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

Happy Fathers’ Day

thanks DadHappy Fathers’ Day!

 June 18th 2017

 

Happy Father’s Day to our Military Dads

 

wwii-us-navy-sailor-and-son-historic-imageFathers who are serving our military far from home have a mission to accomplish every day. All too often uncertainty fills their days, but they have done their best to prepare their children (of all ages) that the entire family is on a mission. Dads know that it’s not just them who is serving our country…it is his wife, his children and grandchildren alike.

It takes a special family and those of us at House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat thank each and every family who serves! We are proud of your Dads who are far away!

 

letters

~ A young man’s letter to his soldier Dad ~

teen writing letterHi Dad,

Miss you Dad! You may not be here every day like I wish you could be. But you taught me to be strong, to love God and country, to be respectful and always stand for our flag. You taught me that a man gives a strong and grateful handshake.You taught me that is was okay for a man to cry. I hope you remembered that when I cried when you hugged me goodbye before leaving this time!

Purchase this image at http://www.stocksy.com/556712You taught me how to put that worm on the hook, how to skip stones across the pond, how to love Nature, how to tie my boots and to be respectful to others. You taught me to always hold the door for ladies, veterans and the elderly.

 

skipping stonesYou asked me not to worry and to take care of Mom and my little sister. You asked me to rake the yard and make sure all the doors are locked at night. You asked me to be loyal to friends and family and you asked me to pray for you and your troops every night. You asked me to work hard in school and to have a lot of fun with friends.

Boots flag & tags 2Sometimes I wish you just had a regular job like Bob’s father, but Bob’s father doesn’t wear dog tags and combat boots.

I’m telling you that I love you Dad. I’m telling you that you really are the best man in the world. I’m telling you that you can depend on me, but I’m telling you to come home safe to us as soon as you can. I’m telling you that I want to be just like you when I grow up!

I love you and miss you Dad……Happy Fathers’ Day……Love, Matt

 

Happy Father’s Day to our Military Dads

soldier with young daughterWe thank every Dad who is away from his children, not just on Fathers’ Day, but every day. Thank you for your sacrifice and your service to our country.

 

                                                soldier and yong son

 

 

I’ll be back soon…I promise!

US-flag-and-bible-crossWe pray for all our troop and their families each and every day.

 

We can never thank you enough for your service, but please let us try by visiting us at House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat. All lodging and meals are free to all military personnel and veterans alike!

 

~A little tip for Dad’s who getting ready for deployment~

Our-Deployment-Jar3I read of an idea for a soldier dad to leave his child when he is deployed: fill a container full of Hershey’s Kisses that equal the number of days you are deployed. Your child takes one Kiss out of the container each day while you are gone as a small token of your love for him or her….A Kiss From Daddy

 

friends-helpingWithout the support of our community and friends from far and wide, none of this would be possible!! Thank you for supporting House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat and all our combat wounded, our active military and their families and our veterans.

~Together We Heal~

HANDSHouse in the Woods Military & Family Retreat

House in the Woods

 

thank you

 

 

Widows Sons LogoThe motorcycle group, Widows Sons Masonic Riders, Wayfarers Chapter members and friends Motorcycle Ride-In on May 28th brought them to Lee to tour House in the Woods and present us with a gift of financial support.

 

sons of widows group shotThankful-greatful

sons of widows check presentation

Widows Sons presented a gift to Paul and Deanna House for House in the Woods.

sons of widows bike shot 2

 

 

 

 

sunbury village logo

Sunbury Village, a beautiful independent lifestyle in a hospitable community  located in Bangor, Maine held their 4th Annual Memorial Day Fundraiser benefiting House in the Woods and Maine Troop Greeters. This is a community that loves and supports our veterans and military families.

Sunbury Antique Car Show 2Beautiful antique cars, classic cars, awesome items for raffle tables and a scrumptious barbecue filled the day with some great friends, new and old, and wonderful residents of beautiful Sunbury Village.

Sunbury antique carsWe thank you for seeing the value in our therapeutic, recreational and educational retreat for our combat wounded, their families and veterans of all wars. Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.

 

Sunbury Village Pau, Dee & friends

Paul and Deanna House, Nancy and Tom Small. Unwavering supporters of our military!

 


 Sunbury Village Antique Car Show

They don’t make them like they used to!!

 

 

 

thank you2

 

 

Darlings logo

Darlings Auto Mall

Per Jay Darling, president of Darling’s Auto;  In memory and support of all of our nation’s veterans and active duty military personnel, we will be donating $100 for every vehicle sold at all Darling’s locations between May 20th to May 31st $100 per car sold. to one of these local nonprofit organization that serves our nations heroes:

House in the Woods, Maine Troop Greeters, Maine Veterans Project, The Travis Mills Foundation, and The Betsy Ann Ross House of Hope.

Upon purchase of an automobile Darlings Auto asks the customer to choose the nonprofit to whom they would like the donation to be given. This has been a huge success for each of these nonprofits. In May of 2016 the same promotion raised $26,000 for Maine veterans-related charities.

 

Bangor-Savings

House in the Woods is proud to be a $5,0000 Community Matters More winner.

On behalf of those we serve, we thank you for your vote.

 

Community matters more

 

 

 

 

 

Thank-You-Photo-1

fun

Lake Ontario Fishing Adventure~

hattrick_logoJune 5-8th sixteen veterans ventured with House in the Woods to Oswego, NY for some fabulous fishing with Hat Trick Charters.

What a great bunch of guys. From dinners to ice cream to 9 hours on the road, and of course, to the 2 days of fishing on Lake Ontario.  Everyone had fun, laughed, and made new friends. Thanks to all who support House in the Woods who helped us make this trip possible. This year we were joined by Warriors@45North, our partner agency from NH.

 

Ontario fish 3Fishing is never better than with friends!

 

Ontario fishing

 

 

 

 

 

Ontario fishing ice cream

But, ice cream with friends comes in second place!!Ontario fishing ice cream2

 

 

upcoming events

 

Kayaking & Canoeing

 

June 22nd~25th:  U.S. Veteran’s Rowing & Kayaking of Connecticut will be accompanying six visually impaired veterans as guests of House in the Woods.

They will spend their days traversing the rivers and ponds in Lee and the surrounding area.

U.S. Veteran’s Rowing & Kayaking Program is a non-profit volunteer organization based in Connecticut and serves all military veterans in the East Coast region that suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and other health related issues. A great organization for those who are visually impaired and would otherwise not be learning to navigate a kayak or canoe.

 

spaghetti-dinner_0June 22nd: House in the Woods is holding a spaghetti dinner at the new lodge, House in the Woods, for U.S. Veteran’s Rowing & Kayaking Program to help defray their cost of transporting guests and gear to this event.

Public welcome!! Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m. Come join us and see who’s doing the cooking!!!

 

 

musical-notes

HITW LogoJune 24th: Band Together for Veterans

Join us for a concert fundraiser at Mt. Jefferson ski area in Lee, Maine to Benefit the House in the Woods! This event is a Multi-Band concert featuring Maine Headliners:

 

Magic Bus ~ A WHO Tribute band, Piranha Brothers, Bandwich, Say What?, Jamie Barton and more!

Special guests, Karen and Morrill Worcester from Wreaths Across America and local dignitaries will be in attendance.

Matrix Music Productions has graciously donated the Mt. Jefferson Ski Area as a venue to hold this event. Buy your tickets and come enjoy some great music, a beautiful location and support a tremendous cause..House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat!!!  Purchase Tickets

We hope you will join us to make this a tremendously successful day!

pine trees

June 26th~29: Maine Registered Guide School

Registered-Maine-Guide-PatchTo be rescheduled. We will broadcast new date.

Instructor, Carol Ware joins Paul House. Students are are instructed and readied for the Hunting, Fishing and/or Recreation guides license examination.

Carroll-Ware-300x225Carol Ware (left), Registered Maine Guide Instructor.

This course builds top notch map and compass proficiency, and equips students to react quickly and efficiently during stressful situations, such as a lost client or medical emergency. Students will also become better woodsman. They will gain knowledge on a variety of subjects from map reading, navigation, boating, hunting, species identification and countless other topics. Participants will also be given a wealth of information on starting and running a guiding business which we have gained through two decades of experience.

pine trees

July 1 from 12 – 4 pm:  rock freedom Joel

Sgt. Joel A. House Beach and Barbecue Day. 

