October 20, 2009
How A Mission Trip Works
The October 2009 Get In The Car Mission Trip:
If you haven’t ever been on a mission trip, here is how one works.
A bunch of people, mostly strangers, from different backgrounds,
different personal histories, and different financial statuses
get together for a important common purpose, automatically
transforming them into totally invested coworkers, which usually
leads to amazing amounts of productivity, and equally important
friendships.
Our work lives should be more like mission trips.
Posted by jaselin at 01:24 PM | Comments (0)
In The Beginning... May
If I had to give an official start date to the October Get In The Car VIII team, it would have to be May 21, 2009, 1:09 pm.
Because that’s the day I received the email. Here’s how it went down:
>>> "KM” 5/21/2009 1:09 PM >>>
Do you want to co-lead a trip in October with me?????
>>> “JK” 5/21/2009 1:15 PM >>>
Yes! Where to? Dates? So I can make sure I can do it. Kids or Adults? Not that it matters. It's just one of those questions I ask now. I'm getting smarter at that!
>>> "KM" 5/21/2009 1:24 PM >>>
Adults. Look at your calendar for dates the second or third week of October. It would be the Gulf. I will start the process.
>>> “JK” 5/21/2009 1:35 PM >>>
Leaving the 3rd, returning the 11th - first choice
Leaving the 10th returning the 18th - second choice
5/22: When morning comes, I stretch awake thinking, “Yeah, that must have been a dream.” Unfortunately, my email proves otherwise. “OK, now what?” I ask myself and proceed to conjure up ways I can not be a team co-leader without actually backing out.
Amongst my brilliant ideas are: I can do most of the administrative duties, and let my co-leader be the voice. I can write the devotions and my team co-leader can give them. I can put her name down first on all the paperwork. "Yeah," I think as I saunter toward the shower, "I've got this covered."
So, that’s how a mission trip begins.
Posted by jaselin at 01:22 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan June
Our conversations continued. Plans were made.
Ok, let me qualify that: plans were set before us, and we followed, easily.
In between planning, co-plotting, almost-daily (and sometimes 20-times daily) communications, regular life continued...
6/10/2009
KM: I am looking forward to October. We are calling down there to set up a location and dates… Or did you want to do that… Looks like October 3 thru the 11 I think… Not looking at a calendar.
JK: The 3rd thru 11th works for me. Since you're the one with the sparkly personality, and all the hometown support available right there to help you, I think you should be our voice for this trip! I would prefer to be the paper person running around behind you....
KM: Works for me…. I think we will make a fabulous team…
6/22/2009
KM: We are going to stay in Slidell at the same place we were last time… We will travel for our site… Are you moving this weekend?
JK: Yeah! Aldersgate! So we have set the dates as 10/3 - 10/11 for sure? Shall I draft an announcement email for posting and e-mailing to the GITC list? I'm so excited. And, no, I guess I am not moving this weekend. I have until March 2010 to decide if I will buy the house or move. I'm pretty sure I will move, but I don't have to decide right now. And if I find something I like before then, I'll just do it. I believe I have a cavity below my gum line on one of my last few remaining front teeth. I am also maxed out on insurance use, so I have to call and see how much it will cost to fix it as opposed to pulling it. The good news is that I am not planning on auditioning for the Miss America Pageant anytime soon....
Posted by jaselin at 01:12 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan Early July
7/7/2009
KM:
Fwd: Team Assignment:Get in the Car 8. Dates: October 4-10, 2009.
We are delighted that your team will be coming to help with the recovery of Louisiana. We have assigned your team to the Southeast Center in New Orleans. Thanking you in advance, LA UM Disaster Response, Inc.
JK:
HI! Yippee! What besides salsa should I bring for dinner Saturday night? I need to be in Livonia (Gem Show) by 1:00 pm on Sunday, but I should be ok if I leave right after church.
7/10/2009:
Dear KM,
Thank you for your interest in joining the United Methodist Southeast Louisiana Disaster Recovery with the Hurricane Katrina recovery process. Our number one resource continues to be the commitment and hard work of volunteers. Please review this information regarding your trip and the attached registration forms. After your review, please contact me with any unanswered questions you may have.
Reservation Details
Date of Trip: October 4–10, 2009
Group Name: Get In The Car, VIII
Volunteer Count: 9
Registration Forms
Please have each volunteer complete (1) Liability Release Form and (2) Medical Information. If you have youth participating, please complete the additional youth forms as well. In addition, please fill out ONE Skills Survey for your group. The Liability Release Form and Skills Survey Form are due two weeks prior to arrival.
Every member of your group must have accident insurance. Proof of Insurance for your team is due two weeks prior to arrival. If you would like to purchase travel accident insurance for 75 cents a day through Global Ministries, please visit www.laumcstormrelief.com for more information.
Also, please provide Southeast Louisiana Disaster Recovery with two or three contact cell phone numbers where we can reach members of your group during your trip.
Housing
Our housing facilities provide a place for you to Rest, Refresh, Replenish, & Relax. Please contact us one hour prior to arrival to gain access to your housing.
Your assigned housing is: the Epworth Volunteer Building at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, Slidell, LA 70458.
This facility has a dormitory style layout. There are 50 bunk beds inside the facility, a commercial kitchen for your use, and a community area for dining and gathering. Finally, there are 6 showers (3 male/3 female) to which you will have shared access. There is also internet access at this facility.
As a note for your scheduling, during the school year, Aldersgate UMC hosts a Family Dinner/Bible Study on Wednesday evenings from 5:45-7:15. All recovery workers are invited to attend. The dinner is $5 per person. Please inform me on Monday if you wish to join the event.
A housing donation is requested of $12.00 per person/per day. Our housing facilities are made possible by volunteers through dedication, donations, and hard work. This housing donation covers utility maintenance, and general upkeep costs. Please make checks payable to Louisiana Disaster Recovery Ministry with ‘Housing’ in the memo line. Please turn in your housing payment on Monday morning following Orientation.
Meals & Food
Please remember that your team is in charge of purchasing and preparing your meals. There are sufficient grocery stores and general stores stocked with food and supplies so you can purchase these things upon arrival. The kitchen has all the necessary cooking utensils (pots/pans/spatulas/etc), but we recommend that you bring disposable plates/cups/eating utensils. Please remember to take any food you purchase back home with you or dispose of it prior to your departure.
Orientation
All volunteers are required to attend an orientation meeting on Monday morning at 8am. Please be prompt. Dale Kimball, New Orleans Station Manager, will give you an overview of the week and SLDR’s construction coordinators will assign work projects to your group at this time.
Orientation Location:Northshore Disaster Recovery Inc., Slidell, LA 70458
Flying Your Flag
One important aspect of the volunteer experience at SLDR continues to be the flying of state flags over the building. Volunteers take pride in seeing their flag fly while they work in this community. More importantly, the flags are a sign of hope for residents that still await services. If possible, please bring a full size state flag (3’X5’) with you.\
Water & Hydration
We have a limited supply of water coolers and ice chests available on a first come first serve basis. If you are able, please provide extra coolers and chests for your teams.
