We've done all we could do

Hello. Friday night is here. We are all tired and sore, but we got to the point of the project we wanted to achieve. We placed outer vapor barriers, placed insulation, inner vapor barrier, hung the walls and ceilings. We placed the tape, spread the mud, and sanded until we couldn't sand for another minute. Terry sprayed the primer on walls and ceilings. The kitchen cabinets and counter tops are in. Today, we were able to paint every interior wall, ceiling and floor. We painted the floor because we didn't have time to install any flooring, but the code requires a cleanable surface. The further away from Katrina, the more strict the building codes.

Individuals from our groups donated a stove, hood and dishwasher. We placed them, but couldn't install them.

The kids made two giant cookie cakes for us this afternoon. The whole family was excited and thrilled to see that they are so much closer to having their home back. The kids loved their room colors. Shawntae's room is lilac. Antonio and Christopher's room is as blue as the sky on a perfect day. Janice's room is bright, sunshine yellow.

Terry spent the last two days making friends with the chicken. He was frequently seen carrying her around and petting her. We joked that he came to New Orleans to get plastered and pick up chicks! We found a stash of about 2 dozen eggs hidden under Janice's house this afternoon. The kids are excited because they hope to be able to get fresh eggs. That chicken is going to miss us! She seemed to love being with us.

Alas - the work is done and we are feeling quite proud of the work we were able to accomplish. There were 25 of us in a single shotgun house and there were very few occasions where we were bumping into each other.

It is always sad to say goodbye to the homeowners, Quo Vadis and the Americorp Volunteers. It will be good to get home to our loved ones.

See you soon.