Journal
2019 Season Kick-Off
“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.” -Lamentations 3:22-23
Every year when a new resort season begins we see this verse come to life in so many ways. We are so thankful for God’s faithfulness and His guidance as we open our resort for it’s 92nd year! 🙂 Each year looks a bit different and we like to bring new experiences and make improvements for our guests, but the foundation of the resort and the hope to give each family a ‘picture perfect vacation’ will never change. Here is what you can look forward to in this 2019 season!
What’s New in 2019?
1. We will be adding a new activity this year. “Fishing time with Joe”. One morning every week, kids can fish with Joe off the dock. Whether this is their first time fishing or they have been doing it for years, they will learn new things and have fun doing it!
2. For several years, we have had a resort wide volleyball game once a week with smores. This year instead of playing volleyball we will have yard games for guests to play. Some of these games include: Spikeball, Bocce ball, Kubb, Kan Jam, and more!
3. We now have another fishing boat option for our guests. It is a 16-foot boat with a 15hp motor. Just one more reason to get out on the lake. 🙂
4. The biggest news of this season is our 20th cabin addition, “Restful Retreat”! We have purchased and fixed up a cozy 2-bedroom cabin that is sure to be a guest favorite. It has its own beautiful outdoor space which is secluded and close to the water. 
What’s been improved in 2019?
Every year we make multiple improvements to the resort and this year is no different. Some have been large improvements and others have been small, but we are excited about them all!
1. We have added lights on the decks of some of the cabins to help with better visibility at night. This also adds to the beauty and character of the cabins.
2. Cabin #8 ‘Paradise‘, is wheelchair accessible and this year we built a new ramp leading up to the cabin.
3. The fish house gets an abundance of foot traffic each year as people bring in their catches from the day. This year a new tapered floor was needed, so we put one in. 
4. Not only did the fish house need a new floor, but we also replaced the floor in the women’s bathhouse.
5. Our guests love to be on the docks, whether they are fishing, reading, or just looking out at the beautiful view. For this season, we upgraded the benches on the end of the main dock.
6. This year we also installed a new firepit and put in some new deck stairs for Cabin #1 ‘Rest Haven‘.
We feel so blessed to be able to serve God and others in this way. After so many months of the resort being still and silent, we are excited to see it come back to life. It brings us immense joy to see families and their friends spending quality time with one another and making memories that will last a lifetime. It may sound silly, but we have been looking forward to your vacation just as much as you have! We cannot wait to see you here!!!
If you want further information check out our website.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” – Matthew 7:7
God has created us all in such a way as to be curious and ask questions. God has promised us that if we come to Him, and seek to understand who He is as well as what He has done for us; He will reveal that to us. Just as many of us may have questions for God about life, we also have questions about many other things. Over the years, we have had many people ask us questions about Riverside Resort. We have started compiling a list of the most popular questions. We hope they are helpful to you.
1. What year did the resort first open?
The resort opened in May of 1927.
2. What do I need to bring when staying in a cabin?
A list of items that would be helpful for you to bring can be found here on our website.
The list consists of kitchen towels, kitchen trash bags, dish soap, scrub sponge, beach towels, sunscreen, bath towels, hand soap, and, of course, your personal items.
3. What supplies are in the kitchen?
We have done our best to make sure all necessary supplies are in the kitchen when you arrive. Here is what we have: dishes, silverware, drinkware, pots, pans, coffee maker, ice cube trays, can opener, knives, wooden spoons, spatula, mixing bowls, pizza cutter, measuring cups, and a pitcher.
4. Do the cabins have A/C?
Yes, each cabin has its own A/C unit which can be regulated by our guests.
5. Do you have Free WiFi?
Yes!
6. Can I bring my pet?
Yes, however, we prefer that dogs be boarded or stay at home, but arrangements can be made to bring people-friendly pets. Our pet policy, which can also be found on our website under resort policies, is: Please call for permission before bringing a pet to either a campsite or a cabin. The Pet fee is $30/day or $150/wk. Pets must be kept quiet, well cleaned up after, as well as being on a leash anytime they are outside. Pets are also not allowed in the beach/swimming area.
