Work in the Bayou April 26

We've had nice weather here this week. The mornings are humid and often overcast but the breezes from the Gulf come up in the afternoon and it is pleasant. Last night we had heavy rain so was wet out this morning. Many of the pods had water in them this morning but Andrea and I did not.

The whole Oregon crew is working in a village called DuLac which is about 30 miles south of Houma. The road sorta ends there but it is so different as the roads are between the bayous so the water is on each side of the road. There is usually a row of houses along the water (or road) and their boats are lined up along side. They make their living from the bayous. There are no stores close by except maybe a little mini mart with a few things - mostly snacks and drinks. About half of the homes are up on pillars as they are to be elevated. I went out with the group on Wed while Andrea stayed back at the village. The home has been put up above the ground since the hurricane with a stairway on the back but no railings yet. She is not living in the home as she had 4 ft of water in it. They did drywall, removing the cupboards to do the kitchen. I used the gift cards to buy new windows for this home which are being installed today. She was overwhelmed that we'd do that as she bought what she could with her insurance money. She ordered cupboards, new appliances, some furniture, bathroom fixtures. Jer Lenz is holding the ceiling with the broom.



Last night we were invited to the 1st Presbyterian Church at Bayou Blue (where we went on Sun) for a potluck. Those people are so gracious, appreciative of the volunteers, so much food as they like to eat. One lady shared a little about living here and a major problem is losing the marsh and wetlands each year which means the hurricanes will do more damage in coming years. This lady spoke recently at the United Nations about the loss of wetlands. She can only reach her home on Grand Bayou by boat. These people have been living here that way for many generations and it is the only way of life they know. Many are poorly educated, can not or will not be relocated. There are many different Indian tribes plus the French Cajun. Many people in this church are French and didn't learn English until they went to school. In fact for many years the Cajun (just like the Indians) weren't allowed in the public schools. It is a totally different culture down in southern Louisiana. It is growing on me, I guess.

Each day is busy. Mon night my feet hurt so much from all the walking between the kitchen tent and the dining tent. There is a blue pod with all the food, 2 refrigerators, one freezer, sinks, etc for food preparation. Next to it is a wooden structure (with no doors) that has the stove and one freezer. Next comes the dining tent with another refrigerator. Coffee pots are in dining tent but have to get water from the kitchen. It is not convenient so it will be really nice in another month when the new building with the kitchen, dining area and indoor plumbing (restrooms) is finished.


Take care today and will try to enter more tomorrow. Without a vehicle I can't get out to get some pictures.
Phyllis