Cool and clear early am when we headed out for Pryor armed with water bottles, snacks, and great intentions. After a quick 75 minute drive through hay-fields, few houses, few cars , and few people we arrived at Chief Plenty Coups State Park. Our greeting included a quick history of the Chief, his family, and his bequest to have some his land turned into a park to promote peace and understanding among different peoples. The team received gifts of water bottles, sunglasses, and disposable coveralls, met their fellow volunteers from the Crow Summer Youth Program, and off they went. In this beautiful isolated spot, the group of over 20, set to work to stain the outside of the Chiefs historic home as well as his store. Fantastic team work resulted in the first coats being done by lunch. After a break for food and a stroll through the park, the second coats were applied, right before the torrential rains began. The young adults took the lead all day in forging friendships and understanding with their Crow co-workers.
Tired, hot, and stain covered we headed back to Crow Agency for showers, downtime, and then a fabulous chicken dinner prepared by several on the team. At the evening meeting, all agreed that it was a day filled with hard work, great impact, new understanding and great accomplishment. Several team members commented that the day exceeded their expectations.
Meantime, I dealt with the headaches and logistics of a new program: deflating air mattresses, not enough blankets, hosts who don't act like hosts, and planning for the next few days. Great support from my Global colleague and leader, Andrew Philbrook, helped ease my anxieties.
Hope for a clear day tomorrow,
With love from Crow Country
Barbara
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