7. Is Riverside on a river or a lake?
Riverside Resort is located on a lake, Cedar Island Lake. It sits right where the Sauk River channel runs through Cedar Island Lake.
8. Is there a swimming pool?
No, not on-site. However, we have a partnership with the Riverside Inn in Cold Springs, MN. All of our guests are welcome to use their indoor pool and hot tub.
9. What water rentals are available?
We have several rental options such as kayaks, canoes, pontoons, row boats, paddleboards, and more. You can check out the complete list here. 
10. Is there a swimming beach?
Yes, it is very nice! We have a clear area for swimming that includes a slide as well as a water mat for guests to play on.
11. How is the fishing?
The fishing is great. Much of the time you could simply fish off any of our docks and be successful. However, there are some spots on the lake that we would be happy to point out to you if you are looking to venture off the dock. Check out the 6 most common fish that are caught around the Resort.
12. Are there full hookups at the overnight camping sites?
We do not have full hookups, but we do have electric sites in the additional camping areas. This is unlike our more rustic, wooded camping sites which do not have electricity.
13. Does your resort have seasonal sites?
Yes! We have 41 seasonal sites on the resort and they are very popular.
14. What onsite activities are there?
We have several activities for our guests to enjoy such as swimming, a variety of boating options, frisbee golf, craft times, a game room, basketball, movie nights, volleyball, bean bag tournaments, and more. Check out our website for a complete list.
15. Are their hiking/biking trails nearby?
Yes, there are several trails around the area. Here is a complete list of trails for you to check out. The closest trail, Rocori Trail, is only 1.5 miles away.
16. Are there any golf courses nearby?
Yes! Rich Spring Golf Club is only 4 miles away in Cold Spring. In fact, we even have discounted golf certificates for all of our guests! Make sure to ask about it during your next stay.
17. Is there a restaurant onsite?
No, however we do have a store onsite. In the store you can purchase candy, ice cream, as well as some simple grocery items. As far as restaurants, there are several right down the street in both Richmond and Cold Spring.
18. How far are you from MSP?
We are approximately 95 miles from the Minneapolis-St.Paul Airport and only 30 miles from the St. Cloud airport.
19. What is the reservation policy?
All the specific details can be found here on our website. We do require an advanced deposit on all reservations and once the reservation is finalized the guests are responsible for their whole stay.
20. What’s the deal with the rabbit?
Riverside Rabbit is our resort’s mascot as well as our dear friend. For the full history of Riverside check out this blog!
We hope that some of your questions have now been answered as well. If you still have more questions feel free to contact us at anytime via phone, facebook, or email. You can also look for more information on our website!!!
By: Kathryn Rupnow
Social Media Specialist
Riverside Resort
The Tale of Riverside Rabbit
“And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” -Hebrews 13:16
Jeanette DeRose, the mother of Joe DeRose (current owner of Riverside Resort), was a wonderful women. Jeanette dearly loved Jesus, her family, as well as the guests who came to vacation at Riverside Resort. She and her husband, Jim, owned and managed the resort for 32 delightful years. She loved to spread joy and continually thought of new ways to make this happen. Because of this, she had an idea to create a mascot for the resort. Her vision was to make it come alive, so the guests could interact with it. After much deliberation, a specific animal was chosen. Jeanette wrote the following story to provide background for their new, adoring friend.
The Tale of Riverside Rabbit
Once upon a time, in a land known to many as a “vacationer’s paradise”, a large rabbit was seen wandering in the woods of Central MN. The DeRose family lived in the big white house near these woods. Year after year, vacationers traveled to this ideal Minnesota vacation area. Everyone knew they could count on the DeRose’s at Riverside Resort to provide fun vacation memories for the entire family.
As is the custom at Riverside Resort,
the DeRose’s welcomed this large rabbit to their resort home. They motioned for him to come up out of the woods and presented him with a bunch of carrots. An instant friendship was made…Jim, Jeanette, Jennifer, Jessica, as well as Joseph DeRose felt as though this special guest had been a friend of theirs for year.
