Today is our last day for this host week. All has gone well because we have had such wonderful guest and marvelous volunteers--great combination!
Bright and early this Sunday morning Bruce and David were up and stripping their beds, and LaShawn was getting her things together when we arrived. We sent Bruce and David to their respective homes right away because Bruce was still a bit under the weather and David had been there since 4:45 Saturday afternoon and a 14+ hour stint seemed enough!
Our new Interim Youth Director is off to a great start. Kim thought the Youth would enjoy the involvement with IHN and they were the take-down crew, along with some parents...Happy Fathers Day! Maggie and Don, Elizabeth, Georgia Blue and Robert with Paige and Robert, Ben, Kate and Kim and Cov joined Denise and me and things went like clock work. Nice post on Facebook too.
Laundry was divided into four bags and Denise took one home to wash, and the others were put in the Children's Ministry kitchen to be picked up by Debra, Zanne, Marie and Tim. It will come back fresh and clean at their convenience.
The IHN beds and bin with blue bedspreads were rolled to the hallway near the loading dock along with the other things that have waited by the Coke machine. We then waited for the IHN truck to arrive to pick up everything and we worked on the things that stay at the church.
The First Pres things were sorted and most was taken to the storage area, where there is a nice place to put it all. Dishes and silverware were taken to the big kitchen. LaShawn packed some things from the refrigerator to take to the Day Center for her family to eat. We try to let nothing go to waste.
Georgia Blue enjoyed seeing Autumn again and it was reciprocated! And Christian enjoyed playing outside with the kids. Great for everyone to have the youth there.
**I had a chance to talk with LaShawn. She said how comfortable everyone had made all of them feel. She said the fact that people were willing to give their time and to cook and bring food for them, and to stay with them was such a kind thing. She said it was very motivating to interact with such caring people and it meant a lot to her as a Mother when the volunteers were so nice with her children and so considerate of her. **
The truck came and everything was loaded with very little room to spare. Denise took LaShawn, Christian and Autumn to the Day Center. We sent along a pair of shoes and some small things Amber had left in her room for her to pick up.
The Pit was back in order, things were properly stored and we will be ready for our next Host Week.
I was the afternoon Day Center Host and had it all to myself. LaShawn had taken her family to the park when I arrived and they didn't return until not long before they were to leave. LaShawn and Christian reported a wonderful time. Autumn was sound asleep in her carrier so she must have had fun too! They had enjoyed the pool and being out of doors on this pretty day. I love the fact that in the Van LaShawn always sits between her two lovely children...she is a very loving Mother. Her children's behavior reflects her love and appropriate discipline. Such a nice family.
Keith came to drive the family to the next church, Watkinsville First United Methodist and they all loaded up after good-byes. Autumn was still sleepy. Suspect they will all sleep well tonight. Lisa was headed to Watkinsville to pick up Keith--it's a bit further than walking back to the car from First Baptist or Emmanuel. Thanks to you two--you deserve volunteer stars since you also prepared and served refreshments in the Atrium today!! You are appreciated...
...as is everyone else. Thanks to all of you for ALL you did this week during the First Pres/CCI hosting. LaShawn's words ** reflect your goodness. Your efforts make a real difference.
Hope you will join us again when we host next--it's not too far off. We will be welcoming families on August 3 -10 -- seven weeks from today. Please mark your calendar and know that what you do for IHN matters.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
IHN, Saturday June 14, 2014
We had to cancel the highlight of our IHN Host week this Saturday--Darryl's breakfast. Darryl & David & often Jane come to the church on Saturday morning and cook a fabulous feast for our guests, for which the lucky overnight hosts are also grateful.
But this Saturday LaShawn had an early morning job interview and Amber left bright and early for her 12 hour shift. It was worth missing breakfast, as LaShawn was hired on the spot--not surprisingly. She said it isn't a "forever job" but will give her work and some money so she can do things with her children, while she continues to search for a job that better uses her qualifications. She is very pleased.
Erik drove the van again and got LaShawn and her family to the Day Center, the IHN staff had arranged for a baby sitter for Christian and Autumn while their Mom went for the interview.
