LPOHMA Lands in NOLA!

Dear Mammoth families,

We made it! Apologies for not writing last night, but we are all safe and sound here in NOLA.  We just finished breakfast at Operation Nehemiah and are on our way out for our first day of service.  Some of us will be painting, others helping install a floor and others assisting with yardwork.

All 7th graders did a wonderful job in the airport -- we even received compliments from the TSA staff!
The plane ride was smooth, and many kiddos slept.

We enjoyed a hearty breakfast at Waffle House upon arrival (posting pics later) and then headed to Operation Nehemiah to meet the wonderful people who are hosting us this week.  We are staying in dorm like rooms (bunk beds).  Boys are in rooms of 6 or less, and each girls' room has between eight and ten young ladies.    Scholars did a great job last night learning what it means to shower in a communal space.  It was a great life lesson for our boys and girls to remember to bring what they needed into the shower, how to change clothes before going back to one's room, etc.

Yesterday afternoon, we headed over to Mardi Gras World, where we learned about the REAL history behind Mardi Gras and toured the facility where Mardi Gras floats remain during the year (when it is not Mardi Gras).  Scholars also had a chance to make their own Mardi Gras mask, which they will be bringing back to New York on Friday.

We had an awesome first day, and were in bed by 8pm.  Scholars are well rested this morning, and we are looking forward to a great Day 2!

Love from NOLA,
Ms. Pasionek