When asked who he was, this large rabbit replied that his name was Riverside Rabbit! He explained that he had traveled to vacation areas in many parts of the world. He was searching for the special vacation place which he had been named after. You see, it seems that many years ago his parents had vacationed at a resort. At this resort, people were friendly and the fishing was great. Therefore, only fun vacation memories filled their photo albums. Riverside Rabbit said that this special vacation place was known as Riverside Resort. He asked if his new friends knew how he could get there!
Well,
imagine his surprise when the DeRose’s enthusiastically told Riverside Rabbit that he was at Riverside Resort! Everyone was so excited! To everyone’s delight, the DeRose’s adopted Riverside Rabbit. In 1992 he made the woods of Riverside Resort his permanent home.
Riverside Rabbit makes friends instantly with the guests at Riverside Resort, where he loves to share hugs, as well as, cookies with “kids of all ages”. When Riverside Rabbit is not giving resort children their special coloring contest prizes, passing out cookies, or visiting with resort guests, he may be seen in the woods of Riverside Resort. A vacation home, where he and all of Riverside’s “extended family”, create lasting vacation memories and live happily ever after!
Blog Post by: Kathryn Rupnow
7 Things You May Not Know about Joe and Christina DeRose
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” -Jeremiah 29:11
God knew the plans for Joe and Christina DeRose’s lives from the very beginning of time. Isn’t that crazy to think about?!? Well, they certainly did not know the direction their lives would take, but they have chosen to trust God each step of the way. Those of you who have vacationed at Riverside Resort know how much Joe and Christina love the Resort and the guests who come. You may also know that they have 4 children, relish adventure, and take every opportunity to spend time with friends and family. Have you ever wanted to know more? Well, here are a few interesting facts to help you get to know them a bit better.
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Their first one-on-one conversation:
In college, Joe and Christina went to Panama City Beach, Florida during spring break with a Campus Crusade for Christ group. One morning several of the students decided to run on the beach. As it turns out, Joe and Christina ended up at the front of the group and had a chance to get to know one another without any interruptions! 🙂
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Joe’s “profession”:
Joe went to school to become a pilot. He worked for Menards as a corporate pilot for several years before him and Christina bought the resort. He still continues to fly from time to time whether for business or pleasure. Joe acquired his love of flying at a young age and took his first flight lesson at the ripe old age of 14.
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Christina’s noteworthy achievement:
Christina comes from a family of swimmers. Her grandmother was a great swim coach, her mother was a swimmer (who swam in the olympic trials); and she, herself went on to swim competitively at the collegiate level. Christina has many fond memories from her swimming years and learned much along the way about dedication, commitment, and hardwork.
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Christina’s “profession”:
Christina obtained her degree from St. Cloud State University. From there, she was a high school math teacher for several years before having children and staying home with them. Christina loves numbers and solving all sorts of problems. If you have any algebra, calculus, or geometry questions, she is your gal! 🙂
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Their unknown childhood connection:
Long before Joe and Christina ever met, they both shared a love for music. Not only did they love music, but they both decided at a young age to play alto saxophone. Although, the times are few and far between, if they ever get a chance to play music together it is a joyful occasion.
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The “rumor”:
Although it did not last long and nobody is quite sure how it started, the rumor going around Christina’s hometown was that Joe was a model. While everyone agreed that Joe was a good looking fellow, the rumor was soon corrected and everyone had a good laugh about it.
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One of their many passions in life:
Joe and Christina feel very blessed to have each other. They are thankful for the union of marriage that God designed. They certainly know that a wonderful marriage does not come easy and it takes intentional thought, work, and love. Because of this, Joe and Christina have a heart for mentoring others in their marriage as well.
So yes, God knew from the very beginning about all these things that have happened in their lives. He also knows everything that has and will happen in yours. If you want to find out more about us or our resort, check it out here!
