Three Blogs from Kerry

Working at 8394 Jeannette st has been such a blessing the past few days. I've been working outside, painting the exterior of the house. The "sunny side" crew is so supportive of one another, and getting to know new Bonners and see their work ethic first hand is incredible. We went to crabby jacks for lunch today and had FANTASTIC poboys-- the food is one of my favorite parts of this incredibly cultured city. DJ found a cute coffee shop near the work site and got a coffee too, until I accidentally knocked it over and the entire thing spilled and seeped into the back of my pants. Neither of us were particularly pleased with the situation but I'm happy to report that were still speaking after the incident. We also met our homeowner very briefly, and he told us he was excited to move back into the neighborhood, because its people are better than before the storm. "Hurricane Katrina came and washed all them crackheads out." He seemed like a great guy, and I can't wait for another work day tomorrow !

Today's weather left us in a bit of a pickle, cramming 30 people into the house to mud. I was expecting some hostility and defeated spirits, but in typical bonner fashion, everyone made the best of the situation and did an excellent job of working together and showing dedication to the house and their work. My favorite thing about this trip, both this year and last year, is watching people from different sites with different strengths coming together with a common goal. Regardless of our differences within bonner, this trip proves the sense of community we feel with one another and everyone's individual passion for service. Even after only being in bonner for one semester, the freshmen have a clear vision of the end result of our service, placing those in need before themselves and dedicating themselves to make he world better. "Be the change you wish to see in the world" has a renewed meaning for me, and I'm thrilled to finish out the week at this home. 

Having the opportunity to chaperone this trip has been the greatest blessing. Between the service and our time experiencing NOLA culture, we've built meaningful relationships within bonner and with the city itself. While walking through the quarter Saturday morning, I saw two people passing through a crowd. One said to the other, "a shower?! what's a shower? Does the rain count?" It was yet another reminder that while I was struggling to choose a painting to take home, some people are struggling to find shelter from the cold and rain, or their next meal. Our work will never be finished, but that doesn't make it any less meaningful; in fact, it makes it ever more important. It was heartwarming to see everyone looking out for one another on bourbon street, and laughing with people they hadn't ever spoken to before a few days ago. I can't wait to return to New Orleans!

While packing up my bags, getting ready to head home to the freezing cold weather, I have begun to truly think about the experiences that I have had while in NOLA. I have made unforgettable friendships with many people I probably would not have even talked to before this trip especially with so many of the wonderful chaperones. Thee friendships that I have made will continue well beyond this trip and it makes me extremely excited for the start of next semester with them. 

In addition to the friendships, the experience of working on a home was truly amazing. I have never done construction work before and having this opportunity has made me truly grateful for the home that I have and all the hardwork that was put into it. 

I will not forget this trip and everything that has happened in the past week. It was an amazing time.  

My day

     Today was unfortunately the last day working on Mr. Perry's home on Jeannette street. The weather today was not lovely at all. It was pouring outside and there were puddles everywhere. Even worse was standing outside in the cold washing the mud knives and mud plates in buckets of cold, cold water. But overall it was a good day. I was able to do some painting and mudding and also some sanding. At first I did not like sanding. My throat started to hurt a little bit so I stopped and asked Christina, who is a Saint Bernard volunteer, for a mask to protect my nose. The mask really helped and sanding became a little bit more enjoyable. I was able to sand the bottom half of the third  bedroom. When it was time to clean up, I stepped back and noticed how much sanding I have done. The wall was smooth and ready to be skimmed. The mudding so bad. Just like sanding, I disliked mudding a lot in the very beginning after Christina gave a very detailed tutorial. At first I thought I got it, however, it was not until I got on the ladder that I realized I don't got it. I had to ask Christina again on how to mud just to make sure I was doing it right. Eventually, as I kept doing it I got it down and was able to mud the tape on the corners on the living room ceiling. Although, I liked mudding, and sanding, I enjoyed painting the most. At the very beginning of the week, I got the chance to paint the exterior side of the side with the "sunny side crew." Painting the house was awesome, not only because I got to bask in the warm rays of the sun but also because I was able to easily see the progress my team was making. We were able to prime the whole side of the house, the front and also the rails. After priming we then able to paint the house a beautiful, elegant mint green. Soon the front and sides were painted green. I stepped back and saw how beautiful the house looked, it was a satisfying view. The best part of painting was that I was able to bond with Mariah, and DJ. We really had some interesting and deep conversations while painting. It was great!

