On October 1st, Betsy flew from Louisville to DC to Tampa. She went to Tampa to volunteer at "Give Kids the World." It's a village of housing units where families that have a child with a terminal illness can stay for a week while their child receives their "wish" from various "wish" organizations - like "Make a Wish". I went on behalf of Chesapeake Hospitality representing our hotel. I was happy to get away. Before coming on this trip I finally looked at the number of days and hours I have worked for this company. Since I started in May, I have only had 2 days off per month (except when I went on vacation to Niagara Falls). I was happy to get away and enjoy some sunshine - even if it was just a very little bit.
Sunday evening there was a welcome dinner. We all introduced ourselves, and had a chance to meet others that were volunteering this week.
Monday we boarded a coach bus that drove us to Orlando where we went to Disney World, Springville for lunch. We ate on the boat behind me in this photo. The Peddleton (?). I sat next to the the company's owner's wife. She was so pleasant and kind. After lunch we had two hours to tour around and shop.
From Springville we continued via coach to the "Give Kids the World Village," just up the road. There we received a tour of the property and instructions for our volunteer service. We were hosting a Halloween Party.
When the time came, all the kids came in costume with their families. I headed up a "Monster Match" game. It was fun. I got to personally meet all the kids and their families. Each was so kind and sweet. It was a privilege to volunteer for such a tender cause. I already had a great appreciation for all the blessings in my life, but this just exemplified that appreciation.
Wednesday morning I was on the 7:00 am back to Louisville.
Marissa and Elizabeth Davis got to be in a Emergency Preparedness rescue procedures up in Logan. Elizabeth was a part of it and invited Marissa to do it with her. Marissa had such a blast. She got to ride Snow Mobiles and pretend to need a rescue. Whata great day for two adventurous girls.