Donations
Our ministry is so grateful for the continual giving of so many wonderful people. Through labor and financial contributions we continue to coordinate the recovery of many individuals in this community. If you would like to donate financially to the ministry, we welcome any form of contribution. However, please know that monetary donations in the form of “gift cards” to Home Depot and Lowe’s are most useful to us and your fellow volunteers.
Preparation Training
If incoming volunteer team members are interested in improving their construction skills prior to volunteering, Lowe’s and Home Depot offer free classes on drywall, taping & floating, texturing walls, applying molding, installing doors, laying tile or carpet, etc.
We are looking forward to working with you and seeing you soon.
Peace, SLDR Volunteer Coordinator.
“Our mission is to seek and to save the least, the last, and the lost.
Without the sacrifice of volunteers, this would not be possible.
Thank you for being sensitive to the greater spirit and for putting the needs of others ahead of your own.
We rejoice and feel blessed to have you here!”
**Please be aware that due to the nature of social services, your volunteer information may be discussed internally among supervisors. If you desire for your information to remain confidential, which you have the right to do so, please advise the Volunteer Coordinator of your wishes.**
Posted by jaselin at 01:11 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan Mid July
Having confirmed that we are booked with North Shore, and receiving the behind the scenes information and large number of required tasks, sets us into "roll" mode. It's time to get the word out: Get In The Car is gearing up to roll out of Michigan, once again.
Urgency is now the driving force behind all of our actions. Sure, it's only July, but for the team leaders, the planners, the over-thinkers, it was also definable as only 12 weeks away from our intended departure date. That’s 12 whole weeks: with only 12 -15 weekend days of "workable" GITC time. What that really equates to is trying to put together a team and a trip in about two weeks, with interruptions such as work, personal illnesses, daily life, and family obligations.
7/13/2009
JK: 7:40 am: Morning, again... officially revised revised revised announcement draft to follow. Let me know if you see anything else that needs changing. I'm working on a more detailed description and some wording for the "supplemental monies" we'll need to make budget. Thanks.
KM: 10:46 am: I think this looks good.
JK: 10:48 am: :-) So, do you want to send it out from the GITC address from you? Or do you want me to be the administrative emailer of all info?
KM: 10:54 am: You.
JK: 11:18 am: okey dokey. I'll try to figure out how to do that from my GITC mail box tonight before 8 pm. :-)
That little plan didn't work as well as it could have. I made some assumptions in error, and I was unfamiliar with the email system GITC uses. I thought I should be able to grab email addresses from a common area within our mail system. I couldn't. Many emails, calls, text messages, and a few hours later, it seemed I finally had a usable list.
However, it turned out, that once again I do not. I still need to edit each address, create a file for each person, and then create a mail group. A bad humor begins to bubble. I wish I had more time, I wish we'd thought to work on this a few weeks ago. I'm tired and crabby and trying desperately to draft an upbeat message that will not follow along the lines of my evening's worth of frustration.
It's late in the evening when I finally get the brief announcement sent. Then, finally, all is well. I made my self-imposed deadline, well past my usual self-imposed bedtime, but it was done. And so was I.
Posted by jaselin at 01:10 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan Mid-Late July
JK: Tuesday, July 14, 2009 7:21 AM
Howdy sunshine! Got the announcement email out late last night, but not without severely torturing your husband first. Have good day!
KM: You are the bomb…..
JK: email text:
Good morning.
Just wanted to let you know that Get In The Car volunteer coordinators are actively seeking team members for two consecutive October 2009 Gulf Coast recovery missions.
We are also looking for opportunities on speak on behalf of GITC’s Gulf Coast efforts. The presentation is approximately 1/2 hour including speaker & power point presentation. We are available weekday evenings and all day on weekends.
Basics:
- Week # 1: Departs Saturday, October 3rd, returns to Michigan Sunday, October 11th. (Team Leaders: Kathy & Jodi)
- Week # 2: Departs Saturday, October 10th, returns to Michigan Sunday, October 18th. (Team Leader: Eric)
- (If you are available, a commitment for both of the two weeks would be welcome!)
- Estimated Missionary Investment per Person will be $160.00
- One pre-departure meeting for both teams is scheduled for Saturday, September 19th.
- Accommodations in Louisiana will be at the new North Shore Disaster Recovery Aldersgate Center in Slidell.
- Printable applications are available at http:/www.getinthecar.org.
The Get In The Car Spirit’s Fire Bike Ride annual fund raiser on August 29th will be sponsored by St. Matthews in Livonia this year. Trail location will be restricted bicycle only hour on Hines Drive. For more information contact eric@getinthecar.org.
With opportunities and blessings, Kathy, Jodi, and Eric.
Being "the bomb" was accompanied by a bit of fall-out. I forgot to blind carbon copy everyone, which seemed to result in a few people asking to have themselves removed from our mailing list. Nothing in their requests actually indicated that was the catalyst, though that is my fear. Perhaps it was just bad timing, and that would have happened eventually, anyway. Levels of commitment change.
Still I berate myself for missing that detail because, yes, it's a pet peeve of mine to find myself on a non-blind mass list.
Posted by jaselin at 01:09 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan Later July
7/17/09
JK: Good morning. My meeting notes from 7.11 attached, sorry for the delay. Blessings.
This fall’s double GITC New Orleans disaster recovery teams’ Missionary Investment of $160.00 per person covers volunteer insurance ($6.75), all accommodation costs @ Loucon, KY & Aldersgate, LA ($92.00), and partial costs of transportation ($30.63) and food ($30.63).
The estimated cost per team of 16: (Two 8 person teams)
Fuel: $1,600.00
Food: $800.00
Lodging Kentucky: $320.00
Lodging Louisiana: $1152.00
Insurance: $108.00
TOTAL: $3980.00
The estimated cost per volunteer to completely cover estimated expenses is $248.75 per person.
Here are some suggested ways to subsidize $88.75 in GITC expense coverage without making the cost prohibitive to volunteers:
Gasoline Dollar Drive: Gas stations, friends/family, church, work
Email everyone you know and ask for $1.00 to go towards gasoline costs.
Meal Sponsorships: restaurants, friends/family, church, work
Jodi will work on numbers based on prveious trips.
Tool Trailer:
Hardware stores: Offer trailer sponsorships – bumper sticker for $25 a year
Stores and donations:
Give list of specific items needed to stock trailers.
Ask for gift cards for Lowe’s or Home Depot
Maintenance: ask for free maintenance in exchange for bumper sticker advertising
Water Shed: grocery stores, friends/family, church, work
#1 injury among volunteer workers is dehydration due to heat and humidity -. 6 bottles per day per person for team of 16 = 96 per day = 4 cases per day = approx. $15.00 per day = about $105 for both weeks.
Ask for donations equal to the cost of 1 case of water estimated at $3.50
We want to buy the water there to stimulate the economy of the local Louisiana community we are working in.
Make Cents: friends/family, church, work, scouts
Ask for change 3-4 weeks in a row to help cover costs of gas, food, water: Let people know in advance to bring change, but not what they’re going to pay until that day.
