When I arrived at FPC this morning not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse (which I hope was outside!) Then Denise arrived and soon Madeline came out of the Host Room thinking we were the little boys up and about...but they were sound asleep. Winston came out and she and Madeline reported a good over-night. When they arrived last night they said the boys were having a great time with David and Ira--using them as the foundation for the building they were constructing out of blocks. What wonderful volunteers we have!
The Take Down crew assembled quickly, Todd, Kim, Anna Marie, Jean, Katie Sue and Bertis. Madeline finally had to wake up Lee and her children. Unfortunately J.R. was sick at his stomach during the night. He was bright eyed this morning. Madeline went to the store to get some meds just in case--always good to have our Parish Nurse on duty!
When we began to roll beds into the hallway J.R. got busy too and helped Katie Sue roll beds--he is an enthusiastic little boy and actually provides good help as well as a lot of smiles!
The truck arrived and everything was waiting...so it was a quick load. Putting away the things that our ours, and sorting the dirty laundry for Sarah and Robbie, Zanne, Marie and Tim and Debbie, cleaning the refrigerator, making sure the Youth Rooms are back in order all went quickly and well because we had such great help. And because we now have storage in the closets right in the Pit!
Madeline, back from the store, drove Lee, Kawani, J.R. and Zanora (ZZ) to the IHN Day Center. All the goodies from the refrigerator were loaded into the van and off they went. Madeline discovered that only half the car seats were in working order and wisely took the non-functional ones into the office. She has seen too many accidents with children going through windshields and windows to let that go by without action--thanks Maddie! Lee got everything put away in the kitchen while Madeline worked on car seats.
The Take Down crew finished and got everything back in its place, and the keys returned to Roger. Great crew means light work!
Maggie and Cynthia were the Day Center hosts this afternoon. Lee's Dad picked up her and the children and they had nice family time--and even got to see their grandfather/great-grandfather. What a treat for him! Lee said she had hoped to get a nap--but guess what, she wasn't able to do that! With a 5, 3 and 1 year old is that a surprise? She doesn't start her new job until Thursday, so hopefully she will get some rest the first of the week when the children are in school and day-care. She had such wonderful things to say about the FPC/CCI volunteers--now that is not a surprise!
I (Kitty) was the van driver and when I got to the Day Center the children had Maggie and Cynthia very engaged. The guests got in the van for a short ride to Emanuel Episcopal and we walked up and up and up to their lovely, newly renovated IHN quarters. Their volunteers immediately were smitten with ZZ and the boys were thrilled with their playground. It will be a good week!
Please keep Lee in your prayers as she begins her new job. One of our volunteers was so impressed with her that he contacted someone he knows who works with the organization and put in a good word for her. And very importantly she is a very good Mom! Keep the children in your prayers...yesterday one of the little boys asked "do we move today?". I thought how much I take living in one place for granted. While moving weekly isn't ideal, the families are provided with a safe, comfortable place to stay and are surrounded by caring people--and get good food, and clean sheets and towels, and are driven to and fro with care. THANKS TO ALL OF YOU FOR A VERY GOOD WEEK. It is not every week that there's a birthday celebrate. The birthday girl's last little bit of cake--and balloons and hats went with her--and the family took wonderful memories of her first birthday.
God bless you one and all. Our next Host Week is OCTOBER 19 - 26th. It is our last one for 2014. Hope to see you then!
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Saturday, August 9, 2014
IHN, Saturday August 9, 2014
Not quite as early on Saturday morning, Ed and Kitty K made sure Lee's family was up and led them upstairs for a real treat in Fellowship Hall. Breakfast, lovingly prepared by Daryl with help from David. It is an amazing feast and a wonderful gift for the guests and volunteers. Lee said that her boys really ate a lot! And everyone enjoyed it.
Ed extended his volunteer time by driving the van to the IHN Day Center.
Kitty D was the On-Site coordinator and put clean sheets on the host beds. It is such a treat to just walk to the closet and select what is needed instead of having to go through bins! Thanks again Kim and FPC Youth for sharing!
Kitty also was the afternoon Van driver. Lee and the children were ready to roll and all were in good spirits.
David, back again for the third time this week...this time as Evening Host, was waiting when we got to the parking area. We stripped the beds from the second family's room, with the help of Kawami and J.R. to get a head start on Take Down tomorrow. They had fun jumping on the beds--but David and I didn't join in!
Ira, the other Evening Host arrived and immediately hit it off with the children.
