Saturday, May 2, 2020

THE ADVENTURE CONTINUES.....APRIL 2020

5-2-20 Saturday 5:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

BLOG COMING....

5-1-20 Friday 6:37 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

INFO OVERLOAD.....


I don't know about you, but....the NEWS is exhausting and quite confusing.  So many different voices saying so many things.  My head is spinning.

So, first thing I've done is LIMITED my NEWS input.  There, that has helped a great deal.

Next, I've put in my ear piece and gone back to listening to the Word of God as I lay down to sleep.  AHHHH!  That really helps.

I'm bouncing between Psalms (Especially Psalm 91) and the New Testament to the Epistles.

Then, the days are richer in HOPE & CONFIDENCE in our Lord's leading and guidance.

We'll look back on the COVID-19 days and remember the devastating swiftness of this DEADLY PANDEMIC.  

We'll also remember all of the lessons we've learned as well as LEANING on our Lord!!

Now, today we'll be helping Yahn to get some much needed Dental Work done by our good friend, Dr. John Osborne.  

I first met Dr. John while working with R.A.M. (Remote Area Medical) on Hurricane Relief several years ago.  PRAISE GOD for GOOD FRIENDS WHO ARE DOCTORS!!

Speaking of Doctors, Cindy, Ari and I met our new Primary Care Physician, Dr. John Short.  He's a GREAT DOCTOR and will be very helpful in navigating me through the best Cancer Treatment.  GOD IS GOOD!!

Above all, I'm standing and believing for our Lord's HEALING POWER!!

So, it's time to head out the door to bring Yahn to the Dentist.  

As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-30-20 Thursday 6:17 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS.....

As we all navigate through these turbulent and strange and challenging days, we may wonder....why am I here, at this time.  


These are uncharted waters.  Yet...surely, our Lord has His Hands on us and has even put us here for....

"Such a time as this"

8 years ago, Cindy and I, after searching diligently, found this "Retreat Cabin" in the Mountains of East Tennessee.  WHAT A BLESSING it has been to us and to so many over the years.

Today, we have enough food planted to feed quite a few folks.  Again, we're THANKFUL to our Lord for putting us here for this time.

Our hope and prayer is that we can not only provide for ourselves, but with His help, we can be a blessing to many around us.

We encourage you to FEAR NOT, and place your full trust and confidence in Jesus.  He will guide you each step of the way and even cause you to be a BLESSING to those around you.

IT IS NO ACCIDENT that you are here....FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS!!


So, though the days may be filled with uncertainty and fear, lean on Him.  Remember Psalm 91.

We were speaking with Cindy's Aunt Judith recently and she told us that we can REVERSE THE CURSE of COVID-19 WITH PSALM 91.  I like that!!  


Go to the Word of God and plant those seeds of faith in your heart.  

FAITH COME BY HEARING & HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD.

So, as we go forth this day, that He has made, we hold tightly onto His Hand and seek His guidance and direction!

May you be blessed today, and remember, it is no accident that you are here on this earth at this time.

And, as I say every single day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe





4-29-20 Wednesday 6:49 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

ANOTHER DAY....IN THE MIDST OF COVID-19



For every day that we experience health and peace in the midst of the COVID-19, we give THANKS to our Lord!

Have truly enjoyed having Yahn, Mary Kate and their kids (Ava, Lilly & Theoden) up here at the Retreat Cabin.  They're having a blast!


They love the little "Hayride"!

It's the simple and lovely things in life that bring such joy.

No telling what we'll do today, but I'm sure it'll be fun.  It's moments like these....

Today, we'll be planting potatoes in our new Potato Garden.  Now, we just watch all the seedlings grow.

Nothing special going on today except....have fun.  PRAISE GOD!!

As always, THANK YOU for your faithful and precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-28-20 Tuesday 6:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

AT THE FARM....

We were glad and thankful that Yahn and Mary Kate and their 3 children (Ava, Lilly & Theoden) all arrived safely from Florida.  

Had a smooth, but long trip (12 hours) with very little traffic.  Folks are pretty much staying home.

It's still chilly up here and coming from Florida was a bit of a shock, but they soon adjusted.

This is a safe & fun place to be for the kids.  Love watching them run up and down the hills.

It's also a great place to ride out the COVID-19 pandemic.
  
Time to take the kids for a make-shift hay ride.


Love to share the amazing view!!

So, on this chilly, beautiful morning in the mountains of East Tennessee, we pray that you are safe and healthy.

God bless and THANK YOU for your faithful prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe













4-27-20 Monday 6:56 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

FRIENDS FROM AFAR

We're pleased and blessed to have our great friends, Yahn & Mary Kate and their 3 children coming up to the cabin for a little vacation.

Yahn is our Chief Water Mule and makes the Air Mobile Rescuer water purifier.  He does a great job!!

People all around the world are enjoying CLEAN WATER because of what Yahn does.  THANK YOU YAHN!!  


They're already on the road and projected to arrive here later this afternoon.  PLEASE PRAY that they have a safe and quick journey up here.  