Week 1: Donate cents equal to your age
Week 2: A nickel for each piece of jewelry you are wearing
Week 3: A cent amount equaling the last two digits of your social security number added together. Note: 3 and 9 could equal 11 cents or 39 cents – their choice.
Week 4: A nickel for every wheel of the vehicle you came to church in today
Also, possible – A dime for each bible you own, A dime for each child in your life (children, nieces/nephews, etc.)
Jobs for Jodi:
Stickers for booklets to hand out to volunteers: 100 with website & contact info
Dance cards for travel, possibly dinner seating, too.
Check on sleeping arrangements in Tennessee
Send out more detailed email to GITC list to follow up on announcement
Thank you cards: need names and addresses of sponsors – for example if you collect change at work or get a donation from a business – we’ll send a thank you card – possibly photo of team.
Find 6 churches to have a presentation at.
Meal Sponsorship, figures
Tool trailer, Dollar Drive: brochure/postcard design
Summit Signs for tool trailer graphics estimate.
Posted by jaselin at 01:08 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan - Wrapping up July
<
Hi. No internet at home last night. :-(
Meeting with Summit Signs tonight @ tool trailer and meal sponsorships.
Have a coworker who is interested in making the trip with us. She will speak to her church in Manchester @ sponsoring her and maybe some meals, too.
Meal sponsorships:
$10.00 feed one volunteer for one day
$55.00 feeds 16 team members dinner one evening
$70.00 feed one volunteer for one week
$160.00 feeds 16 team members three meals one entire day
$800.00 feeds 16 team members for one full week
Hope all else is well. Did you get my video on your phone last night? (see: Humor, That's Random, Blow Pop Man)
The loony-ness begins early.
KM: Yes, I just added a S to the first feed to feeds….
JK: eek. typos. that's what tends to happen when you wake up a whole year older. :-) i found one in the newsletter this week, too. after i sent it out. hate it when that happens.
Posted by jaselin at 01:07 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan Wheeling into August
JK to KM: 8/1
Attached is an excel spreadsheet of the 40 churches and businesses I sent announcements to. I mailed them all Saturday morning. :-)
How is the Spirit's Fire Bike Ride looking? I forwarded you & E an email from a past team member who said she would like to ride, so you should contact her with details.
All for now.
JK to KM: 8/10
I have a question about age limits for our trip. Youth up to what age must be accompanied by parent?
Thanks.
KM: Volunteers must be at least 14 years old (Ages 14 - 16, 1 adult per 3 youth; Ages 16 - 18, 1 adult per 5 youth, Ages 18 - 24, 1 adult per 10 students. All adults must be 25 years old!)
Notes: It's August already! Still gathering details, organizing fundraising, recruiting volunteers, and praying we are on the right path.
Posted by jaselin at 01:06 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan, The August Cycle
8/10:
EM:
Hello all,
Get In The Car is happy to announce the location of this years Spirit’s Fire Bicycle Fundraiser to assist those affected by Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.
There is still so much work to be done and people desperately need help along the Gulf Coast. Many teams are still traveling to work and many more are still needed to continue the effort.
Dale Kimball of North Shore Disaster Inc., one of the many organizations managing the volunteer teams that travel to the coast when asked when will the clean-up be complete, responded “When the volunteers stop coming!”
You can help. With your prayers, time and contributions.
We will be riding along Hines Drive in the Westland area. (See attached map) There is a section of Hines Drive that is closed to traffic on Saturdays.
The Ride will be held on August 29th (rain or shine) from 8 am until 3 pm.
We ask that all riders interested, visit our web site and download the application and pledge sheet and bring it the day of the ride.
We ask that riders attempt to raise a minimum of $100.00 per rider.
This is a pledge per mile/pledge per rider type event. If you can ride a mile, come on out. If you can ride 25, come on out. If 50 is more your style, come on out, we think you get the picture.
Our goal this year has been set at $ 5000.00
A sub sandwich or pizza lunch will be provided and there will be snacks and water for all.
All riders are required to wear a helmet.
All proceeds from this years ride will benefit Get In The Car’s two Volunteer in Mission Teams traveling this October and also the Detroit Conference of the United Methodist Church’s Volunteer in Mission Program.
If you would like to participate, contribute or be part of a prayer team, please contact me at eric@getinthecar.org.
Please watch your emails for further information in the early days of next week as we secure the starting line and parking arrangements.
In Christ's Hands we are held, Eric
Posted by jaselin at 01:05 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Late August, Early September: Slightly Different
At this point I am starting to “forward” reflect, anticipating how I will feel, trying to override how I currently feel. The level of response is not what I had hoped for, and I am beginning to wonder if that is truly a reflection on me. I mean, I’m not sure I would follow me anywhere if I wasn’t the team leader. I feel that we need at least one more male on the first week, and 3 more team members on the second week. It’s just something I see in our team’s future. Of course, I’m not about to turn down any woman’s help, I just feel GOD has another man out there for us somewhere on the fringe who just needs a little convincing: someone not too sure of their own value and worth. I’m a little put out that I feel that strongly about it. I know that GOD’s positioned me by the elbow, pointing toward that conclusion. I haven’t shared that with my other team leaders yet, because I haven’t found a plausible way to present it. I just keep sending out notices, wording them a little different, asking for a slightly different outcome, a slightly different emotional investment.
>>> Jodi Korte 8/21/2009 11:04 AM >>>
Hi, K. Hope all is well.
I sent this notice out to all I know via email this morning. I thought maybe by making it more personal and asking people to pass it on, we might see more response action. Feel free to copy and paste and use your name to forward to your email list. :-)
“Hello! I'll not only be returning to New Orleans again this fall, but will be co-leading the first of two consecutive, light-construction teams!
I'd would love it if you could join me. But, if you can't, I'd like to ask you for your help in spreading the word about Get In The Car's New Orleans rebuilding efforts scheduled for this coming October. We are still accepting team member applications, so please pass this information onto anyone and everyone possible - family, friends, coworkers - all are welcome. Detailed flyer attached. Thanks so much."
>>> Jodi Korte 9/1/2009 11:04 AM >>>
"Good afternoon!
I'm headed back to New Orleans in October - this time with two consecutive light construction rebuilding teams. We'd like a few more volunteers to round out each team.
I do realize that times are hard for everyone right now, but someone may be looking for an opportunity just like this one... so, would you please consider helping by simply posting this information on your office door, on an overhead bin, on your desk - anywhere anyone might see it? I'd really appreciate it. Thanks."
Posted by jaselin at 01:04 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan, Labor Day - One Month to Go
9/8
Hello - hope you had a nice long weekend.