I was the on-site coordinator and drove the afternoon van. I was able to get a few things done for our take-down on Sunday too, after the beds were made and the table set.
David and Ira were there to greet us when we returned to FPC. Soon Heidi and Al arrived with a delicious meal with lots of fresh food...roasted carrots, mashed potatoes just cooked, chicken with sage, and applesauce especially for Autumn (& anyone else). And to top off all that--a chocolate cake--wow! They also stayed and had a meal and conversation with LaShawn and her family, David and Ira. A good evening. Heidi brought some useful things to donate for our IHN host weeks for which we are appreciative.
Amber came by this evening and picked up a few things she had left. She officially moved out of the program and into her own place! Friday was her last night. It is an exciting time for she and Tristan, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they move along in life's journey.
David did yeoman's volunteer duty...staying on as the overnight host. He was joined by Bruce, both have a lot of experience. Bruce wasn't feeling 100%, but we had no success in finding a substitute on short notice and so he came and spent the night. THANKS to both of you for going over and above for our IHN guests!!
But this Saturday LaShawn had an early morning job interview and Amber left bright and early for her 12 hour shift. It was worth missing breakfast, as LaShawn was hired on the spot--not surprisingly. She said it isn't a "forever job" but will give her work and some money so she can do things with her children, while she continues to search for a job that better uses her qualifications. She is very pleased.
Erik drove the van again and got LaShawn and her family to the Day Center, the IHN staff had arranged for a baby sitter for Christian and Autumn while their Mom went for the interview.
I was the on-site coordinator and drove the afternoon van. I was able to get a few things done for our take-down on Sunday too, after the beds were made and the table set.
David and Ira were there to greet us when we returned to FPC. Soon Heidi and Al arrived with a delicious meal with lots of fresh food...roasted carrots, mashed potatoes just cooked, chicken with sage, and applesauce especially for Autumn (& anyone else). And to top off all that--a chocolate cake--wow! They also stayed and had a meal and conversation with LaShawn and her family, David and Ira. A good evening. Heidi brought some useful things to donate for our IHN host weeks for which we are appreciative.
Amber came by this evening and picked up a few things she had left. She officially moved out of the program and into her own place! Friday was her last night. It is an exciting time for she and Tristan, please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they move along in life's journey.
David did yeoman's volunteer duty...staying on as the overnight host. He was joined by Bruce, both have a lot of experience. Bruce wasn't feeling 100%, but we had no success in finding a substitute on short notice and so he came and spent the night. THANKS to both of you for going over and above for our IHN guests!!
Friday, June 13, 2014
Friday June 13, 2014
It's Friday already! This morning Amber made another very early start to get to work on time--good for her!
A little later Mary and Bob made sure LaShawn and family were ready for the 7:30 van departure. Patty and Steve were the van drivers (or at least one of them was!)
Denise was the On-Site coordinator...soon to be a recipient of a gold star for being there for the 5th day out of the last 6! And she'll be back Sunday morning bright and early. Yea Denise--setter up, curtain hanger, cook, coordinator extraordinare!
Erik drove the van this afternoon...and will again in the morning and yet again on Sunday morning. Do we have good folks or what?
Dinner was provided by Susan--and she knows the way to guests hearts--cheeseburgers!
Paige, Robert and their fabulous family were the evening hosts. Autumn enjoyed watching "Finding Nemo" with Georgia B. Yesterday at Day Camp Christian's favorite activity was computers--missed finding out about today's favorite thing! Great kids.
Kitty K (we have 3 Kitty IHN volunteers this week!) and Ed are Friday overnight hosts. They welcomed Amber back from work and rustled up a late dinner for her! They missed seeing adorable Tristan's great smile, he is spending Father's Day with his Dad.
Thanks to all of you who made it a good day from morning to night. God bless everyone.
P.S. More good news Lynn found her keys with orange/white !
A little later Mary and Bob made sure LaShawn and family were ready for the 7:30 van departure. Patty and Steve were the van drivers (or at least one of them was!)
Denise was the On-Site coordinator...soon to be a recipient of a gold star for being there for the 5th day out of the last 6! And she'll be back Sunday morning bright and early. Yea Denise--setter up, curtain hanger, cook, coordinator extraordinare!