Joel was buried on July 3, 2007. This is the 10th anniversary. Deanna & Paul House host a FREE barbecue fundraiser at the public beach on Silver Lake in Lee, ME.  We have a 20 plus prize raffle that includes an Old Town canoe and a muzzle loader. Proceeds go to the Sgt. Joel A. House Summer Camp Scholarship Fund. Sgt. Joel A. House Summer Camp

We also host a Pie-in-the-Face auction that can be hilarious.  Join our Facebook page at http://facebook.com/ sgtjoelhouse to see photos from previous years.

Justin and son pie in face          Justin pie in face from sonHey Dad, One good turn (pie) deserves another!

Justin pie in face results

RED STARSPECIAL EVENT

 

you're inivted3

We are so excited!!

The day has arrived….

to invite you to join us in celebrating the Open House for the lodge and offices of House in The Woods Military & Family Retreat!!

 

~July 8th, 2017 OPEN HOUSE~

For details please click over to the tab Military & Veterans, click on Newsletters where you will find Open House Invitation. You will find lots of additional information. Plus take a moment to read the other newsletters created for House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat.

We hope you can join us to see the beautiful lodge built to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Meet the people who brought House in the Woods to fruition, meet the many tradesmen who built the lodge, meet the volunteers who jump in at a moment’s notice, and meet some of the donors and sponsors who have made this possible. Perhaps, as a combat wounded warrior, veteran or active military, you will be our guest as one of our upcoming events.

 

LodgeWe are a community from all walks of life who honor and love our veterans and active military.

welcome lodgeDrop in July 8th between the hours of 10:00 a.m.~8:00 p.m.

 

HITW Logo217 Skunk Hill Road, Lee, Maine 04455

Email: Deanna House, Director of Administrative Services

deanna.house@houseinthewoods.org

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up…….Galatians 6:9

Happy Fathers Day type for card or ad.

Soldier praying

Volunteers You can help House in the Woods.  Volunteering is a great way to support our lodge. One day, one week or a month. We have a great force of volunteers with a wide-range of skills, but we are always grateful for more help. Perhaps you are kicking around some ideas for summer vacation. Maine is fabulous in the summer!! If you have some free time and want to teach your children about honoring those who serve, join us for a day or a few hours by volunteering your time. Everyone has a useful skill that can be of service.

Contact Deanna House, Director of Administrative Services

deanna.house@houseinthewoods.org

207-738-4421

insignias

Open House Invitation

you're inivted3

House in the Woods Military and Family Retreat

 

 

open house

July 8th, 2017

10:00 a.m. ~ 8:00 p.m.

217 Skunk Hill Road

Lee, Maine 04455

Tel: 207~738~4421

Part of architectural project, blueprint and close upThe dream has become   a reality!

 

HITW Logo

We are so excited!!

The day has arrived….

to invite you to join us in celebrating the Open House for the lodge and offices.

 

From a “hole in the ground” to…….

construction siteA beautiful lodge…….

where our weary warriors and their families can rest and commune with their comrades from all branches of the Armed Forces.

Lodge

Here they can relax, breathe in the fresh Maine air and smell the pines while enjoying hunting, fishing, and therapeutic recreational programs throughout the year.

Canoe on shoreThis is truly build it and they will come!

This is how the House and Emery families are honoring their sons.

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~

 

American Flag 1~ In an instant everything changed: and it was never the same again……..~

 

Soldiers crossFor those readers who are new to postings of House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat the following will acquaint you with how it all began.

Two hometown boys who loved the wood of Maine and loved living in the small town of Lee.

 

gold star bannerTwo families from Lee, Maine became Gold Star Families in 2007.

 

Dee and Paul

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 in June 23, 2007.

They dreamed of creating a program using Maine’s outdoor resources that would help military families support one another.

 

Sgt. Joel new picSgt. Joel A. House

 

gold star banner

 

Bill & Quie Emery

Bill and Quie Emery are the parents of Sgt. Blair Emery who made the ultimate sacrifice on November 30, 2007 in Iraq.

The Emerys learned first hand the power of being comforted by other Gold Star Family members when Blair was memorialized just five months after Joel.

blairSgt. Blair Emery

pine cone border

COMRADESPlease, come join us! We look forward to seeing each of you on July 8th between 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Lee may be a small town but we are on the map and GPS.

Call us with any questions: 207~738~4421.

House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat

217 Skunk Hill Road

Lee, Maine 04455

45.3601° N, 68.2864° W

 Service members salute the American flag during a retreat ceremony Oct. 2, 2014, at Little Rock Air Force Base, Ark. The four military members represented each branch of the U.S. military and assembled to show solidarity. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel)

 

April, Month of The Military Child

AprilDandelion2

~The Dandelion~

She will blow and blow
But will never know
Where the little dandelion will go
Where the little dandelion will grow.
The wind takes it high
The wind takes it low
But still she will never know
Where the little dandelion will go
Where the little dandelion will grow.
~Chelsea~

Dandelion2

“Children of the world, blown to all corners of the world,                   we bloom anywhere!”    

~Diane Townsend Davis~

The Unsung Heroes

In 1986 Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger designated April as the Month of the Military Child  to recognize and honor the service of our youngest heroes, our military kids…often called Military Brat.

chris-kids-homecoming

Dad or Mom gets deployed which potentially means another move for the whole family.  These kids are leaving best buddies, their Little League team, their favorite soccer field, and a house they “really liked” and enroll in another new school. They are proud of their parent who is serving, but they miss them every day.  Their military parent is gone months and, sometimes, off and on, years.

Dad is not there for dinner, not there to help with the science project or to attend the ball practice or school play, not sitting with the family in church. Instead, Dad is in Iraq or Afghanistan….or some other weird named country too far away. But these kids can tell you how many months, weeks, days, hours and seconds until Dad’s plane lands at the base or his ship docks.

soldiers feetThese are some of the most adaptable and resilient kids around! They have to be.  Every year or two they might be asked to start over in a new city, a new state and, sometimes, even a new country.

we're movingIf you know of a military family who has relocated to your town or neighborhood, please make it a point to welcome them and show them the sincere respect they deserve. When a military parent is serving the kids are serving too. Their whole life is a sacrifice for our freedom!!

Take a moment to look at the following informational booklet:Everyone Serves.

If you are a civilian who has never endured the military separation from a family member, I highly recommend you still read this handbook. It will give you a tremendous amount of insight into the deployment cycle. You may also gain some valuable tips as to how you can extend a hand to our military families.

An excerpt from the book: Your dad is heading out for yet another deployment, which means he won’t be around for your basketball games or for your sister’s soccer games. Plus, you’ll have more chores and more responsibilities. You’re struggling with a range of emotions: dread, pride, sadness, and maybe even a little resentment. Welcome to the emotional roller coaster called the deployment cycle.

From the CEO of Blue Star Families: No matter if this is your first, third or seventh time, deployment is an intense and unusual part of our lives. I urge you to spend time with this great resource, and take care of yourself.
— Kathy Roth-Douquet, CEO, Blue Star Families

Acknowledge the kids…the Unsung Heroes, the Military Brat and attempt to understand what it must be like to have your Mom or Dad away in some foreign country while you and your family are moving into another new neighborhood. If you have children in your family I ask that you encourage them to welcome the military children. They have some excellent…and some sad…adventures they can share with your kids. Just as your kids can share the local “awesome places” to go fishing or skate boarding. The kids of military parents may have lived in another country or on the “coolest Marine base” around!! Their Dad may fly awesome fighter jets or Mom might be in Intelligence unit or control drones. First and foremost; pray for these families!

PrayingHands_AmericanFlagChances are someone in your friends & family network was raised as a Military Brat. Some in my family were.Take a moment to ask them what it really was like for them.

There is a nonprofit organization called Blue Star Families. Their mission: strengthening military families and connecting America to its’ military. Take a moment to visit their website. They can also be found on Face Book.

I was introduced to this organization by a member of my extended family who is a Regional Director of Blue Star Families. Her husband is Navy, their three young unsung heroes have been military forever!