Katherine, Bertis, Addie and Eliza brought dinner--Addie's favorite meal. While they were setting up Eliza played games with the boys and the rest of us played "pass the baby" with sweet ZZ, she is a doll and so cuddly.
Ira and David set the table with help from Addie.
Dinner was a lovely pasta with sausage, broccoli, and parmesan--all in separate bowls to suit the taste of all the diners. Also a large bowl of honeydew, cantaloupe and watermelon. Everyone filled their plate and dug in with delight. Dessert was ice cream--and there was still a little birthday cake left (before dinner was served that is). One ballon was still holding up nicely. Lee showed me the photos that Jayne had printed and brought to her. It was fun looking at everyone having such fun at the birthday party.
Overnight Hosts are Madeline and Winston. Another good IHN host week is drawing to a close.
God bless you every one!
Ed extended his volunteer time by driving the van to the IHN Day Center.
Kitty D was the On-Site coordinator and put clean sheets on the host beds. It is such a treat to just walk to the closet and select what is needed instead of having to go through bins! Thanks again Kim and FPC Youth for sharing!
Kitty also was the afternoon Van driver. Lee and the children were ready to roll and all were in good spirits.
David, back again for the third time this week...this time as Evening Host, was waiting when we got to the parking area. We stripped the beds from the second family's room, with the help of Kawami and J.R. to get a head start on Take Down tomorrow. They had fun jumping on the beds--but David and I didn't join in!
Ira, the other Evening Host arrived and immediately hit it off with the children.
Katherine, Bertis, Addie and Eliza brought dinner--Addie's favorite meal. While they were setting up Eliza played games with the boys and the rest of us played "pass the baby" with sweet ZZ, she is a doll and so cuddly.
Ira and David set the table with help from Addie.
Dinner was a lovely pasta with sausage, broccoli, and parmesan--all in separate bowls to suit the taste of all the diners. Also a large bowl of honeydew, cantaloupe and watermelon. Everyone filled their plate and dug in with delight. Dessert was ice cream--and there was still a little birthday cake left (before dinner was served that is). One ballon was still holding up nicely. Lee showed me the photos that Jayne had printed and brought to her. It was fun looking at everyone having such fun at the birthday party.
Overnight Hosts are Madeline and Winston. Another good IHN host week is drawing to a close.
God bless you every one!
Friday, August 8, 2014
IHN, Friday August 8, 2014
Bob and Mary made sure Lee and her children were up for the day. The birthday celebration yesterday was a clear success, lots of enjoyment for everyone. Not only did the children all receive books, but the boys got some fun wind-up toys. Zanora, the birthday girl, got a couple of soft toys; one a yellow star that sang "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" which Lee said the boys sing to her as a calming device! Thanks for your thoughtfulness wonderful volunteers!
Kawami was reported to look so good in his Downtown Academy uniform and was off for his second day of kindergarten. J.R. will be dividing his time between Bright Beginnings and an early childcare education program through Clarke County Schools.
Patty or Steve drove the morning van, and after being Evening Hosts on Monday night I'm sure everyone was glad to be with them again.
The volunteers have found Lee's children to be well-mannered and fun to be around. On Thursday Al enjoyed rousing games of Foozball and then Air Hockey! Lee is a good Mother, dealing with them calmly and lovingly.
Friday's On-Site Coordinator was Denise and she got things ready for the evening. She reported that there was still plenty of delicious looking birthday cake left over (what a great left-over!) and the balloons were still making the place look festive and happy.
Donna and Glenn arrived to be Evening Hosts--and they deserve a special pat on the back for coming this week as they are moving into a new home!
Chuck brought everyone "home" this afternoon in the Van. Our van drivers make the program possible--getting everyone to the right place morning and afternoon.
Terry brought dinner-- hamburgers and french fries which were a big hit! Heidi said last night "...much to our surprise Zanora ate a lot of lasagna, we never thought she would, but boy did she. The boys dined on grapes, glad I brought them as an afterthought." You never know who is going to eat what! Thanks to all our food volunteers for doing such a good job with meals that are tasty, have lots of variety and thought put into them. The guests (& other volunteers) give you high marks.
Tonights Overnight Hosts are Ed and Kitty K They have the bonus of enjoying a Saturday morning special breakfast prepared in the "big kitchen" by Daryl.
GOOD NEWS TO SHARE: One of our guests during the mid-June host week was Lashawn. She took a job at Walgreens while she continued to look for work that better matched her skills. She has received an award for employee of the month! Off to an impressive start. Also she will begin work as a Medical Records manager in October. This is wonderful news!!