Erik drove the van this afternoon...and will again in the morning and yet again on Sunday morning. Do we have good folks or what?
Dinner was provided by Susan--and she knows the way to guests hearts--cheeseburgers!
Paige, Robert and their fabulous family were the evening hosts. Autumn enjoyed watching "Finding Nemo" with Georgia B. Yesterday at Day Camp Christian's favorite activity was computers--missed finding out about today's favorite thing! Great kids.
Kitty K (we have 3 Kitty IHN volunteers this week!) and Ed are Friday overnight hosts. They welcomed Amber back from work and rustled up a late dinner for her! They missed seeing adorable Tristan's great smile, he is spending Father's Day with his Dad.
Thanks to all of you who made it a good day from morning to night. God bless everyone.
P.S. More good news Lynn found her keys with orange/white !
Thursday, June 12, 2014
Thursday, June 12, 2014
It's a rainy Thursday evening in Georgia. The morning started off with John and Sara getting everyone up and moving. Amber didn't have to go to work again today so everyone could sleep a bit longer--since no one was leaving at 5:45 am--which is 0 dark thirty to me!
The van left at 7:30. Steve was the driver this morning--again--we've had three double-days volunteers in a row-- THANK YOU ALL! The van took Tristan and Autumn to Bright Beginnings and then Christian to Rocksprings Community Center and Park for Summer Day Camp and then took Moms Amber and LaShawn to the IHN Day Center.
Sara did the laundry today. The next laundry duty will be on Sunday.
Erik was the On-Site Coordinator today and he unlocked the Pit, changed the sheets on the Host Room beds and set the table as he got ready to welcome volunteers and guests alike this evening. Denise came by to "reinstall" the curtain (aka a sheet) on the large window in a guest room. The night light is on just outside in the courtyard and the curtain has fallen down twice. She made sure it was stuck!
I went by to look for Lynn's key...which she lost when they were overnight hosts on Tuesday night. We hoped they would be under a host bed, but they were not. HAVE ANY OF YOU WHO WERE THERE WEDNESDAY OR THURSDAY SEEN A KEY ON AN ORANGE/WHITE FLOTATION TYPE KEY CHAIN?? We are hoping perhaps someone turned it in to Judy. Let me (Kitty D.) know please if you've seen it.
Chuck was the afternoon van driver--his first time and of course he did a great job! He reported liking it and said he was "hooked, line and sinker"...so we will look forward to him driving in the future. Thanks for stepping up Chuck!
Tanna and Ann were evening hosts. Lisa and Paige brought a wonderful looking meal: fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, apple sauce and cookies. THANKS to you two and all who are such marvelous meal providers!
Denise and I went down the street to First Baptist for the monthly IHN Coordinators meeting with the IHN Staff and all the coordinators from other churches. We learned the good news that Amber and Tristan will move into their own apartment on Monday morning...exciting! Also LaShawn was called back for a second interview for a job.
Tonight's overnight hosts are Bob and Mary who celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary yesterday...they have been overnight hosts since IHN began! Congratulations--and gratitude to Mary and Bob.
I hope everyone sleeps well, stays dry and has a good rest of the week. God bless you one and all.
The van left at 7:30. Steve was the driver this morning--again--we've had three double-days volunteers in a row-- THANK YOU ALL! The van took Tristan and Autumn to Bright Beginnings and then Christian to Rocksprings Community Center and Park for Summer Day Camp and then took Moms Amber and LaShawn to the IHN Day Center.
Sara did the laundry today. The next laundry duty will be on Sunday.
Erik was the On-Site Coordinator today and he unlocked the Pit, changed the sheets on the Host Room beds and set the table as he got ready to welcome volunteers and guests alike this evening. Denise came by to "reinstall" the curtain (aka a sheet) on the large window in a guest room. The night light is on just outside in the courtyard and the curtain has fallen down twice. She made sure it was stuck!