Most civilians have no idea of this organization and I want to make you, the reader and supporter of our military, aware of this great group who help military families acclimate and assimilate!

Blue_Star_Families_logo

If it takes a village to raise a child, it takes a nation to support its’ military.

Dandelion2

~ Support Our Military…Loud and Proud ~

 

House in the Woods Military and Family Retreat often has attendees who bring their spouses and their kids to share in the events. We are steadfast supporters of these families. We fully comprehend their lifestyle and their losses. We honor them and are here to help them.

father & son1Our events provide the families a time to spend together with other veterans and active duty military in an outdoor adventure. A relaxed atmosphere and often educational time in nature that they will never forget. We always make these kids aware of how proud we are of them and thank them for their service as our Unsung Heroes.

Kids ice fishing

 

 

 

 

Time with family in the great outdoors through House in the Woods events!!

 

Boat fishing

 

 

 

Pine Cones

SPRING-CLEANING2

 

Spring cleaning

I’m sorry, but cleaning is never fun, but one of life’s necessities!

Yet, this is one of those times we are happy to be doing our first “spring cleaning” of our new lodge, House in the Woods. The task began this week. Clearing out the sawdust from construction, at 15 foot (plus) high ceilings, was a challenge, but we are getting very close to opening the doors to our guests. Thanks to all the volunteers who answered the call for help!! We want it spotless!!

Volunteer cleaners1Ask and you shall receive….when Paul House put the message out, volunteers showed up at the lodge to help with the task of cleaning! We have the Best of the Best in Maine!!

Jeremy, Rachel, Andrew, Lydia, and David. (Not shown Carol and Rick.)

 

Volunteer cleaner2

 

But did Paul work them too hard?? No…everyone needs a break. Take five where you are!!

 

Volunteer cleaner3

 

All of these great volunteers actually DID work. Touch-up painting, vacuuming and dusting…all over the lodge!! Paul just stole their shoes to make sure they didn’t leave!!

 

 

Thank-You-Heart

 

Great room    With each day we are closer to holding our first events at our beautiful lodge for our combat wounded, all veterans and active military. We will soon be broadcasting the actual open house date soon. But first there is the…..

punch listThe Infamous PUNCH LIST!!

As with any construction, residential or commercial, the inevitable punch list is handed over. We have some great contractors attacking it. Soon folks….soon, the occupancy permit will be in hand!!! We certainly have learned a lot and the Lord has been generous in sending us so many supporters, donors of construction materials, labor and financial support.

 

HITW LogoWhere together, we heal!

House in the Woods

We cannot wait to welcome our all our veterans of all wars and active military to our lodge where each will find rest, recreation and educational activities in the outdoor wilderness of Maine.

 

Fishing in chairOur lodge and all our outdoor events are ADA compliant for the needs of our combat wounded. You will traverse the trails and waters with ease. At the lodge your nights will be peaceful in our suites. Days spent in the Maine fresh air will be all you will need to drop off to sleep!

 

Camp fire 1After a great dinner at day’s end and a campfire in the evening, you will be telling yourself and your family that you must return again. Perhaps for the August thru September black bear hunt or a moose hunt.

REMEMBER: You are NOT required to be a Maine resident. ALL are invited from ALL 50 United States. All accommodations and meals are at NO COST for our event participants.

 

Pine Cones

HOUSE IN THE WOODS MILITARY & FAMILY RETREAT

217 Skunk Hill Rd, Lee, ME 04455 

Archt. Plans1From Conception….

 

 Exterior HITWTo completion…….

Lodge

 

 

 

Pine ConesInterior window viewLots of bright sunshine and fresh Maine air will be coming through these windows. Beautiful wood flooring!

 

 

 

Ceiling

Ceiling of the Great Room where our guests will gather. Gorgeous wood walls!

 

 

NONE OF THIS WOULD HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT OUR STEADFAST SUPPORTERS AND A COMMUNITY WHO STANDS BEHIND OUR MISSION.

 

thankful for youPine Cones

Mike Mathieu Paul & DeePaul House and Turbo (Super Tracker). Dee House and  Mike Mathieu.

March 17th was a great morning on local radio with Mike Mathieu and Phil Bolduc from Neocraft Signs, talking with Matt and Bonnie from W105.5FM radio to update the radio station’s listeners of the progress made at the lodge.  Mike Albert from A & A Hardware and Sue Donovan from Donavan’s Auto also joined us.  Click to listen goo.gl/XuxSfi

Thank you everyone for letting us share the great work being done for our veterans. Radio coverage in Maine helps us get the word out more often regarding our military and family retreat.

We are excited that Neocraft is donating the front sign for our building and the braille signage for interior of the lodge.

Neokraft sginNeokraft Signs put this HUGE banner of House in the Woods on the side of their building. We thank Neokraft for supporting House in the Woods!!

Sue Donovan and Mike Albert are spearheading an awesome golf tournament to benefit House in the Woods at to be held Monday, May 22, 2017 at 9:00 a.m. at Martindale Country Club in Auburn, Maine. Come join us for an excellent day of golf and to help support our veterans retreat lodge.

April Golf Tournment

Pine ConesMacysA wonderful donation from Macy’s Bangor store: queen size beds for our guest suites at the lodge! Sadly, the Bangor location is closing its’ doors, but we are so grateful for their generous donation of beds for the guest suites at the lodge.

thank you2More In-kind Donations for House in the Woods!!

During the construction of our military and family retreat we have had many in-kind donations. The following is another example of the amazing people and organizations who have stepped up and shouted, count me in!!!

Maine State PrisonRandall Liberty, Warden of Maine State Prison since 2015 had a project for some of the inmates in the Woodworking Shop: create dressers and nightstands for each of the suites at House in the Woods.

Night standPerfect style for a lodge in the woods!! How great is this!!

 

Pine ConesDresserWarden Liberty has been working with veteran causes after his discharge from active duty. At the Maine Prison he created a veterans block for those who served in our country’s military and, through some hard times, became incarcerated.

Randy served 21 years between the Army and Army National Guard. He has traveled throughout out country as an advocate for veterans dealing with PTSD. Randy created a documentary, A Matter of Duty which you can find at this link: A Matter of Duty

Liberty’s last assignment was in 2004 as the Command Sergeant Major of a Military Transition Team, Team Bulldog, embedded with 772 Iraqi Infantryman in the City of Fallujah.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERATEAM BULLDOG. Front row L to R, second soldier is Command Sergeant Major Randall A. Liberty

You lose guys. It changes you forever….. ~ Randall Liberty ~

As a citizen of the United States, where we enjoy a fantastic amount of freedom, you may not agree about sending our men and women off to war, but is it not our moral duty to support these brave souls when they reintegrate? These are the individuals who step up to assure our freedom continues while we go day-to-day worrying about how to get that next raise at work, how to get a day off with pay and how to get our kids to baseball practice on time. These are the men and women in the Armed Forces who are often on their second or third deployment. They are the ones leaving their Unsung Heroes (their military kids) behind.

Pine Cones

Handcrafted From Nature 

17436169_1703562849659629_729438669658470326_oThank you to Mike Thurlow for this beautiful, rustic birch burl seat.  When you stop in at the lodge, to visit us at House in the Woods, you can get the full story of this fabulous handcrafted sculptured chair. A generous, unique piece of decorative art created by Mike. 

Pine ConesBangor Bear Paws Quilters Present Beautiful Quilts to House in the Woods

QuiltsThese gorgeous quilts for House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat were lovingly crafted by Maine’s Bangor Bear Paws Quilters. Each quilt represents a branch of our armed forces. What a perfect gift for the new beds for the guest suites at the lodge!

Thank you so very much for your beautiful artwork and long hours of stitching.

thank you quilt

Pine Cones

Let Us Introduce You to A Great Friend of House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat……

~ The Summit Project ~

Summit Poject logo
The Summit Project (TSP), is a Maine based, volunteer run and supported nonprofit service organization started in 2013. Unlike any project in America, it collects stories and stones that uniquely represent the country’s fallen heroes and allows the communities they died for to honor them through action. The Summit Project

 

 

David Summit ProjectMajor David J. Cote

Major David J. Cote is a Marine Corps officer, an Iraq war veteran and a proud native Mainer.  Over Memorial Day 2013, he officially created The Summit Project.  He launched the website and visited Maine to publicly share a vision for a unique project to honor and sustain the memories of Maine’s newest war casualties and the faithful spirit of all Mainers — of whom 1 in 7 are veterans, among the highest concentrations in the nation.

