Oyster Fest Take 2! Plus a Thought...

I know, we have done this before. Well this time, when we headed to the Milford Oyster Festival, Michelle and I were joined by Angie and Johanna. It was the 50th anniversary of the festival so we were presented with some pretty amazing T-shirts to wear. As usual, we signed up for the morning shift, 7am to 12 pm. Our assignment was "Arts & Crafts", which amounts to checking in vendors. The number of art vendors at this event is impressive.

After checking in, and grabbing a quick cup of coffee and a muffin, we headed to the gazebo where we were to receive our assignment. The woman at the check-in table quickly turned over the check-in process to us. Michelle and Angie had it completely under control so Johanna and I asked if we could help elsewhere. We helped move one of the vendors, Vintage Times, from one space to another since they were in the wrong spot. Then, we headed to "Main Street" where businesses were set up to advertise their products and services. But first … a quick phone check!

When we got to Main Street the woman in charge asked, "Have you done this before?" I let her know that I had and she replied, "Great! Can you tell me what we are supposed to do?"! So we had the young volunteers pass out garbage bags to each business while Johanna and I notified everyone to have their cars off the street and parked in the lots by 9am. I taped down the extension cords while Johanna answered questions. Once Main Street was under control, we headed back to Arts & Crafts. Angie found someone in need of help with their tent, Michelle answered questions, and I provided directions for parking to a lost driver.

So where was Johanna? She took advantage of a free moment to give back by supporting the vendors with a mini shopping spree!

All joking aside, we were happy at the amount we were able to help others. Cathy, one of the organizers was thankful to give a task to us and know it was done. It is so fun to meet such wonderful people as we give our time.

The GBGs with Cathy, a very busy event coordinator

I want to take a moment to thank our readers for checking in with us. It is very motivating when we hear positive feedback. A thought that has recently come to mind is the many ways that others "Give-Back". Volunteering is just one way to give-back. I have a dear friend of mine that selflessly cares for her lovely 93 year old mother everyday. She has remodeled her home to accommodate the needs of her mother while providing a level of privacy and dignity in the process. Recently her family went to Italy to attend the wedding of her niece. Her mother was unable to go with the family. To be sure that she felt included, the family member that stayed behind made everyday special for her in the spirit of an Italian wedding. Give back? Absolutely. While volunteering in the community is very important, home is where give-backs start!

And where does each give back girl "Give-Back" end - well with food and drinks of course!!

Another great event with the girls.

Up next, the Smilow Closer To Free Ride. See you there.