Journal Entry 17 - Windsor at Victoria Heights, Rowland Height, CA

Of all the things I expected to do in life, I never thought I'd find myself committing to volunteer service like I have done so far and will hopefully continue. Upon my return from Biloxi, Mississippi, a wave of ideas, thoughts, and aspirations come into mind. Many, many waves, of these little epiphanies strike me off balance, but off balance in the sense that I have a new direction to go and feel out to see if that direction can work better for me.

My trip to Biloxi, Mississippi, simply put, was amazing. It was such a profound experience that I can't even believe that I'm back in my everyday life. Rebuilding Democracy in Biloxi is definitely not an easy task to do. There's just so many issues that revolved around hurricane Katrina rebuilding efforts, commercialism and the casinos, voter registration, laws, policy, and life on the Gulf Coast.

A flow of emotions came through me this past week. Some that I didn't really believe I would encounter. I experienced happiness with meeting the group of site leaders Ashley Smith, Ashley Hall, Jenny Fisher, Meghan Oakley, and my co-site leader, Kari Pyle. I was filled with excitement to meet the staff, Jill, Jillian, Sam, Kelly, and Crystal. I was overly happy, excited, and thrilled to meet the members as they filed in at different times of the day.

I remember the very first two members that came through the door. Emma Smith and Dustin Newcombe arrived at the same time. This is the moment that this experience started. I realized at this moment upon seeing them, that I was going to have duties of being a site leader, and that I'd be thrown for an experience that would change the way I think about issues, the way I think about service, and my thoughts about Alternative Breaks at my school and as a National Movement.

The people I have come to meet through this experience puts me in a sense of awe. First of all, I'm so happy to have met so many people just as in love with Alternative Breaks as I am. That sense of care, passion, love, devotion, and commitment keeps me enthused, motivated, and optimistic about Alternative Breaks and life in general. To know that people feel the same way I do on even a few things makes me feel validated about why I choose to continue doing Alternative Breaks and why we deal with people, differences in choices and opinions the way we do.

To gain a sense of understanding of people, and for people to understand me, has been a total shock. For people to agree with me, or even disagree in a healthy way is enough to make me love Alternative Breaks that much more. The things I have learned education wise puts me into a loop. I didn't realize that I would learn so much about the social issues involved with the service we would be doing in the week in Biloxi.

I'd like to thank the wonderful staff, the engaging members, and the inspiring site leaders for all they have supplied me in terms of knowledge and support. Everyone at the Alternative Break Citizenship School in Biloxi really brought me more knowledge than I ever thought I would gain. Meeting so many passionate people in one place makes me have that happy, warm feeling inside. It's so rare to meet so many passionate people who ARE active citizens, putting service, volunteerism, education, social justice, and diversity in the forefront of their lives.

I've never been surrounded by this feeling of support and love that was formed at the ABCs. The Green Wood Ducks was another adopted identity that played it's own role in group dynamics and group cohesion. Not only that, we were split on service days. We proved ourselves flexible and inclusive by taking in members from the Purple Dolphins and the Yellow Bees. We made them a part of our team with no question. I hopefully succeeded at not excluding people, only when we would yell "Quack" to get our group together. Of course, there's always friendly competition. Other than that, the group identity was that of the bigger, larger group identity. That is, being a part of ABCs 2008: Biloxi, Mississippi - Rebuilding Democracy. That is what I'm so proud to be a part of and grateful to have spent a week with such amazing people who inspire me just thinking about them.

Leaving these people was so far. I actually shed tears during the graduation portion. I did not think that this experience would be so emotional, but all things passionate are usually tied to emotions. That sense that we are all physically separated, is a feeling of emptiness and loss. But, I know that we will all adjust to a sense of normalcy, but we will never forget the memories and good times that we all shared in Biloxi. We will find ways to see each other again, somehow, someday, somewhere, we will all meet again. Life is full of experiences and possibilities, so now, I'm going to go with that and just do it. With that, I end this.

ABCs Slideshow 5

ABCs Slideshow 4

ABCs Slideshow 3

ABCs Slideshow 2

ABCs Slideshow 1

Journal Entry 16 - Continental Airlines Gate E5 - Houston, Texas

Today was the day in which I woke up the latest. I was feeling really exhausted from the day prior, so it made sense. Everyone woke up really late. Dustin waking up and getting up made me wake up. Also, the smell of food did the trick.