Keep all the families in your thoughts and prayers. Your warm, caring welcome to them makes a huge difference in their lives. Good night and God bless you everyone.
Kawami was reported to look so good in his Downtown Academy uniform and was off for his second day of kindergarten. J.R. will be dividing his time between Bright Beginnings and an early childcare education program through Clarke County Schools.
Patty or Steve drove the morning van, and after being Evening Hosts on Monday night I'm sure everyone was glad to be with them again.
The volunteers have found Lee's children to be well-mannered and fun to be around. On Thursday Al enjoyed rousing games of Foozball and then Air Hockey! Lee is a good Mother, dealing with them calmly and lovingly.
Friday's On-Site Coordinator was Denise and she got things ready for the evening. She reported that there was still plenty of delicious looking birthday cake left over (what a great left-over!) and the balloons were still making the place look festive and happy.
Donna and Glenn arrived to be Evening Hosts--and they deserve a special pat on the back for coming this week as they are moving into a new home!
Chuck brought everyone "home" this afternoon in the Van. Our van drivers make the program possible--getting everyone to the right place morning and afternoon.
Terry brought dinner-- hamburgers and french fries which were a big hit! Heidi said last night "...much to our surprise Zanora ate a lot of lasagna, we never thought she would, but boy did she. The boys dined on grapes, glad I brought them as an afterthought." You never know who is going to eat what! Thanks to all our food volunteers for doing such a good job with meals that are tasty, have lots of variety and thought put into them. The guests (& other volunteers) give you high marks.
Tonights Overnight Hosts are Ed and Kitty K They have the bonus of enjoying a Saturday morning special breakfast prepared in the "big kitchen" by Daryl.
GOOD NEWS TO SHARE: One of our guests during the mid-June host week was Lashawn. She took a job at Walgreens while she continued to look for work that better matched her skills. She has received an award for employee of the month! Off to an impressive start. Also she will begin work as a Medical Records manager in October. This is wonderful news!!
Keep all the families in your thoughts and prayers. Your warm, caring welcome to them makes a huge difference in their lives. Good night and God bless you everyone.
Thursday, August 7, 2014
IHN, Thursday August 7, 2014
Overnight hosts Sara and John are early risers and made sure Lee and her family were "up and at 'em" this morning.
Tommy was the van driver and had the privilege of taking Kawani for his first day at Downtown Academy. And of course took the others too.
Sara did the laundry--she always does double duty when she spends the night...thanks so much! Every task is important during the host week.
David was the On-Site coordinator. He got fresh linen on the host beds, unlocked the doors and welcomed the volunteers. He said that Kawani had a good first day of kindergarten! Lee had said he was very eager to begin.
What a day this was--first day of kindergarten for Lee's oldest and first birthday for her youngest, Zanora.
Jayne was the afternoon van driver for the fourth day in a row (super!) and I know she was happy to wish Zanora happy first birthday. She's enjoy being around a baby this week!
Carol B and Carol R were the evening hosts. They got everything set up for the birthday celebration!
Heidi and Al brought dinner, wonderful lasagna (which was on the guest wish list) along with delicious bread and tomato and cucumber slices. AND...Birthday Cake and Ice Cream!
The table had a festive birthday cloth and was adorned with birthday hats. Bob and Mary are the overnight hosts and he brought his guitar. There was singing, gifts for all three children--a real joyous birthday evening! All the children received books.
Carol took some great photos but I am not clever enough to include them here. :(
Imagine a precious, pretty little face with icing all over it: forehead, nose, cheeks, chin and of course around her mouth! As David said "she enjoyed her birthday with all her senses".
What a treat for Lee and her family and our volunteers to celebrate together. About a year ago we had a birthday cake for a boy who was about 11. As we were lighting the candles his older brother and mother were in the kitchen and said it was the first time they'd had a birthday cake in five years! We take so much for granted. THANKS to all who made Zanora's first birthday fun and happy for her, her Mother and her two older brothers. I hope all her birthdays are at least this happy and filled with this much love and caring.
Sweet dream, God bless one and all.
Tommy was the van driver and had the privilege of taking Kawani for his first day at Downtown Academy. And of course took the others too.
Sara did the laundry--she always does double duty when she spends the night...thanks so much! Every task is important during the host week.
David was the On-Site coordinator. He got fresh linen on the host beds, unlocked the doors and welcomed the volunteers. He said that Kawani had a good first day of kindergarten! Lee had said he was very eager to begin.
