After returning from a week in New Orleans, I would like to let you share in the experience. This was the first time I went on a mission trip along with my daughter. I had thoughts in my head how it could be/would be. It wasn't like I thought.

We stayed in a older building called "Desiree Street Academy" which is run by Desiree Street Missions. The only places air-conditioned were the gym and right outside the gym area. The sleeping areas and dining area was not air-conditioned. Yes, it was uncomfortable sleeping when you are dripping in sweat. We had three fans in our room which didn't really circulate any air. Let's say I didn't sleep very well because of the heat. You could find me walking the halls around 4:00 or 5:00 am (our time). I did get grouchy a few times which lead to myself getting a reality check and praying a lot.

Most of us worked in Central City the first few days which is a poor neighborhood. Most of the people we encountered on the street were friendly. The first thing I noticed were the really nice cars being driven down the street and the second thing was the amount of trash laying on the ground. A few of us worked in the houses which were new construction laying down flooring, til and the rest of us were on street cleaning. My daughter and I were on this crew which picked up trash, weedeated and mowed. (I have never weedeated in my whole entire life until this trip). There were lots with weeds taller than myself and we were mowing these with a push mower. Talk about a few exhausting days.......it was also HOT.

Some of the other days a few of us went to different locations to work and do other things. I hope some of the others post what they did. I believe Ricardo was in Central City every day.

Ricardo was also our wake up call......by imitating a rooster.

I'm going to try and post a few pictures I took.

Labels: NOLA