The Summit Project, a nationally recognized, Maine based, 501(c)3 service organization, is a living memorial that pays tribute to the fallen service members from Maine who have died in the line of duty since September 11, 2001.

Volunteers learn about a fallen hero from Maine and then elect to carry his or her memorial stones in ongoing tribute treks across the world. Already the memorial stones and memories of our fallen have traversed America and even summited the peaks of Mt. Everest and Mt. Kilimanjaro.

One of the most important parts about TSP is that volunteers make an effort to learn about the fallen hero whose stone they carry. They then commit to writing a letter to the family of the fallen as a reflection of their experience. TSP volunteers have told us that carrying these stones has helped them understand what it was like to serve, what it means to serve and what it means to sacrifice for something greater.

 

Mountain2

As many of our regular readers of this monthly newsletter know, House in the Woods was conceived by Paul and Deanna House after losing their son Joel in Iraq. Blair Emery, a friend of Joel was also killed in Iraq a few months later. The following are just a few statements from some of the people who have carried their stones. At House in the Woods we honor all of the brave warriors who lost their lives in battle. When you visit The Summit Project website The Summit Project you will (sadly) see the long list of our military men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

Sgt. Joel A. House

joelI feel honored to have carried Joel’s stone. I felt very proud to know that this brave hero was in my hands. We climbed Table Rock Mountain, and even though it was hard, Joel brought me right back up every time I got tired. He gave me a mission. This non-profit program is the best part of all! You are giving Joel a second chance at life., Thank you very much!…… ~ Love, Abby

Mountain1It was an honor to carry Joel up the mountain. I know he would have done this hike as well, if he could. I think he was a very special man with a kind heart. Your family is amazing doing this non-profit program. I couldn’t imagine having a relative pass away and getting over it. You are all very strong and I hope you know that you’re doing a good thing by him with this stone. I will always carry his legacy…. ~ Love, Morgan

Mountain4It was a great honor to carry the stone of Joel House. It was also a learning experience. As a young child my Dad went to Iraq and it never really clicked that he might not come back. Thankfully my Dad came home, but I am sorry that Joel did not. I cannot even begin to understand your pain and loss and the struggles that you go through but I would still like to offer my small words of apology for the loss of such a great young man. I wish you all the best………~ Sincerely, Richard

 

Mountain5Sgt. Blair Emery

blairChristine Starkey and I, Patriot Riders both, were honored to care for the memory of SGT Blair W. Emery, via an engraved stone, selected by his family, from Portland to Millinocket, during The Summit Project’s initial event. Arriving by motorcycle at our destination, we transferred that stone to his Dad. As a Dad, I cannot fathom the grief that Mr. Emery endures. As a Veteran, I know all too well the sacrifices our servicemen and women, and their families, make in service to America. AGS, SGA.
Rest in God’s arms, SGT. We’ve got it from here…~ Dennis Murphy

Pine ConesIt was a great honor to carry Army Sgt. Blair W. Emery’s stone to the summit of Cadillac Mountain on October 4th 2014. Before the hike I was able to learn a little bit about this great man and who he was. After meeting his parents, Quie and Bill Emery I learned even more about him and feel we would have been great friends. We shared a lot of the same interests and were both the babies in our families, each having two older sisters.
A friend comes to the side of those in need and joins you in many adventures throughout life. This hike was an adventure I will never forget and Blair’s stone represented a good friend. When the rain and wind came pouring down I had him on my mind and in my heart and that enabled me to continue on……….When we reached the summit I was proud to tell his story to the others who had made this journey and was proud to know that it may have affected them even in some small way. He seemed like a wonderful man that could make anyone laugh. Listening to his stories brought a smile to my face as it did to the others I told…….

It is hard to explain in words the emotions and pride that I felt by participating in this event. I met so many wonderful people who all gathered to celebrate and honor the noble deeds that these men and women did for their country. I will forever remember this experience and the people I met along the way. The love, generosity and strength were abundant among all. “I never knew how strong I was, until being strong was the only option.” God bless all our troops and their families….. ~ Lindsay Richards

Pine ConesI was so honored to carry Army Sgt. Blair W. Emery’s stone up Borestone Mountain going into the climb that i had made before, but doing it in the winter with snow shoes was a lot harder then before. Going up I was thinking about Sgt. Blair and what I had read about him he seemed like a very nice man who was loved by his family and friends. Once I reached the top we were asked to talk about the solider we had picked and when it came my turn to talk it was hard for me to put into words who Sgt. Blair was mostly because words can’t describe how great or kind a man really is. He loved baseball and almost was loved by everyone he came in contact with. It was cool to also read about how he found the stone when he was 5 years old, and after using it as a door stop for most of the stones life the entire family decided to use it has his stone. Doing this hike was really challenging but I was honored to do it. Thank you so much friends and family for letting me take Sgt. Blair”s stone up the mountain and I would gladly do it again……….. ~ Andrew Torbett ~

stones gatheredThe act of solidarity and the alignment of the efforts toward the summits in Maine and other mountains across the world will reinforce the values that all Mainers hold dear – at TSP they look after one another, they remember one another, they take care of one another, they are faithful and they lift each other to higher places – literally and figuratively.

 WE CARRY THEIR STONE FOR THE HIKE….WE CARRY THEIR STORY FOR A LIFETIME…

Please visit the website where many of Maine’s fallen are listed and where you can see stories of those who carried the stone for the heroes:  The Summit Project

A nation reveals itself not only by the men it produces but also by the men it honors, the men it remembers. ~ President John F. Kennedy ~

Pine ConesEight at Eight!!! Or is it Five on Five??

bouncing-basketballApril 8, 2017 @ 8 a.m.

Bakstball2As seen in our March newsletter…this is a reminder. It’s not too late to plan to join us for Battle of the Badges Basketball Tournament at the Skehan Rec Center, located at 1 Main Rd N, Hampden, ME . Organized by the Maine Public Safety Community. The battle of the badges basketball tournament will be held on Saturday April 8th at the Skehan Rec Center in Hampden, ME. The entry fee for the tournament will be $12.00 per team member. All proceeds go directly to the House in the Woods Foundation.

This is always a fun for all. It can get rather competitive!! Come join the fun or to cheer your favorites on ! It will be a great time.

Basketball

Pine Cones

April 28 ~ 30, 2017

 

United Blood TrackersPaul House, Director of House in the Woods and his tracking dog, Turbo will be attending United Blood Trackers Trackfest in Beren, NY this month where they will participate in tracking trials and learn new tracking skills.

United Blood Trackers states: we are dedicated to promoting resource conservation through the use of trained tracking dogs in the ethical recovery of big game. We support recovery efforts afield, the education of hunters, the training and testing of dog handlers and their dogs, and legislative efforts to promote blood tracking.

 

Turbo snow 3

Turbo snow2

Turbo after the storm…but no tracking here!

 

 

 

Many of the participants of hunting and fishing events at House in the Woods, as well as those sitting around a good old campfire, are familiar Turbo who is always at Paul’s side. He even graces Dee House with his presence at times! Turbo is a certified blood tracking dog who works along side Paul, a Maine Guide, tracking wildlife in the wood of Maine.

Blood tracking dogs are used for recovering wounded game. With training and experience a dog can learn to distinguish and track an specific wounded animal by other scents also rather than just its blood. We are confident Turbo will pass with flying colors in his tracking trials and as he learns his new skills.

Pine Cones

 April 30~May 3, 2017

Turkey shoot 1Join House in the Woods for a three day turkey hunt!  You could bag your Thanksgiving Day foul early or…have enjoy a Spring turkey dinner! When isn’t a turkey dinner enjoyable??

 

 

This has always been a fun springtime event for those who have turkeyflock snowjoined the veterans and active military in a few days of great hunting. Some attendees return each year. The Maine air is crisp and there is still some snow in the wood.

