15/05/2023
With genuine gratitude that extends far beyond what words can covey, we thank each of you for playing a part in making our first Woofstock Event a success! Whether you (and your pup!) were a visitor, sponsor, vendor, food truck operator, musician, Buddy's Run participant (or cheerleader!), organization that promoted us, or someone who couldn't attend but was praying for/wishing us well... YOU are the ones who made the day MORE than we imagined and, more importantly, possible for many animals in Marion County to receive the help they need.
There is one, very special group of folks who require an extra measure of our gratitude. To all those who volunteered... you were dynamite! You blew us away with your service-minded hearts, your willingness to brave the heat, and all your hard work.
Folks, we had kids from Jefferson and Hallsville High School come and work their tail feathers off! Not only that... we had Jefferson High School kids build the giant frames for our big banners (Randy Penny, thank you for your guidance!). Never let it be said this generation is lost. We can point them to living examples of kids who have bigger hearts and stronger work ethic than a lot of adults!
To those who manned Buddy's Run, our many tables, the Kids' Fun Zone and Dog Contest area, and Hospitality (including all those who were our runners and floaters... we cannot thank you enough! You made things run as smoothly as possible... and accepted your assignments (and frequent changes in your assignments) so, so, so graciously. Sitting here, typing this, and can't help but shed some tears over the sheer beauty of such willingness to serve.
To the ones who came out to sing our National Anthem, proudly hold our nation's flag, and so purposefully pray over us, the event, and our cause... thank you for the quickness in your "Yes!" when we asked if you would come and be a part.
To all our musicians... man. Words will never be able to describe the talent you have and the absolute gift you shared with us... so generously and selflessly.
To Rickey (the man behind the sound!), your contributions went far beyond what everyone will ever know. Your lovingkindness, in combination with your incredible skills and generosity of spirit, are unparalleled. And to his wife, Morgan, thank you for being the driving force behind taking care of so many that day.
To Chris and Mary... our stage folks, as well as big supporters on the ground... thank you for believing in us and pulling off what we thought was next to impossible (getting that 40' trailer into that parking lot!).
To the City of Jefferson Police Department who came and lent a little light on our set up, then patrolled the area through the night to ensure everything stayed "put"... thank you!
To Allan Whatley... thank you for your kindness and support, yet again. Your willingness (and super early promptness!) to ensure we had everything we needed to maintain the area was greatly appreciated.
While we know this isn't a "last, but not least" situation (as there are so many who deserve our thanks over the coming days), we will end this post with a GIANT... GIANT... we mean, GIANT thank you to those who showed up, especially those who came in response to some calls on FB, to help with setting up and breaking down the event. With all our planning, there was a failure in fully recognizing how much time and effort were needed to accomplish those elements. NONE of what was seen would have been there without YOU. Tears flow, yet again, at the thought of how selfless and loving you were toward us... at how hard you worked... and at the remarkable provision of God's blessing upon us when you showed up and showed out. May He bless you so.
With that said, to God be all the honor and glory! Each of you answered His call, in a very special way... and were an answer to the prayers we prayed. As we move forward into planning for the years to come, may we always look to Him for His guidance, His goodness, and His absolute pleasure in all we do.
Our love to you all...