By: Kathryn Rupnow
Social Media Specialist
Riverside Resort
Riverside Rabbit’s Christmas Wish List
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whosoever believes in Him, shall not perish but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16
The ultimate, greatest, and most precious gift of all time is this: God sent His one and only Son to the world, not to judge or condemn, but to save us all. At Christmas, we all love to give gifts to those we love. We will never come close to the gift that God has given to us. However, our hope is to make others feel loved by what we give them. Some of us even receive Christmas wish lists so that we are sure to get the right presents. Riverside Rabbit made such a list this year and asked that it be shared with you all! 🙂
1. New Dancing Shoes
Riverside Rabbit so enjoys the time he is able to spend with our guests. One of his favorite activities is dancing the bunny hop with all who will join him. As you can imagine, his shoes get pretty worn out from all the dancing and hopping. This year he is hoping for a shiny new pair!
2. Fishing pole
Riverside Rabbit does not typically get too close to the water. (Frankly, he would most likely sink if he fell in.) However, he is always hearing about all the great fish that are caught at the resort each year and would love to get in on the action!
3. Wetsuit
Fishing is not the only activity Riverside hears guests rave about, he also hears wonderful things about people swimming. He has been on the look-out for a wetsuit large enough for a bunny his size, however his search has been quite unsuccessful. Let us know if you find anything!
4. Glasses
Another activity Riverside loves is judging the coloring contest. Even though he thoroughly enjoys this responsibility, he’s getting older each year and sometimes could use some extra assistance seeing the small details in each wonderful picture.
5. Large Fan
As you can imagine having lots of fur is wonderful in the winter months, but can get awfully hot in the summer. Riverside wouldn’t miss the chance to see his friends, however, he does think if he had a large fan to cool him off some days would be more enjoyable.
6. Oversized Umbrella
Along with his request for a fan, Riverside also has asked for an umbrella. He wants to make sure he is protected from the sun because, believe it or not, rubbing sunscreen on his soft fur is not the most enjoyable experience.
7. Pens and Stamps
Riverside Rabbit sends his friends cards in the mail on special occasions throughout the year. Because he has so many friends, he goes through pens and stamps quite quickly.
From all of us here at Riverside Resort we wish you a very Merry Christmas!
How to Bake the perfect Apple Pie in 5 Easy Steps
“For he [God] satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.“ -Psalms 107:9
God has given us an abundance of “good” fruits and vegetables. One of these magnificent foods is the apple. Nothing says ‘Fall’ quite like a large, crisp, and juicy apple. During this time of year there are a plethora of apples to choose from. Maybe you have an apple tree in your yard, or your friend’s yard, or maybe you have just taken a trip to your favorite orchard. Looking for a great way to use those apples? We have a wonderful apple pie recipe for you to try. It is a family favorite! 🙂
1. Pick the perfect apples
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Mcintosh apples are some of the best to use for apple pie. However, in our experience, we have enjoyed our pie regardless of the apples we use. One of our favorite traditions is to go to a local orchard, grab a bunch of apples (whatever variety they are featuring at the time), and use those to make our pies. Bottom line, God makes AHHH-mazing apples, and you can’t really go wrong!
2.Peel the apple, peel, peel the apple
The next step is to peel and cut the apples. Depending on the size of the apples and the size of pie you want to make, you should use between 7-10 apples. Our favorite way to prepare the apples is with the Johnny Apple Peeler, because it peels, slices, and cores the apple all at the same time. However, a regular peeler and knife work just as well. Make sure the apple slices are fairly thin in order for them to cook properly.
3. Fabricate the filling
⅔ cup sugar
¼ cup flour
½ tsp. Cinnamon
½ tsp. Nutmeg
Dash of salt
*Mix these dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Once they are well mixed you can stir in the apples which you have already prepared.
4. Concoct your crust
What??? You want me to make my own crust??!? Yes, you can do it! 🙂
I know it can be intimidating but it is really very easy if you follow these steps. Here is what you will need:
⅓ cup plus 1 Tbsp shortening
1 cup flour
¼ tsp salt
2 to 3 Tbsp cold water
-Cut the shortening into the flour and salt using a pastry blender until particles are crumb size.
