FUMC-A2 Missions: Tennessee 2016 - Wrapping up on Friday

Thursday's post went up before the picnic, but it was a great event that deserves a little more press. We had about 150 people gathered at the Newport city park for burgers and dogs. While the grill masters were doing their thing, each of the work crews performed their "theme song" for the crowd. It was silly and not very musical, which is to say that everyone was laughing and having a great time. After we'd eaten, there was music and dancing at the front and serious conversation in the rear. For several of the work crews, this was the first time that they had been able to have an extended conversation with their homeowners. Many of our kids (and adults) reported that these conversations were the highlight of their week.

Friday was kind of bittersweet. Several of the crews actually finished their projects, and even if your crew didn't finish, the sense of accomplishment is very gratifying. On the other hand, we've come to be attached to these families and it's sad to leave them. There were group photos, gift exchanges, lots of hugs, and even a few tears.

Back at the camp, ASP brought us all together in a large circle to give everyone a chance to say what had touched them during the week. It was very rewarding to hear.

After that, the ASP staff filled a gutter (yes, that kind of gutter) with ice cream, whipped cream, and chocolate syrup. We all contributed and certain "volunteers" got to eat the ice cream blindfolded and with no hands. It was quite a hoot.

Then it was time for the FUMC-A2 tradition - paper plate awards. Every trip, the seniors make "awards" by decorating paper plates. Everyone gets a special memento of something memorable about their mission week. It's one of the things that the kids really look forward to. Well, the adults look forward to it, too.

Whew - a long day and a late bedtime, but we all went to bed happy. Today, it's drive, drive, drive and everyone looking forward to being home.

We'll see y'all soon.