Habitat for Humanity and all the volunteers have changed our lives forever.  I signed up...and did not believe I had a chance, but signed up anyway because my daughter and I REALLY needed the help. When I was told we had been chosen I could not believe it.  We learned how to do many aspects of construction and Aaliyah learned how to do a lot of sweeping and clean up at a very young age.  We learned how to work very hard, we learned we have family and friends that truly care, and we learned that a lot of hard work would help to finish a house of our own.  It turned out to be not just a house--but a home. Without the help and encouragement of the Habitat Volunteers, we would not have accomplished this much and we will never forget their dedication and hard work, and of course, we thank them for putting up with the constant questions about "how soon could we move in?"  The closer it came, the harder it was to believe that it would soon be ours. THANK YOU, "Habitat for Humanity" for a new life in our own home.  Being the recipient of all of the love and care is truly a humbling experience.  Because of our great fortune, we take every chance to "Pay it forward" and to help someone else in need. Shannon Eerkes-Lester