Cold Snap

To say it has been cold here would be a gross understatement. In fact, it has been "Where the heck are my gloves-The car won't start-Does anyone know where the icescraper is?-I need a new coat , this one isn't warm enough, "MOM, I'm FREEZING" weather.

Keep in mind this is the temperate climate of the Oregon. We don't typically get extremes of weather on either end of the mercury. Thus, a week in the low 20's nearly caused county-wide panic.

1. Our woodstove just couldn't penetrate the cold on that level. It was miserable in the house.
2. Pipes froze and some folks went without water for days.
3. Broken pipes at the stable meant that workers had to haul water to the horses by hand: terrible work in frigid temps.
4. The homeless suffered even more than usual.

God Bless the Green Spot Event Center. They opened their doors during the worst of the cold snap and provided both food and shelter for anyone who needed it- NO questions asked.

As our church meets there, our family had the honor and privilege of helping out. We had so much fun I'm almost sorry the weather has warmed up again. Almost, but not quite!

The Green Spot owner John, and his employees Anthony and Richard, did an amazing job of meeting the needs of the community. They borrowed cots from the armory, provided sleeping bags, and kept hot soup and coffee available at all times.

Word spread to the community and the donations just poured in. Peope would walk in the door with arm loads of pillows, blankets, coats, and clothing. Dante' and I enjoyed sorting and folding clothes. Phil helped wherever needed and Max served as unofficial taste tester. He really enjoys Richard's cooking, which by the way is fantastic.

About the food: There was always a hot soup bubbling in the pot. Usually chicken with noodles or dumplings and plenty of veggies. Boneless turkey and ham were roasted and made in to sandwiches. Breakfast was often biscuits and gravy. We also enjoyed cupcakes, muffins and cookies. In fact, the food was so good I would nearly get homeless to have some. (Okay, a tad of an exaggeration. But just a tad)

So that is what we are eating in Oregon this week. Food, love, fellowship and compassion. When a community turns out to help it's own, it is a beautiful thing.

Love and God Bless,
-Ellen