The sun has finally come out on this chilly morning.  Got down to 35 degrees last night.  We covered all the little seedlings that are growing beautifully.


We'll be working in the garden today and moving dirt around with our old Massey Ferguson tractor.  

Love that old 45 year old machine!!  Runs like a top.

Time to get to work.  God bless and THANKS, as always, for your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-26-20 Sunday 6:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

COLD & RAINY....


Brrrr, cold & rainy Sunday morning, here at the Retreat Cabin.

During this time known as COVID-19.....life goes on.  We'll look back on this time as extraordinary and challenging.  Never seen anything like this in my life-time (been around for a while).

Who would have thought that things could change so QUICKLY!!  Now, we stand on the edge of going back, opening-up and PRAYING for our Lord to lead us and guide us each day.


In a sense, not a bad place to be.  It's good to lean on Him for our very life.  

Cindy and I have been listening to Psalm 91 each evening and "sheltering under the shadow of the ALMIGHTY"!

Not sure where you are in all of this.  We certainly PRAY that you are safe and healthy.  

May we encourage you to "journal" what is going on in your life and your feelings and thoughts about what you are going through and especially things you have learned during this time.

Also, consider planting some type of garden.  Not only is it good therapy, but it actually is something that you can do, with relative ease to provide healthful, nourishing food for you and your family.


Remember, it basically starts with putting a little seed into dirt, giving it water and sunlight and voila, it will grow into food.

The Lord is so good to give us this gift!!!  
As you know, we've been sharing our own experiences and the step by step method that we've used to plant our Victory Garden.  We hope this has been helpful.

Now, above all, we encourage you to lean heavily upon our Lord Jesus.  He will give us peace and guidance through this difficult and challenging time.

Now, I say this every single day, but I mean it with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-25-20 Saturday 7:17 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

A "FLOWER" TREE & A POTATO BED..& PURE JOY



While walking through the woods, Cindy found an unusual tree that grew clusters of flowers, not out of branches, but right out of the trunk.  Strange and beautiful.


One of our joys, is watching our little dogs "loving" the pure and free open land to run and frolic.  It makes the heart glad just watching them.


Yesterday, we laid out the newest addition to our "Victory Garden"....the Potato Bed.  


Oh, this is going to be just delicious.  Fresh Vegetables and Potatoes and so much more.



If you haven't planted a garden yet....we encourage you to do so.  Just get the seed into dirt and watch it grow.

Today, we'll be putting in an Herb Garden.  We have some old rotting beams to lay the boundaries and a somewhat shaded corner.  Gotta have "seasonings".

So, on this brisk and beautiful Saturday morning....we're heading out to the field to grow some food.  Nice way to spend the day.

We hope and pray that you are safe and healthy!  And...we so appreciate having you on-board this "Journey" through life with us. 

God bless and THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe







4-24-20 Friday 6:33 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

GAZING & REFLECTING.....

On this lovely Tennessee morning, with the birds singing and the coffee brewing, I'm amazed at just how good God is!!



The Victory Garden is coming along beautifully.  So glad we got those seeds PLANTED and soon delicious food will be ours!  PRAISE GOD!!


It was only a month ago that we laid out the area for the Victory Garden.

We've put a lot of work into this Victory Garden, especially Cindy and Ari!



Yesterday, we added Ari's Strawberry Patch to the Victory Garden.  Cindy loves mowing on the little lawn tractor.  Yes, we're "living the life" here in the Mountains of East Tennessee.

In the meantime, back in Florida, Yahn is building Air Mobile Rescuer water purifiers and we're getting the Little Donkey ready for the next mission.

We're heartbroken by the terrible loss of life due to COVID-19.  This is one of the greatest tragedies that I personally have ever witnessed.  

We PRAY for the brave Health Care Providers.  We PRAY for all of  those who have been infected, those who are suffering and those in the path of COVID-19.  

We PRAY for those in authority around the globe, that they be directed by our Lord in their decisons.  

May this scourge pass and may we all be wiser and more aware of the dangers created by such pandemics.

Cindy and I are THANKFUL to have had the Air Mobile Retreat Cabin to come to, to ride out this storm.

We're seeking HIS divine guidance to know how we can help those who are suffering.

So, it's back to work in the "field".  Today, we'll be working on the Chicken Coop.  


BTW, we plan to "Pickle Eggs" (with our "Secret Recipe") with the excess eggs that our chickens will give (hopefully).

As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

PS - I'm feeling fine and the pain from the radiation treatments has passed.  We're working on a new plan to deal with the cancer and we're confident in our Lord's leading and HEALING POWER!! AMEN!!

Joe

4-23-20 Thursday 6:33 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

DOING WHAT WE CAN....WHEN WE CAN

In the midst of the terrible COVID-19 scourge, it is good to be able to plant gardens, grow food and above all...PRAY & PREPARE!!

The world has not had anything like this (BIBLICAL: PESTILENCE) since the 1917-1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic where somewhere between 50-100 million DIED around the globe!!  

This is SERIOUS STUFF!


Here in America, certain States are slowly "RE-OPENING" and this is bringing a lot of conflict for those who want it to open and those who don't feel we're quite ready to re-open.