The horrible thought of leaving finally hit hard today. it wasn't a good feeling, because I know how fast we became the Green Wood Ducks group, and now we'd have to disperse to all over the country. After breakfast, we did some group vision writing and how we'd work to stay connected. Brittany made the facebook group, we'd do a traveling journal, and send letters, facebook, and call each other! I'm already excited for Brittany coming to California.

Then, we did a few things. We did evaluations, and then we walked outside to play Journey for Bongo. We came back inside for our graduation. We were presented with a huge Break Away poster for the Ballroom. We all got to sign it.

Devin gave an inspirational speech and almost made everyone tear up and cry. Then, he revealed a picture of a bee/duck/dolphin that united all the groups. Then, Vanessa gave a speech about the Ripple Effect. Then, site leaders called, then groups for some certificates, shirts, and prizes. We got the new Break Away t-shirt, a Hands on Gulf Coast t-shirt, and I got chocolate animal crackers.

Then, a group poem was read about everyone. Oh, everyone's favorite memory was read. They read mind about me embarrassing myself in Two Truths and a Lie. While another was that when Brittany and Jack had their laughing fits and Jack said he was about to Pee in his pants. Oh, gosh people! Anyway, the graduation was over before we knew it, and everyone was leaving!

It was so sad! Then, the site leaders and staff went to the Vietnamese part of Biloxi to get Vietnamese sandwiches and Boba! It was foreign and new to everyone except me.

Kari had to leave with Jillian. Kelly took Ashley Smith and Hall back to Hands On while Sam, Crystal, Jenny, and I stayed behind. We talked, mostly about me and California.

Then, Kelly came back to get us. I hung out with Erica, Kyle, and Jenny, as we saw Lisa leave with Taler, Dustin, Crystal, Randon, Ashley Smith and Hall, Meghan and... that's it I believe. I gave everyone hugs. I almost cried again! It's so hard to leave them! I mentioned my plans to Dustin about going to New York because I want to go to New York, and also to visit David Lai who is going to Cornell, where Ithaca College is. I also really want to road trip!

Well, everyone left. Eventually, I packed all my stuff. Then, the moment came. We all would have to leave Hands On! We gave hugs to Sam and Crystal. Then, we waved goodbye to Jill.

We reached the airport and Taler came out to tell Kyle that her flight, and everyone else's was delayed. We went through ticketing, checked bags, and security in about 10 minutes. Then, we met up with the Ashleys, Dustin, Meghan, Randon, Taler, Crystal, and Lisa (who was leaving... we have her hugs before she was off.).

Kyle switched his flight to a earlier flight to everyone else's flight. Then, it was time. Everyone left Erica and I. We said bye like 100 times. It was so hard to say bye to these amazing people! I nearly cried as finally, Randon was the last to board. Erica and I didn't even leave the gate until they completely pulled away from the gate.

Dang! Emotional experience! Ahh! After that, we boarded our plane to Houston, Texas, and now I'm waiting at my gate to leave to LAX. I'll talk about the experience as a whole as soon as I can rest from writing. Maybe I'll do this on the plane, but I know there's so much to process. My emotions are running high. This was such a physical and new emotional experience I'll probably never forget.

Journal Entry 15 - Hand on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

I have to write two journal entries, one for Thursday and one for today. This is for yesterday's events. Ten, there will be another entry.

So, Thursday was more mold cleanup and gutting of the house. We drove over there, Ella and another Hands On guy joined us. Kate, Marco, and I were falling asleep in the backseat. I had to switch pens from black to purple. Anyway, Kari finally drove us to the site and we all started working right away.

Today, we had Dustin and Marco from the Purple Dolphins join us. The main jobs today were to remove ceilings in the kitchen, garage, and living room. We also had to remove the insulation that fell with the dry wall. Then, we took out nails and staples in the wood.

I worked for nearly an hour straight without much of a break. Finally, we all took a much needed break. After that first break, I started getting tired really fast. I would go fo 5 minutes and get tired again. Lots and lots of sweating. Throwing out big pieces of drywall into the trash was so tiring, especially in goggles that fogged up, ventilators, and Tyvek suits.

Some people had to take down lamps and take out the ceiling. Kate and Dustin looked pretty horrible with their aces lined with mold, dirt, and insulation.

Everyone really worked as a cohesive team, helping to stuff bags full of insulation, pulling out nails, and making sure people were taking breaks. I was so proud of the Green Team + the Purple Team adopted members.

The work was still a bit frustrating, only because we didn't get to finish the cleanup/gutting, nor did we actually get to "de-mold". We didn't finish! That was not our fault either. Ella made our car leave slow. Then, we were outside to let the rest of the team remove the ceiling, but she wanted ALAL of us to work at the same time, which made workspace really crowded. I believe we could have finished if we weren't so crowded.