Skippy Has a Problem

Regular day at the trap is what it seemed. I was working with the squad slapping the mud while Skippy accidentally gives us a 'silent whisper.' It was like initiation all over again. I looked into his eyes and he looked like he was proud of what he had done. What he didn't know is that he could have killed us all. Skippy has a gift that he himself doesn't know about and I am scared to tell him. We are going to use this ability against those who are our enemies, who are little to no one. We had talk within the group about releasing our debut mixtape. Our new single is called El Pollo Loco (Mixmaster Muddy ft. South America).

It's Friday and it's sad to leave the house we've been working on for five days. So far I've tried to get out of my comfort zone as much as I could've which proved to be one of the hardest things. I've managed to talk to bonners I really don't talk to that much just enough to establish amiability. The food never ceases to surprise and amaze me. Skippy is still adjusting to the food. He learned the hard way, while we suffered along with him. Van life is approaching. Beware.

Cuatro: El Pollo Loco (Mix Master Muddy Ft. South America)

KEY: 4 Locos
Rae = Basura Head
Luis = Eduardo
Mike = El Gallo
Manny = Skippy

Today the 4 Locos were grouped together again. This was our last chance to prove to everyone how great we were. We receive a shoutout yesterday but that wasn't enough. Things were expected of us and we did what was expected of us, everything. I remember K-Pop telling me I was the best volunteer she had ever met or something like that. The low of the day was Skippy's  gas. I'm convinced that he pooped himself. I'm sad that I won't be able to finish my work but thats life, you work hard and have nothing to show for it.

#SBPJeannette
#NOLA

The Day After Hump Day

On Thursday I formed a gang featuring Michael, Raekwon, Manny, and I. We don't have an official name but be on the lookout for that. Since we formed a gang we each assigned each member their respective nickname. Michael is El Gallo (The Rooster), Raekwon is Basura Head(Trash Head)/Whoopi Goldberg, Manny is Goofy/Skippy, and I am El Loco but off the streets my mom calls me Eduardo. Initiation for the gang is a little tight but we can schedule one whenever Manny is free. In order to get into the gang, you have to sit in a room with Manny for 13.5 seconds while he gives you the 'silent whisper' of initiation. Didn't realize gang life was this tedious. Squad done mudded up a whole room that day and it turned out Goofy skipped a spot so we was back on the grind.

Other than that, New Orleans has so far been absolutely not what I had expected coming from what I have heard of beforehand in documentaries, people, and the media. I am really getting into the routine of things here which sort of makes each day blend into the next. It is actually very sad to think about the end of this trip and I sort of want this to continue for just a bit longer. At the very beginning I had very low expectations of the whole trip but that proved to be not true.

Last Full Day

"To give real service you must add something which cannot be bought or measured with money, and that is sincerity and integrity."
-Douglas Adams

Last full day in NOLA and I definitely do not want to leave. We've accomplished so much at our site, but the house is definitely not close to being done. I wish that I was able to be here to help complete it, but I will hopefully finish mudding and sanding the room I'm working in today. For the first few days I was moving around between everyone's rooms drilling in screws that were done incorrectly, so I wasn't in any specific room. However as of yesterday I somewhat claimed the living room to complete the drilling, mudding, and sanding. I'm just about halfway done and I have one of the high school girls from Connecticut that keeps coming in to help me periodically, so hopefully I can finish it today. We'll see how well I can work quickly today though, because I am definitely sore from the week.

After finishing day 4 of work, I have learned so much about construction work. When I left for the trip, I only knew how to paint. I didn't even know how to properly use a hammer, let alone know how to mud, use a power drill or even sand a wall. But, after a long 4 days, I have managed to at least learn the basics of all of those things. 

In addition to the construction work, I have bonded with my fellow bonners over some of the smallest of things. The other day, Jody and I were outside cleaning and I accidentally mixed the paint and the mud cleaning buckets up by mistake. Instead of getting upset or angry, Jody joked about it and we laughed while finishing cleaning up. 

Also, I have learned the importance of teamwork. It would have been impossible to finish mudding and sanding the room that Kerrie, Horacio, Priya, and I were working on without each other. The necessary teamwork made everything go faster, much more fun, and showed me how relying on other people is a good thing.  