I will be presenting information about the October Get In The Car Trips to leadership at Faithpoint Community Church in Adrian on Sunday 9/13, 10:00 am. This would be a good time for you to meet our other team leaders and maybe another team member or two! The presentation will be after the church service, and of course your families are welcome. It might be good for them to meet us as well - less anxiety! :-)
There is a complete team meeting (for both teams) on Saturday, September 19th, around 1:00 pm. At this point is looks like we will be meeting in Plymouth - it's a midway point between the farthest members. I will be going to the meeting from Lansing. Again, your families are welcome, too. There will be other youth there as well, some of whom have been on mission trips with us. :-)
And lastly, I will need your application as soon as possible. Have you spoken to your church about sponsoring your fee or perhaps asked the congregation to help with GITC's gas funds? We will need the $160.00 missionary investment by 9/19. If you cannot make this deadline, I will gladly pay for you in advance, and we can work out a payment schedule. :-)
I have an application here if you need one. Our first week team is up to 9 members now!
Posted by jaselin at 01:03 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Team Time
9/13/09 EM:
Hello all, and GET IN THE CAR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Get In The Car October teams’ organizational meeting is scheduled for this Saturday, September 19th, 3:00 pm at New Hope Church at 53245 Van Dyke, Shelby Township, MI 48316.
If you are traveling with us please plan on attending. Bring your completed forms if you have them. We will have forms available if you do not have them. Please make checks payable to “New Hope UMC” with "Get In The Car" in the memo line.
If you are interested in joining the team, mission work or are just curious please join us.
After the team meeting, at 6:00 pm, Get In The Car is helping out with a benefit dinner/dance for a friend of ours.
All receiving this email are invited to join us for an evening of food/friends and music.
Dave and his family lost their home and everything they own, including their cars, to a fire a few weeks ago. All the family members are ok and are thankful it was just possessions that were lost. We are reaching out to help Dave and his family and hope you will be able to join us for the evening.
Dave’s band will be providing the music (he is a very talented musician and was once our music director) and the music will be from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s.
Thanks all and looking forward to seeing you this Saturday.
Posted by jaselin at 01:02 PM | Comments (0)
Fun-Fundraising, Action Plan Mid-September
9/16
Shhhh……it’s a secret.
Hi. I am so excited to share with you that xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx, has made the decision to travel to New Orleans as part of my reconstruction team this October!
To help raise the necessary gasoline funds and honor her commitment, I am starting a SECRET $1.00 donation drive!
Every dollar collected will be donated in her name to the gasoline fund. It will be a nice surprise for her and a great way to begin her journey! So, please do shhhhhh on this effort.
I also have a card insert for all to sign offering your support and encouragement.
Thanks so much!
Posted by jaselin at 01:01 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Pre-Meeting Jitters
9/16, still ...
JK: Hi. Wondering. Do we have a bunch application packets already done or should I print and collate some? How many?
>> KM: I will make them.
JK: Do you have the suggested list of items to bring? I know I had one in one of my packets, but I can't find it. I want to make sure we give that out, too.
>> KM: We have one.
JK: I have the spiritual worksheet to include, also. So, I'll make copies of that. I think I gave you a copy of that at our last official meeting. Anything else administrative I can do from down here? Are we going to provide some munchies at the meeting?
>> KM: Name tags. Brownies, coffee, etc.
JK: Do you have a camera? We should start taking pictures early. They will fit into the book idea of how a team forms. :-)
>> KM: Yes, I have a camera.
JK: And lastly, how are you doing?
>> KM: At this point I have no clue… How are you?
Posted by jaselin at 12:09 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Roll With It
I went to a Wednesday night Life Group meeting. Things were going ok, until the topic turned around to leadership. I didn't say anything for a long time, preferring to sit still and enjoy my internal freak-out first
Eventually, there was a quiet pause of space for my to spill my secret into.
"Suppose," I said, a bit teary eyed. "Suppose you don't want to be a leader?" Of course, I realized it was a little too late back out. "I'll keep my commitment because that's what I do." I said, through my sniffles and my leakage. In the morning, I still needed to rationalize my sound off. So I emailed a friend:
9/17
JK: (Describing the evening) It was very emotional for me considering the New Orleans trip is coming in just a few weeks and I am very not nervous. Reluctant, but not nervous. Isn't that weird?
Am I not taking the position seriously or am I just in denial that I have to behave as the leader?
Or do I really like it because I have control over everything leading up to the trip so I know it's in order?
Good grief. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I didn't expect it to mess with me emotionally and spiritually.
Friend:
You aren't nervous because you are prepared and passionate about it.
Just roll with it and don't over-analyze it....
Posted by jaselin at 12:08 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Superconductors
Friday, September 18, 2009
jak: 9/18/2009 1:36 PM
I figure I should be able to be to your house - or to the church - around 2:30. Which one should I head to? I'm planning on staying over, but I need to be home in Adrian by 1:30 or so on Sunday in order to shower and get over to Adrian College for the Adrian Symphony Orchestra season opener, so I should be able to go to church with you, too.
I'm going to grab a few bags of candy tonight and bring those with me for the meeting and the dance. Anything else I can pick up tonight and bring with me?
km: 9/18/2009 1:51 PM
Just meet me at the church. I will pick up Lemonade and make coffee and some cookies or something…
jak: 9/18/2009 1:56 PM
Ok! Now I'm excited, and nervous.
km: 9/18/2009 2:19 PM
Me, too!
Posted by jaselin at 12:07 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Incoming, Going
September 18th, still…
KM: 2:19 pm: We are taking my van in tomorrow for repair or it won’t make it. We will also need to see what other vehicle we have.
JK: 3:00 pm: Perhaps a team member would consider taking their car or van if we would pay for oil change upon return? I officially have your daughter’s cold – my friend probably helped me some with that problem, too. Perhaps sitting between the two in church was not the best idea I ever had? In any case. I'm not going to let it stop me.
KM: 3:01 pm: Well, we can take my van and E’s truck. The truck will stay and it will just be my van on the return trip. If that is the case, we have enough drivers… we could come home in a day and save money.
JK: 3:20: Yes, but then we'd miss meeting up with the GITC team traveling down. I was looking forward to that. I think it's important spiritually.
Also, I am raising $ for gas among my coworkers as a surprise for team members. They have been asked to contribute $1.00 and sign a card of encouragement which I will give to each of them on the morning of the trip. So far, I have $37.00 in the fund which will be donated to GITC their behalf. I'm positive it will get up to at least $50. Another team member has been trying to raise her $160.00 by offering candy for donations at their desk. They have also asked for a scholarship of $50.
Also, I still am working on meal sponsorships. Some have said they would donate but I can’t count that until we see it. That’s a point where my faith is weak. It's so hard to ask for money.
KM; 3:21 pm: You are so right. I just sent an email out to family and friends asking for support of our trip. By prayer or funds.
JK: 4:09 pm: :-) If they don't, it's not because they don't love you. They just might not get the concept.
Posted by jaselin at 12:06 PM | Comments (0)
Meeting Up
Because our mandatory meetings can run a bit long, I buy a few bags of candy.
Because we’ll be filling out more than a few forms, I take a few extra pens.
Because I am always documenting, I pack my trip journal with graph paper in the back - so I can make neat and groovy lists.
Because I’m nervous, I pick up a venti Espresso Truffle from Starbucks.
Because I'm directionally impaired, I bring along printed computer maps to my destination.
Even though I’ve been there more than a few times, I also load the address into my phone’s GPS.
