Stay & Play Week this year was honestly one of the most fun and memorable weeks we’ve had at Oakwood. It was the perfect mix of helping our community, hanging out with friends, and trying new things around Greenville (and beyond). Here’s a rundown of everything we did and why the whole week ended up being such a great experience.
Monday, October 27: Starting Strong
We kicked off the week at the Food Bank of Eastern North Carolina (ENC). Before we even started working, we learned what areas the Food Bank covers and how many people rely on it every day. Then we got busy sorting tons of sweet potatoes and organizing canned goods. It was actually kind of fun working together and knowing we were helping families right here in our area. When we got back to school, we watched Scream and The Conjuring (perfect spooky-season choices) and made Christmas ornaments at the same time. It sounds like a weird combo, but somehow it totally worked.
Tuesday, October 28: Packing for Patriots
On Tuesday, we finally found out why we made ornaments the night before: we went to Packs for Patriots to pack holiday bags for U.S. soldiers overseas. While we were packing the bags with snacks, candy, and the ornaments we made, a lot of us realized how much we take for granted, like having your favorite snack right there whenever you want it.
It was a cool feeling knowing these packages might make a soldier’s holiday a little better. After lunch, we went to The Painted Peacock and painted pottery. Honestly, everyone’s creative side came out, some pieces were actually really good, and some were hilarious in the best way.
Wednesday, October 29: Sandwiches & Strikes
Wednesday started with us making peanut butter sandwiches and goodie bags for people experiencing homelessness in Greenville. Even though it was simple, it felt good knowing we were helping people who really need it. After that, we grabbed lunch at the Greenville Mall and spent the afternoon bowling. Between the random strikes, the dramatic gutter balls, and the friendly trash talk, it ended up being one of the funniest parts of the week.
Thursday, October 30: Raleigh Trip
Thursday was our big Raleigh day. Everyone got the chance to shop around, try new food, and explore the city. It was nice getting out of Greenville for a bit and just having the day to wander, hang out, and make memories with friends.
Friday, October 31: Helping at Home
Since Friday was a shorter day because of Halloween, we wrapped up the week by helping out the lower school teachers. We watched their students so they could take a break with donuts and coffee. The little kids were full of energy, but it was actually really fun, and the teachers were super grateful. Stay & Play wasn’t just a break from classes. It was a chance to give back to our community, spend time with friends, and try things we normally wouldn’t do. By the end of the week, everyone had at least one story, one inside joke, or one moment that made them glad they were part of it.
