Well we are back from a week long mission trip to North Carolina's inner coast with the youth and we are busy resting with Netflix this evening! Sun, humidity, and early mornings can really take it out of you.
We traveled to Edenton, N.C., where we worked on 2 homes that had been completely destroyed by a tornado last April. These families stories of survival were quite remarkable and their new homes are looking to be finished in the next few months. Even though what I was able to do was limited, I did help paint outside! The youth finished the hardy board siding, worked on putting up soffets, pulling electrical wire, clean up, and of course lots of painting. A small group also completed 2 porch railings for another family. Most importantly, they worked on building relationships with each other and with the homeowners.
This picture shows one of the homeowners, David, and what was left of his home after the tornado. He and his son hid under the living room furniture. Can you imagine calling your wife and telling her that there was nothing to come home to???
This added on structure out back was the only part of the house still standing.
Leonnis, the other homeowner, always answered when you ask him how he was doing, "I'm blessed, I'm blessed." I think we all need to adopt that attitude!
On Wednesday we took a day off and instead spent it at the Outer Banks. We hung out at Nags Head Beach and then checked out the Bodie Island Lighthouse. The water was freezing!
Edenton also has the reputation of being one of the most beautiful small towns in North Carolina! We spent Friday night down at the waterfront, along the Albermarle Sound, and it did not disappoint. I would have loved to have explored the downtown area a little more carefully!
It was a fun week with a good amount of work accomplished. I'm hoping it was an experience that makes a difference in the lives of both the homeowners and the participants!
Next up: vacation! :)
