveaway that an advertisement or invoice is inside the envelope!

If you still use business cards always put TWO in with the mailer. I know many of you do everything via your cell phone and did away with your business cards. NOT a good idea.

I actually wrote an article about business cards you can find on my website under ARTICLES.     

An essential tool every businessperson should still use: the small business card you can throw in your pocket!

NOTE: A week after you send out your mailer you can call the potential client to ask them if they received it and if they have any questions that you can answer. People do still want that personal connection from someone they plan to do business with.

If you find the mailer works for you and you want to share your latest projects in the same format, you can just call me and send along pictures and description of the awesome bathroom or kitchen you just finished remodeling or the new deck you added to the homeowners house they just purchased!

Together we can create another informative PDF for your small business. Call me for an estimate: 508/209-3561 of updating your sell sheet every month.

Keep in mind you will have this in a tech form that you can download to your clients and you can print copies to send in the actual postal service or to keep handy in your truck to give to potential clients you meet picking up your coffee every morning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maine Cabin and More!

$525,000

2.2 Acres

 

 

Cabin For Sale Plus a Great Snack Shack

Aerial view of structures on Nicatous Stream Road.
Center: The main cabin residence.
Left: Wood shed. Right: Jack’s Snack Shack and the kitchen.

 

Tucked Away in                              an Amazing Spot

 The Beautiful Nicatous Stream

Morning Coffee or Evening Wine at The Dock

Waterfront Home, Lincoln, Maine

85 Egg Pond Road

Lincoln, Maine 

Located on Caribou Pond, this unique single family home
of 2,880 SF sits on 5 acres of land with
282 feet of recreational pond frontage.

Caribou Pond is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide.

Located 48 minutes North of Bangor, Maine
$699,000
Listed by: Acres Away, Inc
Office: 207-794-2700

309 W Broadway, Lincoln, ME 04457

Do Homes Sell During the Christmas Season?

 

WAKE UP!!!!

CHRISTMAS IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

Author: Brenda Everson~Shaw

Interview with Philip Howard of ReMax Spectrum

 Do Buyers Really Look For a New Home During the Christmas Season?

 

REAL ESTATE SELLS YEAR-ROUND!

A professional to the core, when you list your home with Philip Howard he goes beyond the call of duty to find precisely the buyer you are seeking.

Real Estate sells year-round.

For over 33 years Phil  has been specializing in Residential Real Estate as well as Commercial and Land Development South of Boston, Massachusetts and throughout Plymouth, Bristol and Barnstable Counties.

A Broker with proven experience, Philip is based out of the ReMax Spectrum office in Pembroke, MA, one of the four offices owned by ReMax Spectrum.

If you have been putting off listing your home until after Christmas, call Philip to discuss your concerns and you will get an honest, professional answer. Real Estate sells year-round.

Phil Howard is a former Massachusetts licensed appraiser, a current licensed Massachusetts Real Estate Broker and a Certified Buyers Representative (CBR).           Cell: 617/803-1516

Email: phoward@remaxspectrum.com

 

Those searching for a new home have become very educated in using the internet to find the home of their dreams. Potential buyers such as first-time buyers and the empty nesters browse often.

Phil Howard Shares: Buyers are looking for a home to buy regardless of the time of year. Real Estate sells year-round. An experienced Real Estate Broker will be available to bring potential buyers to your home ANY TIME OF THE YEAR!

Yet there exists a myth which has become real concern by homeowners:  no one shops for homes during Christmas. False, false ! This is a real MYTH!

Keep in mind; fewer people are looking to purchase during the Christmas season. Thus, as a buyer there will be less competition and fewer multiple offers. There are homes for sale, but houses to view are few, as sellers too believe the myth….no one shops for homes at Christmas. False, false!

Some sellers request home views be put on hold during Christmas. Mistake, mistake!

If you listed your home in October and still do not have a P&S, you DO NOT want to discourage a potential sale by limiting the days when a buyer can view his/her potential new home.

Real Estate sells year-round.

In 2018 there were 62,209 single family homes and 23,265 condominiums sold in the month of December.  That is a total of 85,474 home sales in Massachusetts in December of 2018. (according to Massachusetts Association of Realtors).

I asked Philip Howard to give me some professional tips for the Christmas season to alleviate any concerns the home sellers and buyers may have…..Brenda Everson~Shaw

Do buyers really look for a new home during the Christmas season?

As a ReMax Professional Broker, Phil suggests the following tips to those who have their homes for sale during the Christmas season:

CURB APPEAL: decorate to capture the spirit of Christmas. Keep lights and lawn decor,such as Nativity scenes, low-key. Don’t overcrowd your yard with ornamentation which can distract from the vision of your home by those driving by who are looking for their next home. Use those air-filled plastic decorations next year at your next home.

7 Tips For Selling Your Home During The Holidays

The perfect Christmas decorations for exterior.

INTERIOR: don’t over-decorate. Don’t cover your great selling features with so much glitz and décor that the true highlights of your home’s features are masked. Instead, decorate to enhance your beautiful home. Your mantel or your fireplace, doors and windows…..simple but elegant. Decorate to enhance your beautiful home. Keep your home warm and cozy for those serious buyers who are coming in from the cold.

 

Simple but tastefully decorated living room.

 

IMPORTANT: Be sure all walkways, steps and driveways are clear of snow and ice. You do not want a potential buyer slipping on ice or frozen snow!