-Sprinkle with water 1 Tbsp at a time, tossing with a fork until all the dough is moistened and it almost cleans the side of the bowl.
-Gather the dough into a ball and place it on a large sheet of wax paper.
-Put another piece of wax paper over the top and roll the dough out between them with a rolling pin.
-Once the dough is in a nice circle big enough for your pie pan, take off the top layer of wax paper and flip the dough onto the pie pan. Very carefully, remove the other layer of wax paper.
-Fill the crust with the apple mixture.
********If you are wanting to make a 2 crust pie you can repeat these same steps after the pie filling is in the pie. If you want to make a pie with crumb topping (also known as Dutch Apple Pie) you can use these ingredients:
1 cup flour
½ cup packed brown sugar
½ cup firm stick of butter
*Mix with pastry blender until crumbly and then place it on top of the pie.
5. Bake to excellence
Now that your delectable masterpiece is almost finished all you have to do is put it in the oven. You should bake it at 450 degrees for about 40 min. Make sure you check it towards the end of the baking time. If the outer crust is starting to look dark, it is best to put small strips of tin foil around the edges to keep them from burning.
Once it is done baking just set it aside to cool.
VOILA! Your Pie is ready.
Serve with ice cream, whipped cream, or just straight up. ENJOY!
8 Unique ways to make a S’more
“For You created my inmost being; You knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well. “ -Psalms 139:13-14
Did you know that? God created you, He knows you, He loves you! Yes, YOU! That’s some fantastic news right there. And do you know what else? He made us each uniquely and perfectly different. Because of this fact, it is no surprise that we all have different talents, abilities, ideas, and, you guessed it, different taste buds. As the brisk air sweeps through the midwest, it’s so nice to gather around the warmth of a campfire with people you love while enjoying a delicious s’more. Here are some great s’more ideas to get your own creative juices flowing. 🙂
1. Caramel Apple S’more
Do you like S’mores? Do you like caramel apples? Put your hands together and try combining the timeless favorites. Roast the marshmallow to perfection, add some caramel, top with a few apple slices, and ‘Voila’!
2. Traditional S’more
Some may argue that the “traditional s’more” is not unique. That may be true today, but at one point in history it was a totally new and UNIQUE idea. Simply roast the marshmallow to your liking, set it on top of the chocolate, and sandwich it all between golden brown graham crackers. Enjoy!
3. Double Chocolate S’more
Calling all chocolate lovers!! For this recipe choose which two chocolate items you put in or on your s’more. Maybe you want the traditional s’more but switch the regular graham cracker out for a chocolate one. Or you can choose to put two different types of chocolate on your s’more. Maybe even get a little more wild and make it a triple or quadruple chocolate s’more by adding even more chocolate. I am not judging!!
4. Oreo/Chocolate Chip Cookie S’more
Does this one need a description? I think not. Go grab your oreos, chocolate chip cookies, (or other favorite cookies) and feel free to leave the graham crackers in the cupboard. Bon Appetit!
5. Candy Bar S’more
Halloween is just a few weeks away, which means you may have a few more candy bars laying around the house then usual. 🙂 I wonder what would be best paired with a warm melting marshmallow? Snickers, Reese’s, Milky Way….oh boy, my mouth is watering just thinking about it.
6. Salted Caramel S’more
The name of this one says it all. Once you have made the perfect s’more, as the chocolate is just starting to melt, simply drizzle or place some of your favorite salted caramel on top. This will bring the traditional s’more to a whole new level.
7. S’more Bacon
The saying “Bacon makes everything better” applies to, well, everything. You could prepare the bacon ahead of time or cook it right there over the fire so it is nice and hot. It may even be too good to share. 🙂
8. Strawberry S’more
This last idea is definitely not the least. If you are a fresh fruit lover this may be the s’more for you. It is like a warm, chocolate covered strawberry dipped in marshmallow cream with a crunch. Yup, we may be onto something!
Once you have discovered and perfected your favorite s’more, be sure to bring the ingredients along to Riverside Resort next year. We would love to see what you came up with.