Both sides have very valid points.  There are many, less populated areas, that can safely Re-Open before heavily populated areas.

Again, it is time to PRAY for our Political Leaders to be guided and directed by our Lord!

I PRAY FOR OUR LORD'S WILL TO BE DONE ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN!!

Meanwhile, back at the "Retreat Cabin", we're continuing to plant and grow food as we're able.  "Doing what we can...when we can"!




Yesterday, we put in a special "Strawberry Patch" for Ariana, who is loving this "country living".  She's also writing like crazy.  Already working on her 3rd book.


Love the old 1975 Massey Ferguson tractor.  It's a great tool!!

Wherever you are and what ever you may be facing, may we encourage you to call upon the Name of Jesus!

Remember, JESUS has promised to never leave you nor forsake you.  

Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved!

May He lead you and guide you each step of the way.

And...THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-22-20 Wednesday 7:07AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

A "HELPFUL" SURPRISE




While clearing out junk and debris, I lifted out an old gas tank and much to my surprise was...a 6+ foot Black Snake.  

She was in hibernation and quite asleep.  We've since named her "Sarah".

Black snakes are NOT poisonous and are actually a "Good Snake".  She'll help keep mice and rats out of the chicken coop area.   

She'll even chase poisonous snakes, i.e. copperheads and rattlers away (so they say).


We just let her lie there and wake up.  Meanwhile, I lifted another old gas tank and...no more snakes...that I could see.


After a while, Sarah was fully awake and leisurely headed to her "Post" to keep our chicken coop safer.

Meanwhile, the seeds are growing in the Victory Garden and we "patiently" await the harvest.

So, on this beautiful day, we'll be working in the "field" and cleaning up around the "Retreat Cabin".

God is good...all the time.

THANK YOU, as always, for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-21-20 Tuesday 6:57AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

ONE MAN'S JUNK...ANOTHER MAN'S TREASURE

Now that we're "here" at the cabin, it's time to gather up all of the junk and debris scattered throughout the "Retreat".


We had an old, abandoned "Hot Tub" that my good friend Rich gladly received.  Rich has a gift of transforming junk into treasures.

Likewise, Ari has been working on an old "abandoned" chicken coop.  That will be our next project.  We love fresh, brown eggs!

In the meantime, we're checking our little "sprouts" that are coming up.  Oh, I can hardly wait for those "greens" to arrive!

Well, it's another day on the farm and preparing for what days may be coming.

We're PRAYING for all of the areas that are "OPENING UP" around the nation and around the world.  

We are all "connected" and now, we're wiser regarding "Social Distancing" and "Washing" our hands regularly....among the many lessons that we're all learning.

Let us PRAY for our leaders as critical and difficult decisions are being made!

Well, time to head to the field to help make food.  God bless and as always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-20-20 Monday 6:19 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

CAST YOUR NET...ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE BOAT

We're all living in a "new normal".  We want to know if we will ever return to "the way things were". 

I don't know, but we're hanging tightly onto Jesus' Hand!!


Yesterday, Cindy, Ari and our dogs (Andy, Honey & Benjie) went to our Drive-In Church here in the Mountains of East Tennessee.  

Heard a great message.  The "Preacher" who stood on the front steps of the Church brought forth a great Scripture.  

He was speaking about our need to be "Creative" to meet and Worship our Lord and bring others to Christ.

He brought forth John 21:6, where Jesus asked the Disciples if they had caught any fish.  They said "no".  


Then, Jesus said...."Cast your net on the other side of the boat and you shall find".

Churches all across America (and perhaps around the world) are finding "Creative" ways to meet and Worship.  

PRAISE GOD....OUR LORD WILL MAKE A WAY FOR US!!

Folks, if there was ever a time to be SENSITIVE to His Voice, it is now.  We find our OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS in the BIBLE!!


I know I've said this many times in the past....It is NOT time to PANIC, BUT TO PRAY & PREPARE & PRAY AGAIN!!

Well, it's cold and rainy today.  We'll be working in the garden between rain showers.  

The rain is good for the little seedlings and fresh seeds that we just planted.

Oh, I can taste the fresh veggies right now.  We have so many good things planted...mustard greens, collards, turnips, lettuce, beets, carrots, corn, squash, cukes, bell peppers, radishes, onions and this list goes on and on.  

THANK GOD for the miracle of seeds!!

I know that I say this every single day, but...THANK YOU for your truly appreciated prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-19-20 Sunday 6:59 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

SUNDAY MORNING...DRIVE IN

The new reality for us is...a Drive-In Church Service and an On-Line message.  Life in the COVID-19 world.


We'll begin this Sunday with a short drive to the parking lot of our Church here in Tennessee.  

At this point, this kind of meeting has not been "officially" outlawed.  Looking forward to the message.

Churches all across America are doing this!  


FAITH COMES BY HEARING AND HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD!!

Then, after lunch here at the cabin, we'll tune in (on-line) our Florida Pastor, Gary Ginn to hear the message that our Lord has put onto his heart.

