Florida Christmas Vacation

The decision about what to do for our Christmas celebration was a hard one this year. On one hand, did we have time to spend several days together at the beach?

On the other hand, would a mere fancy meal suffice?

We decided ‘no, it does not.’ And so we made our plans.

The crew was working in Monticello Florida, but some of us were in Pennsylvania and in Kentucky.

We decided it would be worth it to try to get everyone together. We rented an absolutely gorgeous home five minutes from the beach with a private heated pool and plenty of bedrooms.

Alvin and I flew into Gainsville on Thursday morning, then swung by the Jacksonville airport to pick up Luke and Janette. Luke no longer works for us, however, he was an original employee who worked with first steel, and was our trucker for some years. They are a favorite of everyone and we include them whenever possible.

Dan and Rosy stopped by the grocery store and picked up groceries on the way to the house, and Shannon and Janice came later that evening. also from Pennsylvania. All the single guys came that evening and each person was greeted with great joy.

Perhaps it seems a little weird that we enjoy being together so much. A blue-collar construction crew going on vacation together?

Well, yes. We have gone from coworkers to friends to becoming a true family.

We have seen such a desperate need for community in todays world.

We need people.

We need to belong.

We need fellowship.

If you don’t have people, start by being someone’s person.

Be trustworthy, loyal, and kind.

.

This might be my favorite moment of the whole weekend. Completely spontaneously the men formed a line, linking arms, and walking together as we walked to the beach.

From the left to the right: Keith (with Kloe on his back) Daryl, Shannon, Dallas, Dan, Noah, Alvin, Marc, and Arlin.

These men are hardworking, loyal, and honest. The ones who are married put their wife and children first. Always.

Those of us who are married to Lads men are grateful. We are well provided for and spoiled in the best way.
I am humbled and grateful I get to be part of this group.

El