Last Thursday Lee Jones asked if I was busy. Without really thinking I quickly said "Just desk work, why?' Lee responded, "We need one more person to help take the Gypsum Elementary kids to the Rec Center for swimming." I agreed to do it, not having a clue what I was in for. Don't get me wrong, I work for The Youth Foundation and it's not because I don't like children, I love them, but 30 4th and 5th grade girls at one time was a harsh reality: I raised 3 boys. Walking over to the center from school was fun. I remember several years ago when The Youth Foundation and volunteers built the path...by the way, it needs some repairs. The real awakening was herding the girls into the locker room for changing into swim suits. Backpacks, parkas, hats, shoes, towels, clothes, e-v-e-r-y-w-h-e-r-e. Somehow they all managed to collect their own belongings, packing them off to the "Birthday room" where they promptly re-scattered everything on the floor. But, now the fun began. Watching the boys and girls jump into the lazy river, swim around, daring each other to slide or jump was worth it all. I love to photograph the fun our Youth Foundation kids have and, expecting some good photo-ops, I remembered to bring my camera. 45 minutes later the whistle blew and the chaos started all over again. This time I'd have to say it was at least twice as bad, especially since Deb Dutmer, who's done this before, had to leave early, posting me all alone to referee. Not only were all the girls trying to share 4 showers and hairdryers at once but now the floor was covered in sopping wet towels and bathing suits. I don't know if it was quite as hectic in the boys locker room but the pitch level had to be something a bit more tolerable.
I'd comment on getting everyone to the buses, cars and back to school but I'll leave that logistical nightmare up to Lee.
And one more thing for Lee, next time, "I'm busy." - Susan Milhoan, Director of Development
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