The CHURCH IS ALIVE & WELL and we'll find creative ways to meet together and Praise the Lord!!

In the midst of all of the scourge of COVID-19, Air Mobile Ministries is also alive and well.

Yahn, our Chief "Water Mule" is still making Air Mobile Rescuer water purifiers...for what might lie ahead.


Paul, our aircraft mechanic, is getting the Little Donkey ready for....the next mission. 

THANKS to the good signal and internet here at the cabin, we're able to stay in touch with our Air Mobile Rescuer water purifier operators all around the globe.  

I recently talked to a new "Water Mule", Matt, in Haiti, and explained how to completely diagnose and overhaul the remarkable Rescuer.  Now, clean water is flowing again into his village.  

PRAISE GOD!!


We've been in touch with Sam in India and we'll be working together with an Ohio Church to get some Emergency Funds there to feed the starving.  

India has been hit very hard  by COVID-19 and many are starving to death.  

PRAISE GOD for generous folks.

So, on this crisp, beautiful Sunday Morning, we go forth IN HIS NAME!!

THANK YOU, as always, for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe

PS - I'm pleased to say that the pain that I recently had during Radiation Treatment has all but subsided.  

The fresh, clean mountain air and hard work here at the Tennessee Retreat Cabin is doing me immense good.  BTW, our nearest neighbor is a half a mile away.  

PRAISE GOD & THANKS again for your prayer!!

Joe

4-18-20 Saturday 6:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

TRANSPLANTING....


While Cindy was transplanting the little seedlings from Florida, I was clearing out the area for our chicken coop.




We pray for a FRUITFUL HARVEST!

Hopefully, we'll have no more freezes....but you never know.  We're just glad to get those little plants into some good soil.

Meanwhile, we PRAY for our leaders to have God's WISDOM regarding the "Re-Opening" of our Economy.  


The COVID-19 has been a real EYE-OPENER & WAKE-UP call for us all.  

It is so important to PREPARE for hard times and do the things that we can do to protect and provide for our family and for others less fortunate.

Well, it's time to head out to the field and work on growing our own food.....a noble mission.

As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe   







4-17-20 Friday 6:36 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

PLANTING DAY! & HOW OUR "VICTORY GARDEN" BEGAN

Well, it began with Cindy waking up at 3:30 AM with a plan in mid February.  "Why not begin our Tennessee garden right here in Florida?" she told me.  

GREAT PLAN!


She bought the seeds and planted them on our back porch and she nurtured them and even "talked" to them. 


They grew beautifully.  She put in "Grow lights" and kept them with water and love.


Then, in early April, she and Ari carefully loaded them and drove 720 miles to the "Retreat Cabin" with the plants.


She gently brought them to their new home and they began "acclimating" to the Tennessee climate. 

We believe and hope that the last freeze took place early this morning.  

It's time to get those plants into the ground!!  

Thus, the story of how our VICTORY GARDEN began with Cindy waking up at 3:30 am in mid February with a plan.


Again, the idea of growing one's own food is ancient, but...the COVID-19 has brought back the concept of VICTORY GARDENS to us during this challenging time.

We hope you consider growing a little garden.  It's well worth your time and energy and is even DELICIOUS & HEALTHFUL!!

Well, that's our story for the day.  We'll be working on setting up a CHICKEN COOP next.

So glad that you can join us on this wonderful adventure.  


Remember, JESUS is LORD and He'll never leave us nor forsake us.  

And...as I say every single day, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!!



Air Mobile Joe




4-16-20 Thursday 7:17 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

IN THE GARDEN IN THE "VALLEY"

We've been waiting for the last "freeze" before we "transplant, and we think we may be there.  


Were able to plant some "freeze resistant" seeds and they're beginning to sprout.  YEA!

If all goes as planned...we'll be eating fresh vegetables in a couple more weeks.  AMAZING!


Recently, was able to purchase a grand old tractor, a 1975 Massey Ferguson 230.  Tried to buy it 7 years ago and it wasn't available.  Well, we just got it (for a SUPER price!!) and I'm thrilled!


At the end of the day, Cindy and I lit a fire in the old wood stove and simply enjoyed a "Dancing Fire Movie".  Oh, there's something so cozy and comforting about a wood stove fire.
  
Well, today is the day that we'll finally transplant all of those little seedlings that Cindy planted on our back porch in Florida way back in February.

Cindy is indeed my Proverbs 31 Lady of God!  Yes, we're having a wonderful time up here in the mountains of East Tennessee.

As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe





4-15-20 Wednesday 5:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

PRAYER....PREPARE....PLANT

Now, as never before, Cindy and I are PRAYING for the leadership in our Government and for leaders around the world.  

Hard decisions are being made that will effect us all.  May our Lord's will be done and may the leaders of the world seek guidance and wisdom from our Lord.

The number of cases and the death toll continues to rise around the globe.  May we all join together and PRAY for those who are infected and for those who will be infected.  We PRAY for HEALING!!  


Remember, with God, ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE!

We're looking at our own personal supplies and inventory and measuring out portions.  

We're re-supplying any time we can and when our funds allow.  