Summer Highlights
“Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.” – Psalm 37:4
The Lord truly has given us one of the desires of our hearts this summer, which is working as a family to serve our guests and see the joy that brings around the resort. Of course we had days of struggle, occasional bad weather, and other hard situations; but that’s life right?!? Mostly, we are once again filled with awe and amazement of our Lord’s provisions, faithfulness, and blessings. The wonderful moments and memories are abundant but here are some of our favorites from the summer.
1. Charlie the clown
Charlie the Clown came to Riverside Resort on Memorial Day weekend to help us kick off our 2018 season. We had so much fun! He made balloon animals (and hats), took pictures with the kids, walked on stilts, and entertained us with an amazing unicycle routine. What a way to start the summer and celebrate the holiday!!
2. Awesome fireworks display
In the past, Riverside Resort has set off fireworks over the 4th of July, but then took a several year hiatus. 3 years ago, we decided to start it back up. Since then, we feel that every year and every show has gotten even bigger and better than the last. (Not to mention our fire masters are gaining more confidence! 🙂 ) What a brilliant display of light, sound, and color. If you missed it this year, make sure to put it on your calendar in 2019 as we plan to continue this yearly tradition. Check out this year’s finale!
3. A First for Caleb
Caleb, our oldest son, is 9 years old and this year he took on the task of helping to mow the resort lawn. There is a lot of great green space which means there are endless opportunities to mow. Caleb says that he likes to mow because it is a “pretty good work out”. He was in charge of mowing the grass around the bathhouse and the playground area in the backyard. Even though he has enjoyed using the push mower this summer, he said he is anxious for when he can also use the riding mower. 🙂
4. New Record
This year we had the most guests we have ever had in the month of August!! It was fun for our busy weeks of June and July to continue all the way through the summer. We were able to meet so many new guests for the first time as well as welcome back cherished and familiar faces who faithfully come back year after year.
5. David, the Fish Master
David, our second son, is 8 and he is quite the fisherman. He is unsure the exact number of fish he caught this summer, but we all agree it has to be over 70. The biggest fish was a 20-inch catfish!! He fishes mostly off various docks at the resort, but he said his favorite spots are Becker Lake and Mud Lake. Both of these lakes are just a boat ride away from the resort. David’s preference is to use a “blue and silver” lure, but he says you can catch a bunch of sunfish just using nightcrawlers. He is a wealth of information so if you have any questions while fishing at the resort be sure to track him down! 🙂
We look back fondly and thankfully at our summer and look ahead in expectancy and excitement for the fall that lies ahead!
ABC’s for a successful school year
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” -Joshua 1:9
As we say ‘goodbye’ to summer, we say ‘hello’ to a new school year! This time of transition is full of excitement, nerves, shopping, and lots of planning. Here are some tips to help make this school year the best yet!
A – Attitude
Winston Churchill said “Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”. We need to set an example by having a good attitude in all situations. The beginning of the school year is very exciting, however, it can also be hard. If you keep a good attitude, it will be infectious to those around you.
B – Boundaries
Set boundaries on activities during the school year. Kids are so busy just going to school therefore, it is even more difficult when we cram in so many other things before and after school. Sit down as a family and talk about everyone’s priorities. From there, figure out together what will work best.
C – Calendar
It does not matter how many people are in your family or how many schedules you are trying to juggle. It is a good idea to have a common calendar with everyone’s activities listed. This helps everyone to be on the same page as well as decreasing miscommunication between family members.
D – Designate
Have specific places at home for specific activities. For example: eat at the table, sleep in your bed, relax in your living room, and find a place where homework can get done. This will help keep everyone focused on the task at hand and aid in keeping a consistent routine.
E – Eat
Eating and what we choose to eat are essential for our mind and body throughout the day. Eating breakfast before school helps children to stay focused on their work and not think about their rumbling tummy. It is also important for children to eat healthy snacks and meals throughout the day. Check out this website, it gives some helpful tips about nutrition for kids.
F – Fun
Don’t forget to have fun. Learning is fun, being with friends is fun, and helping in your child’s classroom is fun. If we take the fun out of learning and the fun out of school, kids are going to be less excited about going.