Rosemary Blog Four

Putting up frames was the best! And taking a large bite out of Rae's sandwich haha. In a seriousness, in all the work I've done out here in NOLA through SBP, today was the best! Time flew by like nothing! I absolutely love power tools like saws nail guns and drills! Hammers and pinchers are cool too! I'm really happy to have gotten to work alongside DJ, Scott and Tyler and then later with Caitlyn and Rae. They're good to work with. Oomph and the smell of wood made me light up with glee!
I never knew the amount of work that goes along with putting up (old) door frames and nailing them in. And the different kinds of saws that can be used! I used 3 different kinds today! The SBP site sup's were really kind in showing us how to use tools and how to safely too! 
On a side note Ian eating a peanut butter carrot made me wonder why a lot of Bonner love peanut butter and bananas or apples... Note to self.. Try it.
And screwing in nails into shims is so tough! But the team conquered! 
And Pop's and Cindy's food was once again delicious!
The United Saints members here are so very kind and generous.
I'm happy I've gotten to speak to them and say please and thank you. 
We got a new toaster today in the eating area because the other had broken sadly. But in a jiffy they replaced it. 
I met a black man with a last Jonathan I believe. He is a pastor and is a speaker of the way called "Freedom Remedy". I arrived to the would be reflection meeting on time to find only two fellow Bonners and him in the room. Naturally I walked up to him and greeted him and asked for his name and if he worked for United Saints. Mans from there a grand philosophical, deep conversation came about. I genuinely was intrigued by what he had to say and the same for him of me. He was on the same level of thought as me. Empathy, changing the world and being human were on the top of his mind. I loved the talk and I loved how I'm able to more and more use my manners and properly introduce myself and be friendly. 
This trip made me open up more so far and get comfortable with my fellow freshman Bonners and even some chaperones. People I never thought I'd get close to, I got close to. And they accepted little ol' weird me for who I am. 
There's still many Bonners I want to talk to more and get to know! 
Last thing, this cream we got was great! At the work site I swore I smelled eggnog and when I saw they had eggnog flavored ice cream I was D-O-N-E! I'm so happy!

Rosemary Blog Three

Wow. There goes hump day. After mudding for two whole days and being indoors, I decided to try to paint. Whoa it took me a while to realize that paint is permanent and mud isn't. I also blue taped today and primed. 
And this little puffy white dog keeps appearing and barking at us and the minute we walk toward him, he scampers away with speed. 
Got another poboys sandwich... Grilled shrimp. Love it! Got to say, seafood tastes super good down here.
I got to know Jake from the Americorps members. Cool guy and he's lived in like 7 states and plays the piano. I aspire to live a life like him. 
All these members come from everywhere in the US man!
And Christina said they have to have a 10 month term and 6 weeks of training too!
Lots of dedication and requirements but I respect that! I may even try to come down here. I talked to them that it's my dream to become an Americorps and Peace Corps member!   
I loved being outside for once. Cool breeze, sunshine and hearing the noises of the outside pour into my ears. I was content being able to move my brush side to side.

Rosemary Blog 2

Mudding is life. All I know is mudding. I've mudded and sanded all day. I like mudding. It's like frosting. Frosting is fun. Maybe I shouldn't have gone out yesterday.. Because I'm tired now. It's the second day of work but I don't mind it. I didn't expect this all but it's one heck of way to impact the community. 
And rolling down hills is lyfe! Having fun in the sun while everyone down in Jersey is in the cold is the best.
Moses' music is great too! He has a good mix on his phone. Salsa and classic rock. 
I'm happy to able to learn about the construction of houses. I had no prior experience so this is a fun first experience! The SBP Americorps members are cool. And it's pretty neat meet a environment team veteran -- Regina. I can't wait to see what lies outside of college for me!
And dear god Pops' food is good!
And Tim's smoothies!
So far so good! Time to work hard through the week and give back to this great, flavorful city!

Horacio-New Orleans!

I never thought I'd would be able to visit, let alone stay for ten days, in New Orleans. On a map it seems not to long of a distance, only cross a couple of states and your there. From the long, tiring but actually enjoyable van ride, that is far from true. The most I heard about New Orleans is from the infamous hurricane that devastated thousand upon thousands of people lives and Mardi Gras, about how crazy and insane it can get. From there, my knowledge ends. When Bonner stated that freshman will have the opportunity to not only to go to New Orleans but to aid in restoring homes to their former glory and perhaps beyond that, I jumped at the chance. It not only gave me a chance to help out which is something always fantastic for me but allowed me to explore and see a city that I really have no idea what to expect. As each day of the break passed, I grew excited bit by bit because of the trip but realized to that next semester would start as soon as we came back,I enjoyed my bed even more. All I can say these vans are kind of comfortable after a certain point, I'm looking forwards towards exploring the french quarter, eating something called a Po-Boy and helping restoring a home that has seen better days and to make it better than what it was before for the homeowners! New Orleans here we come!

-Horacio.H

Tomorrow and Beyond

This trip has been filled with surprises: the relationships that I see forming within our Bonner family, the extent of our efficiency on the house (especially sunny side of the house), the fact that I actually am enjoying sanding the walls of a house because I have friends right beside me. I never would have pictured me decked out in man jeans, old t-shirts and flannels with Spackle sprinkling down all over my hair, face and paint splattered clothes, but today, there I was, on a ladder, with gray hair, a face covered in dust. I love this. I love that I don't really know what I'm getting myself into but that at the end of the day, the fruits of my labor will be a house for a family that deserves it.