Just in case the paper maps fly out the window, or spontaneously combust.
Now for the hard part:
I want to look like someone who is capable of leading a group in a professional manner.
I want to look like someone who is capable of dry-walling and using power tools.
Not prissy, but competent. Not sloppy, but work-able.
Jeans are a given. Sneakers, boots or dress shoes? T-shirt or blouse? Sweater or jacket?
I finally settle on a black ruffle-collared t-shirt, jeans, maroon boots, a cute little maroon & orange plaid jacket, and a barely visible light pink rhinestone nose stud. I think I look capable, but I’m not sure of what.
The meeting is scheduled to begin at 3:00 pm. It’s a two and a half-hour drive, so I leave at noon. Just in case.
On my way to the meeting, traffic on 94 becomes heavy. I merge onto an atypical Saturday afternoon M-59 and decelerate to a standstill. When my phone rings, I fear the worst - others are also caught in this slow moving muck.
But the call came from my brother. The whole family was on speakerphone relaying that my nephew had made his first touchdown.
I cheered and offered congratualtions, and we all signed off.
The call was followed shortly by a text asking if I was ok, because I sounded stressed.
"Yeah," I text back, because I am sitting perfectly still on the highway. "I am stressed. I am running late, stuck in traffic, my coffee's run it's course, and when I finally do get where I’m going I’m expected to give a two-hour presentation, and then TALK to people!"
Venting helps me relax a bit. I text the co-leader to relate my situation, and sort of calmly soldier on.
Eventually, traffic thins, and begins to move along at an acceptable rate.
I arrive safely and in plenty of time to become even more stressed out because there are very few cars in the parking lot.
Suppose nobody shows?
Posted by jaselin at 12:04 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering
We have forms. Lots of forms, for varying reasons. Each with a specific purpose. All of them need to be completed, correctly.
Covenant of Success
Isaiah 6:8 - Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" and I said, "Here I am. Send me!"
"We at Get In The Car (GITC) Ministries hope that your experience with us will be memorable. Our goal is to help those affected by the disaster as much as possible. In preparating you to work with us, we ask that you read and acknowledge the following Covenant for Success. The Covenant is an important piece of the team building process as we strive to be the "Hands and Feet of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I Will:
* Open my heart and mind to serve those in need with my skills and blessings.
* Be patient and flexible: Days may not always go as planned.
* Keep my work and living space clean.
* Put clean tools back where they belong when I am done using them
* Respect myself and others: Remember you are a guest in another's home.
* Do my best to do quality work. If I don't know how, I will not be afraid to ask. There is no such thing as a dumb question.
* Keep safety a top priority!
* Refer any changes, suggestions or concerns to my leader or site manager.
* Not assume I know the entire building project.
* Ask before starting a new project.
* Wear modest clothing. Shoulder should be covered. Loose fitting shorts should be at a modest length.
* Wear sensible, safe shoes. Workboots are recommended.
* Not engage in sexual activity or inappropriate conduct.
* Not use drug or alcohol. Tobacco is permitted in designated areas only.
* Not use foul or undesirable language
* Not criticize, gossip or start rumors.
* Inform my leader where I am at all times. During the mission, the buddy system is enforced.
Please sign below and return to your Team Leader(s) along with your application.
Official form may be found at: www.getinthecar.org
Posted by jaselin at 12:03 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering/Team Application
Team Application
Mark 1:17 - "Come follow me," Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men."
The Basics:
Name / Project Name & Location / Project Dates
Address, City, State, Zip, Home/Cell/Work Phones
Email, Age, Sex
About You:
Occupation, Languages, Adult T-shirt Size
Hobbies & Interests / Construction or Healthcare Specialties
Certifications / Date of Safe Sanctuaries Certification (if applicable)
Other Mission Experiences / Locations & Dates
Your Affiliation:
Name & Phone number of Religious Organization / Address
On The Road & Back:
Would you be comfortable with the following? Please answer Yes or No.
Driving another team member’s vehicle?
Allowing a team member to drive your vehicle?
Sharing sleeping accommodations with same sex members?
Giving a 2-3 minute presentation upon your return?
Signature required.
Official form may be found at: www.getinthecar.org
____________________________________________________________
To be completed by applicant:
Please explain why you would like to travel with Get in The Car on this mission trip:
After review of above, to be completed by Applicant's Pastor/Reference:
I believe that the above applicant is a dedicated Christian, a team player, and a friendly, flexible person who will make a valuable contribution to this mission team. I am personally acquainted with the applicant and recommend him/her for volunteer mission service. You may contact me for additional information if needed.
Pastor's signature required. (References may include a work supervisor or other religious organization leader,as needed.)
Official form may be found at: www.getinthecar.org
Posted by jaselin at 12:02 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering/Skills Assessment
Skills Assessment
Deuteronomy 33:11 - Bless all his skills, O Lord, and be pleased with the work of his hands.
REQUIRED: In preparation for working with us, every team member is required to fill out and submit a Skills Assessment Survey along with their application. An “x” should be entered in every category at the appropriate level. The information you provide is an important piece of the team building process, and is used to schedule appropriate work for our team skills.
Group Name: GITC 9 or GITC 10 * If you are working on two teams, please fill out a form for both weeks.
To use your time and talents to the greatest benefit while you are volunteering, please indicate which of the following skills you possess. If you are not interested in or cannot complete a task, indicate that information in the comments section below the chart. Please rate your skills from 0 – 4.
0 = I am unable to do or am not interested in this skill
1 = I don’t now how but am willing to learn/try
2 = I have done it before but still need help to do
3 = I can do a good job by myself
4 = I can do a good job and can guide/teach others
Type of Skill:
General Contracting
Carpentry/Cabinetry
Framing
Insulation
Drywall Hanging
Drywall Finishing
Flooring – ceramic tile, laminate
Windows
Doors and Trim
Painting
Plumbing
Roofing
Other notes or comments:
Please sign below and return to your team leaders along with your application.
Official form may be found at: www.getinthecar.org
Posted by jaselin at 12:01 PM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering/Medical Release
Medical Release Form
Numbers 10:29 - "If you come with us, we will share with you whatever good things the Lord gives us."
Doctor’s Name, Phone, Address:
Current Medications:
Allergies (Food, Medications, Bees/Wasps, etc.):
Medical Insurance: Company, Agent, Policy, Phone, Address
Emergency Room Contact: Name, Relationship, Phone
I, _____________ (volunteer’s signature), authorize ________________________ (team leader) to consent to any necessary examination, anesthetic, medical diagnosis, surgery, or treatment and/or hospital care rendered under the general supervision and on the advice of any physician or surgeon licensed to practice medicine by the state in which they practice, during the duration of the trip identified above and further authorize the release of medical information from my personal medical records for the following purpose: ___________________, but I do not give permission for any other use or re-disclosure of this information.
Complete only if team member is under age 21:
Parent/Guardian: Name, Phone, Address
I hereby give my permission for __________________ (name of team member) to be treated by competent medical personnel as a result of any accident or medical emergency while involved in the GITC mission trip.