What a day this was--first day of kindergarten for Lee's oldest and first birthday for her youngest, Zanora.
Jayne was the afternoon van driver for the fourth day in a row (super!) and I know she was happy to wish Zanora happy first birthday. She's enjoy being around a baby this week!
Heidi and Al brought dinner, wonderful lasagna (which was on the guest wish list) along with delicious bread and tomato and cucumber slices. AND...Birthday Cake and Ice Cream!
The table had a festive birthday cloth and was adorned with birthday hats. Bob and Mary are the overnight hosts and he brought his guitar. There was singing, gifts for all three children--a real joyous birthday evening! All the children received books.
Carol took some great photos but I am not clever enough to include them here. :(
Imagine a precious, pretty little face with icing all over it: forehead, nose, cheeks, chin and of course around her mouth! As David said "she enjoyed her birthday with all her senses".
What a treat for Lee and her family and our volunteers to celebrate together. About a year ago we had a birthday cake for a boy who was about 11. As we were lighting the candles his older brother and mother were in the kitchen and said it was the first time they'd had a birthday cake in five years! We take so much for granted. THANKS to all who made Zanora's first birthday fun and happy for her, her Mother and her two older brothers. I hope all her birthdays are at least this happy and filled with this much love and caring.
Sweet dream, God bless one and all.
Wednesday, August 6, 2014
IHN, Wednesday August 6. 2014
Forrest and Elaine got our guests up and moving this morning to face a hot day in Georgia. We are grateful to have a college boy give a night to help IHN--and his Mom too of course.
Chuck drove the van and got all where they needed to be when they needed to be there.
Madeline was the On-Site Coordinator and was at the church to make sure all was going to be ready for our guests arrival. Always busy, she also had a Red Cross representative to meet with about future plans. Not only is Madeline our IHN Overnight Host Coordinator she is our Parish Nurse--and much more. While she was meeting dear Sara beat her to the draw and made the Host beds--thanks Sara!
Jayne was once again the afternoon van driver and I know Lee and family were delighted to see her smiling face again!
Terry and Margaret were the Evening Hosts and provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the evening and the nice dinner. Terry read board books to the boys and they read along with her multiple times. All three children had fun making animal sounds inspired by a Mo Willems book. Margaret took photos of a peaceful, restful ZZ when she fell asleep on the beanbag--tomorrow is her first birthday!
Meal preparers Rhea and Jessica decided an "end of summer picnic" was in order. They had chicken fingers, mac and cheese, baked beans, tomato and cucumber salad, applesauce, and ice cream bars and jello. Sounds delightful and know it was very good! We have the best food preparers.
As the evening wound down John and Sara were there to spend the night. Hope everyone sleeps well. Thanks to each of you for what you do for our guests--it makes such a difference in their lives. Your kindness and effort is not forgotten.
Chuck drove the van and got all where they needed to be when they needed to be there.
Madeline was the On-Site Coordinator and was at the church to make sure all was going to be ready for our guests arrival. Always busy, she also had a Red Cross representative to meet with about future plans. Not only is Madeline our IHN Overnight Host Coordinator she is our Parish Nurse--and much more. While she was meeting dear Sara beat her to the draw and made the Host beds--thanks Sara!
Jayne was once again the afternoon van driver and I know Lee and family were delighted to see her smiling face again!
Terry and Margaret were the Evening Hosts and provided a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the evening and the nice dinner. Terry read board books to the boys and they read along with her multiple times. All three children had fun making animal sounds inspired by a Mo Willems book. Margaret took photos of a peaceful, restful ZZ when she fell asleep on the beanbag--tomorrow is her first birthday!
Meal preparers Rhea and Jessica decided an "end of summer picnic" was in order. They had chicken fingers, mac and cheese, baked beans, tomato and cucumber salad, applesauce, and ice cream bars and jello. Sounds delightful and know it was very good! We have the best food preparers.
As the evening wound down John and Sara were there to spend the night. Hope everyone sleeps well. Thanks to each of you for what you do for our guests--it makes such a difference in their lives. Your kindness and effort is not forgotten.
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
IHN, Tuesday August 5, 2014
Julie and Hugh were troopers as the Overnight Hosts. Alequia had a late work night and early morning arrival back to FPC--and they let her in at "oh dark thirty". Thanks to our volunteers for doing whatever it takes to make things go well.
Richard once again drove the van and got everyone to either Bright Beginnings or the IHN Day Center. Thanks for driving again today!
