This was the 2nd Miriam's experience for Christin, Miguel, and Fatiha; but it was the first for Leon and Mark. Regardless of first or second time, the experience was wonderful!
We arrived for breakfast at 6am, and just as expected, they put us straight to work. Some of us were on the grill whipping up scrambled eggs, others were cutting cantaloupes for the fruit salad, and still some of us were out in the dining hall welcoming the guests in with a smile.
Once the food was prepared, Tom the chef, asked that our 5 volunteers work the serving line. We were very happy to do so. Working the line is such a humbling experience as you meet each guest that comes by. You have a moment to say good morning and serve them food and occasionally you have the opportunity to learn something about that guest. It's such a great experience to be able to help others, but also get to know those that you help.
At the line, we had Christin serving Ricotta Crepes with a choice of syrup or strawberry-rhubarb topping. Leon served a choice of home fries or grits. Mark served a choice of regular or bacon and cheddar scrambled eggs. Miguel served bagels. And Fatiha rounded out the group by serving fruit salad.
After the line had cleared and we had run out of most food, we began to clean up. We did everything from wash dishes to wipe down tables in the dining room in order to prepare for Miriam's Studio where the guests have the opportunity to paint and make beaded jewelry, etc.
At 8:30am, it was over. 2 1/2 hour flew by! And then we were tired....headed into work. But it was absolutely 100% worth it! I hope that we have the opportunity to go again and have some new volunteers experience it for themselves.
