We walk through the rooms of a storm soaked apartment in Houston, Texas, as Mary, a twenty-plus-year resident of Nob Hill Apartments, points out the items she hopes she can keep, but we can clearly see are lost. The safety masks covering our mouths and noses do nothing to block the rank smell of stagnant flood water and growing mold. The air in the apartment is warm and humid, the air outside buzzing with mosquitos preying on the exposed skin of anyone walking through the community working to salvage what they can from the wake of Hurricane Harvey. Even with the flood waters receded, we feel the sense of loss that weighs heavy as a storm cloud over the apartment community we’ve come to serve.

We try to prepare Mary for the worst—the disheartening fact that most of her worldly possessions must be declared casualties of the hurricane’s destructive force. But Mary’s determination outweighs our own, and pushes us in a new direction. Where we strive to prepare her for despair, she insists upon building us up with hope. And as we tell her we will help her as best we can, she leaves us with these words: “When I was a child, my teacher told me that the good deeds you do are added as stars to your crown in heaven. Your crowns are going to be full of all the stars in the heavens.”

***

Our group of volunteers left Arizona in the early hours of September 6 to make our way to Houston. Our team was made up of multifamily housing team members from Bella Investment Group in Flagstaff, AZ, who had committed to partner with Apartment Life, an organization that places CARES Teams within apartment communities to “look for ways to love their neighbors as themselves.” We have often seen the outpouring of love CARES Teams deliver to the residents of our Bella communities—now was our chance to take the CARES mission upon ourselves and make a difference in the lives of those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

After spending Wednesday evening assembling and loading U-Haul trucks with Resident Recovery Kits, we headed into the community on Thursday to see where we could help. As we approached Nob Hill Apartments, a 1300+ unit apartment community situated on Brays Bayou in the Meyerland suburb, we saw streets lined with debris and abandoned furniture, clothing, toys, even cars—all casualties of the surging flood waters. Nob Hill is where we met Mary, along with dozens of other residents who were packing up what they could to leave the community many of them called home. We expected the despair in the faces of the people of the community to match the destruction we saw in the streets. But where we expected despair, we saw hope.

One of the first young men we spoke to assured us that he had not been hit “too bad” by Harvey’s destructive power. “For me, it wasn’t as bad as for other folks,” he told us as we walked through one section of Nob Hill. “Other people got it much worse.” I learned later that for him, “not too bad” meant he “only” lost his car and about half of the possessions in his apartment. He counted himself lucky, despite his losses, and assured us that now that he knew we were there, he would help us find people who needed more help than he did. And he was true to his word. He eagerly came to us with the names and addresses of neighbors who could “really use your help,” and seemed overjoyed to be what he considered a “small part” of our work. The misery we expected seemed to have receded with the flood waters, and in its place love, humanity, and hope had blossomed.

For the CARES team in Houston, the Relief Kits and resources they handed out seemed like only a “drop in the bucket” of the recovery that needed to be done in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. An office team member, who had been pulled from a different property to assist at Nob Hill, described her efforts of pointing residents toward resources and gathering contact information from those who needed to move as “a drop in the bucket” compared to what she felt the people around her needed and the losses she knew they had endured. Even as we gave resources, monies, and hugs to those we met, we began to say that we knew it was only “a drop in the bucket” for those who had lost so much so quickly.

Yet the enduring power of hope outshined our perspective. The more people we met, the more we got the sense that in creating for themselves a sense of normalcy even among lost possessions, abandoned homes, and more, the residents of this community were finding something beyond the despair we saw on the news. Make no mistake—there remains much to be done to restore what has been lost in these communities devastated by the storms. But even beyond the knowledge of loss is the hope of helping hands. We saw donations from across the country pooled together to fan the flames of this hope. We witnessed police cars lining the streets from around the country to lend aid and relief to first responders who had not yet even had the chance to assess and accept their personal losses. We saw barbecue fundraisers and Red Cross vans delivering lunches and dinners on a daily basis where they were needed most. We saw neighbor reaching out to neighbor to lighten each other’s loads. And we saw tears of sorrow become tears of joy as people heard how far folks had come to help.

