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The Shaws made Barakel their home as newlyweds from 1971-1976. After a 15-year interim in Lansing, they returned in 1991. Terry serves as head carpenter. Elaine works as coordinator of adult volunteer staffing. Their sending church is Trinity Church in Lansing. News and Notes from the Shaws (November 2008) Sunshine, blue skies, warm air and the serenity of the north woods painted the scene as the Barakel buses traveled south on M-33 for their final summer run. The summer schedule was complete, and though we would be returning to camp, we both sensed with our passengers the joy of special memories made and the anticipation of the season ahead. Those passengers represented a cross-section of the extended Barakel community over the summer months:
Campers: for that final week, those who daily rely on HIS Ability due to the challenge of physical and mental handicaps Just watching the staff interact with these special needs campers spoke volumes. Genuine concern and tender care seemed to replace thoughts of personal preference. Elaine thoroughly enjoyed meeting with several summer staff women from week to week during the summer season. It was an opportunity for mutual encouragement and challenge in our walks with the Lord. Joys in our journey many times come our way through interaction with friends - both new and old. Some have stopped by to visit, many come as campers or volunteers, others are our co-workers, or folks in the community. Written notes of encouragement have refreshed our hearts. Terry was on a 'finishing 'track' this summer, working on carpentry projects that have been at various stages of completion. Finishing is one thing he strives for in all of life. This summer fit him well! Bus trips continued to be a highlight for him. Terry never seems to tire of transporting new busloads of campers, knowing and praying in advance that they will be changed for the better as they experience the presence of God during their week of camp. 
Dad Murphy's death this spring continues to impact our lives. Dad was Mom's focus and caregiver. Without him life for her has been a struggle. From mid-May through mid-August, Elaine's older brother and sister-in-law graciously cared for Mom. Since summer camp ended, Elaine has spent days and even weeks with Mom personally, working through some serious health issues. It has been a privilege. After two months of hospital and nursing home stays, Mom is home now and loving it. Tender caregivers and family are surrounding her. Terry has been a part of the process many times too, even while primarily holding the fort back at camp while Elaine has been away. 
Mom Shaw is adjusting to her new health constraints since her hospitalization last May. We, with the rest of the family, are keeping watch on her health status. Dad just recently paid a visit to the hospital himself with a surprise emergency surgery this month that made him in a patient for a week. He is recuperating well and trying to take it easy. We are so grateful that both Mom and Dad are there for each other and for us! As with the Murphy's, family in Lansing provide great support. Fall is giving way to winter now as the camp calendar comes to a close. Here at camp it's all about lives changed by the power of God. Once again we thank Him for the evidence of His work in countless lives both here and elsewhere. What a mighty God we serve!
"Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart; | |||||||||||
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