This trip has been filled with love: despite the fluctuations in relationships with Bonners, whether or not the morning has consisted of teasing, no matter who it was on the sunny side of the house, I knew that I could ask for help when I needed it and that person would drop what they were doing and come help me. Its baffling to me to have such a strong support system. For the longest time I was so focused on pushing through challenges and issues on my own, which is part of the reason I am here in the first place, but to have this support is new and wonderful to me. I feel so blessed to be surrounded by people that may or may not love me, but who I know care about me enough to help me out- physically, mentally and emotionally.

This trip has been filled with little blessings: from the never ending soundtrack of laughter, to the beautiful weather the first few days, this trip has been abundant with blessings. I remember before coming on this trip that I was so nervous. I was nervous about who I would hang out with, talk to, eat with, work with, if they would like me, if I could make a difference, if I would be able to do the job assigned to me, etc. I am happy to say now that everything has worked itself out. I have been able to bond with some talented, multifaceted, just wonderful people and for that I will be forever grateful. Not only that, but I can see the difference that I made in the house. My usual work in Bonner occurs in the jails and prisons and we normally don't get to see results, and if we do, they aren't tangible things. Its so great to be able to see the work that I've put in and the end result.

This trip has been filled with memories that will last a lifetime. And so, as our journey comes to an end, I realize that I have changed as a person. I cannot fathom what the residents of New Orleans truly went through, but after completing the work on the Perry's house, I can see the magnitude of the effects of  Katrina- and these effects are long- lasting and mentally, emotionally and physically taxing. What I found most interesting about today was the conversations that I participated in with my fellow Bonners. At lunch, we discussed our community service and reasons behind it: a lot of us come from broken families, and those feelings of helplessness have become our motivation. The mindset being that if you can't help yourself, you should at the very least help people where you can, and maybe one day someone will waltz into your life and be able to help you. Its amazing to be around so many people who are likeminded or who have similar passions.  I look forward to seeing what the rest of my college career as a Bonner holds for me.

Pictures!

Growing through service with the NOLA

People who volunteer at the recycling center or soup kitchen through a church or neighborhood group can come to feel part of something 'larger.' 

-Arlie Russell Hochschild

Volunteering fosters a unique intimacy with the “larger” community. With that being said, I am exponentially grateful for the opportunity to be serving in NOLA. Through service I am quickly falling in love with the city. I visually can see my efforts through painting, mudding, and sanding. I feel as the home grows with our efforts, we are bound to this city. So us, the home, and city are "fleurishing" together. I still have not had the opportunity to see the family. I am looking forward to talking to them about their lives and experiences in the city. 

M.Julve

Tres: Hump List

Guess what day it is? Hump day! We have just completed our third day of work meaning we are 60% done with our service. I have been living up to the name Mix Master Muddy, through mudding skills and my talent with music. I have been playing music for our site for the past everyday. Day one, everyone was digging my tunes and I was digging that. Day two, I have a complaint for Rosemary resulting in Moses playing music, that everyone "LOVED". Day three, I knew I had to redeem myself. I put on a playlist full of hipster music and the rest is history. Endless compliments for my taste in music. I shall remain Mix Master status until futher notice.

Blog Two

You have been waiting for what seems like hours. the pain inside of you, calling out like a dying wolf has become unbearable. just when you thought you couldn't hold on any longer, they call your name. together you parade inside, following the woman who may have possibly saved your life. as you sit and pick up the large flat plastic, you simultaneously chug the ice water that has been set before each of you. in the next longest twenty minutes of your life, you think about all of the mistakes you made that day; like not eating enough breakfast, forgetting a sweatshirt (because now you're freezing), and chugging the ice water that made your stomach ache. but in a matter of minutes it will all be over. a sigh of relief emerges from the seven of us as we see the waitress coming towards us with the two large trays of oysters that we've been longing for. Finally, the time has come to eat. 

- Hungry Alyssa and hungry friends in the Acme Oyster Bar

Tyler

One of the most beautifully organic experiences in life is when a group of people can come together for something they believe in. Truly, the passions of individuals can form the momentum to change the world. As a new Bonner this is what I think about as I work. I was tossed in the center of a glorious movement determined to make the world a better place. To me, there is nothing more important I can dedicate my time to. That I can have an opportunity to cause change.

