By Melinda Holland

The halls rang with laughter and conversation at Pleasant Valley Church (PVC) on Saturday evening, October 30, 2021. The “Fall Fun” event with games, crafts, and food met with attendance far beyond expectations. Initially planned for 100 people, the team serving dinner found themselves with the positive “problem” of needing to find more food for a line of people that kept growing!

As the isolation of 2020 rolled into 2021, individuals and families came seeking a sense of normalcy and community; of companionship and camaraderie. People found relief in the invitation to come and enjoy themselves while catching up with friends or meeting new ones. Folks who had not entered PVC in two years came and chatted with old friends. Several new faces were also spotted (albeit behind masks.)

Sprinkled into the mix were adults, teenagers, and children dressed in family-friendly costumes who enjoyed a variety of booths such as: Pumpkin Decorating, Scarecrow Building, Cake Walk, two Nerf booths, Walk the Plank, Apple Bobbing (with chopsticks!), and a “Don’t Let ‘Em Drop!” Glow-in-the-Dark Balloon Challenge. Outside, a cozy fire pit and s’mores welcomed those entering the parking lot.

For individuals desiring a more low-key evening, card and board games were enjoyed after dinner.

That night, everybody had something to savor, but overall it was the sense of fellowship and togetherness that really fed those in attendance.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended and also to the many who volunteered their time and talents to make the evening a blessing to so many people.