I went by to look for Lynn's key...which she lost when they were overnight hosts on Tuesday night. We hoped they would be under a host bed, but they were not. HAVE ANY OF YOU WHO WERE THERE WEDNESDAY OR THURSDAY SEEN A KEY ON AN ORANGE/WHITE FLOTATION TYPE KEY CHAIN?? We are hoping perhaps someone turned it in to Judy. Let me (Kitty D.) know please if you've seen it.
Chuck was the afternoon van driver--his first time and of course he did a great job! He reported liking it and said he was "hooked, line and sinker"...so we will look forward to him driving in the future. Thanks for stepping up Chuck!
Tanna and Ann were evening hosts. Lisa and Paige brought a wonderful looking meal: fried chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans, apple sauce and cookies. THANKS to you two and all who are such marvelous meal providers!
Denise and I went down the street to First Baptist for the monthly IHN Coordinators meeting with the IHN Staff and all the coordinators from other churches. We learned the good news that Amber and Tristan will move into their own apartment on Monday morning...exciting! Also LaShawn was called back for a second interview for a job.
Tonight's overnight hosts are Bob and Mary who celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary yesterday...they have been overnight hosts since IHN began! Congratulations--and gratitude to Mary and Bob.
I hope everyone sleeps well, stays dry and has a good rest of the week. God bless you one and all.
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
IHN, Wednesday June 11, 2014
Lynn and Happy made sure both families were up and ready to leave at 7:30. Patty and Steve were the van drivers this morning and got everyone to the right place at the right time.
Susan was the on-site coordinator for Wednesday and she was at the church to open doors and get the host sheets changed and to welcome the volunteers! Denise joined her as she and Kitty L. were there with the evening meal.
Diane and Smith were Evening Hosts. Rod drove the van again this afternoon and brought our guests to the church. All enjoyed spaghetti and meatballs with all the good things that go along with that. Never have to worry about going hungry during a Host Week--and such good food.
Also count on some fun! I heard from Donna today how much they enjoyed LaShawn's family Monday evening...and how much fun Glenn had playing foos (sp??) ball with Christian, and air hockey too. Donna was amazed in looking at books with little Autumn how well she already knew her colors and numbers. Their involvement also gives Mom a bit of a break to catch her breath.
Sara and John are the Overnight Hosts tonight...and John won't have far to go to get to work in the morning...just up a flight of stairs!
Hope everyone sleeps well. Thanks for the time you spend in supporting IHN. You make a difference in the lives of others. Good night and God bless!
Susan was the on-site coordinator for Wednesday and she was at the church to open doors and get the host sheets changed and to welcome the volunteers! Denise joined her as she and Kitty L. were there with the evening meal.
Diane and Smith were Evening Hosts. Rod drove the van again this afternoon and brought our guests to the church. All enjoyed spaghetti and meatballs with all the good things that go along with that. Never have to worry about going hungry during a Host Week--and such good food.
Also count on some fun! I heard from Donna today how much they enjoyed LaShawn's family Monday evening...and how much fun Glenn had playing foos (sp??) ball with Christian, and air hockey too. Donna was amazed in looking at books with little Autumn how well she already knew her colors and numbers. Their involvement also gives Mom a bit of a break to catch her breath.
Sara and John are the Overnight Hosts tonight...and John won't have far to go to get to work in the morning...just up a flight of stairs!
Hope everyone sleeps well. Thanks for the time you spend in supporting IHN. You make a difference in the lives of others. Good night and God bless!
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
IHN Tuesday June 10, 2014
Amber and Tristan got off very early this Tuesday morning...I suspect she is looking forward to Wednesday morning when she can sleep in! She works four 12 hour shifts, and so has a few mornings that can start a bit later.
Barbara and Bonnie said all was quiet and well overnight. Richard arrived for his second morning to drive the Van...volunteers who do more than one day are a huge help--thanks! Everyone was taken to the correct place.
Barb came by mid-morning and picked up all the dirty laundry to take home and wash. Having people willing to do it a couple of times during the week makes the loads manageable for those who signed up to get the laundry the last Sunday.
Terry arrived at First Pres to open up, put clean sheets on the Host beds and make sure all was in order. Making beds is his specialty--a skill he has learned from being an IHN Coordinator. ;)
Rod delivered the van with LaShawn, Christian and Amber back to their home with us for the week...such a treat to have them. They have stolen lots of hearts already.
