Our 2nd Activity – Pickleball!

On Saturday, Feb. 7 we had a pickleball gathering for the community. We had 17 people including the 4 of us at the court. We arrived early - the boys, Allyson and I were there setting up for the day. Allyson had brought donuts, fruit and L'croix. We had a cooler for the drinks and plates, napkins and a knife for the pastries.

The boys had set a budget of $70. Allyson spent $40 at Pricesmart on the above items. I knew we had a bit more to spend and without talking to the boys - decided to stop at Harlan's bakery in Potrero. I felt a little bad about doing that - but knew that the people that were coming to the event might like a good ham and cheese croissant or an amazing cinnamon roll. So, I did spend the rest of the budgeted amount. If the boys had said no I would have bought the items myself - but did admit to our team that we should be better at communicating. :) The players did love the upscale pastries. And I think that they understood that the audience was appreciative. In the end Eitan approved the purchase.

We played rally points and the system had to be worked out in the beginning. We started with only 7 points and changed it to 11 points because we had a number of people and only 2 courts. Nate, Eitan and Oliver made sure that the courts stayed busy and people knew the system.

There was a lot of chatting while not playing, enjoying each other's company and just getting to know each other better. The boys explained their project and people were very impressed with their idea and how they were executing it. We had a donation box and that was very successful. we gained about $200. The realization was that the first time we charged too little and should increase the prices if we do a raffle or sell items. When we didn't charge anything people were very willing to give to our cause with a good explanation and conversations.

They worked on their communication skills, collaboration skills and organization skills. It was an excellent event that made all of us eager for the next one.