“To help me?” one woman said to me, stepping back in shock from a tight hug when I told her we had flown in from Arizona. “Y’all came all this way just to help me?”

“We know it’s just a drop in the bucket,” I found myself saying, but she cut me off.

“A drop in the bucket?” she gasped, clasping my hands in her own. “Child, it’s the whole ocean!”

I left Houston with news of the impending impact of Hurricane Irma ringing in the background on every television set we passed from our hotel lobby to the airport terminal. In the shadows of yet another destructive storm, it’s hard to ignore that there remains so much need along the Gulf Coast as residents there work to rebuild. Hurricane Harvey’s impact will be felt in this area for months, if not years, to come.

But even in the shadows of these destructive storms crashing upon our shores and cities, we see the silver linings illuminated by the selfless acts of people who keep their heads held high, their spirits lifted, and the hopes of their communities blazing against the dark times ahead. We can all be a part of bringing hope to these communities. Apartment Life continues to raise funds for relief efforts for both Hurricane Harvey and Hurricane Irma. The Red Cross continues to step up their efforts to prepare and provide relief. Countless other organizations are out there, waiting for each of us to step up and impact lives by being beacons of hope in the midst of despair.

Please join us in supporting the ongoing relief efforts, and make your own "drop in the bucket" contribution to those impacted by this year's hurricane storms:

Donations for Apartment Life Harvey Relief Kits: https://tiny.cc/alharvey

Donations for Apartment Life Irma Relief Kits: https://tiny.cc/alirma

The post Beacons of Hope in the Midst of Despair: A Local Hurricane Harvey Relief Story appeared first on Country Club Terrace Apartments Blog.

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and when you head to the right joint, it’s the most delicious meal of the day, too. If you’re searching for a tasty way to break your fast in Flagstaff, here are four of the best places to head. Just remember to bring your to-go mug and doggy bag, because you’re not going to want to leave anything behind!

Brandy's Restaurant & Bakery

Classic baked goods, breakfast, brunch, lunch and coffee combine to make Brandy’s Restaurant and Bakery one of the most beloved joints in the city. Breakfast starts at 6:30 for you early birds, so you can jet off to work or school with a full meal under your belt, and it’s even served on holidays.

MartAnne's Burrito Palace

This Mexican eatery is so legit it doesn’t even have a website. Whether you’re looking to fill up fast or take it slow, a generous portion of chilaquiles or huevos rancheros will do the trick!

Wildflower Bread Company

Any place with the word “bread” in the name is fine by us. Wildflower Bread Company is no exception, brimming over with egg options, French toast and breakfast bowls. Yum!

Macy's Fresh Roasted Coffee

Naturally, you’ll find coffee galore at Macy’s, but you’ll find so much more as well. Think couscous served warm with dried fruits, homemade granola, waffles, eggs, and biscuits and gravy. Now you can come hungry, leave happy without going to IHOP.

Now that you’re ready to make our fine city your own, it’s time to take a look at your options for Flagstaff apartments. The comfortable floor plans, lovely grounds and friendly service make Country Club Terrace an excellent place to call home. If you’re ready to learn more, please feel free to get in touch with us today!

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The Grand Canyon

If you’re lucky enough to get to go to the Star Party, you’ll see some truly amazing sights. With a telescope, you can see star clusters, planets and distant galaxies, with the odd nebula thrown in for effect. It’s a can’t-miss experience. Of course, the Grand Canyon is an excellent option for stargazing any other time of the year as well, and only about an hour and a half from Flagstaff.

Lowell Observatory

Whoever said stargazing had to be outdoors? Lowell Observatory is a non-profit research institution dedicated to scientific progress and astronomy education, and its huge telescopes are truly amazing to behold. Get a good look at those stars by booking a tour or a private group event.

Buffalo Park

Another fantastic wilderness space is Buffalo Park. Removed from the muted city lights of Flagstaff, it is a perfect spot for witnessing the Milky Way in all its glory. Plus, it has its own annual star party, complete with sunset tours, naked-eye viewing and 30 telescopes for getting up close and personal with the cosmos.