Tyler's Expectations

What were my expectations of coming to New Orleans? Well, none. I found out everything about this trip about two days before we left. So yeah, not much time to develop any expectations. But what I can tell you were my expectations for being a Bonner! I was denied acceptance to Bonner upon Spring application, and have been a B-Vol almost ever since. For the entire semester one of my main goals was to be eventually accepted into Bonner. I did not care to be accepted for the honor, for a scholarship, or because I want to change the world; but service simply makes me comfortable. It is something I feel incomplete without – somehow unfulfilled. Sometimes, things are just difficult to put into words and just get overly complicated, so I’ll just try to simplify this – service makes me happy, and becoming a Bonner and coming on this trip means that I can be happy. This trip signifies my first step in doing what I truly enjoy doing, and with those who love it as much as I do. 

Day One of Work-Adam Soto

The day is finally here that everyone was anticipating; our first day of work! I woke up in the morning as groggy as ever, though I couldn’t help but hide my excitement/anticipation for the events that were soon to occur. We all congregated in the church’s recreational room in order to make our lunches for the day, and eat breakfast. I ate a plain bagel with cream cheese just in case you, the reader, cared. I also came to the conclusion that I am a professional sandwich maker, though I must give credit to Taylor because I took notice of her sandwich and how she cut it in half, and it didn’t occur to me to do that, but it was the best decision I’ve made. When breakfast/lunch making finished we, as a team of highly motivated individuals, got into the vans and began our excursion to the St. Bernard Project headquarters to get our sites and jobs. Once we arrived, they gave us all the low down as to what the St. Bernard’s Project was and what they do. Then once I finished listening to the introduction and filling out paperwork releasing any liability to the St. Bernard’s project in the case of my injury, we were off to the sites! I was grouped with Krystal, Gabby, Nicholas, Caitlyn McNair, Alyssa, and Jasmine to head off to a predetermined location sealed within an envelope. Talk about the dream team! We got to the location, with the exception of some minor location discrepancies, safely and it was go time. I was ready to throw down, and kill the “building game”, and that’s most certainly what occurred on the first day. Our site supervisors, or site “soups” as they call it, were all great and they exceeded my expectations. One of my supervisors, in particular, and I had a blast working together and I found out something very interesting about him. His name was Jon and during introductions he explained to the group his Spanish heritage and how he hailed from Puerto Rico. So in my mind I’m thinking, “wow, I’m also from Puerto Rico.” So I approached him and questioned him on the topic and it turns out that we both have the same last name, and although were not related I joke around with him and call him my “brother.” I’m looking forward to make leaps with the construction of the house, even though we will be mudding for the entire week, but as I stated above, I’m ready to kill the “building game” even if that means I have to mud the entire house from the floor up.

Gavin

On my second day of service Bonner Love, for me, had a whole new understanding. The atmosphere within the service sites was one of positivity and definitive appreciation. While working, new friendships were formed, whether for myself with others or watching other friendship begin from afar. Seeing how much work goes into having a home that is livable really allows for a deeper appreciation of what I have and an even greater appreciation for the work that so many people do to make great things happen for those who are less fortunate. This trip is turning out to be much more than I had expected. 

Thankful

Ok where do I even begin. I am really enjoying this trip. It is really helping me mature as a person. I love getting to know everybody and bonding with everyone. I feel like every Bonner is very unique and special in their own. We are a truly unique group of people and as the week goes by I realize this more and more. Everyone here is very supportive I am bonding with people that I would never have bonded with if it was not for this trip. Everyone has a unique personality and story that is just beautiful. That is one thing I am really loving about this trip. I also love the work we are doing on the house my team is working on on Jeannette road. It is very representative of everything Bonner is and what we do, which is serving people. I also got to meet Mr. Perry, the homeowner. He stopped by on his way to a doctor's appointment so he was a little bit of a hurry. Despite the short amount of time he was there for, I still learned a lot from. He told us about his home and the effect of Hurricane Katrina on his home and the neighborhood, which was very nice to know. In all, I really appreciate the work we our doing as Bonners. I am glad I am Bonner and I am blessed to be among such great group of people.

St. Bernard Project - Faces of Marais St.

Day 1

This day couldn't have been more perfect. Although we did go to the wrong address two times on our way to the house we were going to work on and although we had to fix screws all day, I can say that I had a great time. My team, Gabby, Krystal, Alyssa, Caitlyn, Adam, Nick and I, worked with a sorority from Loyola University in New Orleans. I really enjoyed bonding with my team, laughing and joking around but still getting work done. 

 

 

Day 2

Every day in New Orleans just gets better and better. Today, my team and I mudded and fixed more screws. We worked with some high school students from a catholic school in Connecticut. Dinner was delicious. I want to give a special shout out to Pops, who made us tacos. On a scale of one to Chipotle, I would say it came pretty close to Chipotle level. After dinner, we had a reflection meeting which went pretty well, then a bonding activity which I enjoyed very much. Thanks for all the hard work chaperones!

