Friday night

Alas! Our work is done for this trip. We put in a full day because we were focused on getting as much done as possible. We didn't finish all 10 rooms, but 8 rooms are pretty much done and the other 2 have been sheetrocked and the new ceilings are installed. She has an electrical system that functions well. The house is in move-in condition.

Miss Ifama fed us lunch today, and I'll say that, alone, was worth the trip to New Orleans! She made Cajun shrimp and rice, tilapia with steamed vegetables, sweet yams, mustard greens, okra, corn bread, and rolls for us. It was our Thanksgiving feast! On top of that, there was lemon cake and apple pie. Rev. Josephine stopped in with home-made pralines. It was tough to go back to work on such full stomachs.

As we said our goodbyes, she gave each of us small gifts of her artwork. She said that she felt that she had been on Extreme Home Make-over.

This has been such a bonding experience. We have gotten to know each other so much better than a hundred coffee hour gatherings could offer. The rewards and memories will stay with me forever.

To Molly, Terry, Dave, Brian, Nancy, Maureen, Barb, Roger, Sally, Dwight, George, Becky, Pat, Hank, Denis and Janie....it has been an honor to share this time with you. Thank you for your love and spirit. To Miss Ifama - you are a beacon of light and love for us. To Nathan and the rest of the congregation, we can't wait to share our stories with you. If you ever get the opportunity to go on a service project, I strongly suggest it.