Turkey shoot2

 For details, Contact Deanna House (a Gold Star Mother and a Military Brat) at House in the Woods House in the Woods

 207-738-4421

Deanna.House@houseinthewoods.org

Pine ConesAt House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat we create a therapeutic, recreational and educational retreat for our U.S. Armed Forces and their families using outdoor wilderness activities in Maine and other natural habitats to help participants share common challenges related to their service and sacrifice in protecting our nation’s freedom and democratic ideals.

 

US Army Soldier in Universal Camouflage Uniform

Visit our website House in the Woods.

Determine for yourself:  do you think a few days in the wood of Maine would be something you would like to experience? You will connect with other veterans. As you have learned, it truly takes a veteran to understand another veteran. You will gain insight into things you thought were haunting only you…when in reality your brothers~in~arms have been there.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE IN THIS. Our combat wounded, our Vietnam vets and soldiers still serving are the MOST supportive you will find! Plus, you deserve some great R&R in the fresh air, hike the trails, smell the pine, relax on the ponds in a canoe or kayak. Throw the line out for a catch…join us for a bear hunt or deer hunt…….open water fishing!

All events are created with the combat wounded in mind. Nothing to stop you when you are a participant in any of the events at House in the Woods!!!! We have all terrain vehicles and our new lodge has an elevator. Every aspect of the lodge is ADA compliant.

hands together we heal

~ TOGETHER WE HEAL ~

Pine ConesVolunteersIf you have been wondering how you can help House in the Woods, stepping up to volunteer is a great way to support our lodge. One day, one week or a month. We have a great force of volunteers with a wide-range of skills, but we are always grateful for more help. Perhaps you are kicking around some ideas for summer vacation. Maine is fabulous in the summer!!

Have you been thinking you would like to introduce your children to the gift of volunteering….to teach them first-hand about the brave warriors who have stepped up and become defenders of our freedom and our liberty??  Your kids may even be able to volunteer with some of their own age who are the Unsung Heroes…the Military Brat of today.

Contact Deanna House, Director of Administrative Services. Send her an email to see how you can help: Deanna House

Pine ConesAs this newsletter began I made you aware of the Unsung Heroes, the Military Brat and the fact that April was officially dedicated to these kids who live the military life. As author of this newsletter I personally have loved ones currently serving in the Armed Forces.

I have seen my own kids and grandkids step up and serve my beloved country. My family has paid the ultimate sacrifice from the Korean War through the Iraq War. But I realized that all too often the kids who live the life of relocations, saying good-bye to Dad or Mom as deployment time rolls around, these kids are rarely praised as kids who also serve their country.

kids goodby2I am certain many readers of this newsletter were not aware until today that there April is the Month of the Military Child. It is my hope that in some small way I have opened your heart and mind to doing something to help support the military family. You only need ask a local church, veterans’ organization or the woman sitting next to you at work whose husband is in Iraq…ask how you can help them! They are serving for you…………………..

~ Brenda Everson~Shaw ~

 

support troops

HAPPY EASTER

He is risenHe is risen….

As you gather with loved ones to celebrate Easter in the manner which you choose, my personal message to my readers is………..

He is risen….

 

 

March Newsletter

In like a lion 2The March wind roars, like a lion in the sky,
And makes us shiver, as he passes by.
When winds are soft and the days are warm and clear,
Just like a gentle lamb, then spring is here. 
                                                ~ Author Unknown
  Pine tree group

For our freedom…….

combat Marine
That old, well-known phrase In Like a Lion, Out Like a Lamb, can be descriptive of our combat warriors: entering their mission like a lion; fierce and ready to take on the world… get the mission done and get out of there!
 The lion and the lamb coexist in our men and women who have bravely and unselfishly served our country.
 Lion & lamb

For their freedom…….

soldier contemplatingOften they come home like the lamb; quiet, and at times, withdrawn, appearing ever-so-gentle on the outside, wondering, on the inside, what to do next. There is no forgetting. There is only “adjusting”.

Armor of steel that no one can penetrate?

soldiersprayingThis is my son, your brother, your husband. This is my daughter, wife, sister or best friend. We owe them each, all the love and support we can give.

~ Come to House in the Woods where, together we heal. ~

We invite each of our combat wounded to join us for peace, comfort, fun times, great exercise and fresh air at House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat in the wood of Lee, Maine. We know once you do, you will come back often. The food, accommodations and those on staff are the best!

Pine tree group

 

Sunset at my favorite harbor in Harpswell, Maine“Whether participants are sitting under the countless stars on a cloudless summer night or reflecting on their own reflections in the glass-like stillness of a Maine pond during a 4:00 a.m. summer sunrise, there is a therapy in realizing one’s enduring place in eternity. As participants face the outdoor challenges presented by Mother Nature herself, they will derive a sense of accomplishment, find, through exercise, a release of stress, and have the opportunity to talk and share with one another the laughter, memories, sorrow, service, and pride, among many other common bonds.”

                     ~ Deanna House, Director of Administrative  Services,     
House in the Woods, Lee, Maine ~
 The lodge

 And We Hunt Because……

TravisOne veteran who shared with me: With 12 yrs. services SSgt. Travis Reichert retired after IED blasts and taking a shot to his helmet.

“I have been to House in the Woods.  I don’t really do the hunt for the kill or the meat, although it is always nice to get the animal you are going after.  Every year since coming home it gets harder and harder for me to harvest an animal, this year I spent countless hours in a tree stand and had hundreds of opportunities to harvest animals and passed every time.  I do most of these hunts or retreats to meet people and talk.  Not about the past but about what they are doing now to continue to go forward everyday.  I have met life long friends on these hunts and continue to socialize with them.
I don’t go out in public gatherings, i.e bars or big groups of people.  I only go on retreats that I can bring my wife for the most part and spend time with her as she loves to hunt also.  I have been gone for so much of our 14 years of marriage so I like to spend time with her and now we have a baby so it’s going to be even more special to introduce him to the wonderful people we meet on these gatherings.
Don’t get me wrong at all, we love the meat, the antlers and displays and I love guns and hunting. I just have more compassion for the animals I choose to harvest and if everything isn’t perfect I pass.  I have seen too many things to know anything will suffer longer then I have control over.
After our trip to Maine at HITW we talked about moving there because of the people there. Also we love the outdoors.”
   ~Staff Sargent Travis Reichert, Army, Medically Retired ~
 wlcome sign deer

 The Gift of Warmth and Comfort From Kentucky!!

Beth & dog DaisyBeth Burcham Branstetter and her dog Daisy enjoying Nature at her best!
Recently retired as a pharmacist in Kentucky, Beth decided she wanted to reach out to House in the Woods and present them a gift of her fabulous quilts for the lodge in Lee, Maine.
Pine Cones
Deer Quilt
 The handsome specimen seen so often by those who hunt and hike the trails in Maine.
 Pine Cones
Eagle quilt
The eagle. The symbol for great strength, leadership and vision

 These Lovely Gifts Are Perfect at the Lodge Keeping Many Visitors Warm

Some of the quilts are lap quilts for sitting by the fire in the lodge some cool evening and others are queen size for the beds. A sample of two of the quilts are below. Beth told me, “This is my first year of retirement and I want to support these brave veterans. I truly enjoy stitching and sharing and I have never known of a better cause than House in the Woods“. Old college friends of Beth, who live in Maine, shared with her the project of House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat.
The news is spreading throughout our great nation! People are coming forward with wonderful gifts and donations. Beth visits Maine as often as she can to escape the heat and humidity of her beloved Kentucky, and is very anxious to see the finished building project in Lee.
 Beth is an avid fan of University of Kentucky basketball. According to Beth; “we bleed blue for our Kentucky Wildcats”!!
 thank you2

Machias Savings Bank Donates A Full Compliment of Office Suite for House in the Woods

 

Machias Logo

Office furn 3The crew from Machias Savings Bank dropped in February 15th to deliver a full suite of office furniture for Paul & Dee House’s office. Left to right:Jessica Cloukey, Jason Appleby and Jonathan Alley of Machias Bank and Paul House, Executive Director of House in the Woods.This is yet another example of community reaching out to support the great work done at the veterans retreat.
 The veterans retreat lodge now has two desks, a small conference table, chairs, bookshelves and filing cabinets!
 