Anyway, after feeling as if I was going to pass out, rain started coming. We packed up in a hurry and then, it started pouring like crazy! We all started running and screaming to get into the cars.

We left the site into our drive home. Then, the radio blessed us with the same song as we were leaving last time. Again, Leona Lewis "Bleeding Love" came on the radio! We decided again to have the party/singing van! Kyle, Kate, and I sang/belted out the song for the camera. Brittany got every second of it. It was the best ever. We obviously were THAT comfortable with each other to do that. THen, more and more songs played. "No Air' by Jordin Sparks came on, and also, Carrie Underwood's "Before He Cheats" played! We took a small detour back to Hands on, because Kari got off the wrong exit.

We all lined up for showers. I decided to break out in songs, just to make showering more fun.

After, I had a big lunch. Then, we had "People's Choice" workshops. I went to Recruitment/Selections first while Erica attended Site Development. The workshop was good, but I was so exhausted and brain dead. I think Brittany, Kate, and Dustin were also looking a bit tired and sleepy. That workshop ended. I then went to Media Relations/Communications with Erica. We saw the WLOX interview ( Scroll down to the video box. Then, in the news video box, scroll down to find Danielle Thomas reports on volunteers with a double mission.) And, read this (http://www.wlox.com/Global/story.asp?S=8573259). I think I sucked, but whatever! That was my 10 seconds of fame. After that we went inside the main building from the church to start the opportunities fair.

Different community partners were there, school info was laid out, and flyers were available. After, we had dinner. I sat at the table with Bob Woods from the Florida Trails. It seems like a cool idea for an AB trip.

There were funny conversations held with this man, such as names we would look like we would have, Acorn as a name, jobs, and other stuff. I thought it was funny that he use to work for Nike as a graphic person.

After the dinner, we had the Reorientation workshop that I believe Erica and I contributed to. Then, we did group skits that represented our entire experience. We did a huge Mafia game skit. I was a construction worker who died from too much breathing in of mold. Bianca was Sam, who died of not having her headband, her scarf too tight, and her brain fell out. Brittany was Jill, who cooked her secret concoction and died from poisoning. Lisa had a dog, but I forget how she died. Whoever played Kelly, died from no sleep. Kari died from following John's many u-turns. Oh yeah, I think Kate was Kelly. Oh, and Lisa was Marco, who braked like a dog and had to be shut up by Ali, who was Mafia. She placed tape on her mouth. I forgot how Dusty died.

After, we did reflections. We started off just talking about the overall experience as a whole. Then, we did 5 minute life maps. THen, any extra time was given to a Q&A session. The activity was funny, honest, open, intense, and everything else. It was GREAT! I love learning about everyone in the group!

After that, I went outside to talk to people, take pictures, and play two games of Mafia. Of course, I got killed early on. Every time, its always me or Dustin Mafia, us killed early, or one of us Mafia at least. Marco tried to play us all. Emma, again, played us all. She's shady! Haha!

Then, some people went inside. Then, a few of us were outside talking about whatever, and we also played Flash, but just mostly about movies. Eventually, we all headed back in to sleep at about 2:15AM.

Journal Entry 14 - Hand on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

I woke up today after a lot of people. It was the first time I woke up that late. The rain, thunder, and lightning started real early. The groups doing morning service waited until later to leave. So, we all did the fundraising and alcohol and AB workshops in a huge group in the Ballroom.

We all went to Voter Registar as the green team! Ali, Kate, and I went in John's car. We stopped at a gas station/convenience store. Not a lot of people came, so we went to 3 trailer parks to canvass. At the first, WLOX, a tv news channel, interviewed us, Alie, Kate, and myself, for the night news. They taped us at the first two locations.

We drove back, and I showered. We then had free time and dinner. At dinner, we did group reflections. This was our most intense reflection yet! We got to talk about our service and what went good, bad, and what was challenging.

I started to talk about the one guy I got to register to vote at the trailer park. Walking up ramps to his house was obvious that he was disabled. When the man answered the door, he was in a wheel chair. He asked me to go into to hold the clipboard down on the table so it wouldn't fall. He said that he was displaced and moved by Katrina and recently had a stroke. He also said he would die soon anyway. Thinking about this, I didn't know how to respond.

I told this to the group, literally tearing up! I don't know why, but then I do, too! People back in California don't register and don't care, and it's much more widespread. It bothers me that its so easy in California for peopel to vote, but people don't exercise that right to register and vote.