Signature, Date, Printed Name, Relationship to Youth above
Official form may be found at www.getinthecar.org.
Posted by jaselin at 11:59 AM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering/Liability Release
Participant Liability Release Form
1 Timothy 6:18 “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share them.”
Please read before signing, as this constitutes the agreement as a volunteer and the understanding of your working relationship as a volunteer with The United Methodist Church, New Hope Church, and Get In The Car.
I, ________________ acknowledge and state the following:
I have chosen to travel to perform clean-up/construction work designed to repair or replace homes.
I understand this work entails a risk of physical injury and often involves hard physical labor, heavy lifting and other strenuous activity; and that some activities may take place on ladders and building framing other than ground level. I certify that I am in good health and physically able to perform this type of work.
I understand that I am engaging in this project at my own risk. I understand that this is a “grass roots” activity to support individuals adversely affected by hurricane/flood disaster or are receiving assistance to repair or replace substandard housing. I assume all risk and responsibility for any damage or injury to my property any personal injury, which I may sustain while involved in this project, and related medical costs and expenses.
In the event that my supervising organization arranges accommodations, I understand they are not responsible or liable for my personal effects and property and that they will not provide lock up or security for any items. I will hold them harmless in the event of theft or loss resulting from any source or cause. I further understand that I am to abide by whatever rules and regulations may be in effect for the accommodations at that time.
By my signature, for myself, my estate and my heirs, I release, discharge, indemnify and forever hold The United Methodist Church, New Hope Church, and Get In The Car, together with their officers, agents, servants and employees, harmless from any and all causes of action arising from my participation in this project, and travel or lodging associated therewith, including any damages which may be caused by their negligence.
Print Name & Date:
Signature & Date:
Witness Signature & Date:
Official form may be found at www.getinthecar.org
Posted by jaselin at 11:58 AM | Comments (0)
Action Plan: Papering/Submission & Release
Genesis 1:27. "So GOD created man in his own image, in the image of GOD he created him; male and female he created them."
A DVD of our Mission Trip will be produced when we return from traveling. We ask that all submissions to be considered for use in theproduction of the DVD be submitted not later than 14 days from the date of return.
If you would like to have something considered for use and so not believe you will be able to supply it within those 14 days, please contact your team leader and other arrangements wil be made.
We encourage you to submit any images, video footage, written statements, devotional, prayers or any other information you may feel will be helpful in creating a testimonial memory of our trip.
Submission Guidelines:
* Originals will not be returned. Submit copies only.
* Photo CD's are preferred.
* DVD/Video submissions must include a description of desired footage. If no description is submitted, discretion is left to the producers.
* This release form must be included with your submission.
Release Consent:
For good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, I hereby consent to the photographing of myself and recordings of my voice and the use of these photgraphs and/or recordings singularly or in conjunction with other photgraphs and/or recordings for advertising, publicity, commerical or other business purposes, as well as for the purpose of volunteer recruitment, placement and communication. I understand that the term "photograph" as used herein encompasses still photgraphs and motion picture footage including but not limited to DVD and video production.
Signature of Applicant: Date:
Official form available at www.getinthecar.org.
Posted by jaselin at 11:57 AM | Comments (0)
Weekly Membership
Papering complete, we move on, confirming teams.
Week 1 team consists of:
1 Human Resources associate, one payroll associate, one Math department employee, a medical records clerk, a township water employee, a former Detroit police woman, an associate pastor, one retiree, one unemployed person, and Trippy the team mascot.
Week 2 team consists of:
A township water employee, a nuclear engineer, a former Detroit police woman, two retirees, one youth, two unemployed persons, and Trippy the team mascot.
We address name tags and nickname preferences.
We make sure we have everyone's email, home phone, cell phone, so we can keep in contact over the next few weeks.
We part with a prayer, say goodbye and hold our breaths for a few days, hoping against, but waiting for regretful cancellations.
To our relief, no one cancels.
Posted by jaselin at 11:56 AM | Comments (0)
First Reflection
At the start of the meeting, I introduced myself as a first time leader, with 4 mission trips under my belt. I've been to Louisiana three times, and made one trip closer to home to Wisconsin.
I head home wondering why some of these people would follow me - an unknown - into an unknown situation. I readily recognize I have the firm support of an experienced organization behind me. I think about the fact that I have already traveled with six of the team's combined members.
I recognize that I am merely the vehicle making GOD's work a reality for those who have felt called, or pushed, or driven to make a difference in this world.
I'm pretty happy about that. I'm way more comfortable than I thought I would be.
To combat the complacency, I renew my efforts to resolve all potential issues.
I begin to worry about the details, and decide I like that part, too.
Posted by jaselin at 11:56 AM | Comments (0)
Scholarship
9/20
One team member been trying to raise her $160.00 through donations. She anticpates she will need some financial help to reach the requested missionary commitment. I contact the GITC Dave McCormick Memorial Scholarship Fund Chairperson, and receive a near-immediate reply.
9/20 from GITC Scholarship Chair:
Regarding the $50.00 scholarship funds request for October 2009 GITC team member, yep funds are available.
It would be helpful if the recipient could write a quick letter that explains why they want to go on the trip, as well as how the money that they are getting will allow them to be able to go.
If they have a church family, we would like to know that as well. We will contact their church and be sure that they are supporting them and their mission efforts.
The recipient will also be asked to write a letter thanking the scholarship fund for their support, upon their safe return.
Please let the recipient know that this is a once in a lifetime gift, and they will not be able to use the scholarship again.
If you have further questions or concerns please get a hold of me.
_____________________________
I pass this information on to the team member.
"Good morning. Here is the official notice that you will be getting the $50.00 scholarship requested. :-)
Please see instructions below. I must have all of your completed paperwork (except the thank you - that should be done after the trip) by 9/17.
I'm very much looking forward to having you on this team! Have a great day.
Posted by jaselin at 11:53 AM | Comments (0)
As the Road Looms
We begin scrutinizing our budget, planning our travel and adjusting our plans with every slight breeze of necessary change.
I am surprised, honored and grateful to find that I have been the recipient of a full personal sponsorship, which has generously "paid" for my missionary investment. I alert the budget keeper to add my personal $160.00 donation towards whatever segment of our trip is most lacking in funds at the moment.
I have to account for the continued operation of my van pool while I am away, especially since I have successfully recruited my regular van pool back-up driver to join my team. I pen another announcement, and think, "Yeah, I would have made a great publicist."
9/21: 8:08 am: Hello, van pool team!
I am so excited to share with you that our alternate driver has made the decision to travel to New Orleans as part of my GITC reconstruction team this October!
The commitment means that both of us will not be available to drive the van pool from October 2nd through October 9. That means, we will need your help in coordinating how the van will keep going.
I am off beginning 10/1. I think the best plan to start with is that the back-up driver will drive home her last time on 10/1. I will pick her up in Tecumseh that evening. I think it would be better that the van not be left at the community center.
If anyone would like to be the primary driver for the week, I will cover half your gas cost for the month. If you want to share the duties, we'll work out the financial part of that, too. If anyone has any good ideas, questions or concerns, please let me know!