Joe arrived to be an Evening Host, and was soon followed by Carol. Cynthia and Paula Frances provided a delicious sounding dinner: Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Biscuits, along with cookies for dessert. Once again, everyone will eat well tonight.
Lynn and Happy are the Overnight Hosts. Thanks to all the volunteers in all capacities for making the day, and week, go well. We are blessed to be able to interact with such nice people.
Until tomorrow...sweet dreams...God bless you one and all.
Barbara and Bonnie said all was quiet and well overnight. Richard arrived for his second morning to drive the Van...volunteers who do more than one day are a huge help--thanks! Everyone was taken to the correct place.
Barb came by mid-morning and picked up all the dirty laundry to take home and wash. Having people willing to do it a couple of times during the week makes the loads manageable for those who signed up to get the laundry the last Sunday.
Terry arrived at First Pres to open up, put clean sheets on the Host beds and make sure all was in order. Making beds is his specialty--a skill he has learned from being an IHN Coordinator. ;)
Rod delivered the van with LaShawn, Christian and Amber back to their home with us for the week...such a treat to have them. They have stolen lots of hearts already.
Joe arrived to be an Evening Host, and was soon followed by Carol. Cynthia and Paula Frances provided a delicious sounding dinner: Baked Chicken, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans and Biscuits, along with cookies for dessert. Once again, everyone will eat well tonight.
Lynn and Happy are the Overnight Hosts. Thanks to all the volunteers in all capacities for making the day, and week, go well. We are blessed to be able to interact with such nice people.
Until tomorrow...sweet dreams...God bless you one and all.
Monday, June 9, 2014
IHN Monday June 9, 2014
The day got off to a very early start with Amber and Tristan leaving at 5:45 am to go to childcare and then to Amber's 12 hour work shift. She does this four days a week (Mon, Tues, Fri and Sat)
Elaine and Tim made sure LaShawn and her family were up and ready to go. Richard left with the van at 7:30 am. Elaine said Autumn enjoyed being read to last night. If anyone has children's books to add to our collection that would be great.
The Evening Hosts, Donna and Glenn arrived early and did so many helpful things before the guests arrived. After they arrived Glenn put back up part of the "curtain" in LaShawn's room, so they aren't bothered by the night light in the courtyard.
Judy drove the afternoon van and did double duty by bringing part of the evening meal. Christian was enthusiastic about his first day at Rocksprings Summer Day Camp. He said his favorite thing was Arts and Crafts. He is such a cute young man--and so polite and nice! Takes after his wonderful Mom I guess! They are a delightful family.
Donna and Glenn set the table and Ethelyn brought Pizza and Chick Fil A chicken nuggets, and chicken strips to go with Judy's large lovely salad and ice cream sandwiches. Christian was particularly excited about the Pizza! There was enough food to make meals for tomorrow also.
Barbara and Bonnie are the overnight hosts and will welcome Amber and Tristan back about 9 pm.
The BIG NEWS is that family # 3, that we anticipated arriving on the van, never came to the IHN Office today...that happens sometime. So it appears we will have two families all week...and they are two nice families indeed.
Thanks to all who made this day successful for our guests--you are all appreciated!
God Bless You and God Bless Amber, LaShawn and their children.
Elaine and Tim made sure LaShawn and her family were up and ready to go. Richard left with the van at 7:30 am. Elaine said Autumn enjoyed being read to last night. If anyone has children's books to add to our collection that would be great.
The Evening Hosts, Donna and Glenn arrived early and did so many helpful things before the guests arrived. After they arrived Glenn put back up part of the "curtain" in LaShawn's room, so they aren't bothered by the night light in the courtyard.
Judy drove the afternoon van and did double duty by bringing part of the evening meal. Christian was enthusiastic about his first day at Rocksprings Summer Day Camp. He said his favorite thing was Arts and Crafts. He is such a cute young man--and so polite and nice! Takes after his wonderful Mom I guess! They are a delightful family.