In this way, we're PREPARING for hard times ahead.  Better to "err" on the "hard time" side.

Last night, we may have had our last freeze for the season...maybe.  

Tomorrow, we'll be transplanting all of those little seedlings, which we've been protecting from the freeze, into the ground.  YEA!


Remember our "Dancing Tomatoes"?

We're not alone in the PLANTING!  Take a look at this story on the possible upcoming SEED SHORTAGE.

SEED COMPANIES CAN'T KEEP UP AS MORE AMERICANS ARE TURNING TOWARD GROWING THEIR OWN FOOD


Consider growing a VICTORY GARDEN!!

Wherever you are, and whatever you may be facing, we PRAY that you will blessed and protected and directed by our Lord.

So, on this chilly morning in the Mountains of East TN, in the middle of the COVID-19 scourge, we go forth in His Name...holding tightly to His Hand!

THANK YOU, as always, for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe 

4-14-20 Tuesday 6:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

CINDY & I SNUCK OUT....

It was cold and rainy here at the cabin.  So....we decided it would be a good day to re-stock our supplies and pick up a handy new tool from Tractor Supply.

The traffic was light, fuel is cheap ($1.69 gallon) and Walmart had everything we needed except...toilet paper (we have a good supply).

So, what special tool did we buy at Tractor Supply??


I'll tell you now, I've always wanted my very own PHD....a Post - Hole - Digger (GAS POWERED)! 


I must admit, I hate the old hand-powered post hole digger!!

So, today we'll be working in the garden and digging a few fence pole holes.

We are living in perilous times!  Folks, I want to encourage you to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.  HE will lead us through these difficult days ahead.

As always, THANK YOU for your precious and invaluable prayer, love and support!!!!

Air Mobile Joe 



4-13-20 Monday 5:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe  

DRIVE IN.....CHURCH


Here in Tennessee, it's not (yet) against the law to have Church Service in your car.  

That's what we did yesterday on Easter Sunday in our local Baptist Church.  

We heard a good message on the Glorious Resurrection of Jesus...and were even able to bring our 3 dogs to church with us.


Andy paid particularly close attention to the Message.  



Ari and Benjie listened in the back seat.

PRAISE GOD for CREATIVITY!!

There is no doubt, these are "Strange Days" living through the COVID-19 Scourge.

So, what we're doing during this time is...planting a garden and preparing for difficult days ahead.

The more we can take care of ourselves and not depend upon the "system" to care for us the better.


Again, I'm reminded of the 10 Virgins in Matthew 25.  5 were wise and 5 were foolish.  The wise ones bought extra oil while they could.

Of course, I believe that the oil represents the Holy Spirit.  However, the Parable is also a message for us to PREPARE for hard days ahead.

You, who have wandered down this path of life with me over the years know that this is a message that I've preached for a long time.

Remember, the Bible tells us that these days would come and looks like we're arriving on the Biblical Time Line.  Simply read Matthew 24 & 25, Luke 21 and Mark 14 for more specific information about the End Times.

So, on this rainy day in Tennessee, we'll be working in the field with our raincoats on.

As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-12-20 Sunday 6:57 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

HE IS ALIVE!!!


As we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus, may we all reflect.  Without question, this is likely the "strangest" Easter of our lives.  


Regardless of whether we can "gather in-person"  or not, we certainly can CELEBRATE JESUS!!

This morning, Cindy, Ari and I will watch our Pastor, Gary Ginn in Florida deliver the Resurrection  Message.....on-line.

Where any two (are more) are gathered in My Name, there am I in their midst.  We are certainly gathered in His Name! 

Today, we will rest, enjoy delicious food and remember what our Lord Jesus as done for us.

These are strange days and now, as never before we need His guidance and direction to bring us through what lies ahead.

May you be BLESSED today.  Open your hearts to receive the fullness of our Lord Jesus.  HE LOVES YOU!!

As always, THANK YOU for rambling down this road of life with us.  We so appreciate your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-11-20 Saturday 6:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

WHAT LIES AHEAD??  SUNDAY IS COMING!!

As the world struggles against this terrible killer known as COVID-19, there is no better time to put our trust and faith in the Lord.

Tomorrow, Sunday, is recognized around the world as the day to celebrate the RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD JESUS!!

HE IS ALIVE!!!


Jesus tells us in the Word of God, that "hard times" (tribulation, trouble) will come, but, "Be of Good Cheer, I have overcome the world"!

Meanwhile, at the "Retreat Cabin", we're working hard on the Victory Garden.


Our Ariana "soloed" on our little lawn tractor!  

BTW, we're so proud of Ari.  She's keeping up with her on-line school work and then works very hard in the Victory Garden with Cindy and me.
  
GO ARI!!!

CINDY THE "CHIPPER!!


We're "Chipping away" at taking fallen trees and branches and turning them into compost and nice walkways around our Victory Garden.



And....who is that "Masked Man"?  

"Joe the Shredder".
So, on this Saturday, between Good Friday and the Resurrection, we're planting seeds to grow our own food and we're trusting in the Lord to guide and keep us in His loving hands!!

