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 Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Flagstaff Extreme Adventure Course 

If you love a good obstacle course, then you should check out the ropes course at Flagstaff Extreme Adventure. This is a fun way to get outdoors and get your heart pumping as you swing, climb, and tunnel your way to the end. 

B-24 Wreckage on Humphrey's Peak 

Flagstaff has the tallest peak in the whole state, and it's definitely worth a visit just to see the snow atop the majestic mountain. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you may also be able to find the wreck of a military plane that crashed in the mountains in 1944. Because it crashed in such a remote area, the wreckage was never able to be cleared. Just be forewarned that it will definitely not be easy to find. 

Walnut Canyon 

Located about 7 miles from Flagstaff, you'll find Walnut Canyon which was once home to the Sinagua people about a thousand years ago. You'll find the ruins of their dwellings, which they built under a cliff. It is unclear why the Sinagua people left their homes around 1200 CE, but it's certainly a fun place to visit if you want to speculate. 

Whether you have explored these places or not, they may give a better sense of what Flagstaff is all about. If you want to find out what Woodlands Village is all about, give us a call today. Our Flagstaff apartments were built with you in mind, so see how our amenities and floor plans stack up!

The post Secret Spots to Explore in Flagstaff appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Here at Woodlands Village, we’re proud to be part of the Flagstaff community. Part of that pride means taking the opportunity to give back when and where we can! Our Woodlands crew is excited for our upcoming food drive to give back to the Flagstaff Family Food Center!

The Flagstaff Family Food Center provides amazing support to Flagstaff families. In fact, through their efforts, approximately 247,000 nutritious meals are served every year to families in need in our community! The Center also serves up an awesome literacy program through its reading room, which serves approximately 2,200 children a year! It’s no wonder their mission is “serving hope to Flagstaff families!”

The Food Center overs a variety of opportunities to volunteer and give back to the Flagstaff community! Volunteers have the opportunity to prepare and serve daily hot meals, prepare and pass out sack lunches, help children and youth with homework and reading, distribute emergency food boxes, and more. We have been proud to serve the Family Food Center at the holidays, and look forward to bringing an opportunity to serve to you in May! From May 1 to May 14, we’ll be collecting non-perishable items to donate to the food bank and make a big difference here in Flagstaff!

Besides joining in our food drive, you can learn about even more opportunities to help the Flagstaff Family Food Center by visiting their Volunteer Page! Let’s join together to show Flagstaff that the Woodlands Village life is all about spreading some Woodlands Village LOVE!

The post Woodlands Village Gives Back: Flagstaff Family Food Center appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

April 1^st

We seriously hope it’s a joke, but apparently The X-Files, Firefly, House, and Arrested Development (seasons 1-3) are all scheduled for an April Fool’s Day departure from Netflix.

Card Trick

If this is a card trick, we’re not impressed. Apparently, House of Cards will also go away after March 31^st!

As You (Don’t) Wish

Get your tissues ready … because this next part hurts. The following movies are also set for removal, so get ready to stream before March 31^st:

• Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
• The Gradate
• From Dusk Till Dawn
• The Princess Bride
• Pulp Fiction
• Ocean’s Twelve
• Caddyshack
• The Superman movies (Superman: The Movie, Superman II-IV, and Superman Returns)
• The Usual Suspects

If it’s any consolation, we’ve heard that Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Return is scheduled to premiere April 14^th on Netflix, along with some other awesome shows and movies (and possibly Star Wars: Rogue One? Fingers crossed!) between March and May. Still … we recommend you pop some popcorn (or stop by our office—some folks call ours the best popcorn in town, maybe it’ll ease the pain) and prepare to binge your way through these sad departures with us!

The post It’s So Hard to Say Goodbye: Must Watch Titles Leaving Netflix Soon! appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of some of our awesome community features … including the grill! Here are some tips to help you host an awesome summer barbecue!

Burger, Schmurger!
Yes, everybody loves a good burger at a barbecue, but why not try mixing it up? Add black bean burgers for your vegetarian friends, and try jazzing things up with some tasty kabobs!

You’re the Tops
If you’re sticking with the standard barbecue fare (chicken, burgers, hot dogs, etc.), you can easily impress with some stellar toppings! Add blue cheese or bacon to your burgers. Make cheddar stuffed, bacon-wrapped hot dogs and brats. Pull out some untraditional toppings that your friends and family can use to customize their meal for a unique experience!