 

 

               

Washing, Scraping and Painting, OH MY!

     These past few days have been wonderful. I am working on a house on Jeannette Street which has already come such a long way in the past two days. My job has been exterior decorating. The first day was spent primarily washing the siding of the house and applying primer. Now I should note that the house is tall enough that applying paint to the house requires  using ladders... very tall ladders.... that wobble and shake...and don't feel super safe.  I should ALSO note that I have an irrational fear of ladders and heights-  its not completely unwarranted actually: when I lived in Florida, we were setting up shutters on the windows to prepare for the oncoming hurricane, and my neighbor fell off the ladder and become paralyzed from the waist down. So maybe its not so irrational. ANYWAY, I decided that I wanted to overcome this fear, so I didn't let anybody know that I was actually terrified to be on a ladder.

     I am happy to say that by the end of the first day I was the last one painting, on the wobbly ladder nonetheless!

    One of my goals for this week has been to get to know some of my fellow Bonners on a deeper level and I feel that even in these past few days, I have formed better relationships with some of the Bonners. While working on the sunny side of the house, I have been given the opportunity to socialize with Michael, Flora, DJ, Priyanka and Kerry.

   Over the past two days, Flora and I have formed a relationship filled with support and encouragement. I remember being on the ladder and feeling the wind ruffle my hair, which would have normally made me super happy, but while twenty feet in the air, I wasn't so pleased. In fact, I began to panic a little. It was at that time that I heard Flora yell up from the ground "Keep going Mariah, you're doing a great job." Eight words, maybe ten seconds, but it made my day. It felt so good to have people supporting me and encouraging me to continue.

    DJ and I have also formed/ are forming an interestingly supportive relationship. Although our conversations consist of making fun of the other or obnoxiously saying "man" it provides comic relief. Our day is filled with laughter and positive vibes. I know that whether or not I make fun of him for using "mad" in place of "really" that he would help me without a moments hesitation if I needed him- and that means a lot.

    Mr. Perry (the homeowner) drove by today so we got the chance to talk with him, well hear him talk is more accurate. He is one of the sweetest, most honest men I have had the pleasure to meet. I came to New Orleans knowing that I wanted to help people, but after hearing even that little snippit about the Perry's lives, I want to give them their dream house. I want to give them a house that they can be proud of. I want to give them a house that is the color green that they love. I want to give them a house they can live in for the rest of their lives. We all have enough challenges that we face everyday- no one should have to deal with troubles that accompany an event that destroys your house and tears your life apart.

     I look forward to seeing what the rest of the week has to offer.

Quote of the day: "Katrina done wiped out all the crackheads out here." - Mr. Perry

Taylor Scott

We may have only been here for a few days but I am already in love with this city.  Sure, I looked forward to two days of driving as little as the next person and I am already completely exhausted.  However, New Orleans has the most vibrant character I have ever experienced.  The whole city is alive 24/7 with street performers, parties, and delicious food everywhere, and yet, at the same time, everyone has all the time in the world to sit on his or her porch and watch cars drive by.

Often, I am in complete disbelief that Hurricane Katrina could have caused so much damage because the people who live here seem so resilient.  The culture and life of this city still thrive even when there is so much left to be done in order to restore it.

About four years ago, I came to New Orleans to work with the Saint Bernard Project with my church.  Looking back, I don't think that I appreciated the work that I did or the people that I was helping.  I just went through the motions in order to keep myself occupied in an unfamiliar place.  This time around, I hope to come away with an understanding of the impact we will make and the people on whom we made an impact.      The house that we are working on is someone's home, not merely a building.  After ten years, it's hard to imagine how people could not be discouraged by the continued disrepair of their houses.  I hope that our presence is encouraging to those who feel forgotten.  The Saint Bernard Project is proof that the world hasn't forgotten about New Orleans.  I am excited to take part in moving this city forward.

Scott Robb

My community service mission with the Bonner Institute has been a rewarding experience thus far. At first, I was intimidated by the thought of traveling more than 1,000 miles away from home with limited space and clothes to complete our goals. However, over the first couple of days, my view has quickly changed for the better.

I have realized a new level of appreciation for countless aspects of my life--my home, my family, my friends, and my privileges. I am unable to imagine my life without a stable home to live in for countless months and years. Providing services to those affected by Hurricane Katrina has been one of the most important life lessons I have encountered to date.