We hope and pray that you are safe and protected from COVID-19!!!

And, as I say every single day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-10-20 Friday 6:21 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

GOOD FRIDAY....IN THE MIDDLE OF COVID-19


The events are moving so fast! Never seen anything quite like this.  

The entire globe is impacted by this terrible pandemic. 

But...in the middle of it all, JESUS IS LORD!!

Today, Good Friday, is a day to celebrate the fact that JESUS DID DIE ON THE CROSS & PAID OUR DEBT!  




 JESUS IS ALIVE and...He has promised to NEVER LEAVE US NOR FORSAKE US!  PRAISE GOD!!

The bottom line is....JESUS LOVES YOU!!

So, on this Good Friday, may I encourage you to open your heart, as never before, to Jesus!!

Today, Cindy and I will be back in the garden, planting more seeds and continuing to prepare for the days ahead.

THANK YOU, as always, for your your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe






4-9-20 Thursday 4:55 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

SEEDS IN THE GROUND...DONKEY TEST

After all of the preparation, and laying in the "Lasagna Victory Garden" ingredients, it is time to PLANT!  


Cindy and Ari began by planting our "greens"...Mustard Greens, Collards, Spinach, Swiss Chard, Butter Crunch Lettuce, etc..  I LOVE GREENS!!

We may have another freeze in a couple of days, so...we're awaiting the transplanting of the seedlings from Florida.  


So, while we're up in Tennessee, Paul (our mechanic) and Dave Walen have been getting the Little Donkey ready for the "Next Mission".

Dave has traveled the world with Air Mobile on many critical missions.  He's a great PILOT & "WATER MULE" & FRIEND!!  


Dave will be conducting more test flights and the engine break-in.  So THANKFUL for this great team!! 

THANK YOU, DAVE & PAUL!!!

At the same time, Yahn, another GREAT "WATER MULE" is building Air Mobile Rescuer water purifiers.  

We don't know where the COVID-19 will end, but CLEAN WATER is an absolute NON-NEGOTIABLE!!

GO YAHN!!

Today, Cindy and I will be "chipping" and planting and making a way to make our own food.....a very noble project!!

COVID-19 is still ravaging lives and testing economic systems around the world to the limits.  

WE PRAY for our leaders and all of those in the path of this deadly virus.

WE PRAY that this terrible scourge will end soon.

Meanwhile, Cindy is halfway through her self quarantine and we're all doing well and feeling fine.  PRAISE GOD!!

We pray that you are safe and healthy.  So glad to have you on-board with us, through this rambling blog.  

THANK YOU again for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe





4-8-20 Wednesday 7:55 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

A "CHIPPER" DAY....

Looking around at our resources, we find that we have most of the things that we need.  Mmmm, a good lesson.

One of our "Ingredients" in our "Lasagna Victory Garden" is wood chips.  We have plenty of old dead branches and twigs.  


Cindy brought me plenty....to chip.


Our brand new chipper was up for the job.


In addition to putting those wood chips in the garden, they make a nice layer between the rows.


You may have seen the "PINK MOON" last night.  The "Pink Sunset" was beautiful.

A lot has been said about the "Pink Moon" and prophesy.  

This thing I know...we are one day closer to the soon coming of our Lord Jesus!!!

Folks, there are signs everywhere.  May we be led by our Lord Jesus!!


So, on this cloudy, stormy Wednesday morning, we continue to prepare the garden for planting and "trans-planting".  

Now, we know it'll take a while for our "crops" to come in.  

We must PLANT to RECEIVE a harvest....another good lesson during these challenging times.

COVID-19 is teaching us all so many lessons!!  It's also bringing many to Jesus, and for that we're THANKFUL!


In John 16:33, Jesus tells us that we will have "Trouble"....but be of good cheer, I (Jesus) have overcome the world".  May we all fix our eyes on Jesus!!

We hope and pray that you are safe and healthy!!!

We're so glad to have you with us through this "Rambling Blog".  

THANK YOU, as always for your faithful prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe









4-7-20 Tuesday 6:06 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

4 DOWN - 3 TO GO....


We had another good day of laying out the Victory Garden.  The birds are certainly "heralding" in Spring with their grand symphonies.


Ari has been a great help with the garden, in-between her on-line classes.  She's a very good student and we're so proud of her!!

I'm still amazed at how many FREE "ingredients" we have for our  "Lasagna" Victory Garden.   



Here, I'm dragging and cutting logs from fallen trees for the barriers for each bed.

So, on this crisp Wednesday (OOPS..it's Tuesday) morning, we'll be back out in the "field" preparing to grow our own food.  

You know, this is something that our grand-parents knew how to do and we're having to tap into those "survival" skills, during this terrible COVID-19 CRISIS!!  

Frankly, we're very THANKFUL for YouTube and the many helpful tips we find there.


For example, here's a YouTube from a young lady, Hannah, in Tasmania, Australia.  

Her simple and clear directions have been very helpful to Cindy and me.  Take a look...

"CRISIS GARDENING"...FRESH FOOD FAST!!  

Well, the sun is up and garden is waiting for us.  Time to get to work!

