February 22, 2006

The Central New York members of the Presbyterian Southern Comfort team left Syracuse on two flights; as the Campeche, Mexico members left from Merida on another and the Houston group traveled by car. 

The first round of flights went well, with 15 arriving in Newark, 2 in Detroit and 6 in Houston.  The second flights were also uneventful, but unfortunately in two cases delayed.  A 10-minute run through Memphis done in 5 and a similar race in Houston allowed everyone to arrive in Gulfport almost on time.  Luggage was not so fortunate, but all were tired and gratefully reunited, at the PDA Camp, including the Schuylers who traveled from New York State to Gautier, MS by motorcycle, arriving at 10 pm.

This morning began with an early breakfast and devotionals, camp orientation and then a division of work projects among various teams.  Some of the highlights from a long and productive day were:

-         Watching an aging gentleman fighting back tears, of gratitude and grief, as we hauled a lifetime of belongings out of his house, now a shell of a home.  The sledging of the baby grand piano was perhaps the most heartbreaking moment of the cleanout.

-         Laughing with Bonnie Rochelle being named the “rat-queen” after disposing of over a dozen.  We figured out why the protective clothing was so vital…

-  Applying a final coat of drywall compound in final preparation for painting, in the home of a single mom and two teenagers.

-         Translating for the local ABC affiliate interviewing Pastor Francisco Chan.

-         Smelling the wafts of dinner, being called “international cuisine night,” a unique euphemism for leftovers.  The bread was fresh…

-         Meeting another PDA group.  There are 25 from the Presbyterian Church in Hamburg, New York.  They are now the senior residents of the camp.

-         Taking a warm shower at the end of the day.

Thanks for reading.  Check out the pictures, keep us in your prayers, and check back soon.

Your Presbyterian Southern Comfort Team