8/7/10 Day 240. Bunnings Mentone. "It's like a dream or something"

"Dad, you must get home early today. There is too much to tell you on the phone".

Owen, like every child is unique, but his passion is building and construction and his heroes are not sporting stars. They are Scott Cam (Domestic/Backyard Blitz), and Jason Hodges (Better Homes and Gardens). He loves being outside turning our yard upside down, building something or being in with the builders next door discussing the finer points of construction.

His Great-Uncle Bruce kindly requested a tour of Owen's favourite store, "Bunnings". He received a positive response from Sharlene, and finally, after a few attempts had to be cancelled due to Owen being unwell, a secret surprise visit happened on Thursday.
This much anticipated visit, turned out to be an absolutely overwhelming day. Owen thought he was going to Bunnings for a quick look around with Uncle Bruce. Instead he was taken into the Staff room where a morning tea was organised for him. He was presented with a signed Bunnings Shirt, an apron, then staff members came up and pinned badges to his apron explaining what they all meant. He found out that they knew all about him through his blog which is printed off and put up onto the staff notice board. He was also given the honour of presenting "Making customer happy" badges to 2 staff members.

Then he was taken on the the Grand Tour. He loved every bit of it.

Ask me about.... Special Orders, The Gas Bottle Exchange, Perfect plant promise, DIY workshops and Installaion. How about the 5 keys or making customers happy. O loved his apron and Workshirt.

"Dad, it is like a dream or something, one day I am getting injections into my legs and am very sick, then next I am in Bunnings "

A Huge Thank You to all at Bunnings. The positive and caring culture that exists within this company shined through. We have been touched deeply and emotionally overwhelmed by this generous gesture which has been a massive highlight in Owen's journey. It had been a very, very tough week mentally for Owen, and this was the uplifting experience that was really needed. Aside from what happened today, the Bunnings community had only recently spent a day at Owen's older brother, Luke's school, Bayside Special Development School, sorting out the gardens and outside areas.

Owen excitedly showed me the outfit and gifts that he received. He listed his gifts and explained the final gift that Bunnings gave him without them realising.

"A happy kid......"

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