We hope and pray that you are safe and healthy!  It's time for us all to keep our eyes on Jesus!!

And...as I say every single day.....THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe

PS - I want you to know that I'm feeling great!  The fresh, crisp air and the hard work (using muscles that I haven't used in a long time), has been quite good to me.  THANK YOU again for your prayers!!

Joe



4-6-20 Monday 7:07 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

THE "VICTORY GARDEN"....GROWING!!

Yesterday, all of the pieces came together to actually layout and prepare our "Victory Garden" for PLANTING!!



I'm still amazed at how we can put a seed in the ground and it can grow to give us nourishing and delicious food.....again and again and again.  God is so Good to us!!

Here are some steps that we took in preparing our Victory Garden.  We're using a system called the "Lasagna Garden".  We put down different layers and it controls weeds and gives a lovely yield.  So....here we go.



We begin with cardboard.



After "laying out" the first bed (4' X 20') we put the layer of cardboard down and wet it thoroughly.



Then, our next steps are green - brown - green - brown. 



Then, we put in the wood chips that we made ourselves, thanks to a Troy-Bilt wood chipper.  Almost unlimited sticks and branches here at the Retreat Cabin.



The only thing we bought was a lovely load of "Mushroom Compost".  That was the next "Brown" layer on our Victory Garden.



Then, Cindy and Ari duplicated Bed 1 and made Bed 2 while I was out "harvesting" grass clippings with our lawn tractor with the bagger-attachment.


Now, this next clip shows the Florida-grown seeds that Cindy and Ari transported up here for transplanting. 

During the video, these sweet little seedlings began to "Dance".  Take a look!!

After working in "Victory Garden", we came in and showered and watched our Palm Sunday Service given by Pastor Gary Ginn of Redeemer Church. The wonder of the internet.

We CELEBRATE our LORD JESUS during this difficult global pandemic and put our trust and faith in HIM!!

We hope and pray that you are well and safe.  We're so THANKFUL to have you on-board with us, with your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe







4-5-20 Sunday 6:07 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

CINDY, ARI & "COMPANY" ARRIVE AT THE "RETREAT CABIN" SAFE & SOUND!!

It was such a joy to have my Cindy & Ari pull up to the cabin.  Though...we're still "socially separated" due to Cindy's time at the Hospital.  

Cindy began her 2 week Quarantine yesterday.


I'm so THANKFUL to have them here!!!  

Our little dogs love the cabin and the 300+ plants made the journey successfully.

They made the 12 hour drive without incident.  

THANK YOU for your PRAYERS for a smooth journey!!

So, on this brisk, beautiful morning in the mountains of East Tennessee, we PRAISE GOD for His goodness and grace!!

As always, THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!

BE SAFE & PRAY!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-4-20 Saturday 6:37 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

CINDY & COMPANY "ON THE ROAD"


I just spoke with Cindy, who has been on the road from Florida since 3:40 AM.  She's already in Georgia and making good time.

She is joined by Ariana, Andy, Benjie & Honey (our 3 dogs) and...over 300 little plants that have been growing on our back-porch in Florida.

We'll be "transplanting" them into our TN Garden and hope that they make the "transition" well!!

PLEASE PRAY FOR TRAVELING MERCY FOR CINDY & COMPANY!!

Oh, I've certainly missed them and so glad that they'll be soon joining me here at the "Retreat Cabin".

So, it's time to clean the cabin and chop some wood.  As always, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe

4-3-20 Friday 7:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

UNCHARTED TERRITORY.....

Never, in all my years, have I seen anything like this.  The Global Pandemic is RAPIDLY changing the entire globe.

There is NO DOUBT, that this old world is shaking.  From the "Pestilence" (COVID-19) to the LOCUST swarming Africa, to the 6.5 EARTHQUAKE in Utah and the list goes on and on.


Are we in the END TIMES?  There is certainly growing evidence that we are.  Just read Matthew 24, Luke 21 and Mark 14.

We are all looking at....our "Supply Chains" as we surely don't want to run out of...toilet paper (I say that jokingly).  

Seriously, it is good to look at our FOOD SUPPLY, CLEAN WATER, MEDICAL SUPPORT,  SHELTER & above all..... OUR FAITH IN GOD!!

The question that we all ask is....HOW LONG WILL THIS LAST?


NOW is the time to hold onto Jesus!!!

It is certainly a good time to EVALUATE where we are.  What assets do we have?  How will we manage them?

In the midst of all of this, I slipped away from the cabin yesterday.  Armed with a "Prayer of Protection", Hand Sanitizer and a Bandanna, I picked up a wood chipper that had been ordered from Home Depot. 

On the way back to the cabin, I stopped at Walmart and picked up a few supplies.  The store was surprisingly well-stocked.  Then, topped off the Ford Escape with very "cheap" gas.

Our great friends, Dave & Jane Fugate asked me to stop by and pick up some "Chicken Soup", which I did.  We maintained social distancing.  

THANK GOD for loving and caring and sharing neighbors!


Yesterday evening, at the end of Cindy's LAST SHIFT, we talked and I told her how absolutely PROUD I am of her faithful and excellent service as a nurse. 