I am looking forward to working more throughout the final three days of service. It has been rewarding to see our progress in only two days of work. I know that the final three days of service will provide me with the satisfaction of seeing our work in motion. When I leave New Orleans, I hope to leave with a sense of pride in my work and an eagerness to continue helping others.

A Light at the End of the Tunnel

     When I was in seventh grade I applied to be a teacher assistant in a special education class. As a part of the application, we were required to write an essay explaining why we wanted the position. I remember deliberating my answer for weeks before I finally decided to stop thinking so much and write from my heart. As the pen hit the paper I found myself compelled to write about why I not only wanted to be a teacher assistant in the class, but also a special education teacher in general, the reason being that my heart yearns to help the underdogs- those who get overlooked. I am not sure why this has always stuck with me, but I explicitly remember ending the paper by stating that I wanted to be the light at the end of the tunnel.
     Now, what does all of that have to do this trip? WELL, let me tell you: Hurricane Katrina devastated the lives of thousands almost ten years ago. At this point, a lot of people across the country can't even fathom that there are still people without houses, scraping up money to try and save what they lost almost a decade ago- you want to talk about a population that has been overlooked, well here you go. Thus, this trip has particularly hit home, and I am eager to do all that I can to help in any and every way possible.
     In addition to helping with the physical labor, my (loftier) goal is to restore hope. When I was growing up there were eleven hungry mouths to feed and eleven bodies to keep safe. At a young age, although I didn't fully understand until much later, we encountered a series of rough financial patches. Food wasn't as plentiful, we slept in each others rooms not just for company, but for warmth, and splurging on expensive material possessions was not a thought in our heads- but of course little old me, being the optimist that I was/am, looked at it as one big and fun adventure. Unfortunately, as weeks turned into months, months transformed into years and these years dragged on, and drained some of my innocent, bubbly energy. I didn't give up hope, but that tank wasn't exactly full anymore. Even more unfortunately, things in my family got much worse before they got any better, and I lost more of that Mariah-pizaz everyone seems to enjoy so much. I guess since then, it has become my mission to help other people. My train of thought was that I couldn't help myself, but maybe, just maybe I could help other people. So while we (Bonners) were watching the video about Katrina, I remember a man talking about the aftermath of the storm and what it did to humanity; the violence, the looting, the lack of hope. I want to show these homeowners what hope looks like, what it feels like, what hope is. I want to give them what they want and what they need.
     I believe we all have our individual trials and tribulations that we have to go through, and sometimes it feels like we are aimlessly trying to fumble our way through a dark tunnel, but maybe, just maybe, all we need is a little light at the end of the tunnel.

After the first two days of hard and enjoyable work, I have come to realize many things about the community that I am working with as well as myself. Throughout the week, I am going to be working on a house on Jeannette Street doing exterior painting work. This work, tedious and sometimes tiring, has shown me the importance of teamwork. It would be impossible to paint the entire exterior of a house without the help of others; whether that help comes in the form of moving a ladder, holding the paint, or just offering a joke and laughing while working. Teamwork is key to completing the work that we do, and I have come to realize that it is the only way to make real progress.

In addition to the aspect of teamwork, I have also learned the importance of appreciation and gratefulness. Nearly everyone whom I have met has shown true appreciation for the work that we are doing in New Orleans. They are grateful to have the help nearly a decade after the storm, knowing that people from around the country are still willing to come and help rebuild. As well as seeing the appreciation, I have gained a new sense of gratefulness for what I have at home. It would be impossible to even imagine what it is like for anyone who lost their home in a natural disaster and still finding a way to go on.

I am more than certain that I will continue to learn important lessons throughout the rest of the week and I am exciting to finish painting the exterior of the house.

Blog One

So it's the night before you leave for New Orleans. You have had all of break to anticipate on your own what this trip is going to be like ... and up until now, you haven't been able to see all of your friends to share your thoughts. But at 8 oclock, when you first gathered in the Bonner center, you could not keep your mouth shut. Your mind is full of questions and concerns about the drive, the food, the work sites, the living quarters, the french quarter, the food, sleep and the food ... and on top of that you even want to know what the people are going to be like. "What shape will their houses be in?" "What questions CAN I really ask them?" "Will I even meet the owner of the house I'll be working at?". You've never been on a trip like this before and you're excited but at the same time you're nervous. It's coming down to the last few hours before you and all of your friends head out in the same white vans and you're STILL AWAKE ... But this is the time for you to forget all of those  preconceptions. Every one of your detailed questions will soon be answered. You WILL eat food, don't worry. You will get to help people and help repair their homes. Not only let go of the older Bonner's experiences you've heard about, but let go of your ideas of what you're going to do and what you're NOT going to do. Open up your mind to the possibility of anything amazing happening on this trip. No one can tell you e x a c t l y what is going to happen, but this trip can be so much more than what you have thought it was going to be, if you just let it.

