Okay so I'm getting this over with so Eva stops bugging me!:)

Our day began with an orientation to the UCC recovery effort here in New Orleans, what to expect and how to be safe. We then split up into two groups to begin our work. One group did some structural work on a house damaged by termites. Ruth and I got to do some drywalling. I learned a little about drywalling in the process, namely the drywall seams have to meet up on a joist when drywalling ceilings! (Also, I need to see my chiropractor now since my neck has a permanent crick in it:) And now from Ruth...

Well.....I learned how to cut drywall, put it up, and use a drywall lift to do the ceilings. There are multiple steps for everything and these steps must be done correctly for the final product to come out right. For those of us that came on the trip the last time, it is much more rewarding to be rebuilding houses than gutting them.

And so the day ends. I am tired and have a headache, but all in all, it was a good day. I am thankful to have the opportunity to be back here again. We have had to remind ourselves that we are missionaries, here to serve and, as such, we must be flexible. No, things are not always as we wish they were...we have giant cockroaches here at the church, we are still having plumbing issues, and we have to unlock about a million doors just to go to the bathroom, but it's all good! We are God's hands and feet and light in this world. I pray that, as we serve, people will be touched by Jesus' light in us. Ruth has something else to say...

I was sobered and reminded of how lucky I am when I went into the trailer at the worksite to use the bathroom. I was surprised that a whole family could live in such a small space...not to mention that I couldn't figure out how to flush the toilet but that's another story...:) As I found last trip, serving in New Orleans really puts life into perspective. The destruction is still evident....three years later. Despite setbacks and frustrations, I will continue to serve to the best of my ability.

Well, it's late and we have a long, tiring day ahead of us. We are thankful for the love and support we have received from our friends and family in making this trip possible in so many ways. Blessings on you all...

With love,
Patty and Ruth:)