And above all, as a loving Christian who brought such care and love to the suffering.  WELL DONE, CINDY!!

She and Ari will be packing up and heading to the Cabin tomorrow.  PRAISE GOD!!! Oh, I can hardly wait to see them.

We're working diligently on producing as much of our own food as possible with our VICTORY GARDEN.

The "Retreat Cabin" is the perfect place to "ride out the storm" and grow closer to our Lord Jesus!!


We don't know what the future holds, but...we do know Who holds the future!!

THANK YOU - THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!



Air Mobile Joe



4-2-20 Thursday 6:17 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

CHILLY SPRING MORNING....


BRRRR, 35 degrees on this gorgeous morning in the Mountains of East TN.

The beauty of God's Creation is overwhelming.  What an amazing place to "self quaratine"!!


In addition to working on the VICTORY GARDEN today, will be researching the best, next step, in my Cancer treatment.  

The COVID-19 CRISIS has caused us to put a "pause on my treatment" but we're moving ahead and seeking our Lord's Wisdom and Guidance regarding this critical matter.

BTW, these last 2 weeks at the Retreat Cabin have brought tremendous relief of pain and healing.  For that, I'm very THANKFUL!!


And...today is Cindy's last day at the Hospital!  She has been a tremendous blessing to all in her care.  I'm so proud of her!! 

And....I'm counting the hours until she and Ariana will arrive here at the Cabin this weekend!  YEA!!!!

I hope and pray that you are in a safe place!  And, as I say
 every day and mean with all of my heart, THANK YOU for your invaluable prayer, love and support!!

Air Mobile Joe



4-1-20 Wednesday 7:47 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

RESTING.....IN THE ARMS OF JESUS

It's been cold and rainy for the last few days.  Can't get out and work in the garden for now.


So....lit a fire in the "Old Wood Stove" and enjoyed the peace and warmth and comfort.  Nice way to spend the day.

In between putting logs on the fire, received a call from the missionary who is at the "Village" in Haiti.  

We spent over an hour on the phone going over the "Overhaul" procedures for the Air Mobile Rescuer water purifier.  He's becoming a "Water Mule".  PRAISE GOD!!

Received another call from Andrew.  Andrew builds "Tiny Houses".  He ordered an Air Mobile Rescuer for his latest "Tiny House".  Good to have the ability to make dirty water clean.  PRAISE GOD!!

Folks are realizing, that in the middle of the COVID-19 scourge, it's good to have a good source of CLEAN WATER.


And yesterday, a 6.5 EARTHQUAKE struck Idaho.  That is a powerful quake!  

Here's more - "I HEARD THE ROAR" - POWERFUL 6.5 QUAKE SHAKES IDAHO 

All of our lives have changed dramatically in the last few weeks.  


Here's a study stating that many Americans are turning to PRAYER.  

That is a good thing!! - MANY AMERICANS TURNING TO PRAYER! 

This is also a great time to get into the Word of God!!  FAITH COMES BY HEARING & HEARING BY THE WORD OF GOD!!

THANK YOU, as always, for your prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe 



3-31-20 Tuesday 7:11 AM (U.S. Eastern Time) - In the Mountains of East TN  ('Air Mobile Retreat Cabin') - Report submitted by Air Mobile Joe

IT'S OK TO CRY.....


As I sit and write this "Rambling" Blog this cool, rainy morning, my heart breaks and I drift in and out of quiet tears.  

I don't have to hold those tears back.  I want to do more to help during this terrible crisis, but must...for now, remain at the cabin and make it as safe and well stocked as possible.

BTW, as I hear story after story of "acts of kindness" which are taking place here in America and around the world....I cry for joy.

Was up before the sun rose this morning and just lay quiet and listened to the Word of God.  Can't seem to get out of the Book of Revelation.  


Each time I read the "Book", our Lord promises to BLESS us.  

Let the BLESSINGS FLOW!!

I'm counting the hours until Cindy and Ari arrive.  Cindy's last day of work at the Hospital will be on Thursday.  

Then....they'll pack up and hit the road on Saturday.  I'm laying a PRAYER PATH for them to arrive safely.

Meanwhile, here at the cabin, I'm continuing to prepare the garden to receive hundreds of seedlings that are growing under Cindy's care in Florida. 


The idea of eating food that we have grown is ancient, but somehow exhilarating.  I love to call it our VICTORY GARDEN!!

I don't know where you are in this crisis, but I PRAY that our Lord will BLESS YOU RICHLY!

If there is ever a time to "CALL UPON THE NAME OF THE LORD", it is NOW!!

And remember, if you feel the urge to simply cry, do it.  It's good for the soul.

As I say every single day and mean with all of my heart (as never before) THANK YOU for your precious prayer, love and support!!!

Air Mobile Joe 





PS - IF YOU'RE NEW TO THIS "RAMBLING BLOG" AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW HOW WE'VE GOTTEN TO THIS JUNCTURE OF THE JOURNEY, JUST CLICK ON "OLDER POSTS" BELOW. 


Joe 

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