 

 

Hint: Bake Christmas cookies prior to when potential buyers are due and leave on the counter. The smell of Christmas will be in the air. Everyone loves the aroma and taste of the Christmas cookie!

 

Consider the fact that you get one chance to make a first impression!! Same is true when presenting your home.

KEEP THIS IN MIND

Buyers and sellers alike used to believe that home sales coincided with dates of when school is in session. There are hundreds of thousands of buyers able to move any month of the year.

Today, the share of the national population who are under the age of 18 is at an all time low of 24%. (Annie E. Casey Foundation data, aecf.org)

Life’s situations come up when folks simply HAVE to move. Because we live in a changing economy, dependable jobs are hard to find AND, often hard to keep, even for the high-ranking CEOs.  

If an employment opportunity presented itself and it meant relocating, few responsible adults would refuse the position….even during the Christmas season!!

Year end is often when corporations decide an employee needs to be relocated to another site or a new employee will be coming to your town. Such situations call for the need of a home sooner than the spring. Another reason listing your home during the holidays can often result in a speedy sale.

 

Real Estate sells year-round.

After the Christmas shopping is done there are days when people are relaxing in the comfort of their home scrolling through real estate listings.

 

Discussing what 2020 will bring them, often they begin to think “this is the year to make a change”. 

 

LOST POTENTIAL SALE!

Suddenly YOUR home listing pops up on their screen and they call the broker only to hear viewings have been put on hold until after the New Year……LOST potential sale!!!!

If your listing is still active at Christmas and people are asking to view it, they are most likely ready to make a move. They are searching the Internet daily to find the home that is perfect for them.

 

 

 

 

THE GOAL IS TO SELL YOUR HOME

To all home sellers and to all potential buyers, we would like to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous and healthy New Year. 

Brenda Everson~Shaw and I, Philip Howard, want to wish you the sincere best in finding the home of your dreams or, if you are selling, we hope that the next person to walk through your door will find YOUR home IS the home of their dreams!

And remember……Real Estate sells year-round.

 

Remember all who serve our country

support troops

       

This is not intended to solicit property currently listed for sale.

 

Life on the Water

 

Life on the Water

Painting by Gregory Gorham

 New England waters!! Walk the sandy beaches or canoe on the ponds. Teach the kids to fish!

NOW is the time to consider your next home on the water for Summer 2022! The past couple of years have been filled with change and many weeks of stress, concern and uncertainty. Let me show you where you can find your next home near the water. A new way to view life.

If we tarry a little while, we shall behold a sunset on the ocean, a sight worth traversing a kingdom to see. How finely the sands glow in the amber light, what a beautiful purple gleams on the crests of the tiny waves! The colours have changed as if by the moving of a fairy wand, a happy union of fire and its great antagonist. ~Henry James Slack

The Ocean Shores

Walk the beach any time your heart desires. Open the windows for the full effect of the ocean air, waves lapping the shore, songs of seagulls seeking their prey. If you are a beach lover there is nothing more refreshing than the aroma of the fresh salt air waking you the first thing in the morning with that cup of coffee sitting on your deck……not a soul in sight yet! 

The following are simply a few local examples of life on the salt and fresh waters in our area of Massachusetts. Many who are born here leave for life’s journey, yet a good many of us return to our roots. There’s just something about living near the water that gets in your blood!

Plymouth, MA 

Where it all began….1620 the Mayflower arrived and the Pilgrims established Plymouth. It’s been over 400 years and the beautiful vista remains of beaches and ocean for as far as you can see.

From small cottages to amazing large homes overlooking the water for miles.  There are 15 beaches which are individually beautiful. Hills that offer amazing views of the water if you choose not to live with your back door to the beach.

Plymouth is 45 minutes from Boston and a 30 minute drive to Cape Cod. Downtown has its’ own unique flair with history and numerous restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisine and many unique stores…not all gift shops, but many with great antiques. And, of course the town is full of amazing history.

Onset Village Wareham, MA 

Beautiful Year-Round Beach Houses, Golf Courses, Beaches Galore 

Looking for a summer home or a year-round house within walking distance to the beach? Nothing to do, but unpack your bags and enjoy a home in Onset Village, Wareham. 

You can find a perfect year-round home in a beach area with a pier to tie up to, gas up, and a great Yacht Club to tie up at a slip. Plenty of restaurants, a hardware store, Mom & Pop establishments, gift shops, free outdoor concerts on the bandstand, numerous year~round celebrations on the green. All this within walking distance from your front door. Wareham has 50 miles of beaches on our beautiful Atlantic shores.

A ten minute drive you will find Wareham Crossings, an outdoor mall with many brand name stores. Major highways intersect at various locations in Wareham. Quick trip to Boston or Cape Cod.

Onset Village could be be your “second home”, your weekend getaway or your family’s permanent address. 

 

December

House in the Woods lodge Christmas tree.

Christmas was a blessed and joyous time this year. We hope you had a wonderful and very Merry Christmas with your loved ones.

 

Paul and Deanna House with daughter Joy McLaughlin with Cora, husband Eddie McLaughlin with Eddie the 5th, son Luke House with his son Joel.

Families gathered and little ones awaited the arrival of Santa Claus with such anticipation that they could not fall asleep.

 

Paul House….Pappy and his three grandchildren. Christmas joy!