VERY GOOD NEWS -- Lee has a full time job (unfortunately without benefits). She is very excited and will begin on Monday August 11. Yea! Keep her in your prayers, as a new job is always daunting.
Denise went by the church and put a lamp in the Women's restroom. Yes, there are lights in there. But the master controls turn the lights off at 10 pm and the overnight hosts then have to go to the hall and press the reset button. If someone is "caught" in the restroom at 10 pm it is a bit of a shock and very dark!
A CHANGE - As of today Alequia and her children are no longer in the program. We wish them well and ask that everyone keep her and her children in their prayers.
Susan is the On-Site Coordinator for Tuesday. She put clean sheets on the host beds, made sure everything was in order and ready to welcome our guests.
Jayne delivered the guests on her second afternoon in a row of van driving. She's reported being happy to get a "baby fix". The three children are precious!
Ann and Tanna were the Evening Hosts. They got the table set and the food ready to serve. And were the genial hosts for the meal and afterwards.
Jeannie and Roger brought tonights meal -- and what a meal it was! Pulled pork (with a special super secret recipe) and buns for those who prefer sandwiches, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad and after all that--apple pie and ice cream!
Elaine spent the night, along with Forest, who came from his job as a golf pro. Hope you both have sweet dreams.
Thanks to all the hard-working volunteers from dawn to dark today. May God bless one and all.
Richard once again drove the van and got everyone to either Bright Beginnings or the IHN Day Center. Thanks for driving again today!
VERY GOOD NEWS -- Lee has a full time job (unfortunately without benefits). She is very excited and will begin on Monday August 11. Yea! Keep her in your prayers, as a new job is always daunting.
Denise went by the church and put a lamp in the Women's restroom. Yes, there are lights in there. But the master controls turn the lights off at 10 pm and the overnight hosts then have to go to the hall and press the reset button. If someone is "caught" in the restroom at 10 pm it is a bit of a shock and very dark!
A CHANGE - As of today Alequia and her children are no longer in the program. We wish them well and ask that everyone keep her and her children in their prayers.
Susan is the On-Site Coordinator for Tuesday. She put clean sheets on the host beds, made sure everything was in order and ready to welcome our guests.
Jayne delivered the guests on her second afternoon in a row of van driving. She's reported being happy to get a "baby fix". The three children are precious!
Ann and Tanna were the Evening Hosts. They got the table set and the food ready to serve. And were the genial hosts for the meal and afterwards.
Jeannie and Roger brought tonights meal -- and what a meal it was! Pulled pork (with a special super secret recipe) and buns for those who prefer sandwiches, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad and after all that--apple pie and ice cream!
Elaine spent the night, along with Forest, who came from his job as a golf pro. Hope you both have sweet dreams.
Thanks to all the hard-working volunteers from dawn to dark today. May God bless one and all.
Monday, August 4, 2014
IHN, Monday August 4, 2014
Monday got off to a good start as Bruce and David made sure everyone was up and ready to face the day. It was a quiet night, just what we like.
Richard drove the morning Van with everyone aboard as Alequia's car is out of commission. Arrangements were made to have it taken care of--but by the end of the day no news on when it might be back in service.
Richard dropped children at Bright Beginnings and the Moms at the IHN Day Center. Lee had a job interview and things look good for employment for her. Keep her in your prayers that this will be a success.
Denise picked up Alequia and family in the Van and took the children to the baby sitters and Alequia to work for a 3- 11 pm shift. Arrangements have been made for a taxi to pick them up and take them to FPC...when the overnight hosts will welcome them in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. We have extra special volunteers who arise to any situation!
Terry was the On-site coordinator and got everything ready for the guests--with the able help of Sissy who put clean linens on the beds! It is clear Terry needs more training in that department, though he has delegation down pat. :)
Molly and William and Ethelyn brought the evening meal. There were Chick Filet nuggets and strips, a pizza, a salad, lemonade and ice cream sandwiches--yummy! The children, actually everyone, was delighted with tonight's fare. Thanks to everyone who provides food.
Jayne, the Afternoon Van Driver brought Lee and her family back to FPC. There is a little more conversation in the afternoons than during the still-sleepy mornings. Both Van drivers will be back on duty again tomorrow, for which we are grateful.
Patty and Steve were Evening Hosts and brought along their grandchild and a friend. What a treat for the guest children again--to have young folks to play with!! We are thankful for families who introduce children and grandchildren early to community service and caring for and sharing with others. There are few lessons better!