Donna and Glenn set the table and Ethelyn brought Pizza and Chick Fil A chicken nuggets, and chicken strips to go with Judy's large lovely salad and ice cream sandwiches. Christian was particularly excited about the Pizza! There was enough food to make meals for tomorrow also.
Barbara and Bonnie are the overnight hosts and will welcome Amber and Tristan back about 9 pm.
The BIG NEWS is that family # 3, that we anticipated arriving on the van, never came to the IHN Office today...that happens sometime. So it appears we will have two families all week...and they are two nice families indeed.
Thanks to all who made this day successful for our guests--you are all appreciated!
God Bless You and God Bless Amber, LaShawn and their children.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
IHN, Sunday June 8, 2014
On this lovely Sunday afternoon our IHN host week got off to a good start. The-set up crew arrived early with Carla, Carl, Glenn G, Gail, Denise and Kitty transforming the Pit from Youth area to IHN home!
The truck arrived and was unloaded in record time--great crew. Judy and Jim picked up the blue bedspreads and were off for an afternoon at a laundromat to have fresh bedding for our guests and volunteers.
Michelle brought bags of breakfast and lunch food for the week--all the things the guests requested, fruit cups, cereals, frozen waffles, juices, apples, oranges, bananas, sandwich makings with turkey, cheese and ham.
Beds were set up and made up, dinner tables were arranged. Judy and Jim returned with blue bedspreads neatly folded, and still warm from the dryers! They said they made new friends at the laundromat while doing good work. They helped put the spreads on the beds, and organize the kitchen.
Gretchen brought a toaster oven to leave for our IHN weeks in the Pit--a wonderful contribution!
Soon the truck arrived from Emanuel and Matt (their coordinator) reported a great week with two delightful families.
We were happy to welcome Amber and Tristan back, and see how much Tristan has grown--but with the same cute smile. Lashawn, Christian and Autumn were introduced all around, and were shown their room and all got settled in. Denise and Kitty did orientation as the evening volunteers were getting ready for a feast.
Terry N. and Jessica are the evening hosts and set the table as Bob and Nancy brought a delicious looking dinner--chicken enchiladas, green beans, salad, rolls, a very impressive flan surrounded with fresh strawberries. Everyone will eat well tonight--delicious home cooking.
Elaine and Tim arrived to be the overnight hosts, and all is well. Only a short two weeks ago she was in Honduras with 14 others on an FPC Mission Trip.
We expect a third family to join us tomorrow night, and look forward to welcoming them. Please keep the families and volunteers in your prayers this week.
Sweet dreams one and all!
The truck arrived and was unloaded in record time--great crew. Judy and Jim picked up the blue bedspreads and were off for an afternoon at a laundromat to have fresh bedding for our guests and volunteers.
Michelle brought bags of breakfast and lunch food for the week--all the things the guests requested, fruit cups, cereals, frozen waffles, juices, apples, oranges, bananas, sandwich makings with turkey, cheese and ham.
Beds were set up and made up, dinner tables were arranged. Judy and Jim returned with blue bedspreads neatly folded, and still warm from the dryers! They said they made new friends at the laundromat while doing good work. They helped put the spreads on the beds, and organize the kitchen.
Gretchen brought a toaster oven to leave for our IHN weeks in the Pit--a wonderful contribution!
Soon the truck arrived from Emanuel and Matt (their coordinator) reported a great week with two delightful families.
We were happy to welcome Amber and Tristan back, and see how much Tristan has grown--but with the same cute smile. Lashawn, Christian and Autumn were introduced all around, and were shown their room and all got settled in. Denise and Kitty did orientation as the evening volunteers were getting ready for a feast.
Terry N. and Jessica are the evening hosts and set the table as Bob and Nancy brought a delicious looking dinner--chicken enchiladas, green beans, salad, rolls, a very impressive flan surrounded with fresh strawberries. Everyone will eat well tonight--delicious home cooking.
Elaine and Tim arrived to be the overnight hosts, and all is well. Only a short two weeks ago she was in Honduras with 14 others on an FPC Mission Trip.
We expect a third family to join us tomorrow night, and look forward to welcoming them. Please keep the families and volunteers in your prayers this week.
Sweet dreams one and all!
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