First Mondays on a SOWER project rarely go as planned. It’s usually a slow start as folks determine what needs to be done, who’s going to be doing what, and who is working with who.  Not to mention just who is who? Today was not especially bumpy – but it was a a classic ‘slow start’. Yet it was a very worthwhile slow. We all met together for devotions – 5 SOWER couples, several independent volunteers and about 20 staff members.

After a time of devotions, we then went around and introduced ourselves – staff and volunteers – so we would have the beginnings of figuring out who is who! And then the director began to discuss what jobs different teams would be doing. One of the main priorities for the men is completing a lodge that is scheduled for a grand opening at the end of December.

Oh, My! Lots to do there!
There were also other hotel rooms that were partway through some renovations and some miscellaneous plumbing and electrical work that was on the list. The guys broke out into their teams (I think Gary was looking at some A/C units – kinda what he does!), and we ladies waited for our assignments. Two of the ladies were assigned the job of taking down the Fall decorations, and getting started with the preparations for  Christmas Camp  scheduled for the week after Christmas. And although it wasn’t on the initial list of what the ladies would be doing, three of us were assigned as kitchen help. Now I have to say, I’ll take kitchen work over painting or housekeeping (and maybe even decorating – though that did sound like it could be fun!) almost any day, so I was quite delighted indeed!

Lunch and dinner is provided for the staff, and we volunteers are invited to join in, so we three ladies were more than happy to pitch in and help. It was a little more intimidating when they said they were hoping the three of us could actually BE the kitchen staff to free up the actual kitchen staff (Jesse & Mary)to help with that lodge and the upcoming open house! Yikes! Thankfully it looks like at least Jesse will be training us this week and so far, our two meals have gone fine! It’s only lunch and dinner for 40 people four days a week, right?  We can do this, right? Right?

I’m pretty sure we can handle the salad bar – but I think we’re a little nervous about handling the main course without any adult supervision! Fortunately they have a well stocked freezer and pantry, and  plenty of menu options for us to choose from. So, gulp,  let the cooking begin!

Although the actual work day didn’t start until well past 9AM  (we’re usually working by 8), it was good to spend that little extra time getting to know our co-laborers for Christ this month.  All in all – it was a great first day!

Now if they were all just wearing name tags…

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