Thursday, May 17

It’s a beautiful day at the Blitz Build site on 6th street in spite of more rain last night. The bright sun clearly reflects temperaments - everyone is beaming! I am astonished as I stand before a home that appears to be nearly finished from the outside. I find it hard to imagine that only a foundation was here Monday morning - four short days ago!

The able bodied Turfmasters Landscaping crew applies muscle power to grading, raking and leveling the yard. As soon as the topsoil is delivered, they will spread it and prepare the yard for landscaping tomorrow. Off the back of the home, railings are being installed on the safe, strong ramp designed for the William’s 7 year old disabled son, Dakarai.

In spite of all this outdoor activity, the main focus for today is inside the home. There must be at least 15 finish carpenters at work. Some are installing doors, millwork and hardware. Others are mounting cabinets in the kitchen. Miter boxes hum as trim, millwork and doors are cut to size. Meanwhile, the Horsch & Miller crew are finishing off the HVAC system and installing accessories in the bathrooms. Sometime in the afternoon, Nationwide Floor Covering will arrive to install the laminate flooring that was delivered yesterday.

Today I have the opportunity to join everyone for lunch. Each day of the build, lunch has been provided though generous donations and the generous sponsorship of Thrivent Financial. Since today’s lunch, served by Champs, looks especially delicious, I am glad to partake. This time also affords me more opportunity to visit with Gloria and Bashamba as well as workers and other habitat home volunteers. It’s a cheerful lunch line; everyone in good spirits. I’m not surprised… the food for the soul we have enjoyed all week along with the tasty food for the body cooks up a recipe of warmth and joy!

Return to Community Involvement