7:00 a.m. team meeting at the hotel
It is RAINING!!! 50 degrees, with a steady rainfall is not what we were hoping for – to say the least! The roofers are concerned about the safety conditions and what they are going to be able to accomplish in the weather. Today we are all learning a lesson about letting go and just dealing with what we are presented with. ALL of the planning and forethought that we’ve given to this project is about to change.
It’s interesting though – everyone is still excited and hopeful. The rain hasn’t dashed our spirits, just sent us on a different path.
8:15 a.m. Common Ground
The Perma-Seal trucks have arrived! After the long journey the crew is still in good spirits – they want to get started. Volunteers lined up to unload the truck filled with donations. Common Ground’s long-term volunteers are very appreciative for everything that we collected. The challenge was finding a place for all of it. As you can imagine, secure space is at a minimum here.
Linda Jackson met us with a U-Haul and tears in her eyes. She, too, was very appreciative for all of the donations and outpouring of support.
I am amazed at the human spirit and man’s ability to keep moving forward despite the hurdles and challenges that continue to be present. I can’t imagine any living soul not being affected by what we are experiencing. I only hope that I will be able to capture as much as I can and share it upon our return.
9:00 a.m. The Perma-Seal House
The crew gets busy creating a materials list, and brainstorming an approach. Roy and Kevin are sent off to the nearest building supply house – 30 miles away! Meanwhile the rest of the crew begin to work on the structural repairs.
The roofers are chomping at the bit to get started. They have begun to clean up the area around the two homes and keep themselves busy.
On a side note – last evening, I had the opportunity to get to know a bit more about one of the volunteers that have joined us on this trip. His name is Dave – he is the owner of Wisbrock roofing in Westmont & he has a HUGE heart. While it might not have been the most opportune time for him to be traveling and volunteering he committed to this trip – to helping and making a difference. Back home he volunteers with a local drug intervention program, schools and non-for-profits in an attempt to mentor youths that may not have a positive role model. He is filled with ideas for change and has a contagious energy that has me thinking of ways we can help him fulfill his intention. I feel that my life is better for knowing him!
