Wednesday, May 16

The rains came but they did not dampen spirits. The “can-do” attitude prevailed. To be honest, though, it did create some havoc. So, like Paul Harvey, I’ll tell you The Rest of the Story. These were no light showers; it poured for hours. The yard turned into a mud hole and trucks had a hard time getting in and out. Some got stuck and needed help. Loading drywall was challenging and messy. Good thing President, Tom, had the foresight to order fans and high powered heaters, or we would have had a lot more to worry about. Before any painting is done, its imperative drywall texture is entirely dry, and interior painting was scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. the next morning! With the storms, WE Energies was overwhelmed with emergency calls and unable to install electric service as anticipated. Terry from Triple T to the rescue! Terry managed to get us temporary power to run the fans and heaters necessary to dry the walls.

By 7 a.m. this morning our crews were hard at damage control; laying pallets in the yard, power washing the drive and front walk and vacuuming the interior. Painting began at 8 a.m. right on time.

I arrive on site at about noon. Had I not known of the troubles, I would have had no idea. I am greeted by smiles. Marin, from Sherwin Williams is sitting crossed legged applying the finishing touches of paint to the front porch. I ask Bashamba and Gloria to move into the photo. Bashamba tells me he has never seen so many happy workers. He is impressed with the joy-filled atmosphere that fills the air. Gloria is ecstatic about her lovely new home. The work of professionals is evident with the smooth, finished walls; they are perfect. Soon, flooring and interior doors and millwork will be delivered and bathroom vanities will be installed. After the last two 15 hour days, mercifully this day will end about 5 o’clock.

Photos taken, I head back to the office reflecting on how grateful I am to be a part of this.

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