Turbo wanted to be part of Christmas also….he fit right in.

Paul and Dee with granddaughter Cora.

Ah, the fun part of Christmas….the little ones!!

John’s Navy Dad, LCDR Christoper Perkins is home for Christmas this year. No better present than that!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Two of Brenda Everson~Shaw’s seven granddaughters. Left: Marissa granddaughter #6, right: Sophia  granddaughter #7.

Let us never forget the reason we celebrate Christmas. For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior who is Christ the Lord…..Luke 2: 11~14

House in the Woods lobby welcoming all who enter this season.

Soldier Nick Vallancourt received one of the many packages House in the Woods sent to our soldiers this year.

Nick shares: Just wanted to say Merry Christmas and thank you for the gifts, they are greatly appreciated.

 Gifts for our troops!

Many of us with family members actively serving in the military shipped off the packages and cards, reaching out in any way we could to let them feel our presence thousands of miles away! 

Santa gets some speedy transportation assistance!!!

Perhaps you’ve heard the legend of Harry Shoup. The gruff Air Force colonel stood watch one December night 60 years ago, in a secure bunker at Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD), guarding against a nuclear strike. On his desk sat the Red Phone, connecting him directly to the four-star general at Strategic Air Command. Suddenly, the phone rang. (For full story click link below.)….Courtesy of The Atlantic Magazine

NORAD’s Santa Tracker

A beautiful rendition of an old Christmas poem. Click below.

A Soldier’s Silent Night

Deanna House and son Joel House

December 19th 2018 Deanna House shares:

As I sit here this morning going through our mail, I realize just how blessed House in the Woods is. We frequently get donations In Memory of a loved one, however, today we have received money in honor of grandchildren as their Christmas gift, from a clothing club (they decided this would be better than spending money on themselves), from an IRA (possibly their required withdrawal) and money in honor of someone’s birthday. These are becoming more frequent as people come up with more creative ways to donate.
A huge thanks to all who have donated, in anyway, over this past year.
Please consider a contribution, no matter the size, to House in the Woods. It may seem like a small amount to you but a donation of any size can make a huge difference in a life or even save a life. In the short time our veterans are here, we often see changes in them and hear stories of changes when they return home.
Thanks to all for your support and Merry Christmas!

 

 

My kids’ school made Gold Stars in honor of Fallen Maine Heroes for Wreaths Across America Monday. We are honored to get to display SSGT. Houses’ on our tree. Thank you for your service and ultimate sacrifice. God bless and Merry Christmas to you all!…Dellas Nason

 

December 15th 2018

Wreaths Across America coordinated Christmas wreath~laying ceremonies at more than 1,400 locations across the United States, at sea and abroad. 

In many homes, there is an empty seat for one who is serving or one who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. There is no better time to express our appreciation than during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season……Wreaths Across America

 

Dave Stephens lays a wreath at his father’s grave, Harry L. Stephens, Air Force Korean War Veteran at the National Cemetery located in Bourne, MA.

Editor’s note: Nephew of Brenda, Dave also served our Country in the Air Force. My family roots are filled with generations of military service through every branch of the Armed Forces. Dave’s daughter Hollie Quinn and her husband Mike Quinn are both active duty Air Force.

Paul House Shares About Doe Tags and                    Moose Tag

December 7th: I have asked Inland Fisheries and Wildlife in Maine, more than once, about giving doe tags to some of our vets and the answer I always get is that it will have to go to legislature. The same when I ask for a moose tag for a purple heart vet, “it will have to go to legislature”. To be honest with you I am sick and tired of this for an answer. When some of our men and women that have been in combat and come back with missing limbs, post traumatic stress, traumatic brain injuries and other things and I simply ask for a handful of doe tags and a moose tag and all I get is “it will have to go to legislature”, to me this is not acceptable. I get the same old answer every time and nobody does anything about it. If you are a representative of the state of Maine and you really care about our veterans and helping our veterans heal through hunting, please contact me by messenger or by phone. My # is: 207-570-4806. My name is Paul House.

December 8th: Just wanted to let everyone know that after I posted about the deer permits and the moose tag, I have had three representatives and someone from SAMS contact me and said they want to see what they can do to help. I am going to be meeting with at least one of them next week and hopefully more.

December 12th: Myself, with two other vets who volunteer for House in the Woods and four representatives met late this afternoon to talk about the any deer permits and a moose tag. The any deer permits and moose tag will be going through the proper channels and will be in place when they begin the new session in January. It could be in March before a decision is made. Now it is wait and see what happens. If we need to testify when it comes up, I will be asking any vet or volunteer that has experienced a retreat at House in the Woods to testify how these retreats help. Again, I will keep you posted when something happens.

Thanks again!! Thank you to everyone for your support. I will keep you posted as we move forward on this project.

 

An Amazing Gift

Paul House shares: We have been trying to get land here in Maine for House in the Woods primarily for deer hunting for quite a few years and have been unsuccessful. Suddenly, this year, we have had a couple of families step up who are going to let us use their property for hunting. House in the Woods will have more options for deer and bird hunting beginning this year and years to come. This will benefit the veterans, wounded combat and those with PTSD to allow for great days of hunting closer to the lodge.

 

 Jeff and Kim Martin and family are graciously offering to let us use their five hundred acre farmland in St. Albans for our veterans to hunt through House in the Woods. St. Albans is approximate 1.5 hrs. Southwest of Lee.

