2014 gets off to a good start at First Pres as we host IHN. The set up crew was superb--Carla, Carl and Rick got started an hour early and by the time the rest of us arrived, they'd gotten the floors cleaned, sofa moved upstairs, boxes of sheets and towels out and sorted and many of the window covers up. The truck that brings IHNA beds and other things went to Emanuel, and fortunately then to the Day Center. When we called the Day Center to see if they'd heard why he hadn't arrived yet--they had his number. He didn't know where to go! It's a new year and new schedule which takes getting used to for all of us. Once he arrived the truck was unloaded by Kitty L, Mary, Gail, Kitty D, Carla, Carl and Rick in record time!
Beds were made, lamps set up, and all was made ready to welcome our guests and hosts.
Marie and Tim drove straight from Florida (where they had some cool weather) to pick up the blue bedspreads and wash them. They delivered them back in time to be put on the beds before the guests arrived.
We only have two families arriving today. Both were with us in November, and it was nice to welcome them back. The third November family moved into their own place in December. Christine and her twins and her Mom Belinda will move on Monday Jan 6 to their own place.
Jill, Christopher and Ethan will be will us this week and then move to their own place next week. Congratulations to all three families--and the IHNA staff for reaching this important goal--a home of their own! Please keep all of them in your thoughts and prayers as they make a big transition.
Evening Hosts David and Barbara arrived and got the table set and the dinner out. We are so happy to welcome Congregation Children of Israel who are now "official" as our host week partner! David has been staying overnight and meeting with us as we prepare for this. We look forward to working together.
Nancy and Bob brought a delicious meal, perfect for a chilly evening. Rolls with hot beef for open faced sandwiches with gravy, a yummy squash casserole, colorful cole slaw and the best pear cup cakes ever! Guests had seconds and enjoyed a nice dinner and conversation with David and Barbara and one another. Belinda is feeling a bit under the weather, so she got some needed sleep.
Julie and Hugh spent the night. With only two families, the host room this week is not the room used by the Week Day School--good for the teacher, as her things will stay put and good for the overnight hosts and coordinators, as no furniture has to be moved!
Before I left Ethan was with one of the twins, and having her tell him the colors in the little buggy she was "driving"...so nice that he takes the time with the little ones! It is a joy to see how much these families enjoy one another. It is nice to have them back--and they seem to be glad to be back at First Presbyterian.
Thanks to our volunteers for getting the week off to a great start, and good luck to the guests who have moved and it's wonderful to have Jill and family back with us. God bless one and all.
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