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Days 6 & 7 — Minivan Build

For days six and seven of the build, we are putting the finishing touches on the wood construction, going into town to get shipments of wishlist items, and preparing to install the solar power systems and related electronics.  But, mostly, we are enjoying each others’ company, running errands, and taking care of personal business during this short down time.

Tony (inside) and Karen are putting the finishing touches on the wood construction … dog Cody is supervising.

Today we opened the first set of packages from the Amazon Wishlist.  Thank you everyone who is giving to the minivan build so generously.

When not working on the minivan, we’ve enjoyed meals and campfires together (Mario, Missy, Phyllis).

HOWA’s two best Executive Assistants, Phyllis and KC, with Kona getting a belly rub.

Suanne giving the dogs a little treat.  Cody and Kona say “mmmmm good!”

Marshmallows for desert.  John says “mmmmm good!”

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Day Five — Minivan Build

Today was abuzz with building activity, while Bob shot his live feed .

Our camp work area and gathering spot.

Cliff sawing and James documenting on camera.

Joni, James, John and Cliff discussing the layout.

John figuring out how everything will fit together.

John and Cliff placing the top shelf.

Watch Bob’s live stream video to see how much further they got today!  Click here.

For those of you who contributed by purchasing an item for the minivan on the Amazon Wishlist.  Thank you!  You Rock!  All items have been purchased and are being shipped to our location.

 

 

 

 

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Day Four — Minivan Build

Shelves begun under the hatch for a galley kitchen.

A view inside from the passenger-side sliding door.

Due to the generous contributions of our donors, HOWA purchased the build’s lumber, building supplies, solar power system components and related electronic parts.  Yet, to make this minivan a home, we need additional items to create a livable, safe and secure space.  So, we’ve put together an Amazon Wishlist for anyone else who would like to contribute to this inaugural build.  Consider taking part by purchasing something from the Minivan Build Wishlist — https://amzn.to/2JZ4J3C  Thank you for joining with us us to make this minivan a home-sweet-home for someone in need.  

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Day Three — Minivan Build

Floor vinyl was installed with precision (John).

Bed built and secured to the floor.  The back shelving was begun.  And, the first draft of the Safety Manual was submitted.  Bob is video taping the build.  

The day ended around the campfire with roasted marshmallows and friendship (Lois, Bonnie, Paulette, Mario).

Our location for the minivan build is truly beautiful.

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Days One & Two — Minivan Build

After a hot dog BBQ, planning session during Day One, volunteers Tony and Karen made a run into town for lumber and supplies on Day Two.   The Model Minivan Build is off to a very productive start.

In the morning of Day One, the floor was put in.  (Cliff, James, and Kenny)

 

By evening, the bed was framed.  (Joni and Cliff, with Bob video taping at the side door)

 

We really have a very beautiful location for the minivan build.  (Phyllis’ place)

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Celebrate, Then Measure

After our little celebration at Denny’s, we went right out and started measuring the minivan in the parking lot … taking pictures like proud parents of their first child.

Interior width, length and height were measure on our new-to-us 2000 Ford Windstar.

Fluids were again confirmed to be clean, without suspicious odors.

Looks like Bob and Suanne are discussing something serious with Cliff doing a walk-around on the minivan.

The build begins this week, as a small volunteer team assemble in the forest of southern Oregon.

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