Kim Martin (center) and her family.

Kim Martin shares: This past fall I met Paul House through a mutual friend, Veteran and Maine Guide, Becky Saulnier.  Becky had asked me if my family would give access to Paul House, his group of Maine Guides and the Veterans who travel to the House in the Woods lodge for hunting events. I immediately told Becky we would be honored to give permission.

Our family has a long history of Veterans who served our Country: my husband Jeff’s grandfather was a Marine who served in WWII, his uncle did two tours of duty in Vietnam in the US Army, receiving many awards and several Purple Hearts.

My son~in~law Kevin is a Marine who was with the Unit APS~12 (African Partnership Station). His ship was LSD#43, USS Fort McHenry. He was promoted to Corporal shortly after deployment. Kevin received  the Meritorious Mast Award for outstanding performance as an Amphibious Assault Vehicle Crew Chief.

Jeff and I raised our children Lindsey, Whitney, Erin and Wyatt on our operating dairy farm. After some years we sold our milking herd, opting to farm hay and corn and sell both which we continue to do.

It is our pleasure to open our land to Paul and House in the Woods and the Veterans who have sacrificed so much. We are looking forward to meeting each one who come to hunt.

 

In Stacyville, about 50 minutes Northwest of Lee, Dick and Barbara Pelletier and their very generous family have given us permission to us use their property of over one thousand acres for  deer and bird hunting .  They also donated and deeded a little over one hundred acres to House in the Woods for hunting!

Barbara and Dick Pelletier share: HITW is an amazing organization doing amazing things to honor and help heal our military veterans and their families, who have given so much. We and our sons, Luke and Dawson are more than happy to help in this way. Thank you to Mark Savage for connecting us with Paul House.

Thus, wonderful Christmas gifts were conceived! The epitome of “word of mouth”! These generous presentations stemmed from introductions to Paul House. Both originators of these introductions to House in the Woods are such strong supporters of recognizing, respecting and honoring our veterans. We cannot thank Becky and Mark enough for these introductions.

Paul House shares: I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am to be able to use this property for our veterans and active military. These two families have seen how important it is to give our men and women the opportunity to heal by using these properties.

I personally am so grateful for their generosity and can’t thank them enough for opening up this great opportunity to be able to do more for our heroes.

 

A Father’s Dream

I usually don’t share my dreams with too many people, but I had a busy morning and I came home and ate lunch and decided to take a nap on the couch. When I fell asleep I started to dream and Joel came home to visit us, and we were talking and hanging out like we always did. It was so good to see Joel again and hang out together as a family. We were all so happy, it was like old times. Things were back to normal again in my dream, it was such a great feeling and like we were whole again as a family. Then I turned around with my back to my family and my daughter Joy asked, dad why are you crying? And I said that I wasn’t crying, and that my eyes were just watering up, when in fact I was crying in my dream. Then I woke up and realized that Joel was not with us physically like old times, but was here in my dream and came to say hello. I was glad Joel came for a short visit even though when I woke up I was sad. These kinds of dreams are bitter sweet. We all need to make sure we use our days wisely, and never take our time on earth for granted, because none of us know what tomorrow will hold…….Paul House, Father of a Fallen Hero

Click the link:       If I could Be Where You Are

 

 

SSGT. Joel A. House, Son of Deanna and Paul House.

In loving memory……..

 

As we bid farewell to 2018 we thank each and every one of you who helped to make this year passing a wonderful year for House in the Woods. It is here, at our lodge, that we honor our veterans and their families’ sacrifices and assist them in their journey towards healing the mental and physical pain of loss. Without your help and support none of this would be possible. The donations of land, financial support and hours of volunteers speaks volumes of the character and steadfast resolve of the Maine folks.

Looking toward the new year, we invite you to take a ride to Lee.  Come have a hot coffee or tea with us as we would enjoy giving you a tour of the common areas and the many beautiful guest quarters as well as the Maine Guide bunk rooms.

Veterans and Combat Warriors currently serving our great Country, if this is the first time you have viewed our newsletter,  we hope that you will take some time to look back at each of the newsletters posted on the editor’s web page where you are currently reading. Perhaps  this new year you will be inspired that the lodge and all we offer at House in the Woods is the place that you will want to spend time with other brothers/sisters in arms attending one of our events. You are most welcome to bring your family!! ALL ACCOMMODATIONS AND MEALS ARE FREE TO EACH OF YOU INCLUDING YOUR FAMILIES.

Contact Paul House to confirm a room is available for a specific event. He can be reached at:

House in the Woods, 217 Skunk Hill Road, Lee, Maine 04455

Office: 207/738-4421            Paul’s Cell: 207/570-4806

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

 

 

January 16th, 2019

Maine Association of Mortgage Professionals (MAMP) is planning a fund raising social event at the Portland House of Music. 

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MAMP’S 2019 SOCIAL WITH A TWIST!

Don’t Miss Out

Sponsorship Opportunities

Click on our web link below for details of Gold, Platinum and Silver Sponsorship.

MAMP Fundraiser

Join us on January 16, 2019 at 5:30 PM ~ 7:30 PM for an evening of drinks, games, food, prizes, and fun at THE PORTLAND HOUSE OF MUSIC!