After that, we talked about the claim common ground activity to follow-up properly. A lot of great things were said and discussed.

We then had loads of free time. We got to see Meagan's husband and her trip to Brussels, in which she got engaged!

Then, social night began! We all shuttled to the beach for a bonfire, smores, frisbee, or football, talking, and a great game of Mafia! Erica was the puppet master to Marco, and Marco proved the worst player ever!

After that, some of us stayed outside and talked until about 1:45AM. We talked about very random topics until we felt super sleepy.

Journal Entry 13 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

Today was possibly one of the hardest and longest days of the trip so far. Today was the official day of Mold and demolition. We all had to wake up really early to leave by 8:00AM.

We packed up the van and the PT Cruiser. We drove 30 minutes to Moss Point. We stopped at a brick house with a huge dumpster in front of it. We then suited up in Tyvek suits, gloves, ventilators, and goggles. We got to work, removing debris, furniture, moldy insulation, trash, and everything and anything in the house and garage.

I can say this was the hardest volunteer work I have ever done. I was so tired, even after just 5 minutes of work, I would be out of breath. I helped a lot with clearing debris, small items, and the garage.But, I feel a bit disappointed in myself for getting tired so much and so fast.

After 3 hours, we finally finished and headed back. We then decided to sing in the car. Well, at least Kyle and I decided to sing some Leona Lewis and some "Celebration!" The ride home was pretty fun, actually.

When we got back, we all decided to immediately shower. I came to the showers, and Devon led a sing-a-long.

We then had lunch. I ate so much food! I was in food heaven! Anyway, we went to the church next door for a reflection and Active Citizen workshop. Both were well put together today. We even had a chance to play the Hand Slap game!

After that, we had some free time to just play the solitaire games on the bench inside Hands on. Then, dinner was served with a round table activity where we could ask questions or just give some ideas.

Then, the funniest things happened. We had conversations about TV shows and guilty pleasure TV shows, like CASH CAB!, What Not to Wear, and Deadliest Catch! Then, Kyle cracked a joke about him being the "Deadliest Catch" which cracked Brittany up, which then caused me to laugh hysterically with her.

Then, we were all served a great big helping of brownies and ice cream. It was sooooo good!

Afterwards, we walked over the the church across the street for a bit of Diversity and Sociual Justice Workshopping.

We talked about Diversity, Social Issues, and did Claim Common Ground. Of course, that activity is always intense, bit I definitely like it with better group processing as well. But, it was what it was. We did get to go around talking to people about the issues.

After, we walked back for some reflections, even though it was already 10:00PM. We did a game of flash to talk about what we did for projects (either Blitz Build or Mold) and how it went. Then, I bridged the two groups feeling of disconnect with affirmations of the entire team as a whole, regardless of the split.

I hope the reflection went well. We didn't take as long, but I'm sure we could have had better reflections. However, it was late and we had to talk softly.

Afterwards, some of us stayed downstairs to talk about random things. Eventually, Ashely stayed downstairs talking to Kyle, and I went on the computer to chat and check my emails.

I then came upstairs to journal, and now I'm going to probably sleep. I'm so tired, but tomorrow should be easier with Voter Registar.

Journal Entry 12 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Bilox, Mississippi

I pulled a muscle while sleeping. I had my silent pain while everyone slept. I had a limp when I woke up. I go up early enough to upload all my journals.

I had breakfast at a completely different table with different people. Then, Kari and I had a meeting with Jill and Kelly about our site leader and our group.

We then went into our first workshop of the day about Group Facilitation and Problem Resolution. Ali and I had to act out our "LARA" and I had to drop the "F Bomb" so many times to prove the point! It was funny, but good and really made me fell angry!

After that, we did the learning components workshop with Hill and Kelly. We did mind mapping and learned about the components of AB that I think NEED to be included In AB trips next year. They are really what define AB trips.

We then did lunch! After lunch, we went to do Voter Registar stuff. We went to the County Clerk's office. We actually went into the court room and I sat on a jury chair. The lady was actually really nice! She's in charge of the voting in Mississippi, but also took questions and learned about other states' voting differences. I was amazed to learn she made strides in her office, being the 1st woman to get elected into her county's office. She also helped diversity and computerize, giving salaries to county workers.

After that, we went to Wal-Mart to canvass. It was hot and it was hard. It definitely was a challenge. It was hard to ask people and to get out of my comfort zone.

