Still Learning

This morning, we split back into our two groups to work at the homes of Peter and Dorothy again. The group that went back to Peter’s got to really see our work come to fruition today as we laid down the supports, insulation, and plywood for the new floor in the basement room! It was hard work and sometimes frustrating, but teamwork pulled through and we managed to get the larger of two rooms furnished with a floor. Peter didn’t get to hang out with us while we worked as much today, but most of us got the chance to meet his granddaughters as we came in. It was, overall, a very satisfying day!

The group that went back to Dorothy’s continued to put up drywall today. We were able to use our newly acquired (as of yesterday) skills to accomplish this on our own, since the pastor’s husband Bill was sharing his talents with the other group today. It was great to be able to work together to apply what we had learned to finish putting up the drywall in the kitchen and another room of the house. We were also able to chat with Dorothy and her parents for a bit, getting to know more about them and about what they did when the storm hit. They were very appreciative for the work that we had done and wished us all well as we left.

Later in the evening, we were given the opportunity to dine with members of the Lacey United Methodist Church community (stir fry – yum). We chatted with them and were able to learn a lot from them – their stories are truly inspiring and we continue to be amazed at the spirit that they have in the face of such tragedy. To round off the evening, we were graced with a guitar/singing performance by the one and only Mike!

Three days into the trip and we are ALIVE AWAKE ALERT ENTHUSIASTIC! ;)

Love, 

Sandy Serio, Emily Holmes, and the team of ASB NJ 2013 <3