office fruniture inside truckThe strong backs and gracious hearts of the Lincoln, Maine Branch of Machias Savings Bank unload the truck with the much-needed furniture to help  the offices become a reality.
Office furn 1
Two men and a dolly can get anything done!!
Office furn 2The construction and furnishing of this fabulous retreat for our Armed Forces is nearly complete. Maine folks “walk-the-talk“. They step up when a need arises without hesitation. It seems to me, (a non-Mainer who wishes she were a Maine resident) that a great lesson in life in helping thy neighbor is evident. Remember how your coach always told you “there is no (letter) I in team“???? I sense it originated in this area of Maine!
 Pine Cones

And They Come From Near & Far

Rhode Island brokers Lisa Foster~Pacheco, a Military Relocation Specialist at Re/Max Rivers Edge Bristol and Rhonda DelSignore~Mulligan of Province Mortgage Associates make a generous offer of support:
Lisa Foster PachecoMany from throughout the United States have become supporters of House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat!! Word of mouth, a television broadcast, social network posting, or a visit to Maine, many are hearing of this haven in the wood….we all admire and honor the project that has been growing in the wood of Lee, Maine. Some of us hail from a military family, have lost loved ones to the a war or have a loved one who is currently deployed. Or it’s simply a friend or a friend who is connected to the Armed Forces in some aspect.
Team~Work: (noun) cooperative or combined effort of a group of persons working together as a team for a common cause.
 grateful
~A single act of kindness can cause ripples of healing~
Pine tree group

 Look What’s Ahead!!!!

 

Maine Guide Patch

 

VETERANS: June 26-29, 2017, Monday-Thursday, you too can become a Maine Guide!! House in the Woods is hosting a Maine guide training program presented by Fins and Furs Adventures.

Any veterans interested please contact Fins and Furs Adventures at 207-474-5430 for details.

Throughout history, Maine Guides have been revered as as some of the most knowledgeable and proficient woodsman in North America. This tradition began in the late 1890’s when the Maine legislature required all hunting guides to be registered with the state. It is a symbol with an honorable history. Wear it proudly!

Fins and Furs Adventures will be at the Eastern Maine Sportsman Show on March 10, 11, and 12. Stop by and say hello.

PCCA-logo78th Eastern Maine Sportsmen’s Show March 11–13

The Penobscot County Conservation Association (PCCA) of Brewer, Maine will be sponsoring its 78th Eastern Maine Sportsmen’s Show March 11–13 at the Memorial Gym and Field House. The show will include over 120 exhibitors of canoes, fishing and fly-tying equipment, hunting dogs, taxidermy, boat and marine supplies, outdoor wear, archery, camping, backpacking, ATV’s and other outdoor recreational equipment. There will also be a variety of interactive demonstrations and outdoor-related presentations.

Paul House will be at the House in the Woods booth. Drop in to pick up some great attire with the proceeds going to support our veterans’ retreat! 

Proceeds from the show help support a variety of conservation activities including investments in scholarships for students majoring in wildlife ecology at UMaine and in wildlife biology at Unity College.

The total amount of scholarship and other support for students majoring in wildlife-related disciplines has totaled more than than $1.3 million, helping attract and retain hundreds of students interested in pursuing careers in wildlife management and conservation.

Pine tree group

SNOW, SNOW, SNOW!!!!

 

Paul roof snow2

 

Paul must be dreaming of the coming Spring when he can get back to the wood of Maine with our veterans and active military for a good hunt! Or, fishing on the lakes and open water! Anything out of doors except shoveling snow!!!

 

 

Turbo snow

Poor Turbo could not find Paul who was atop the roof clearing off the never-ending snow!!

Pine Cones

~ But This Too Shall Pass ~

 

Don’t Forget!!!

 daylight-savings-time March 12th, 2017 is the day we set the clocks ahead one hour. Let there be light….longer days and warmer days are just around the corner.
SpringThe season we all cannot wait to arrive!! Snow is melting, bulbs are poking through the warming earth and winter jackets are hung up, but kept close for cool nights. Rebirth, new life and the forest comes alive with great smells and creatures of the human and animal species are coming out of winter’s hibernation.
It’s time to make plans to get outside and experience all that Nature has to offer. When you are driving around the area or are a first-time visitor, be sure to stop in to visit us at House in the Woods Military &Family Retreat, located at 217 Skunk Hill Road in Lee, Maine.
Come see what we are all about. Ask what our mission is…you will then understand why those of us connected to this cause for our veterans feel so passionately about what we do. Guaranteed you will walk away understanding, and hopefully, wanting to help in some way to honor all of our Armed Forces.
Be sure to visit the website to see the scheduled events for 2017. If you have any questions regarding space available for the events, simply call Dee or Paul House or email them. All contact information is posted on the website: House in the Woods
 Pine tree group

  SPONSOR A VETERAN

insignias

Give a veteran the opportunity to relax in the company of other veterans who have similar experiences and can listen, empathize, and care, by sponsoring a hunting, fishing, or recreational trip.

soldiers flag prayingClick on the following link to see how you can sponsor: House in the Woods

Pine ConesHouse in the Woods offers various hunting, fishing, and recreational programs throughout the year for active military, veterans, and their family members, in the great wilderness of Maine.  All food and lodging is provided at NO COST to our participants.  Contact us for more information. 

HITW logo

In memory of
blair
Sgt. Blair Emery
Maine woods sign
  Sgt. Joel new pic
 Sgt. Joel House

~ Bow the head and bend the knee to pray for our troops and their families. ~

For all the brave warriors who fought the valiant battle, we promise to keep you in our thoughts and prayers always. We are here to honor each of them who said their “good-bye” to us when last we hugged them and watched them walk toward that flight at the airport, to that journey, that would eventually take them to eternal rest.
We thank each of these men and women who stepped up and did their duty for our freedom and wonderful liberties of living in these great United States of America.
 flag on mountain

 ~We promise you…..we will never forget our true heroes ~

 

Up The Road A Piece

Valentine Veteran

“A soldier doesn’t fight because he hates what is in front of him. A soldier fights because he loves what he left behind.” – Author unknown

 

 

valentines day words

Valentines coupleWe at House in the Woods love our Veterans, love our Military and, who doesn’t love Valentine’s Day? We want to take a moment to also express our love and gratitude to those, here, back in the “land of the free and home of the brave”, who are helping our veterans and our military to adjust, commune with other brothers and sisters, and simply take a deep breath and relax at a very special place up the road a piece in Maine.

pine cone border~UP THE ROAD A PIECE~

sign: "Welcome to the Village of Lee"

Up the road a piece you will come across Lee, Maine where folks gather to help one another. A place where the community reaches out in time of need and gathers for the fun times of skiing, fishing, hunting, snowmobiling or taking a simple stroll in the wood.

This is where you find the hardworking, generous people who love our land, know how to honor nature and all that she offers to those who live here, and those who visit Maine.

hearts border

MISSION STATEMENT

The House in the Woods Family & Military Retreat’s mission is to create a therapeutic, recreational and educational retreat for our nation’s U.S. Armed Forces and their families, using outdoor wilderness activities in Maine and natural habitats to help participants share common challenges related to their service and sacrifice in protecting our nation’s freedom and democratic ideals.

pine cone border~ UP THE ROAD A PIECE ~

HITW signUp the road a piece, tucked in the wood of Lee, Maine you will find something of a surprise…...House in the Woods Military and Family Retreat.

 

~ Those Who Share ~

RM Flagg Foodservice Equipmentthank-you-heart2Most recently,  Joseph and Stacey Guerin of R.M. Flagg Food Service and Equipment saw the vision of House in the Woods. In January they donated and delivered a full-size commercial kitchen valued at $50,000.

Stacey Guerin stated, “House in the Woods is an amazing place designed to be a place of peace and healing for our military men and women and their families. We thank them for their service and their sacrifice. We were humbled that the Lord allowed us to have the opportunity to deliver our donation of a $50,000 commercial kitchen to them today.”

Visit R.M. Flagg : R.M. Flagg

Double door freezer                   RM Flagg owners with stove

A Gift From The Heart

 

 

 

Two of the wonderful gifts included in the commercial size appliances are a double door refrigerator and commercial size range.

