My Favorite Mississippi Moments (in Chronological Order)

Beginning the adventure by carpooling to the airport with my eventual bunkmates - John Livezey and Gary James
This is one of the few times that I, a notoriously cranky driver when I'm going less than five miles OVER THE SPEED LIMIT, can remember smiling in spite of bumper to bumper traffic from Oaks to the airport.

My first day at the Swearingen's
Late in the day I stood up from cutting insulation and came face to face with Aileen Swearingen, who has been deaf most of her life. I made a broad wave around the house, in effect asking her what she thought of our progress. Aileen smiled and reached out with one hand to stroke my arm. With the other hand she emphatically made the universal symbol for OK. No words were needed. I felt proud that we had her approval.

The indomitable spirit of Ellen Lee and Marcella Upton
How does one have so much joy for life after their world was literally turned upside down by Katrina? Both Ellen and Marcella were a delight as they recounted stories of their lives and of surviving the storm and its aftermath.

Mission accomplished…almost!
I had my doubts that we would be able to remove all of the old drywall from the high, cathedral ceiling of Ellen and Marcella's studio so I felt great satisfaction as I stood precariously on a 2x10 between two ladders and tore down the final highest section…only to come face to face with a scared raccoon sitting on top of the last piece of drywall. That piece remained in place - and the raccoon was still there when we left!

Breaking bread
Sharing a table with Ellen and Marcella, Aileen Swearingen and Cindy and Mike Shaper at Thursday night's dinner was a joy. The laughter and conversation was wonderful. I will always feel a special bond with all of them.

Marlene Wrigley's Thursday Night Devotions
The scriptures Marlene chose and her quiet reading of them touched my heart.

The most exciting backgammon game ever!
The match between “the Master”, Barb Albright, and “the Rookie”, Mike Cihlar went down to the last move with a surprising win by the Rookie…I was on the edge of my seat!

Building bunk beds with Chris MacDonald, Dave Weller and John Livezey
I laughed (AND SWEATED) all day!

The road trip
The trip to the waterfront (and to the watering hole) with John and Chris MacDonald, John Livezey and Gary James was definitely a favorite moment!

Dinner at McElroy's on the Bayou
Good food, good drink, good friends!

I miss you guys!