Today was the first day back in Pittsburgh and reality has set in rather quickly, thanks to homework that needs to be done for classes tomorrow (the books I brought on the trip and my good intentions were unfortunately no match for my overwhelming desire to bond with my bed at the end of each work day). However, this trip has been worth every hour of sleep I may lose tonight, and more. From the first day (or night rather), when everyone on the trip got to know each other at 3:30 in the morning, I realized I was in for something. I was proved right.
Upon arriving at Peace Lutheran Mission Center, to a good dose of southern hospitality from our hosts, we tentatively began the process of really getting to know each other. We were aided in this task that night by a giant appetizer plate of New Orleans food and a lively zydeco band.
The following day, we explored the French Quarter, undeterred by rain that lasted most of the afternoon and evening. Tuesday, we began our first day of work with Habitat Humanity, in more rain and cold temperatures which seemed intent on making all of us wonder why we left Pittsburgh. However, despite the less than ideal conditions we were able to bond during the experience (and enjoy a brown bag lunch in a van more than should probably be possible).
It was these sorts of moments which helped make this trip one I will never forget. I had the opportunity to do some challenging and unbelievably rewarding work for people who truly need it in an incredible city which has a seemingly unbreakable spirit. The people with Habitat For Humanity and also AmeriCorps deserve some sort of medal for the time and energy they give. And in addition, I was able to meet and get to know some really awesome people who I have probably walked by a thousand times on my way to classes without even knowing it (if it was in the morning, while on my way to get coffee before my first class, I'm sorry, I can't be held accountable). Overall, Spring Break '10 can be chalked up as a huge success. So, in the words of a now honorary New Orleanian - WHO DAT?!
-Meghan Higgins
Upon arriving at Peace Lutheran Mission Center, to a good dose of southern hospitality from our hosts, we tentatively began the process of really getting to know each other. We were aided in this task that night by a giant appetizer plate of New Orleans food and a lively zydeco band.
The following day, we explored the French Quarter, undeterred by rain that lasted most of the afternoon and evening. Tuesday, we began our first day of work with Habitat Humanity, in more rain and cold temperatures which seemed intent on making all of us wonder why we left Pittsburgh. However, despite the less than ideal conditions we were able to bond during the experience (and enjoy a brown bag lunch in a van more than should probably be possible).
It was these sorts of moments which helped make this trip one I will never forget. I had the opportunity to do some challenging and unbelievably rewarding work for people who truly need it in an incredible city which has a seemingly unbreakable spirit. The people with Habitat For Humanity and also AmeriCorps deserve some sort of medal for the time and energy they give. And in addition, I was able to meet and get to know some really awesome people who I have probably walked by a thousand times on my way to classes without even knowing it (if it was in the morning, while on my way to get coffee before my first class, I'm sorry, I can't be held accountable). Overall, Spring Break '10 can be chalked up as a huge success. So, in the words of a now honorary New Orleanian - WHO DAT?!-Meghan Higgins
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