Julie and Hugh are the overnight hosts. I hope they get to sleep early as their sleep will be interrupted. By the way David and Bruce gave a thumbs up to the double mattresses on the host beds...hope others feel the same.
Please keep the families and the volunteers in your prayers this week. Our lives are touched by others, and we find that in serving we are served. Thanks be to God.
Richard drove the morning Van with everyone aboard as Alequia's car is out of commission. Arrangements were made to have it taken care of--but by the end of the day no news on when it might be back in service.
Richard dropped children at Bright Beginnings and the Moms at the IHN Day Center. Lee had a job interview and things look good for employment for her. Keep her in your prayers that this will be a success.
Denise picked up Alequia and family in the Van and took the children to the baby sitters and Alequia to work for a 3- 11 pm shift. Arrangements have been made for a taxi to pick them up and take them to FPC...when the overnight hosts will welcome them in the wee hours of Tuesday morning. We have extra special volunteers who arise to any situation!
Terry was the On-site coordinator and got everything ready for the guests--with the able help of Sissy who put clean linens on the beds! It is clear Terry needs more training in that department, though he has delegation down pat. :)
Molly and William and Ethelyn brought the evening meal. There were Chick Filet nuggets and strips, a pizza, a salad, lemonade and ice cream sandwiches--yummy! The children, actually everyone, was delighted with tonight's fare. Thanks to everyone who provides food.
Jayne, the Afternoon Van Driver brought Lee and her family back to FPC. There is a little more conversation in the afternoons than during the still-sleepy mornings. Both Van drivers will be back on duty again tomorrow, for which we are grateful.
Patty and Steve were Evening Hosts and brought along their grandchild and a friend. What a treat for the guest children again--to have young folks to play with!! We are thankful for families who introduce children and grandchildren early to community service and caring for and sharing with others. There are few lessons better!
Julie and Hugh are the overnight hosts. I hope they get to sleep early as their sleep will be interrupted. By the way David and Bruce gave a thumbs up to the double mattresses on the host beds...hope others feel the same.
Please keep the families and the volunteers in your prayers this week. Our lives are touched by others, and we find that in serving we are served. Thanks be to God.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
IHN, Sunday August 3, 2014
Our fourth IHN Host week in 2014 got underway this afternoon without a hitch--thanks to so many great volunteers!
The set up crew: Denise, Carl, Kitty L, Mary P and Kitty D found a much easier situation, with all the IHN things already in the Pit. Kim and the youth have generously offered their closet space for us to store the IHN Linens and other things. We are grateful!! It is much better than hauling everything back and forth and back again to the storage space. It is great use of space that was empty.
Jim and Judy came to pick up the blue bedspreads that go from church to church to church. While waiting for the truck to arrive, they helped sort some things in the kitchen, and then helped move the beds and bins in. They then took spreads to a laundromat with really large machines, washed, dried and folded them and brought them back to FPC--only to discover the doors into the lowest level (& all the others) were locked! We were inside getting them ready and didn't hear their frantic knocking. THANKS for being persistent, and sending a text--and bringing back clean bedspreads.
The set up crew got the truck unloaded, beds into the rooms, and huge and heavy bins belonging to each family into the proper bedrooms. Beds were made--and Carl showed his prowess in making beds, after he had done every possible thing that needed doing before relenting and making beds. He actually made the same bed three times--oops that wasn't his fault and he may never make another bed!
Because of the warm weather we didn't put blankets on the beds, but put one blanket per person in each room--just in case! In looking through the blankets we discovered a gorgeous afghan donated by Barbara--what a lovely gift for our IHN host week. Thank you!
In addition to beds being made food was stored in the kitchen. Thanks to Michelle and Susan B for bringing such nice things for the guests' breakfast and to make lunches. Everything looks great and will be enjoyed.
Then Denise, Kitty L and Mary sorted and arranged all the linens that belong to FPC in the closet--and it all fit beautifully! How delightful it will be for the next host week, just to open the closet door, instead of going through bins!
Evening hosts Steve and Larry arrived--carrying bags of spreads from in front of the door and then helped get them on the beds. So nice to have everything clean and fresh for our families and volunteers.
About the time we were wondering where the guests could be--it isn't but a couple of blocks to the Day Center--in walked a volunteer from Holy Cross Lutheran, very relieved to find us in the Pit. The last time she had been at FPC, IHN was upstairs in Sunday School rooms and they had been wandering all over an empty and quiet building (I'm sure they were wondering what they were going to do with 8 people tonight!) The DeMarias who were there with dinner rescued her and all was well.
