Challenge Completed

So earlier this year I posted about how we were taking this season to the next level. We decided to add a BBQ Charity event to our roster of chaos. Were we scared? um yes... Was it daunting? Absolutely. Was it a learning experience? Completely. Was it worth it? Pardon my explicative but HELL yes!

Maybe it is because I am a dreamer and dream a little too large. But the Board team seems to do this as well. Maybe I just want Owasso on the map with family friendly events to attend. Maybe I just like BBQ-- have you met me? All these things, of course, are true, but if I said I wasn't terrified of how things would pan out I would not be telling the truth. The team of Board members had to do a lot of hashing out of details, some last minute changes (***cough cough judges), and even a burn ban was thrown our way. I knew the BBQ event could only go one of two ways. Honestly it gives me anxiety even thinking about it now, not gonna lie.

But all the work the team put in was phenomenal. Kerry caring for keeping the cooks in line and getting sponsors. I mean she was in her element! Vito manning the ticket table with calm and composure was awesome to see! Sunni running all over the place for our hiccups, that woman is a champ! Julie for working out details for logos and all the little things. Heck, I was in the mix for getting the word out and replying to all applications once approved by the team. All of the board members, even if not called out, were stunning in helping to make this an amazing event. The team showed true flexibility and that is key in a new event. We even heard feedback that for being a first time event we did a great job pivoting (PIVOT!!! sorry I could not help it) when we were given feedback.

But what made it all worth it was the end result! We were able to give back to a group that gives so much to the community. We raised $2245.00!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Frankly, that's not shabby for a first time hosting! We were stunned. When I looked and saw a line waiting to buy tickets for food I about fell to my knees and cried. Months of work and stress all culminating in thankful success! It is truly humbling. Even now it makes my eyes water. And to think we could not have done this without the Sponsors and the community and the City! I have written all these words but this is where my words fail me because I don't think there is a way to truly convey how this made us all feel.

So with that, now that the season has wrapped up, the Board team will review and document changes for next year possibly. And see how we can keep this momentum of giving alive! While the season is over and the Market slumbers for a few months, just know we don't stop. We continually work on improving this market and hope the changes coming will be well received. With that, I leave you with my most grateful thanks for an amazing season and hope you are happy, healthy, safe and loved. Til we see you again!