I know it’s been awhile since I last blogged—we have been super busy at Hope House! Sometimes so much is happening that while I may tell myself in the moment “blog this!” I completely forget by the time I get to my computer for some quiet time. One recurring business is the “new” Hope House we are hoping to build this year. Lots of time and energy, presentations and meetings have gone into this lately and I have been so excited at the progress being made. I am putting my faith in the only sure thing I know—prayer. I am not giving up on a new Hope House this year and neither is God. In the meantime, I am also focusing my thoughts on the wonderful memories this Hope House has given me. When I think of Hope House, this is what I think of:
- Sunny spring and summer days like today—clients sitting out front, chatting while waiting for us to open. Staff bustling around, getting everything stocked and ready. Windows open and the sound of birds singing.
- And conversely, cold, dark winter days, wind blowing and clients coming in shivering, grateful for the hot coffee and fresh cookies and warmth. It’s rewarding to offer warm hats, gloves and blankets during these times.
- The sound of babies “talking”, toddlers running and moms chatting in our waiting room. When you peek out there, children are coloring, someone is reading a book to the kids and everyone has a cookie in their hand!
- From my office, I often hear the staff offering to search for items that our clients are in need of, running upstairs and out to our shed to try to locate a blanket, some socks or a coat. Our staff have also been known to purchase something for a particular person that they know is in need of it.
- The faces of the Assumption school children joyfully passing cans of food hand to hand from the church to our shed each year at Thanksgiving. Even when it is cold and windy, they smile and have fun with it.
- The homeless men and women who have found a “family” here at Hope House. The few we worry most about—my adopted “sons”!! When they’re sick, when we haven’t seen them for a while—I worry, and pray and they always come back!
- Then there is Christmas—the incredible generosity of the families, organizations and businesses that “adopt” a Hope House family and make a Christmas for them. I wish I could show everyone the eyes of the children who see the boxes of gifts to take home!
- Clients who connect here—we have one couple who met here and are now married! I love chatting with my clients, watching their children grow, celebrating their victories and praying for their sorrows.
- My volunteers—I cannot say enough about the wonderful people who choose to spend time here each week, reaching out with such love and compassion! They are amazing and always step up when needed, serve with love and keep smiles on their faces. I love each and every one of them!
So, I will keep praying and keep enjoying the special blessing this place is in my life.
Thanking God for Hope House from my amazing grace filled life!