I’ve been fairly numb since Saturday’s shift at The Park. We were slammed with long lines and such delightful, understanding, and grateful Guests in The Roundhouse Cafe. We were never without long lines from 5 PM until around 9:45 PM.

My Roundhouse Cafe team included a Volunteer National Honor Society member, Jason, from Beavercreek, Ben from Oakwood High School, Hank from Fairmont High School, and Carillon Historical Park Curator, Steve Lucht. Steve was a lifesaver, stepping into the role of bartender for the hot chocolate and coffee requests for a shot of Bailey’s, Kahlua, Peppermint Schnapps, or Fireball. Without someone over 21, I must leave the cash register area to attend to the alcohol pouring and serving and Steve’s arduous work allowed for an even greater flow of service. We also had Chris Taylor, head of The Park’s maintenance, bringing us items or stepping in a few times to assist. Chris is a great guy who seems to magically appear when most needed and is always helpful to do whatever needs to be done.

Sunday was a washout until it was time to teach at 3 PM. The students made my day even happier. They were prepared and came ready to work and grow.

The day is grey and dull. The 42-degree temperature is a bit warmer at the moment but will plummet to 35 degrees by 9 PM. Wednesday and Thursday will climb to just below 50 degrees,, but we have 100% of rain showers throughout the day.

The Park evenings will be busier this week through December 30th as college students return home for winter breaks and folks arrive for the Christmas holiday with schools out. I am hoping I will have plenty of assistance in The Roundhouse for smooth operation.

I need to prep my lunch, shower, dress, and spend some time with my much-neglected pooches who have received precious little time from me. I love on them as much as I can.

Make it a great day!

PHOTOS: Patrick begins each week’s lesson by loving on my Quartet. (2nd photo) 3-year-old Darin with Santa Claus at Santa Claus Land in Santa Claus, Indiana; 1967.