~ Dinner Will Be Served ~

commercial mixer2A commercial size mixer that will be creating some fabulous pancakes, mashed potatoes, perhaps some homemade bread dough and many other mouth-watering surprises. And, a full-size commercial dishwasher which will make clean-up a breeze, as well as a huge ice making machine!

Plus stainless commercial sinks and prep tables, deep fryers, microwave, commercial toaster, stainless shelving …    EVERYTHING a large kitchen requires when serving many guest!

Just as in many homes, we believe this kitchen, up the road a piece in Lee, Maine, will be a gathering spot for all to sit, grab a coffee and simply relax,  sharing the day’s adventures and making plans for the following day. Fabulous meals for hungry hunters and fishermen, trail blazers and kayak paddlers, the guides and the guests families. Hearty breakfasts and great evening feasts….and new friends made, that is what we will experience from this fabulous kitchen!

Thank you for your participation Tanvii.com

Writer’s prerogative: I am taking the liberty, as author of this newsletter, to share with you the following as I believe it lends itself to the mission:

Being presented with the honor of working with Paul & Dee House, to assist in creating increased awareness of the House in the Woods, has been an amazing journey for me. The dedication and life- altering decision of Paul and Dee has given the local communities yet another reason to come together for such an honorable purpose.

Dee Paul mountainThese are two of the most dedicated and hard-working individuals I am honored to call friends.

heartProverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart: and lean not unto thine own understanding.

US-flag-and-bible-crossA husband and wife whose faith in our Lord has provided them the fortitude to forge ahead when others thought they were “crazy” to take on the huge construction project of a lodge….. up the road a piece in this little town of Lee, Maine. Yet their unwavering faith told them that this would be possible and completed to honor their son Joel and his friend Blair, as well as all warriors who lost their lives in battles fought in all wars. Joe and Blair stepped up to serve their country, were deployed to Iraq where they paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Flag and soldiers.

Please remember, House in the Woods offers all of the following: events, meals and accommodations completely free to all combat wounded, active military and any veteran from any town in the United States of America who has served or is serving to protect the freedom and liberties of our Country.

pine cone border~ Pre~Valentine Treat ~

You don’t want to miss a fabulous 30 minute broadcast about House in the Woods which is scheduled to air on television February 12th.  Episode 5 on the Growing Home show . At this juncture Growing Home is only shown on Maine stations. We hope to soon hear that it will become a national show available to all. So, if you are a “Mainer” be sure to tune in and let us know what you think!!

Take a peek at the trailer found at this link: Growing Home, House in the Woods

pine cone borderhonor-a-veteranTo our beloved Veterans, our heroes, who served so gallantly, on lands so far away, serving for the freedom of all United States citizens here at home, we thank you! Happy Valentines Day!!

All of us associated with House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat have diligently been calling to the attention of many, how essential it is that we honor those who gave there all and did not return.

We are on a mission to honor those who gave so much, left so much behind and came home to, often, relive it all over again: our combat wounded and those silently suffering with PTSD.

ArmyNavyAirforceMarinesCoastGuardWe honor all our combat wounded, all our warriors, all our heroes!

Valentines

pine cone bordera-home-for-hitw~UP THE ROAD A PIECE~

We invite you to visit the House in the Woods website where you will see, under the tab Building, a list of companies who have donated time and materials to the construction of the retreat lodge. Take a moment to see businesses large and small, next door as is Lincoln, Maine and up the road a piece…….plus some from across the nation, who have shown their generosity and support.

Also, take a moment to look at the events, under Programs, offered year-round to veterans, military and their families. These hunting, fishing and trailblazing events are lead by licensed Maine Guides and assisted by unselfish and, excellent volunteers whom, without, these adventures would be nearly impossible.

On our website under Supporters you will find the various ways you too can be a supporter of this retreat, up the road a piece, sitting in the middle of the quiet wood where you can smell the pine and hear the “sound of silence”.

House in the Woods

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world, indeed; it’s the only thing that ever has.        ~ Margaret Mead ~

Doug & Rita Sukeforth

 Doug and Rita Sukeforth who have been staunch supporters of House in the Woods throughout the construction of the lodge.

We thank you!!

 

hearts border

Let's buildGordon & Steve St. LouisSteve St. Louis, lead carpenter and Gordon Boyington, project manager who have been at the construction site from 2014 to present.


All of the contractors, their skilled teams of tireless men and women who have spent hours upon hours helping to build this retreat for all veterans who come for a stay……we say “THANK YOU ALL!”

Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, Working together is success!      ~ Henry Ford ~

 

pine cone border

~UP THE ROAD A PIECE

WHERE WE HAVE WINTER FUN~

Gone_Fishing_White_large~ GREAT POND OUTDOOR ADVENTURE CENTER HOSTS THE 7TH ANNUAL ICE FISHING DERBY ~

Great Pond SignOn January 21, 2017 over THREE HUNDRED  hearty ice fishing enthusiasts  from near and far started to hit the ice from 6:00 a.m. thru 3:30 p.m for the     7th Annual Ice Fishing Derby to benefit House in the Woods!

Through the generosity of the attendees attending Great Pond Outdoor Adventure Center, over $10,000 was donated to this fabulous 501(c) 3 nonprofit for our veterans, active military and their families.


Prizes for the longest fish were:
Brown Trout: Jiffy Propane Ice Auger
Small mouth bass: Muzzleloader
Pickerel: 3 Heritage fishing traps, a pack basket and an aerator

The entry fee for the derby was $5.00 which also entered attendees for a chance to win our fantastic prizes. And there was the 50/50 raffle.

Breakfast sandwiches bacon or ham sold like hotcakes!! Lunch time we had homemade beef stew, chili, hot dogs, chili dogs, yeast rolls, lots of sweets keeping warm and fueling up for more ice fishing in the afternoon!!

Dee in front of lodge

pine cone border~ FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY ~

Kids fishingNew England folks believe it’s never too early to get the kids on the ice! Be it ice fishing, skating, snowmobiling on the thick ice or just exploring nature, we are a hearty bunch who don’t let a little cold and snow stop us!!

Moose & KidsOf course Maine has its’ rather large population of moose. It seems Maynard the Moose heard there was something awesome happening at Great Pond!! With over 300 people attending it was a fun and fabulous day for all!!

bouncing basketball~ JOIN US ON THE BASKETBALL COURT ~

BasketballJoin us in April for Battle of the Badges Basketball Tournament at the Skehan Rec Center, located at 1 Main Rd N, Hampden, ME . Organized by the Maine Public Safety Community. Visit our website for date and time: House in the Woods

This is always a fun time for all. It can get rather competitive!! Come join the fun or to cheer your favorites on ! It will be a great time.

Bakstball2

pine cone borderMAINE RESIDENTS

Community Matters More Giving Back to Maine Communities.

The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation believes in giving back to our community. And we believe that by focusing on the needs that matter most to our neighbors and friends—from developing housing for our poor to direct charitable contributions—we matter more in the daily lives of our fellow Mainers.

We Need Your Help
In April, the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation will give more than $100,000 to 40 local non-profit organizations. We are looking to you, our community, to assist us by deciding how to best distribute these funds. We want to hear from as many Maine residents as possible, so please invite your friends, neighbors, and colleagues to participate as well.

Please visit the following link where you will be instructed how to add House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat as your favorite nonprofit. Cast your Vote Today

Maine residents, including children under 18 years of age, can begin voting February 1st. Voting ends Tuesday, February 28, 2017 at 11:59pm.

 NOTE FROM DEE HOUSE

HELP US GET A $5,000 Bangor Savings Bank Community Matters More grant:
VOTE ONLINE: From Feb. 1 to Feb 28 in up to 3 districts.
This is the coolest campaign ever. There are 8 Maine districts. Each voter may select up to 3 charities from different districts. All charities will receive a grant. Because this is Bangor Savings’ 10th year anniversary for this campaign, this year they are awarding $5,000 to the TOP 2 charities in EACH district.
MAINE RESIDENTS: You must be a Maine resident but children under 18 may vote.
SPREAD THE WORD: Please help us get the vote out by sharing online or with your friends, family, and co-workers.
PAPER BALLOTS: If you know people who aren’t online, they can still vote by paper ballot. This is also a cool way to spread the word at work, church, or where ever there are Maine residents. You can go into a Bangor Savings branch near you or contact me. Photocopies are acceptable.

