Raeann- GKTW- Day Four

Today was a great day. We woke up bright and early to go to the Gingerbread House inside the Village. Here, we helped serve the families breakfast. After each family member went through the buffet line and got everything they wanted, it was our job to take their tray for them. We carried the tray and set up the contents on the table so they could enjoy their meal. The simple act of carrying their trays across the room was an important principle: this was their vacation! Sometimes they would try to take their own tray—especially the men—but when we reminded them that this was their time to relax, they usually relented and let us carry it for them.

This idea of a vacation is extremely important at the Village. We want the families to feel comfortable and not have to worry about the stressors—no matter how big or small—that typically occupy their lives.

Before the day started, we received instructions on how to serve the families. We were told to inform the staff of anything that a child wanted that we didn’t seem to have. Even if someone had to go out and get it, the child would have what he or she wanted to eat. Our supervisor commented, “If they want the moon, we will find a way to get it for them.” I thought it was incredible that everyone was willing to go to such great lengths to make the child’s visit perfect. After all, each kid only gets seven days at the Village, and we are supposed to give them the world!

This evening was a Winter Wonderland party since on Thursdays it is Christmas in the Village. I got to work at the craft booth. I had a blast with the kids getting glue and glitter everywhere while making snowflakes and ornaments. Although the crafts were fun, the best part of my job was that I was able to interact with many different kids. I especially enjoyed seeing kids that I recognized from breakfast that morning or from earlier in the week. Those I didn’t recognize, I met and tried to get to know them.

I feel like I’ve really started to get to know some of these kids. I can’t believe tomorrow is our last day. I hope that I have helped them to have a wonderful, unforgettable week. I know that I will never forget it.