ALL TICKET PROCEEDS GO TO BENEFIT HOUSE IN THE WOODS

Event Ticket Includes One Free Drink

Full bar – Cash and Cards accepted

Portland House of Music, 25 Temple Street, Portland, ME 04101

At the Intersection of Temple and Federal

Food Provided By

Silly’s will be creating a special menu for the event.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE IT WILL BE AN AMAZING EVENING!

 

January 26, 2019 House in the Woods 9th Annual Ice Fishing Derby

WHERE: Great Pond Outdoor Adventures,  9 Dow Pines Road, Great  Pond, ME 04408 

 

GPS Coordinates 44.9533, -68.2822

COME JOIN US FOR A GREAT DAY OF FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!!

 

Join us for the 9th Annual House in the Woods fishing Derby on Great Pond in Great Pond Hancock County. The derby will start at 6:00 am with the final weigh~in at 3:30 pm. A huge crowd of people always show up!!

The entry fee for the derby will be $5.00 which includes fee for our fantastic prizes. 

Prizes for the heaviest fish will be the following:

Brown Trout: Jiffy Propane 10 inch Ice Auger…who doesn’t need this?

Small Mouth Bass: Wolf Muzzleloader…who doesn’t want this?

Pickerel: Loring pack basket with 5 Heritage ice fishing traps…who can’t use this?

 

Set your traps! One of these great prizes could be yours!


 

We also have a 50/50 raffle. Last year the 50/50 was $3600 with the lucky winner walking away with $1800. 50/50 tickets will be available starting at 5:00 AM on January 26th in the recreation center. They are $1.00 each.

 

We will have breakfast sandwiches bacon or sausage for sale. Lunch time we will have homemade beef stew, chili, red hot dogs, chili dogs, cornbread, many different kinds of sweets. For more information contact Judy Manzo at 207/584~2000

DERBY TICKETS FOR SALE AT:
Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center
Oneills Power Equipment, Holden
TBA, Bangor
Old Town Trading Post, Old Town
Dan Goddard, Air Guard Base, Bangor
Adam Morrow, Air Guard Base, Bangor
Al Morrow, Eddington, Maine
Paul House, Lee, Maine

Call Judy Manzo at 207/584~2000 at Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center or message on Facebook if you have any questions.

Great fun, great friends, for a great cause!

A Big Thank You to Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center For Hosting This Annual Cold, But Fun Filled Day!!

 

 

 

Be sure to dress warm! It can get windy and cold on that pond!!!

Catches big and small. It’s the fun of the catch that matters!!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighing In!!

 

 

 

   

Who will win the excellent prizes??

 

 

 

Family Fun Freezing Fishing!!

 Kids of all ages..and, yes their dogs!

 

 

 

 

 

 

The way to stay warm!!

 

Paul and Dee House founded House in the Woods after their son, Sgt. Joel A. House, was killed by a roadside bomb while serving in the Army in Iraq.

They dreamed of creating a program using Maine’s outdoor resources that would help military families support one another. Today that mission continues with the same determination as the day the first guest arrived!

House in the Woods was envisioned to honor all of America’s Fallen.

As editor and friend of House in the Woods, it is my humble opinion that Paul and Dee House, their family and many, many volunteers and steadfast, generous supporters have brought this dream to fruition.

Hundreds of Veterans and their families, from all walks of life have experienced the warm welcome, the love and respect and the healing from  the dedication of House in the Woods. 

We look forward to welcoming new friends in 2018. Please know that we love and honor each of you who unselfishly have served our country, and the family members who have experienced the loss of a brave warrior. 

Many of us know, first~hand such loss, and understand the emptiness in your heart. We invite you to our lodge in Lee, Maine where you can be with those who share your loss and understand. The calming of healing in the arms of Nature will carry each guest through the difficult times.

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

 

REMINDER: Accommodations and meals are free to all veterans and  family, active military and  family.

SUPPORTERS: House in the Woods has had some amazing supporters throughout this amazing project. To those who support our mission monthly and annually, we cannot thank you enough.

If you would like to help support this Veterans retreat by donating or holding a fundraiser, please contact us. You can also donate online by visiting our website:

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

House in the Woods, 217 Skunk Hill Road, Lee, Maine 04455

Office: 207/738-4421           

Paul’s Cell: 207/570-4806

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

We want to thank you all for your continued support and your enduring love and respect for all of our veterans, active military and those suffering the wounds of combat. To all of their families, please know we pray for each of you and the safety of your loved ones serving.

 

 

I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me ….Philippians 4:13

 

Thank you one and all for returning each month to read our newsletter. I thoroughly enjoy creating and sharing the news. Please be sure to send to a friend. The more we share the more newcomers will see inside House in the Woods……Happy, happy 2019……..Brenda Everson~Shaw 

 

 

November

 

November is a month in which we give thanks for so many generous and unselfish people throughout our great United States who give of their time and money to support our Veterans of all wars, our combat wounded and those suffering with PTSD.

Deanna House: It was such an honor to hear and meet Medal of Honor Recipient SSGT Ryan Pitts November 22nd at USM. His story gave me goose bumps. He is from New Hampshire. I hope he can join us for a HITW .

Thank you, USM Veterans Services, for bringing SSGT. Pitts to Maine.

 

 

Veteran’s Day USM Law School Lunchtime Panel

Deanna House, Director of Administration, House in the Woods, is attending Law School at USM. She was invited to be on the panel on Veterans Day talking about House in the Woods and her son, SSGT. Joel A. House.