The Burger King wouldn't let us stay at their front door. The black store manager said her district manager (who is white) would not let us, even though there was no asking involved, only that he was there.

When Lisa and I walked back to Wal-Mart with Jenny, a security guard from Wal-Mart kicked us all off the property or she'd call the cops! That's so dumb and lame! Well, Bianca was pretty pissed about it all, and us as a collective group as well.

We left there pretty pissed. Then, awhile driving back, and at a stoplight, an ambulance comes behind all the cars. People would NOT move out of the way. It was pretty scary and weird. We all were in a "WOW" moment of it all.

We eventually got back, singing our songs from the car, like "I Believe In Miracles", "Mambo Number 5", and such.

We had a short rehash with John "the Voter Guy." Literally that's his phone number on my phone right now.

Our group then sat down to make questions for the night's Speaker Panel. We had dinner, but with the entire Mold Group for Mold Orientation. We added 4 new people, but lost Ali, Bianca, and Lisa. We have Devon and Elizabeth from the Yellow for tomorrow and Dustin and Marco for Thursday. This should be freakin fun and I'm super pumped already! After orientation, we got a chance to get our equipment, consisting of: ventilation masks, Tyvek suits, gloves, and filters. It's going to be hot, sweaty, and fun to gut and demold that house!

After that fun, I called my mom. Then, John called for Marco and Emma, on my phone of all phones. We then started the Speaker Panel. We had the president of the Biloxi NAACP, the STEPS Coordinator, and someone from the Office of Social Justice. It was pretty intense, but really, really good and so insightful. It was the best panel I've ever had the chance to hear speak!

I said my question assigned to me by my group. They gave such great answers to all of our questions. The speakers, especially the NAACP president Crowell, nearly had me in tears. The stories they told of Bilox, leaving, the shelters, FEMA, and everything else totally blew me away! It was beyond real, especially to hear that Crowell actually went through segregation and racism here in Biloxi. It was so inspiring. I was so grateful to hear the stories. I was actually so surprised to see Dustin give a standing ovation. He even said he was practically tearing up because of the panel, and how he has grown up in a privileged life and community. That's the kind of change these AB trips can bring, especially with awareness. I was actually proud of him for that moment. I think that moment also made everything in history become real!

After, Erica and I talked with Christy about AB programs. Then, we all broke up for reflections.

Tonight, we met outside for our first meeting. We started off with just a groupbuilder. We did 2 truths and a lie. That's always fun! Then, we did a rehash reflection on today's service with two questions. The first was: what is the best thing about today? The second was: what was the most challenging? I gained a lot of perspectives, and enjoyed listening to everyone.

After that, we read our hopes of what we hope to gain out of this week from Biloxi, MS. Again, I loved everyone's perspectives and insights. Some creative pictures, too! I ended with my corny write-up! Haha! But, it did include some goals and hopes for the week.

After, Jenny, again, took me to Wal-Mart to get a water bottle, because I left mine at the County office.

I came back to give one to Erica. Then, I had some chat time with everyone and people, including Erica.

Now, which took awhile, everyone of the guys have come and gone to bed. I'm always the last guy to go to sleep at night, it's kind of crazy! Well, that means I should sleep! Well, today was a GREAT day! I'm loving this ABC experience/AB experience so much beyond belief! I'm almost liking it more than my AB Russia trip. That's how amazing and profound this trip has been so far. Well, I have to wake up early tomorrow for MOLD cleanup/House gutting!

Journal Entry 11 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

Today was a long, hard day, but, a fun interesting day. I can barely recall everything.

After breakfast, we had some friendly competition with Break Away Basics. The Green team was 2nd place. WE then watched the AB-Break Away movie. After, we did a workshop on strategic planning. It was useful. We did a lot of activities, and outlined our programs. Mine was pretty complicated.

Then, we finally broke for lunch. After that, we did stations with group builders. We did the sheet/blanket drop. Then we played Bibibity-Bobbity-Boo. Then, we did Flash. Then, we did the human knot (we were the only group to succeed. We then did the hand game.

We then did volunteer site orientation with Hand on Gulf Coast with Kat. Then, we had Sam explain the Voter Registar. Then, reading time began. I uploaded some journals. Then, we met back up for dinner.

Issue Night began! It was actually pretty good! Everyone got to talking and I mentioned the Vietnamese population (the only highly densely populated area that is full of the Asian population, and that got hit bad by the hurricane).

We had time to discuss in small groups, and then discussed in the big group. It was very insightful, I have to say! We also did the 4 corners activity and had more discussion. We then did skits on what our collective group would see as we do this volunteer project for a week.