- Alyssa

Rosemary

Waiters and bus boys bustlin' about the tables with pots and pans, some full of grits, others with pippin' hot jambalaya. Hungry customers consume every seat for some twenty minutes before getting to consume a po' boy sandwich. Accents of every descent ring in my ears. Beignets are sold around every corner and sugar powder on streets is commonplace. 
The smell of spices hangs in the air.
Cajun homemade food alright and lively streets with real flavorful people. 

A flamboyantly dressed street performer comes up to me and joyfully says "Welcome to New Orleans we do this type of stuff here."
They know we're not from around here.

New Orleans sure is something.
Something amazing!

I wonder how this volunteerwork will be. I don't know what to expect. I mean I signed away my life here with the liability form. So I wonder how hard they'll work us?
I'm ready for it. I've visited my family in Central America and the Caribbean and I'm familiar with poverty and developing areas. I'm sure NOLA is different but I feel that because of this, I'll be even more comfortable while here. I want to really help these families. I think I'll see tears and hear heart wrenching stories but along with this, I'm sure I'll make friends. I'm content with the city life, but I want to know more! I want to converse with the homeless and homeful, the lively natives and the tourists. I think experiencing this will be amazing. I also can't wait to hear about the civil engineering behind this or the environment related issues and history.
That's all I got to say ~ rambling.

First Work Day

“Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” 
― Martin Luther King Jr.

I didn't know it was possible to fall in love with a place so quickly, but I've been in New Orleans for three days now and have fallen in love with this city. Driving down the streets, you can see the love and the pride that this city has. Each home is different from the next, and you can just see how expressive, unique, and artistic the people are by the different colors, creative architecture, and beautiful plants and artwork on and around the properties. 

Not only have I fallen in love with the city, but also the people living here. The hospitality is nothing like I've ever experienced before. For the most part, people can tell that we aren't from around here when we're walking around. Because of this, I have had countless conversations with complete strangers who are just so interested in where we're from and they go out of their way to welcome us to their home and thank us for coming to help. Yesterday I went into an art gallery in the French Quarter, and I was talking with him for about ten minutes, and I was literally sitting on the floor of his art gallery petting his puppy...which seems like it would normally be extremely weird, yet it was one of my favorite moments from yesterday because I saw how welcoming and friendly people can be here.

Exploring the city yesterday was so incredible, and left me in awe at the beauty within the area. Walking on the levee was surreal. For a little while, I simply sat on it imagining the water pouring over the top, and breaking through the middle, and it just gave me such a deeper understanding of what the people truly had to face during Hurricane Katrina. This made me want to get started on work just that much more. 

Today we finally started, and it was exhausting...yet I loved every moment of it. I mastered (well, sort of) how to use a power screw driver and we worked on basically re-doing a lot of what a past group had incorrectly done. Now that we have prepped the walls, we'll begin mudding tomorrow and I cannot wait to learn how to. I want to get as much done at the house this week, which is why today I tried working as quickly and efficiently as I could to my ability. I may be exhausted because of it, but I loved being able to work with and learn from the St. Bernard's volunteers. I cannot wait to continue working and see how much we can accomplish by the end of the week. 

Dos: Work Hard, Play Hard

Today was our first day on the job. I have obtained the new name "Mix Master Mud". I was blessed with the skill of floating mud, Regina and Ashley said I was a natural. The highlight of my day was being on the ladder. This was cool because I have a fear of heights. I felt as if I could have died at any moment, if you were wondering, I didn't. I'm waiting to see if the hard work paid off because I'm about to go into the city. If I enjoy myself, then its a sign. A sign that I did good.

Ain't No City Like New Orleans

I've fallen in love with New Orleans. I love Southern cuisine, culture and dialect. In just one day, I had been able to really take in the city. Walking down Bourbon Street, I could not believe how lucky I was to be able to have this experience. Everything is so beautiful. By far my favorite moment yesterday was when my Bonner group and I went to the Upper 9th Ward. As soon as we stepped out the van we saw a little boy and a slightly older about pre-teen girl walk out of their house with three puppies. They immediately approached us and made conversation. I thought it was the most adorable thing ever. I have never in the US seen kids whose parents allowed them to go outside to go interact with strangers without worrying about having eyes on their children at all times. It brought back memories of living in Ghana as a child and being able to roam free throughout my neighborhood. I am so happy to be in New Orleans with a great group of people. The city is so diverse and lively. The food is great and the people are even better. I have always wanted to move down south and now I know that there is really no reason why I shouldn't.