Your Own Backyard

Ever since the observatory was established back in the '80s, Flagstaff has worked hard to keep its skies dark, in order to facilitate excellent viewing. That means on most clear nights, you can simply step outside and watch those twinkling lights pop out one by one, then roll across the heavens. Try it next time you’re bored for the evening; you might be surprised.

Nothing makes apartment living a blast like having access to so many natural wonders nearby. If you’re looking to spend some time enjoying Mother Nature’s marvels, stargazing is the way to go. Come learn more about the opportunities near you, as well as the many other amenities our Flagstaff apartments at Country Club Terrace have to offer. We look forward to making you a part of the family!

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Improve Your Golf Swing With These 5 Tips

First off, you’ve got to swing in balance. Don’t move back on your heels or toes during the swing. This will keep you from using your body to compensate to get the club to the ball. Practice swinging on a foam log to improve your balance. Work your body and hands in sync. If you don’t, you’ll have less control over the golf club. Begin moving the club with your chest to produce power. Using your body and hands correctly will give you move consistent swing results. Watch your tempo and go slow. This allows your body and hands to face the club in the proper line. It also allows your body to shift weight at the right time. Follow through with the right relaxed golf swing. The golf swing is not flat or vertical but a tilted circle. Lastly, don’t focus on body mechanics. It’ll only create tension. Keep a cool head and strike with a sound shot.

Apartment Living in Flagstaff

If you’re looking for an A+ apartment in Flagstaff, be sure to check out the Country Club Terrace Apartments. It’s a pet-friendly complex set it on manicured grounds. Hang out in the clubhouse with TV and fireplace, take a swim in the pool, walk the outdoor fitness course, grill up fare and dine in picnic gazebos. Other amenities include washer and dryer hook-ups and private patios. The Country Club Terrace Apartments are the ideal fit for any avid golfer who enjoys the game.

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Spring in Flagstaff, Arizona is more than just another season of the year, it is something that is celebrated on an annual basis by residents and visitors alike. As temperatures begin to rise so does the anticipation of families who want to take full advantage of the city's engaging mix of art exhibits, festivals and outdoor activities. Below are some top attractions families should consider:

Foxglenn Park Kite Festival

A great outdoor festival for families is the annual Foxglenn Park Kite Festival. Typically held in May, which is one of Flagstaff's windiest months, children and adults can enjoy a full day of kite flying at the festival and possibly even earn a ribbon for a handmade kite. 

During this event the park also features rides, carnival games, face painting and a rock climbing wall. Because of the diversified activities available during the festival, it is perfect for visitors of all ages.

Route 66 Attractions

History buffs should not miss the museums and landmarks on Arizona’s famous Route 66 near Flagstaff. All of these attractions are dedicated to the city’s old west legacy and Native American culture. 

Annual Zuni Festival of Arts and Culture

Educators, performers and artists travel from Zuni, New Mexico each spring to share their talents, arts and culture at this event. Typically held in late April or early May, the festival takes place at the Museum of Northern Arizona and is a great choice for families looking for an outing that is both fun and educational.

Annual Recycled Art Show

An enjoyable and interesting way to promote recycling, the Annual Recycled Art Show is a Flagstaff tradition. Each April artists from throughout Coconino County come together in Flagstaff to encourage people to recycle through this fun, inspiring and creative exhibition held at the Coconino County Center for the Arts. 

National Astronomy Day

The Lowell Observatory and the Coconino Astronomical Society–CAS–have created a fun and engaging National Astronomy Day event that is held each May. Beginning early in the morning and offering family activities throughout the day and evening, this interesting and educational event is a must-see for anyone with even the slightest interest in astronomy.

Families who enjoy walking through historical sections of various cities will find that springtime in Flagstaff offers the perfect climate to stroll through its downtown area where many galleries, restaurants and old-fashioned stores can be found. Ultimately, any family in this beautiful and interesting city is guaranteed to have an exciting and memorable experience.

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