Decatur, AL, 9 p.m.

Seven of our team met at the church at 6 a.m. and we were on the road by 6:15.  In the next 14 hours we drove some 740 miles to Decatur, Alabama.  We drove into rain somewhere near Cincinnati and had rain with us much of the remainder of the day.  Although tired, our team is in good spirits having been strengthened by the generous support of our church and by wonderful cookies, muffins, and care packages provided by so many members.

After checking into our hotel, we drove several blocks to Big Bob Gibson's BBQ where we enjoyed award-winning bbq.  We had barely finished one rib when one of the employees announced that they would be closing in a few minutes.

Back now in our rooms, all our team is tired from a long day's travel, but thankful for the safe journey and the delightful company.  In addition to our two vans, our team was accompanied by eight members of the Elfinwild Presbyterian Church who rode in a third van.

Tomorrow, we will leave shortly after 7 a.m. and travel the remaining 350 miles to Long Beach where we will receive an orientation.  We look forward to being joined on Monday by our final team member, Bobbie.

Someone mentioned that severe storms have been predicted for this evening.  I'm thinking that we may all sleep through them.

Steve