This is the year to win this grant. We need to finish furnishing the lodge and still put on some great programs.
THANKS FOR YOUR HELP
Dee

two heartsWe are finally and joyfully at the stage where we can begin to furnish the interior of House in the Woods!!! We are shooting for an April Open House.

We have a concept of what we think would be the perfect theme for our lodge where our military and veterans can relax and enjoy themselves as guests during the many events to be held at the lodge.

Below are a few ideas we are considering. Tell us what you think:

interior HITW 5

If you would like to contribute to the funding of the furnishings for the rooms please contact Dee House at Dee’s Email

Or give Dee a call at 207.738.4421

 

 

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A most welcoming atmosphere where any guest can hang their hat, come in for a few days or a week and join with other Armed Forces Brothers and Sisters. Our goal is to create a retreat for our nation’s U.S. Armed Forces and their families, to help participants share common challenges related to their sacrifice in protecting our nation’s freedom and democratic ideals.

We feel certain this is the place where that will happen!

interior HITW 2
 There is also need to furnish our offices with desks, chairs and all the necessities that make an office run! Please keep this in mind when you are considering supporting House in the Woods. When you donate you can specify where you would like the funds to be applied. For example; building fund, furnishings, general fund or supplies for hunting gear….I think you get the idea!
We look forward to hearing from you!
Thank-You-Heart
Lima.   Oscar.   Victor.   Echo.
 and
Tango.   Yankee.
Marine & chopperWe want to send our love and deepest gratitude….
  navy-unit-chris-perkinsto all our military both here and abroad who defend our country
 armytrain relentlessly and are separated from family and loved ones                  for far too long
coast guardall to keep our nation free and remaining a democratic nation
 single heart2valentines day wordsMay no soldier go unloved,
May no soldier walk alone,
May no soldier be forgotten,
May no soldier be left behind,
When they return home…..
hearts border
Land of the Free, Home of the Brave

 

 

 

Soldiers Speak, A Veterans’ Newsletter

the-guysVeterans who attended the first Black Bear Hunt Week August 2016.     Left to right: Jim Roten, David Rogers, Bo Reichenbach, Dustin Jones, Harry Bar and Zachary S. Stinson sitting.

House in the Woods Military & Family Retreat, Lee, Maine.  Construction near completion. Please show your support of our active duty and combat wounded  with your financial donation.

hitw-lodgePaying it Forward

“I arrived at HITW as a lost soul of sorts. I had been a firefighter EMT for 23 years. I was a Flight Medic in a UH-60 Blackhawk in the National Guard and after an injury during my Balken  deployment in 2002, I was no longer medically able to do my firefighter job. No more Army Dustoff. No more firefighter. No more rescue guy. Suddenly everything that defined me was  taken away.

I harvested a bear the first night I hunted. I stayed and socialized and connected with some old Vietnam vets. One evening Paul asked me if I could think of an activity or outdoor event vets might like? I said he should do a guide class for vets.

Paul called at the end of December to tell me there would be a 5-day guide’s school with Carol Ware the first week of January, 2014. He said I’d have to share a hotel room with another vet. That’s the way Paul is. He just puts it out there the way it is.

By March I was a Registered Maine Hunting, Fishing, and Recreation Guide. Something I always wanted to do but never could afford.

 That was a turning point in my soul searching. I had found a way to help others again. I returned for the 2014 bear hunt as a guide, and in 2015, started to take vets out on fishing trips for rainbow trout and salmon at my camp.  In 2015, I guided for the HITW turkey hunt. In September I returned for the HITW bear hunt. In November, I helped Luke House start a southern Maine HITW deer hunt.

 I consider the time I spend guiding other veterans and helping HITW as my therapy. I am now defined as ” one of House in the Woods Pro- Staff guidesand locally as “that fella who takes vets hunting.”  I like that, and I owe that to HITW.”

~Chris Brassard, Sgt. US Army Medevac retired/DAV~

 

medicIt Takes a Veteran to Understand Another Veteran

 

“I shot a 19.4 lb Tom today. HITW is a very worthwhile organization. As a vet, I appreciate everything they do for veterans. The get-together is a renewing of old friends and  friendships. They provide an opportunity for vets to connect with those of similar experiences,  people with whom you can talk and recreate old good memories.”

~MSgt Mike Caruso, USAF Retired~May 7, 1958 – May 31, 1978~Japan ‘58-’59, Germany ‘61-’64, Iceland ‘68-’69

 

2-combat-vets

Hospitality    Compassion   Appreciation 

steve-holden-cover-pic“I had the opportunity this Fall to hunt with an amazing Outfitter, Paul House with House in the Wood. I’m a Outdoor TV Personality, but I was  also a Soldier for over 20 years in the U.S. Army.

When I arrived until the time I left, I was treated like a king with HITW. They have an amazing program for hunting black bear in Maine. It was my first time ever hunting bear, but they took me under their wing and made sure that I had the tools to be successful.

 I’ve never experienced such great hospitality,  genuine compassion and sincere appreciation for being a veteran like I did with HITW. I was completely impressed with this organization and would definitely recommend this hunt and organization to anyone that loves the outdoors.

 HITW does it right and their heart is in the right place. One of the very best hunts that I’ve ever been on! Amazing time, fellowship, and friendship! A hunt that I’ll never forget! Army Strong!”

 ~ Steve Holden, former 1st Sgt. E-8 31st CSH~

In the Peace & Quiet of Nature

maine-forest-scene“Just wanted to say that Paula Ayer Douglas and myself had a great time this week during the bear hunt. Neither of us harvested a bear but will never forget the great time and great people we met this week. With all the bad things happening in this world, it was awesome to see all the volunteers that fed us, guided us, and spent time with us. I am truly humbled. Thanks to all! What a great thing that Deanna House and Paul House are doing for the veterans. God bless you all.”

~Wendell Douglas~

american-flag-2We are a free, outdoor self-help program which remains flexible to the needs of those whom we serve. The only expense to participants is their transportation to Lee, Maine.

Using the recreational, therapeutic, and educational  properties of Maine’s great wilderness and outdoor heritage, we form short-term retreats for participants to meet others with common military-related challenges and experiences.

Our Veterans Gather

vets-pre-bear-huntVeterans ready for a day’s  Black Bear Hunt with House in the Woods.

survival-fire-practiceCombat Marine Outdoors joining House in the Woods for Black Bear Hunt. Practicing survival fire starting with combat wounded vets.

retreat-sign

 

 

 

What is a Veteran

“A combat veteran is any GI who experiences any level of hostility for any duration resulting from offensive, defensive or friendly fire military action involving a real or perceived enemy in any foreign theater.” 

~ American War Library ~

branch-logo-hitw

Sitting around the campfire at day’s end with veterans and guides, stories are shared of the day’s hunt.

As one soldier speaks of his loss of his brothers-in-arms, others join in to share memories.

There is the good: “He always had my back”….there is the bad: “Man, we never knew what hit us!”……..There is the brother sitting next to him with a huge hug and tears shared. These are our men! Our boys! Our sons! Our husbands! Our brothers!

These are our Heroes who just want some time away for a while breathing in the fresh woods air, fishing on the lakes, hunting in the woods and sharing with their comrades.

The healing begins, surrounded by Nature and those who understand and do not judge!

    ~ THESE ARE OUR VETERANS ~

campfire2

You Can Help

 

supportRemember on Memorial Day, 4th of July or Veterans’ Day when you took your son to a  parade and turned to him and said “We really need to support our troops. We should find a way to do something.” The day went on with other activities and some how that nice thought slipped away as your life’s daily responsibilities seemed enough to handle. Today you can do something to thank those who came home from World War II, Korea, Viet Nam, Desert Storm, Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, or Iraq with physical wounds apparent or PTSD well-hidden.

military-paradeNOW is the time to step up and support the veterans throughout the United States in a way that continues giving. You can help a veteran or active military man or woman attend a safe, welcoming lodge where they can gather with others who understand the hardships of the combat wounded and those suffering from PTSD. Attendees from 25 states have enjoyed the events thus far. All accommodations and meals are FREE to all who attend.