The Law School observed Veteran’s Day with a lunchtime panel, The Spectrum of Experiences & Services of Veterans in the Maine Law Community featuring panelists, Professor Don Zillman, Mike Adams ’20, Kelsey Franklin ’21, Emily Bienek ’20, and Deanna House ’21. Dean Danielle Conway moderated the panel.

 

 

Paul House, Executive Director of House in the Woods shares:

I want to thank AHERO, a veterans organization located in Shorter, Alabama,who are helping veterans heal through hunting, fishing etc. In December two veterans through House in the Woods will be going to Alabama on a deer and hog hunt with AHERO, and they are providing everything for them on this trip. We at House in the Woods are so grateful for this organization that provides these kind of memories, as this trip is for a father and son who are both veterans.

A Hero USA

Pictured  below are just a few of our volunteers who have been by our side through thick and thin. Please see more pictures,at link below, of many volunteers who helped make the Black Bear Hunt such a success:

Bear Hunt Volunteers & Guests

This is where the wounded souls and bodies of combat warriors can feel “at home”. 

 

This is where our active military can come, while on leave, before returning to base or before being deployed overseas.  

  This is where veterans of all wars are honored in the most respectful and caring manner that is so deserving of their years of service.

This is where we continue to honor our brave warriors who paid, with their lives, for our freedom and liberties we enjoy each day. Those who are among the bravest of warriors from long ago and from just last week.

This is where many of the volunteers and supporters give of their time and financial support to be a part of honoring our military men and women from all 50 states.

 

This is where, together we heal !

 

 

Our volunteers interact with the veterans and their families attending the events . A great number of volunteers for House in the Woods are veterans themselves.

It takes a veteran to truly understand another veteran!

Since the inception of House in the Woods so many people have come forward as volunteers. Those who have that understanding of the military life, of our veterans and what they sacrificed, of our families who have found themselves with the title of Gold Star Families.

We are so blessed to have such a great, dependable and committed group of volunteers who all understand and believe in our mission.

Thankful by Josh Groban

Dinner Preparations!


The second annual Thanksgiving Dinner for Veterans and Community was held at our lodge. Approximately 90 meals were served to Veterans and community friends. None of this is possible without the team of volunteers we are blessed to have who step up to help with preparations and serving of the meals. The beautiful meal was an $8.00 donation per person with serving times of 2:00, 4:00 and 6:00 pm on Thanksgiving day. 

 

Wendy Voter: I believe we may have found our new thanksgiving tradition! Thank you Deanna House, Paul House, Becky, Diane, Zach and all the other great volunteers at House in the Woods veteran and family retreat. Thanksgiving dinner was delicious, the atmosphere warm and the friendly hospitality made us feel like family!! Love what this place represents and stands for. We were blessed to join you all today and can’t wait for next, maybe we will volunteer!

Lawrence Williams Vietnam Veteran

Lawrence shares: I was there at the lodge well before the 2 PM setting to hang out. They were kind enough to prepare two meals to go. My 15 mile drive home going dead West is a killer when the sun is setting so didn’t want to eat there. As it was, even at 2:30. I hit a couple real bad short stretches…These people, especially Dee and Paul, never cease to amaze me for all they do. Wish I was able to do more to help out. My take home meals were huge and super good. My thanks to all.

This is How It’s Done…….

One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well. ~Virginia Woolf

Dinner Chef

 

 

 

 

 

 

Serving Our Guests

 

 

 

 

 

 

Come Sit a While and Enjoy a Meal With Friends


 

 

 

      New and Old Friends Share Thanksgiving

 

 

The unthankful heart… discovers no mercies; but let the thankful heart sweep through the day and, as the magnet finds the iron, so it will find, in every hour, some heavenly blessings! ~Henry Ward Beecher

 

November is Military Family Appreciation Month

(Following editorial is Compliments of Military.com)

Military Family Appreciation Month is a time set aside to recognize you, the military family.

Military families know what it means to serve. Every day, you get up and support your service member, standing by during long trainings and deployments. You know the risks, but you accept this life of service anyway. Click link below:

Military.com

You know service is an honor.

You are the backbone of our military. You are the quiet, but steady fuel at home that keeps the fire burning. You keep track of military pay, benefits and news, because you know they make a daily difference in your life. And when your time as an actively serving family comes to an end, you support your veteran.

Serving is just what you do.

Traditionally, the president signs a proclamation recognizing that service and declaring November as Military Family Month. Over the month, families just like yours are honored and recognized for their commitment and contributions in support of our military and nation.

All of us at House in the Woods thank each and every family who lives the “military life”. You all are the backbone of our Nation. We honor you, love you and pray for each family member serving in the Armed Forces and the loved ones who remain steadfast at home. Click link below:

I Fought for YOU

Veterans’s Day Fundraiser for House in the Woods

From Megan Smith: This was an evening Saturday, November 10th to support House in the Woods as part of their Veteran’s Day Salute at the Italian Heritage Center.
 A very worthy cause and one that I was happy to help support.
Featuring The Carmine Terracciano Band. They were fantastic!

Paul, Megan Smith & Luke

 

                    Megan Smith and Nikki Cox

 

Sonia Brooks, Megan Smith & Meg Robinson 

 

Deanna House & Pam Foss St. Clair

We cannot express how generous and hard working the following people were in presenting a wonderful evening of celebration: Nikki Cox, Megan Smith, Meg Robinson, Sonia Brooks, Pam Foss St. Clair and the very talented Carmine Terracciano Band.