Theme Team
Pick a theme for your barbecue and decorate accordingly. We’re still waiting for someone to throw us a Game of Thrones themed BBQ … please, let it be you!

That’s Entertainment!
Break out some music! Snag some classic backyard games. Don’t expect your guests to entertain themselves (as awesome as you are at the grill … nobody’s THAT awesome). Make sure there’s plenty of entertainment to keep your party going!

Time is On Your Side
Make sure you plan, plan, plan! Marinate meats 2 hours in advance. Double and triple check your supplies a few hours before your start time. Budget time so you don’t over or undercook your food. And make sure folks aren’t sitting around too long before you feed them!

Happy Grilling! Share your perfect barbecue moments with us on Facebook and Instagram!

The post Be the Grill Master: Summer Barbecue Tips appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Walnut Canyon

Because it is located near the Grand Canyon, the city of Flagstaff is a very popular getaway destination. The closest Grand Canyon trail to Flagstaff is the lovely Walnut Canyon. This area features two trails, one of which is a rim trail, while the other leads to the actual Canyon itself. Both trails are about a mile long and can be walked in less than an hour at a brisk pace. Visitors also have the opportunity to observe Native American dwellings, which are peppered along the landscape of both trails.

Lowell Observatory 

Founded by Percival Lowell, the man who discovered the planet Pluto, the Lowell Observatory deserves to be included on every vacationer's itinerary. Founded in 1894, the observatory is still one of America's primary centers for astronomical research. Tours are available by experienced guides or visitors can simply enjoy the observatory on their own. Regardless of which option is chosen, the experience will never be forgotten.

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

A literal fountain of fire, the volcanic eruption of the Sunset Crater Volcano destroyed everything within a five mile radius. After the eruption, residents in nearby Wupatki and Walnut Canyon discovered that the thin layers of cinder and ash benefited their crops by helping the soil retain moisture. For this reason, trade and agriculture flourished for approximately 100 years before the indigenous tribes moved on again. In 1930, the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument was established by then-president Hoover to permanently protect it as an Arizona landmark.

Museum of North Arizona 

The Museum of North Arizona offers a broad range of archaeological displays for visitors of all ages. The Kiva Gallery, which features a beautiful collection of Navajo weaving, ceramics and Indian pottery is one of the largest of the museum's displays. In addition, there is an Ethnology display showcasing the Navajo, Pai and Zuni tribes as well as a discovery area where children can participate in various learning activities. The impressive museum also boasts an overlook for viewing the Flagstaff Nature Trail and the beautiful Flag River. 

Berizona Wildlife Park

Bearizona is a 165 acre wildlife park located in the heart of a pine forest. Visitors can drive through three miles of Ponderosa or take a 20 acre walk along meandering paths where they can view bear, buffalo, deer, birds of prey and a beautiful array of botanical delights. Ideal for any type of outdoor adventure, a trip to Berizona is a must see for any Flagstaff dweller.

The post Must-See Flagstaff Attractions for All Ages appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Chances are, when you first move into a new apartment, you see every surrounding door as a new stranger. Well we’re here to encourage you to look at those doors differently: as unique opportunities to meet new people. One thing that sets us apart is our sense of community, and we want to encourage you to embrace your part in it. We’re a puzzle, and you’re an essential piece! Not sure where to start? Here are five tips to help you meet your neighbors:

Check the Mail. You get your mail key on your first day here … which means you have an opportunity to start meeting people from Day One! When you check your mail, also check out who’s around you. It only takes a moment to catch the eye of the other person checking their mailbox and say hello. Introduce yourself!

Hit the Gym. One way to easily meet people with mutual interests? Head to the gym! Leave your iPod at home and be open to starting up a conversation with the other folks working out with you.

Walk the Dog. Head to the dog park and swap tips (or horror stories) with the other animal lovers there. Walking the dog isn’t just the way guys in 90’s movies pick up girls anymore … It’s a great way for anyone to spark up a conversation!

Count on CARES. Are you shy when it comes to meeting new people or starting conversations? Our awesome CARES Team is here to help with that. With free events every month, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet your neighbors. And the CARES Team is more than happy to chat with you and help get you started meeting new people and feeling more at home!

