Changes

Those of us who have been here before are noticing the changes that have happened over time. Whereas last year, progress was seen in the concrete slabs that remained after abandoned houses were razed, this year more homes are occupied, but we are seeing many abandoned houses that are still standing...with broken and/or boarded up windows and overgrown lots. The streets in this part of town are in very poor condition, and there is some evidence of road work underway. A sign of progress is seen in the homes that have not only been restored, but also have finishing touches like landscaping.

In the homes we are working on, there is a common theme: warped wood studs. Our crews are learning how to create shims so the sheetrock can be hung properly. Between the length of time that has passed since these homes were gutted and the work that was not always properly done, there are plenty of challenges in trying to figure out how to accomplish the tasks we are given. The PDA folks are well stocked with good tools, at this point, and have construction assistants who are very helpful - another sign of progress

Some members of the group drove by the home we gutted last year. After a year's time, the homeowner has not yet moved in, but significant progress has been made. It is such a slow process. I met a neighbor today, whose daughter has been on a waiting list for 2 years.

We are tired, but the spirit of the group remains very good. The sun was shining today, with temps in the low 60s. Not bad, for January!

Blessings to all,

Cheryl