Update #39 - December 28, 2005
Lucedale, MS - 13,365 miles (21,385 kms.)



This will be the last update for the year. For the past four months eversince Hurricane Katrina hit the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I've been wanting to do something in a major way to help out. I tried to get into the Biloxi and Gulfport area about a week after the Hurricane hit but there was no way that I could get into the damaged area because of all of the restrictions. I have the chance to now.

In early October of last year (2004), I connected with a small Baptist church in Biloxi (East Biloxi Baptist). The church is quite small (around 30 people) and it doesn't have a pastor. It does have a big heart since it has been involved with providing social ministries for the people in need. They have a food pantry and had provided meals for the people. I got to stay at the church and speak to the congregation.

I was quite surprised to find out that the church building had survived the onset of the hurricane. This was a bit of a miracle since the church is about two blocks awayt from the Gulf. What might have saved the building was that it is right behind one of the casino parking garages. Also, the church entrance was on the north side of the building. The church did have some damage done to it but it is open.

Either next Monday or Tuesday (Jan 2nd or 3rd), I will be riding down to Biloxi to help in the rebuilding of the church. They have turned some of the second floor Sunday school classrooms into dorm space. There have been work groups from churches staying there.

I do not know how long I'll be in the Biloxi area. It might be for a week or maybe for a month. I'll stay in the area as long as I feel needed. From Biloxi, I'll probably head back to Americus, GA for a short break off the road. I'm not sure where I will be traveling. Some of my friends in Colorado Springs, CO want me to visit with them.

Next year, will be my 14th year on the road. I'll also be celebrating my 50th birthday next June.

I'll try and post and update as often as I can if my plans change.