The other Holy Cross volunteer brought the IHN Van down to the parking lot near the Pit and everyone unloaded. We have two families. LEE has three children: Kawani who is 5 and he begins kindergarten at Downtown Academy on Thursday. J.R. is three and Zanora will celebrate her first birthday on Thursday. They both go to Bright Beginnings.
ALEQUIA (Ah-lake-ee-ah) also has three children: John is 5, Qeenasia is 4 and Joseph is 2. Alequia has a car but unfortunately it broke down at Holy Cross so she and her family will also be using the van until the car is repaired which they hope will be soon. She works full time and doesn't know her schedule until the day before. VAN DRIVERS--Erik and/or I will keep you posted on who will be riding the van when! Check your email for info as we know it.
OVERNIGHT HOSTS, sometimes Alequia works a late shift which means she could get back to the church early in the morning. Madeline and/or I will let you know. Alequia arranges her own child care. MEAL PREPARATION volunteers -- Her schedule will also make a difference in how many will be at dinner. Terry and/or I will let you know as soon as we know.
THANKS to all of you for being flexible. Things seem to change often daily. That's life!
Steve and his Dad Larry were Evening Hosts. The children seemed to love having a "grandfather" to talk with them! Larry said he had six children and this night brought back lots of good memories. He said he was so glad he got to be with "so many of God's children". What wonderful volunteers we have.
Melinda and Don and Maggie and Cate prepared the delicious dinner...right on the spot in the main kitchen. They had a Mexican feast--with Quesadillas, Tacos and all the fixings--yum! They also had some apple sauce for the children along with everything else and Matt and Natalie provided a lovely fruit salad, along with milk and lemonade and everyone's favorites--cookies! No one goes hungry during the FPC/CCI host week. They all dug in and seemed to enjoy every bite.
Denise went to the store and got needed ointments for diaper rash and said when she returned the evening hosts and meal preparers were talking with the Moms and the children were enjoying playing together. Our guest children always love having volunteer children--it is a real treat! Queenasia enjoyed being up in the "big kitchen" and watching the cooking going on, especially since she was with two "big girls"--she is one of only two girls with the six children, and the other girl is one!
When we were giving the orientation, showing Lee and Alequia where the bathrooms and showers are, and the outside courtyard area where they can enjoy green grass--they were thrilled that A. the bathrooms and showers are so close and B. they can sit outside and the children can enjoy the pretty area. The children were also having fun playing with balls.
David and Bruce are the Overnight Hosts and they were settled in for the evening. Our Host Room this time, since we only have two families, is in the Sr High Room--a real room! The other three host weeks in 2014 the host room has been in the Storage Room, which works but a "real room" is probably more like the Ritz! In attempting to make the beds as comfortable as possible, we put double mattresses on the two Host Beds. Along with the memory foam. Let us know how that sleeps.
Everything got off to a good start. The families are delightful, two lovely, caring Moms and six cute, lively, affectionate children! Before I had taken four steps in the parking area I got hugs from two adorable little boys--what fun!
Thank you to everyone who worked today, brought things, gave of your time and talent to make this week better for our neighbors in need. We are blessed to have a nice facility we can share and so many people who give a warm welcome and provide delicious food and a safe place to be. While it is not home--we hope that our guests feel cared for and loved while they are with us.
Sweet dreams one and all--it's going to be a good week!
The set up crew: Denise, Carl, Kitty L, Mary P and Kitty D found a much easier situation, with all the IHN things already in the Pit. Kim and the youth have generously offered their closet space for us to store the IHN Linens and other things. We are grateful!! It is much better than hauling everything back and forth and back again to the storage space. It is great use of space that was empty.
Jim and Judy came to pick up the blue bedspreads that go from church to church to church. While waiting for the truck to arrive, they helped sort some things in the kitchen, and then helped move the beds and bins in. They then took spreads to a laundromat with really large machines, washed, dried and folded them and brought them back to FPC--only to discover the doors into the lowest level (& all the others) were locked! We were inside getting them ready and didn't hear their frantic knocking. THANKS for being persistent, and sending a text--and bringing back clean bedspreads.
The set up crew got the truck unloaded, beds into the rooms, and huge and heavy bins belonging to each family into the proper bedrooms. Beds were made--and Carl showed his prowess in making beds, after he had done every possible thing that needed doing before relenting and making beds. He actually made the same bed three times--oops that wasn't his fault and he may never make another bed!