Posted by jaselin at 11:52 AM | Comments (0)
Breathing: Easier & Harder
9/23: 1:33 pm:
JK: My cold is mildly improved but I probably won't bake the caramelized onion and blueberry pie for Sunday's fundraising bread/bake sale.
Maybe I can come use your kitchen on Saturday to make salsa while (hopefully) your husband might be able to do something with my headlights?
Administratively, I also am planning on doing the required NSDR skills summary then.
Do we have name tag making supplies? I can do that then as well.
Also on my agenda is the phone contact list, information @ where we are staying (addresses).
Tentative departures and arrivals.
The devotional worksheet, which of course I cannot find on my computer just yet, and meal planning and.. umm.... breathing?
Yeah, that might be a good idea, too. :-)
And dinner... I'm planning on making pulled pork. Can you do buns and coleslaw?
KM: 2:00 pm:
Sounds like a plan. I can do buns and coleslaw. I think we have stuff for name tags. I will check.
Posted by jaselin at 11:51 AM | Comments (0)
One Week to Go
9/23: 4:14 pm: to KM: Hello.
We are just a week away from your visit and I thought I would check in with you. The following is the information I have on your group. Please verify your information and let me know if your volunteer count is still the same:
Get In The Car 8 & 9; October 4 – 10, 2009
Volunteers :16 (8/week) Team Leaders: KM & JK, EM
Please let me know if you will be brining your Medical Liability forms with you. If you could fax me your skills survey form I will make sure the Site Manager gets it in time to schedule your teams’ job.
I do need to make one change though. I will be out of town the weekend you arrive so please call KW instead on Sunday morning and let him know about what time you will be arriving and then call him again when you are about one hour away.
We are looking forward to your visit. NSDRC Volunteer Coordinator
KM: 10:07 am to NSDR: We have a total of 9 people coming down the first week:5 women and 4 men. We will be using 3 vehicles. We will bring our forms, I will fax you our skill survey on Monday.
9/24: 10:25 am:
Thanks Kathy. One more thing, we were notified yesterday by our Baton Rouge office that we are getting new cell phones with different numbers some time next week. I am going to give the new number and also the old just in case. Thanks.
See? Everybody flexes!
Posted by jaselin at 11:50 AM | Comments (0)
Space & Aspirations
Space:
Good news, and possible logistical road blocks
9/23: EM: 11:15 am:
Another team member is going to meet you at New Hope tonight with checks at to fill out the paperwork to go on your team.
KM: 12:16 pm: So I have another person? That makes 6 coming home in the van….
EM: 12:17 pm: Yup
KM: to JK: We have a total of 9 going on the trip, 3 cars….
JK: I'm a pretty good packer... we'll squish in somehow.
Aspirations:
I want my team to feel the way I do after an Adrian Symphony concert. I want them to notice the details, and appreciate them, but I don’t want them to worry about how they got there.
That’s how I want people to feel about my missionary team. I want them to be blind to the inner workings, the laborious details, the hours of planning that has placed them where they are. I want them to be free of being in charge. And there is a real freedom in being a follower; without the distractions of administration, there is more likely space for an infiltration of GOD’s message.
Whoa. Could I be obsessed with administration in order to fill my head with details and leave little space for greater things?
Posted by jaselin at 11:49 AM | Comments (0)
Fitting It All In
9/25
JK: 9:33 am: Do you have a schedule for tomorrow?
KM: 9:40 am: Other than going crazy????? In the morning we were going to run a couple of errands, the after noon work around the house until we do GITC. One daughter has a birthday party at 4 and the other asked to go to the mall at 6.
JK: 9:46 am: ok, so, do you need me to come up and do GITC stuff or are we all set?
KM: 10:14 am: We can handle it… not much left to do… Skill sheets, funds and badge. We can contact you by phone. You are not able to make it this weekend? ARE YOU OK?
JK: 10:30 am: I'm short, fat, balding and apparently the angel of death's favorite pre-notification system. Other than that, status quo.
I was planning on coming up, but I thought it seemed like you've got a lot going. Now that I think about it, that's probably an even better reason to come. I could always work on GITC stuff in your office while you guys do whatever you have to do. You've got a printer right? I can do the name badges there. I want to sticker the backs with med info and our phone #'s, too. Did you hear if the sponsorship check came yet? Since today is pay day, I'm going to resend the email asking for the $1 donations. We'll see what happens. Right now 1st fund is up to $40 and the second is up to $20.00. So count on at least $60.00 that will go into the gas fund.
Posted by jaselin at 11:48 AM | Comments (0)
Levees & Shirts
KM: 10:34 am:
YOU are too funny. Hey, at least every time you cough you don’t have to worry about levee breaks. I received $80.00 in donations from family. Add that to the gas fund. I always pay for the first tank out of my pocket. So the van will only need about another $150.00 in gas. That is good. That doesn’t include any of the other funds we have. Come anytime tomorrow and we will get everything done. We have a printer for the badges, etc.
KM: 2:36 pm: New logos for our team shirts attached. What do you think?
JK: 2:45 pm: Cool. Colors? Sizes? We need to make sure everyone indicates their shirt size on their paperwork. Also, are these going to be agape or fundraiser?
Posted by jaselin at 11:47 AM | Comments (0)
One Week to Go
9/27: 7:27 pm: JK: Good evening or good morning, Get In The Car Team Members!
One week until departure, yeah!
Departure and New Orleans Itinerary attached, as well as contact phone numbers for all team members, and lodging information.
Please be sure to add GITC Team Leaders, Kathy & Jodi (Team 1), and Eric & Andi (Team 2 ) to your cell phones before we leave - this will decrease separation anxiety for all of us. :-)
Please contact your team leader with any questions or concerns about the schedules as soon as possible.
Looking forward to serving with you all.
Blessings, Jodi
Dear Friend, I am praying that all is well with you. III John 1:2
Posted by jaselin at 11:46 AM | Comments (0)
On a Personal Note
9/29: 12:14 pm: personal note to a friend and potential GITC team sponsor:
Howdy! We're all set to leave Saturday for New Orleans. My team is up to 9 people including me. Well, almost all set. I still have to sticker the name badges with med and contact info for each volunteer, arrange pick-up site for the caravan, pack myself up, and we still have to finalize our budget. I really dislike bothering you but we have not yet received the sponsorship check. If you've decided you can't do it, it's not a problem, I just need to let the treasurer know what to expect.
Other than that, I have decided that this year I am in a much better place than last year. October 1st is the 3rd anniversary of Jeff's passing. It seems like so many more years than that to me. Is that good? I don't know. I guess it just is what it is.
Hope you're having a good week. Love ya.
Posted by jaselin at 11:45 AM | Comments (0)
The Real Wealth of Sharing & Caring
9/29: 1:20 PM: Reply:
Check is still here in the office - sorry. Will send today. I am glad you are feeling better it is a good thing that all that hurt seems to be from so long ago. Jeff would want you to be happy and move on... I am glad you are feeling better ....Please be careful driving down and be careful while you are there... Some of those houses are not in the best neighborhoods... Love ya
JK: Thank you for looking into that for me. :-) I have plans tomorrow with my jeweler friend whose store was next to ours in the mall. She and Jeff spent many hours together. We are going to breakfast, going to the cemetery, going shopping, and having massages. Should be fun and busy and interesting.
