Jour Un: Nous Arrivons

After convening at dawn in Bethlehem, we began our trek to New Orleans.

Our flight, including going through security, was pleasantly smooth. We arrived around 11:00 and took a shuttle to rent cars. We waited in typical New Orleans weather (high 80s and 100% humidity) for two hours while our rental was processed. (Business is a bit more laid back here.)

We somehow made it to CiCi's for a much-needed lunch (déjeuner), needless to say the crew was famished. Upon completing lunch, the caravan headed into the center of the "Big Easy", to settle into our new "digs". Somehow, the group managed to become separated with Brian taking the "scenic route." After a drive through an area still reeling from the effects of Katrina, we arrived at the Episcopal Urban Ministries office, which is (to our pleasant surprise) a comfortably large and air-conditioned maison. We settled into our rooms (the girls lugging their belongings to their top-floor residence).

A small team grocery-shopped while the rest of the group recovered from a tiring day of travel. As dinner was being prepared, a small group decided to take in the setting sun and the sounds of the city. Then we enjoyed a feast of roast chicken, baked beans, peas, corn, and potato salad. Many of us dined al fresco on the porch. After cleaning up, we gathered in the sitting room for our evening prayer.

We now look forward to soft beds and hope for cool weather tomorrow.