Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Tuesday: Paint Goes Up


More photos here!.
Today was a much more productive day. With the help of John we made a list of things that needed to get done. He split us up into groups of 3 and we each took a room. Today we actually got a large amount done. We primed, finished the textured paint on the ceiling and finished putting a chocolate color on the wall in the kitchen. It may have been tedious wok but the end result was rewarding.

Throughout the day we had about 3 extra hands. The 3 younger boys were eager to help and enjoyed putting on our giant knee pads and crazy safety goggles. The helped us paint and wanted to have a part in rebuilding the house they knew so well.

One of the most rewarding things of the day was seeing Ms. Rush's face when she saw her finished kitchen. Her boys, all so excited, dragged her from their trailer while covering her eyes until they brought her to the kitchen. Her look of surprise was priceless and made us all want to work harder to finish their house. I could not even tell you how many times she said, "Wow, Wow, " or "Oh, Thank y'all," or, "I 'preciate it." It was exciting to see how excited she was. Each of us felt revived by her strength to make it through this all and now are looking for ways to help them while we are here as well as keeping contact with them when we get back.

Everyone is real excited about the work we are doing. Our enthusiasm is even rubbing off on the Rush kids, who helped us along in our work today. I personally feel great about the work. It has a real personal feel. I also find it interesting meeting people so different than me.

~ Claire and Andy

8 comments:

Jillian Frank said...

Great job getting the kitchen painted, guys! I can only imagine how Ms. Rush must have felt seeing her new home coming together.

Good luck getting the house finished by the end of the week. Josh did tell you that if you get the whole thing done you get to cut/shave/mohawk his hair, right?!?!

Thinking of you,
Jillian

Scott Bader-Saye said...

What a great payoff--to see the excitement and joy you can bring to someone else through your work. Hey, when you get back, we've got a kitchen that needs painting! :-)

Peace,
Scott

Anonymous said...

I can't tell you how proud I am of all of you. To be able to impact a family's life like you are doing is such a wonderful blessing.

Keep up the good work.

Amy
PS I still can't get over how cool this is to be able to watch your progress!!

Anonymous said...

Dear Claire and andy
I enjoyed reading your description of the work you are doing. Ms. Rush must sense how fortunate she is to have your aid. God Bless!

Anonymous said...

Thanks so much for sharing your journey with us. Sending you encouragement, prayers, and good wishes.

Peace,
Helen B.

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you're having a great trip. Isn't it amazing how powerful a smile and the simple phrase "thank you" can impact your life. Suddenly, it doesn't seem like work any more!!!
Tip for the day: If you need to take a break (or stop for the day)but haven't finished the wall/ceiling you're painting, wrap your roller/brush in plastic wrap or alum. foil (tightly) and walk away. It will still be moist when you get back and you won't have to hassle with extra cleanings!!!
Keep up the good work and Godspeed, John Bachmann

demery said...

Hi Gang,

Wonderful job! You all look like you are having a blast, really connecting with a family who needs you, and getting lots of work done. Now that's the Christian life Jesus invites us to ... thanks for reminding us what it looks like. I hope every day gets better and better.

Bless you,
Demery

Anonymous said...

Way to go, guys. You look like you're doing a great job of painting and having fun while you're at it! Everyone's always smiling, including the Rush family. Keep up the good work.

We love you all and are thinking of you and praying for you! Robin and the Pinches crew (what's left, that is!)