Take Chances. Walking to your car and pass a neighbor? Say hi. Taking the trash to the dumpster and pass a neighbor? Say hi. Doing the laundry? Say hi! If you feel comfortable with it, leave your door open while you’re home, and say hello to anyone who catches your eye through the door. Stop by the Welcome Center and talk to whoever else is waiting. Don’t be afraid to turn every day into an opportunity to meet someone new!

The post How to Meet People at Your Apartment! appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

Please join us for our Canned Food Drive. We will be gathering donations through Thursday, December 10th. All your donations will be taken to the Flagstaff Family Food Center!

Stop by our office for details or if you have any questions, and thank you in advance for your donations!

 

The post ‘TIS A GIFT: Giving Thanks Through Giving appeared first on Woodlands Village Apartments Blog.

This week, we’re giving thanks for the gift of “furever” friends! Did you know that this weekend is National Animal Adoption Weekend? It’s actually called National Pet Adoption Weekend, but we all know that the animals we bring into our homes are more than just “pets”: they’re family, part of our support systems, and sometimes our very best friends. All across the country people are showing love for their furry companions, so we thought we’d take a look at what makes having an animal in your home so great!

1. Have a Heart

Did you know that having an animal is good for your heart? Having an animal has been shown to reduce the chances of a heart attack, lower blood pressure, and other heart-healthy advantages! It must be the way they warm our hearts just by being around!

2. You’ve Got a Friend in Me

The animals we bring into our homes are like family … and studies show they’re almost as close to us, with about 91% of animal caretakers saying they feel very close to their animals. And not only are we close to them … they also help us to get closer to others! Whether it’s hanging out at a dog park or chatting up fellow cat lovers, there’s something about animals that, let’s face it, makes it hard not to talk about them! Don’t believe us? Check out the hashtag #catsofinstagram and see how many people across the country are loving each other’s cat pics alone!

3. Bark = Meow = Love

As the saying goes, “To err is human, to forgive, canine.” Okay, maybe not, but nobody shows unconditional love like a dog. Nobody makes you feel more special with just a little bit of attention than a cat. Even a goldfish can make you feel loved. Studies have shown that animal owners have higher self-esteem and lower bouts of loneliness. Why? Because as much as we love our animals, they give ten times the love back.

4. Get Res-paw-nsible

Remember when you were younger and your parents told you having an animal was a big responsibility? Whether that was their reason for getting or denying you an animal, it’s still true today. Having an animal is a BIG responsibility, whether it’s a Betta in a bowl or a Lab on a leash! But they are literally the best “chores” in the house! Instead of thinking of taking care of an animal as a “chore,” think of it as a chance to learn how to care for others more than yourself. Think especially hard about this when it comes to emptying out the litter box.

5. Get Fit!

Animals help us stay more active! Whether you’re taking your dog or cat for a walk (cats on leashes? We love it!) or just playing in the house, animals get us up and active more than we would be without them. And we’ve all seen the YouTube videos of dogs jogging along with their owners on treadmills, or cats joining in a yoga routine. Who knows … you and your furry friend may go viral one of these days just by working out together!

So celebrate the furry friends in your life! Shower them with special treats this weekend. Celebrate the Adoption Weekend with a donation to your favorite animal shelter or local humane association. And if you don’t have an animal, but are thinking about adding one to your household, just keep these five things in mind:

1. Think about the cost. Make sure you have enough in your budget for monthly food and care needs, including regular visits to the vet, possible grooming, toys, etc.
2. Think about your time. Do you have time for an animal? We’re talking time to walk and feed her, take him to the doctor, play time, and so forth. How will an animal impact your work, family time, etc.?

3. Think about your space. What kind of animal would work best in your home? A smaller space might mean a cat or fish. A larger space might accommodate a dog or cat. And keep in mind … things change. You might wind up upgrading or downgrading your space, adding a roommate, etc.

4. Think about your lease. What does your lease say about adding an animal to your home? When in doubt, just stop by the Welcome Center … we’re happy to answer any questions you might have about bringing your furry friend home!

5. Think about the law. As much as we love all animals, some simply aren’t allowed. Whether it’s your lease or state law that restricts what kind of animal you can have, don’t commit to an animal before you’re sure it’s legal for you to have it in the first place!

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