Painted Ears, Anybody?
Posted by Lucy, a St. Paul’s youth
Hello everyone! We’re having a great time here in New Orleans. This morning started a bit late on the youth’s part, resulting in last minute English muffins, unpacked lunches and reflections in the van. Regardless of our tendency to oversleep, we made it to our work site on time and the morning went smoothly. Most of the group was painting primer on the outside deck, while others were sanding off an old coat that was peeling away (the sanders were led by Suzanne, our resident sanding queen). This left us with green specks on our faces and white primer on our arms, legs, hands, hair, and in Caroline’s case, ears. Meanwhile, the fantastic residents of the home made several appearances to chat with us and ask how we were doing.
After relaxing in the 68 degree air and abundance of sunshine for a midmorning snack of grapes (accompanied by some laughing and juice boxes), my left big toe, which has had an infection, was deemed unworkable by Suzanne and George. Once a few quick phone calls were made, it was decided that Missy and Suzanne would take me to a “doctor-in-a-box” to get some antibiotics while the rest of the clan would stay for the rest of our last day of work. Our doctor trip was successful, and I am happy to say I am on the road to recovery!
Once we all returned home, we had to rush. We had 5:30 dinner reservations at Jacques-Imo's, one of New Orleans’ best restaurants, but with someone coming to talk to us about coastal issues in Louisiana, and an excessive need for showers, we knew that wasn’t going to happen. George confidently told us that, “God loves us, and there will be a cancelation.” At Jacques-Imo's on a Friday? Not likely.
Apparently God loves us quite a bit, and we moved our reservation to 7:15.
Once the dinner conflict was resolved, we all sat in our living room with an extremely nice woman named Diana who works for a nonprofit called Bayou Grace Community Services working to preserve coastal Louisiana. In a very short time, we learned a lot about the problems southern Louisiana natives are facing, and what we can do to help. Did you know that coastal Louisiana loses a football field of land every 30-38 minutes? Her presentation was excellent, and I encourage everyone to visit BGCS’s website, www.bayougrace.org.
We’re all excited for a trip to the French Quarter tomorrow, but are very sad that are time here is coming to and end! I hear that the remainder of the work went well today and the homeowners are very excited about the progress.
Ahhhh, Jacques-Imo’s!!! That was my favorite place last year.