G – God
Most importantly, make God’s plan and His purpose part of your child’s school year. Pray with your children about school situations, memorize scriptures that could be encouraging throughout their day, and read the Word of God to keep truth in everyone’s hearts.
Guest Interview #1
“Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is trustworthy in all He promises and faithful in all He does.” – Psalm 145:13
We believe with our whole hearts that this is true! God’s kingdom is eternal, He is trustworthy, He is faithful, and His dominion endures through all generations! What great hope that brings. Nothing else endures ALL generations, but some things get pretty close. Like some of our faithful and steadfast guests that have come to Riverside Resort for years and years. Two of those families are the Gilmores and Kruisselbrinks.
Al and Barb Gilmore (left) cherish time with their family and love to cheer on their grandkids at different sporting events. They farm as well as raise beef cows and draft horses. Barb worked in the banking industry for 38 years and just recently retired to help Al on the farm. They have been married almost 43 years.
Jim (Barb’s brother) and Vicki Kruisselbrink (right) also love to spend time with family, as well as take time to travel. Jim is a crop farmer and Vicki is a nursing assistant at an assisted living and care center. They have been married 37 years.
It was a privilege to sit down with these two couples to ask a few questions and talk about their experiences at Riverside Resort.
How did you first learn about Riverside Resort?
Barb – “Our mother wanted to spend a week together as a family at the lake. We have siblings that live far away from each other and she (mom) wanted all the cousins to get to know one another. A family from our home church had come to the resort and highly recommended it. Not only did they recommend the resort, but they also recommended Jim and Jeanette DeRose (the owners at that time). Mom made a reservation for the first week and we have come every year since. We have always had to get multiple cabins in order to house all the family that comes.”
Barb and 2 of her granddaughters
How long have you and your family been coming here?
Vicki – “The first year we came was 1997, and have been coming every year since.” That’s 21 straight years!
This picture was taken of the two families at Riverside Resort in 1998.
Why do you keep coming back?
Jim – “We keep coming back because everyone enjoys it. We always do the same week so everyone can plan it from year to year. We also continue coming so that we can hang out with our family and get to know them better. The kids love it and sometimes it is the only time we all see each other the whole year.”
Barb – “It is a family friendly place, and we feel very safe. It is fun to just sit, relax, and visit with one another.”
Jim – “Vicki and I live only 15 minutes away from Al and Barb but we really never hang out. The Resort is far enough away from home that we feel we are really on vacation and are free to have uninterrupted time with them.”
Jim and Vicki enjoying the minnow races!
What are your favorite activities at Riverside Resort?
Al – ” I like to nap. I also like the water and the outdoors, I am comfortable here.”
Barb – “Our mother was deathly afraid of water. None of us (Barb, Jim, or their siblings) knew how to swim. As children, we never went to the lake or went boating or anything. Once we started coming to Riverside that changed. Now all of our kids know how to swim and they love the water. We (Jim and Barb) like to sit up on the shore and watch everyone swim and have fun.”
Vicki – “The Sunday morning church service is my favorite activity at Riverside. In addition, Barb and I like to read here because it is so nice and quiet. I have also liked the addition of the movie night the last few years.”
Al and the kids playing bean bags
What is your favorite Riverside Resort Memory?
Vicki – “My favorite memory is family game night with Barb and Jim’s mom and dad. We would all squeeze into one cabin and just play games together. We would stay up late into the night just enjoying being with one another.”
How would you describe Riverside Resort to someone who has not heard of it?
Vicki – “I would say it is very family orientated and quiet. We so appreciate the DeRose family, their Christian values, and their hospitality.”
Jim – “Yes I agree, they (the DeRose family) are part of our family now too.”
Some of the grandkids with Riverside Rabbit
Confession time, do you or do you not participate in the bunny hop when Riverside Rabbit comes to visit?
Al – “Yes, we all have, but not each year. When our grandkids were little we would do it with them. Now they are old enough that we can just watch and enjoy them having fun.”
The couples enjoying a pontoon adventure with Jim DeRose (the previous owner)