Because of the warm weather we didn't put blankets on the beds, but put one blanket per person in each room--just in case! In looking through the blankets we discovered a gorgeous afghan donated by Barbara--what a lovely gift for our IHN host week. Thank you!
In addition to beds being made food was stored in the kitchen. Thanks to Michelle and Susan B for bringing such nice things for the guests' breakfast and to make lunches. Everything looks great and will be enjoyed.
Then Denise, Kitty L and Mary sorted and arranged all the linens that belong to FPC in the closet--and it all fit beautifully! How delightful it will be for the next host week, just to open the closet door, instead of going through bins!
Evening hosts Steve and Larry arrived--carrying bags of spreads from in front of the door and then helped get them on the beds. So nice to have everything clean and fresh for our families and volunteers.
About the time we were wondering where the guests could be--it isn't but a couple of blocks to the Day Center--in walked a volunteer from Holy Cross Lutheran, very relieved to find us in the Pit. The last time she had been at FPC, IHN was upstairs in Sunday School rooms and they had been wandering all over an empty and quiet building (I'm sure they were wondering what they were going to do with 8 people tonight!) The DeMarias who were there with dinner rescued her and all was well.
The other Holy Cross volunteer brought the IHN Van down to the parking lot near the Pit and everyone unloaded. We have two families. LEE has three children: Kawani who is 5 and he begins kindergarten at Downtown Academy on Thursday. J.R. is three and Zanora will celebrate her first birthday on Thursday. They both go to Bright Beginnings.
ALEQUIA (Ah-lake-ee-ah) also has three children: John is 5, Qeenasia is 4 and Joseph is 2. Alequia has a car but unfortunately it broke down at Holy Cross so she and her family will also be using the van until the car is repaired which they hope will be soon. She works full time and doesn't know her schedule until the day before. VAN DRIVERS--Erik and/or I will keep you posted on who will be riding the van when! Check your email for info as we know it.
OVERNIGHT HOSTS, sometimes Alequia works a late shift which means she could get back to the church early in the morning. Madeline and/or I will let you know. Alequia arranges her own child care. MEAL PREPARATION volunteers -- Her schedule will also make a difference in how many will be at dinner. Terry and/or I will let you know as soon as we know.
THANKS to all of you for being flexible. Things seem to change often daily. That's life!
Steve and his Dad Larry were Evening Hosts. The children seemed to love having a "grandfather" to talk with them! Larry said he had six children and this night brought back lots of good memories. He said he was so glad he got to be with "so many of God's children". What wonderful volunteers we have.
Melinda and Don and Maggie and Cate prepared the delicious dinner...right on the spot in the main kitchen. They had a Mexican feast--with Quesadillas, Tacos and all the fixings--yum! They also had some apple sauce for the children along with everything else and Matt and Natalie provided a lovely fruit salad, along with milk and lemonade and everyone's favorites--cookies! No one goes hungry during the FPC/CCI host week. They all dug in and seemed to enjoy every bite.
Denise went to the store and got needed ointments for diaper rash and said when she returned the evening hosts and meal preparers were talking with the Moms and the children were enjoying playing together. Our guest children always love having volunteer children--it is a real treat! Queenasia enjoyed being up in the "big kitchen" and watching the cooking going on, especially since she was with two "big girls"--she is one of only two girls with the six children, and the other girl is one!
When we were giving the orientation, showing Lee and Alequia where the bathrooms and showers are, and the outside courtyard area where they can enjoy green grass--they were thrilled that A. the bathrooms and showers are so close and B. they can sit outside and the children can enjoy the pretty area. The children were also having fun playing with balls.
David and Bruce are the Overnight Hosts and they were settled in for the evening. Our Host Room this time, since we only have two families, is in the Sr High Room--a real room! The other three host weeks in 2014 the host room has been in the Storage Room, which works but a "real room" is probably more like the Ritz! In attempting to make the beds as comfortable as possible, we put double mattresses on the two Host Beds. Along with the memory foam. Let us know how that sleeps.
Everything got off to a good start. The families are delightful, two lovely, caring Moms and six cute, lively, affectionate children! Before I had taken four steps in the parking area I got hugs from two adorable little boys--what fun!
Thank you to everyone who worked today, brought things, gave of your time and talent to make this week better for our neighbors in need. We are blessed to have a nice facility we can share and so many people who give a warm welcome and provide delicious food and a safe place to be. While it is not home--we hope that our guests feel cared for and loved while they are with us.
Sweet dreams one and all--it's going to be a good week!
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