 

 

 

 

Fabulous Music Presented by Carmine Terracciano Band

What an extremely talented and fun group of artists who performed a great variety of music. If you haven’t had a chance to hear them, take an opportunity!

Carmine Terracciano Band

You can find them on Facebook at the above link.

                                 

Luke House, Paul House & Joel House

A great evening with old friends and new friends who gathered to support House in the Woods. We are so very thankful for the generosity of all who worked to create this event and those who attended. 

Following is a list of the donors for our silent auction celebrating Veterans Day at the Italian Heritage Center: Jamie Clark of Polarity Massage, Forrest Faulkingham Striper Fishing, Stone’s Restaurant, Maria’s Restaurant, Admiral Fire, Roe Ford, Flethcher Ford,Holy Donuts, Wine Tore, Fournier’s Karate, Anthony’s Italian Restaurant, Doke Photography, Dave Hardford Design, Reve Cycling, Jessica Candage Makeup Artist, Get Nailed Beauty Salon, Nash Designs, Michael Berube of Maine Virtual Tour Photography, Float Harder, Maine Warrior Gym.

 

December 1~2, 2018

A Ruger Silent Auction at Kittery Trading Post. All proceeds of this silent auction will be for House in the Woods. If you see these guys, please say thank you. 

We cannot thank Kittery Trading Post enough for holding such an exciting auction for us.

Kittery Trading Post, 301 US Route 1, Kittery, Maine

On Dec 1st and 2nd, Kittery Trading Post held their annual Ruger Weekend promotion. This is a very busy and successful firearms promotion they have been holding for several years. As part of this year’s promotion, they have acquired a Ruger 44 Carbine from Ruger’s vault.

This is an extremely sought after firearm. They held a silent auction which they began promoting around November 1st 2018 via their flyer, Facebook page, Ruger forums, and Ruger Facebook page. For those of you who know Rugers you will understand that there has been an outstanding interest in this auction!!

When the rifle was introduced in 1961, the company called it the Deerstalker, stamping the name on the receiver. In 1985, the Ruger 44 Carbine was discontinued due to its high production cost after nearly a quarter million of the rifles had been made. 

The winner ………..Steve Martel with the final bid of $1,800. Thank you Steve for bidding!

Kittery Trading Post wanted this promotion to benefit a worthy charity organization that works with wounded Veterans and reached out to House in the Woods. 100% of the proceeds of this auction will go to House in the Woods!

Dee and Joel at Kittery Trading Post with Assistant Manager, Josh Anderson

 

 

Joel and his Dad, Luke House at Kittery Trading Post

Thank you Kittery Trading Post!!

 

Words of Appreciation

Bill Dereszewski (center of photo) shares: On Veterans Day I would like to have people know what they could do to honor veterans right here in our state.
House in the Woods is located in Lee Maine. Paul House and his wife Deanna House run a facility that offers healing on so many levels for veterans and could always use help.
I’m sure you’ve heard of them, but I want to let people know what it is that they do.
I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Paul and his wife at a sportsman’s show a few years back and always thought what they did was honorable, but never fully knew until I further checked them out. When I did, and got to see for myself, I was in awe. It made me realize how lucky we were to have such a blessing right here in Maine. I saw for myself this is exactly what everyone should see not just on Veterans Day but 365 days a year, not to ever forget the sacrifices these soldiers made. I also saw  Paul and Deanna truly care and are exactly the perfect team to make this what it is.
I’m lost for words at the great works they do for veterans and their families and how welcoming and supportive they are. It’s because they understand in so many ways. As Veterans Day is marked on a calendar to them its 365/24/7……
PLEASE, check out House in the Woods and what they stand for.They take what we all want to do and make reality out of it for the soldiers and families.
For loved ones, past and present, in honor of them and our current, please find it in your hearts to let House in the Woods know we appreciate what they do and help anyway you can. Trust me when I say there is no better stewards for this cause and for what they do. Paul & Deanna Thanks for all you do!

Psalms 31:24 Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the LORD.

 

Christmas Greetings From Paul and Deanna House

Luke 2:11 King James Version (KJV)

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord.

To our dear friends and families who have been with us on this journey of building House in the Woods, we want to wish each of you a very Merry Christmas.

We have been so blessed to have hundreds of amazing men and women walk through the doors of the lodge. We have made lifelong friends of many who serve and have served our country and of the giving souls who lovingly volunteer for events.

It is through our faith in our Lord Jesus Christ that we have forged ahead with our dream of welcoming our son Joel’s military brothers and sisters to House in the Woods in remembrance of him and many others who made the ultimate sacrifice.

 

 

None of this would have been possible without our sponsors and financial supporters. We cannot thank each of you enough. But please know that we give thanks daily for all of you who have been so generous.

We hope that you can be with all your loved ones for this Christmas and ask that you pray for those who are serving our country thousands of miles apart from their families. Their sacrifices and their families sacrifices are for each American. 

House in the Woods

Christmas Care Packages for Our Soldiers

These are care packages that House in the Woods will be sending out to our men and women serving in Afghanistan. A big thank you to all who made this possible and prepared each one of these boxes.

A very special Thank you to Stacey Williams for hosting this special event.