Re: New Orleans: Thank you, I will surely take care driving and working. Just so you don't worry, we have an enforced buddy system - we must travel in pairs at all times when leaving work sites, and must always have three people from our team on a job site. Basically, no one should ever be alone. Even if we are split up to join other teams, we only send folks in two’s or three's. I'm going to try to update my facebook page (Jodi Ann Selin Korte) while we are on the trip. I will also attempt to send a newsletter from down there. I managed it last time so I should be able to do it again. :-) Glad you're my friend. Love ya!
Posted by jaselin at 11:44 AM | Comments (0)
Not Worried
9/30:
KM: 10:55 am: Tonight we need to call our team and make sure they have received the email and know the plan for Saturday. Also make sure they don’t have any unanswered questions. What time on Friday are you going to be on my side of the world?????
JK: Ok. I have already spoken with 2. I also know that 2 opened and read the email, but haven't spoken to either one. I won't be home until 7:30 tonight. What is a good time tonight to call you?
Are you working Friday? If not, I will be sure to be there by 2:30 or 3:00 at the latest. Earlier if need be. :-)
I have accomplished stapling the fuel sheets to the envelopes. I have the cell phone contact sheets printed out. I have not stickered the back of the badges, yet, but I plan to do that tonight, too.
KM: I am working on Friday. I will call the 4 others tonight. I know we are leaving Saturday, but for some reason it doesn’t seem real.
JK: Were you able to forward the email to the one new team member? I should probably get her correct email from you tonight, too. Our volunteer cook was supposed to talk to the week #2 leader about food purchasing. So maybe he can call him and take care of that at the same time? I know it's so weird, Saturday is coming fast. I feel like everything is alright.
KM: I am not worried. It feels good. Just unreal.
Posted by jaselin at 11:43 AM | Comments (0)
Out Reaching Me
JK: 3:00 pm:
Hi. Just wanted to remind you that I will be out of the office from 10/1 -10/12, returning on 10/13.
My Get In The Car team leaves Michigan on 10/3 and returns on 10/11.
You can reach me by cell phone at 517-xxx-xxxx. If I am not available, please leave a message. I most likely will be involved in some sort of messy project, and will return your call as soon as I am able. :-)
Replies:
- You and your crew will be in my prayers as you travel and serve.
- Good luck, Jodi. Have lots of fun and do lots of good.
- I will be thinking about you, be safe!!
- Good Luck on your trip. Most of all - HAVE FUN!!!!
- Be careful! Love you!
- Enjoy! We will miss you!!!!
Posted by jaselin at 11:42 AM | Comments (0)
Welcome Back
10/13: JK: Good morning, all.
Just wanted to send a quick note to let y'all know I am back from New Orleans, and to thank you for your support. The money that was raised for gas was a real help.
Reply: Hi Jodi, Just wanted to say "hello" and welcome you back home because we missed you. Hope that you had a great time and the experience warmed your heart and soothed your soul. We all could use a little bit of that. Tell me some good stories when I see you. Also, I tried some of those chocolate peeps that I saw on your desk and loved them. I found them at JoAnn's. Have a wonderful day!
Posted by jaselin at 11:41 AM | Comments (0)
Follow Up Wishing
Follow up to sponsor:
10/14: Good morning! All are home safe and well, tired and tried, and blessed for your gift! Here is a team photo, and a plug from our website. As you will be able to tell, it was raining pretty hard, but we still made it to dinner downtown in Jackson Square, New Orleans. ;-) Hope all is well with you.
Follow up to team co-leader:
10/14 Subject: Howdy, how's it goin' up there?
KM: 10/14/2009 3:11 PM >>>
Wishin' I was back in NOLA. I didn’t realize how stressful my life was until I got back.
JK:10/14/2009 3:52 PM
I don't know how you do it. I walk in the door and want to collapse. I manage to get a few necessary things done. I slept much better in NOLA. I want a hotel room with a jacuzzi and room service for a weekend.
KM: 10/14/2009 3:57 PM
Don’t forget Fernando!
JK: 10/14/2009 3:39 PM
You can fiesta with Fernando. I'm gonna lasso Trace. :-)
Posted by jaselin at 11:05 AM | Comments (0)
Trippy
10/15 – some normalness returns:
JK: 9:15 am: Question of the day: Why did the chicken go to the library?
KM: 10:35: To get an EGGucation…. You must go to GITC web site. Look for pictures. Please do ASAP!
JK: 10:41. Poor Trippy! They forgot one. One the disc Eric gave us someone put poor Trippy in the fridge!
KM: 10:43: I didn’t see the fridge one. I thought they were so cute, I was giggling.
JK: 10:53: It's awesome. That is a group with a good sense of humor.
JK: 1:02 to team member: Did you see the picture of Trippy in the fridge on the photo disc we gave you? Well... it gets worse! http://www.getinthecar.org/gallery/cat.php?cat=27
Reply: Dang. And did you see the picture of us labeled “Big Bob’s”? That is just not nice... ha ha.
JK to EM: re: Trippy. Nice! Also, when you get a chance please add the picture of Trippy in the fridge. It was on the disc you gave Team 1.
EM: No problem - Trippy says...'nahlins rocks.
Posted by jaselin at 11:04 AM | Comments (0)
Reunion
KM: 10/27:
November 8th Reunion & Presentation @ Plymouth.
Can you get announcements out?
J: 10/27:
OK! Sounds good.
What is the name of the church and the address so I can send an email notice to the teams?
I have the extra printed name tag sheets in case anyone forgets theirs, but I do not have the plastic sleeves. Can you make a note to bring the empty name tag holders?
What sort of stickers do we need? I can probably make those easily.
What are the chances that you and I will have business cards by then?
Do you have a bakery that you can order donuts from?
How are you doing?
11/3: JK:
I do not have internet access at home as of this morning... something is out... so the notices for next Sunday did not go out.
Do you think you or E can send out the Sunday announcement today or tonight? I'd hate to get home and still not be able to send it again tonight.
Do you think it's possible that GOD accidentally gives women more to handle because we're on the list at least twice with a married and a maiden name?
Posted by jaselin at 11:03 AM | Comments (0)
Repeat, Reunion
11/4: JK: Howdy. Did y'all get the Sunday info out? Could u send it 2 me @ work since I have no home internet? Thanks.
11/4: KM:
Plymouth First UMC
We need 12 dozen dounuts
We need to be there at 9:30
Wear your GITC shirts
Wear your name badge
We will have tool trailer
Weeks for next year to be announce
Need new lititure/posters and stickers
Trailer will be there
Church will provide coffee
E needs to build power point of photos
Need to contact all team members to promote stories
We will all sit together
Need to set up display table
Need to man display table during coffee hour
Posted by jaselin at 11:01 AM | Comments (0)