Mail From Home

As the blessed season of our Savior’s birth approaches, and you are wishing all a Merry Christmas, please do not forget that there are so many of our United States service members who  have been deployed. These men and women are away from friends and family for the holidays.

Not everyone will be home for Christmas this year. Send some cheer and gratitude to our men and women who are deployed. Click link below.

Hallelujah Military Version

Not just at Christmas, but all year long!!

 

 

 

 

 

There’s no greater break from the day than to receive a letter or card from home. Something that can be carried in their pocket to be read often, touching apiece of home. 

 

 

                                                    

There are thousands of troops over seas who will not be home for Christmas. Contact your local VFW to ask how you can send some Christmas cheer, either a package or some cards, to our brave men and women warriors who serve every day. Click link below:

Letters From Home

As editor of the monthly newsletter I would like to extend my personal Christmas greetings and gratitude to Paul and Deanna House for their boundless energy and commitment to their vision of House in the Woods.

To all volunteers new this year and those who have been with us since the concept of a veterans lodge, thank you for sharing your time and honor with our veterans and giving of your gifts of lending a hand.

To the steadfast businesses, families and individuals who have donated in 2018 to such a great nonprofit organization I say; your gifts are so vital to our ability to provide events for the veterans and active military. 

Without all of you as individuals and a collective vision, there would not be a lodge in the wood of Lee, Maine.

It is a privilege to be able to put together the many pictures and stories of moments shared at House in the Woods. Veterans and military are near and dear to my soul…….Merry Christmas one and all. Please continue to pray for our military families, those deployed and those who paid the ultimate price. Thank you for visiting my website link below.

Brenda Everson~Shaw

Holiday Shopping

Greetings one and all! If you are new to the House in the Woods Newsletters, I would like to introduce myself. My name is Brenda Everson~Shaw.

I have had the privilege, for nearly three years, to create the monthly newsletters. I attempt to gather pictures that reflect the moments shared by veterans and active military who walk through the doors of the lodge.

I’ve had the honor to interview many of the veterans and  men and women currently serving our great United States who have been guests at the beautiful lodge in Lee, Maine. I have also been able to share some backstories of the fabulous volunteers who tirelessly give many hours to help make the accommodations and meals at HITW an amazing experience, whether it’s a few days of fishing or a week of hunting in the wood of Maine.

Christmas will be here very soon. Shopping has begun by many. Black Friday is creeping up on us when the brave and bold step out among the many to find the perfect deal. Yet, many of us prefer the convenience of shopping online. Perhaps you are a fan of Cyber Monday. I tend to shy away from that as it seems everyone who prefers to skip Black Friday hops on the Cyber Monday train. Yikes!! It can get tough to grab that one day special!

 

Like so many worldwide, some of us connected with House in the Woods love the ease of Amazon shopping. It can be done any time within the 24 hours of a day. It doesn’t get much easier.

Today it is my hope to inspire you to think of House in the Woods this Christmas season. I am not a fundraiser thus am not asking for a big donation…..but, of course if the spirit moves you to do so…PLEASE DO!! So many have and we cannot thank you enough!

I am sharing with you a simple way to be a part of House in the Woods while you sit in front of your computer at work or on your iPhone while waiting for the kids to get out of basketball practice or with your iPad on your lap in the comfort of your home, remembering that one person you forgot to put on your shopping list. 

 

 

Just log in!

House in the Woods would like to share with you a way to donate to our nonprofit Veterans lodge while you shop during the holiday season.  We are listed on Amazon Smile as a nonprofit that you can choose.

EVERY purchase you make through Amazon 0.5% of the purchase will go directly to House in the Woods. The one simple step you need to take is to log on to Amazon and designate House in the Woods as your charitable organization of choice. Once that has been done, going forward you simply log in to smile.amazon.com. 

Personally I have found when I sometimes forget to login in through Smile, Amazon immediately reminds me in upper left corner…would I like to shop through Amazon Smile.

 

What is AmazonSmile?

AmazonSmile is a website operated by Amazon that lets customers enjoy the same wide selection of products, low prices, and convenient shopping features as on Amazon.com. The difference is that when customers shop on AmazonSmile (smile.amazon.com), the AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the price of eligible purchases to the charitable organizations selected by customers.…Courtesy of Amazon

 

Amazon Smile

 

 

Now, you might be thinking that 0.5% is certainly not a huge amount. But, if you shop numerous times throughout the year with Amazon it adds up. It is NOT just for the holiday season. This is a year~round program. I am reminding you during the holiday season as we all know it is the busiest shopping time of the year.

House in the Woods was gifted nearly $1,000 last year by shoppers who designated House in the Woods as their choice for a charitable organization through Amazon.

We’ve all seen these familiar packages in our neighborhoods! They fill the UPS and FedEx trucks worldwide! They even come through your postal delivery.

Just think…simply by designating House in the Woods as your charitable organization through Amazon Smile…you could very well help increase that 0.5% amount. For veteran nonprofits every dollar gifted in any manner helps a wonderful lodge such as House in the Woods provide a respite for our combat wounded and their families.

 

HOUSE IN THE WOODS

 

Thank you very much for your time and consideration of how you can assist House in the Woods while getting your shopping done from the comfort of your home.

I want to wish you and yours a Happy Thanksgiving and a very Merry Christmas! May you be blessed with those you love. If you have military serving who cannot make it home, I personally know how difficult that can be.  We love and honor all our Veterans, active military and all Gold Star Families.