Then, we ended, but not the entire night. Most of the Green, Purple, and some of ther Yellow teams went outside to play Mafia. Dustin and I got Mafia first, but some haad their eyes open, so they knew it was me! We played a real game twice, and the last one was just intense. I had to eliminate my Mafia to get to the final three, until I got out.

After that, I went to shower. A tree frog was in one, so I waited for another. The lights turned off right before I finished dressing! Anyway, I came back in, and Random lent me his headlight. So, I believe I should sleep. Voter Registar tomorrow! Erica is also arriving!

Journal Entry 10 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

Last night was really cold! Jenny reclaimed her sleeping bag, so the warmth is no more.

I kept tossing and turning. It was a little different this past night. I had gotten used to sleeping with only staff, site leaders, and Americorps people. Now that most of the Break Away people are here, there's much more "sleep" sounds.

They didn't bug me or anything, its just interesting to hear how people sleep. Not to be creepy sounding, but it's fascinating!

Today should be a fun day but very long day. Breakfast should have started a few minutes ago! Anyway, I'm excited for Erica to finally get here! She texted me, but I called her back. She didn't answer, but I'll see her soon anyway!

Well, I'm going to find other things to waste my time.

Journal Entry 9 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

I woke up pretty early this morning to get ready and have breakfast. Jenny and I headed to Walmart to buy some stuff, since it seemed like none of my stuff would arrive at the airport. I felt like I overspent, easily buying $125 of things.

We came back. Emma Smith and Dustin Newcombe arrived. I gave them the grand tour of the entire facility. It gave me ample training for when/if I apply as a UCSD tour guide! I then decided to call Delta to find info on my bag. I filed another claim. I ended up giving a lot more tours. Eventually, the rain came, and this caused us to not go outside for any tours. Later, I got a voice mail to get my baggage from Northwest.

Meagan and Kari were the drivers of the vans, so they took me to get my bag. I picked it up! Hooray! I then found Ray Budd waiting for his friend Marco. We got to talk about our flights and casinos. We all drove back and I joined a very quick game of catchphrase, but I sucked and year!

Then, we did the introductions of Break Away Staff, Interns, and Site Leaders. Then, we did a big circle introduction. We then did the my favorite activity is...game. That was pretty fun. Then, we separated into our groups, herding them with animal sounds. It was pretty hilarious, but it all worked out great!

We then broke up intro groups and did group builders, a review of the work placement (mold), and the binders. The best part was before goals and fears. Bianca Vazquez said she had asthma and couldn't do mold cleanup. Then, we the goals and fears activity, Lisa and Allie both revealed they have asthma! Great! but, we might switch them out.

Then, we all broke for dinner, of course, in groups. We did a pre-dinner activity, a dinner activity, and a post dinner activity about ground rules and stuff. Then, we had a short break.

Tonight was movie night, so we watched two movies addressing the issues of voting. They were really good,. We had a shot discussion then had our sleep time. Kari, Crystal, and I had a talk with Kyle about his program in the Dominican Republic with Orphanage Outreach. It sounds so cool!

Then Rejess came and talked about her dietary concerns, so we all talked about obesity and diabetes. Then, Jenny took Rejess, Bianca, and I to Walmart. I had to return a lot of things. The ladies questioned me, but they took the stuff.

We looked for things and then stopped at Burger King. We got back, and I finally took a good shower. It felt so good! Plus, the flood lights outside were working, so it was good!

I then sat talking to Kari and Kelly. Then, I sat downstairs to talk to Bianca to compare our programs. Well, I finally came to my relocated bed. Everyone's fast asleep, it's kind of cool! Hahah, well, I shall go to sleep. I've been going to sleep so early, but I'm tired. They turned off the lights 10 minutes ago, so it's a sign to stop writng.

Journal Entry 8 - Hands on Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

Today was an overall fun day. We all woke up pretty early, around 7AM, got ready, and had a pretty large breakfast. We all sat around and talked until workshops began.

We had a pretty intense series of workshops today. We did the education portion of the trip, reflections, and how to lead small groups. We had lunch after that and all talked more.

Then, we had a group building and other information workshop. From there, we left for our surprise dinner.

We piled into either the van, or Megan's car. I went in Megan's car. We actually ended up eating at none other than the Shed! This place was featured by the Food Network chef, Guy something with the show Diners, Drives-Ins, and Dives or something. Crazy! There was a poster signed with his picture and everything. I believe I watched that episode that featured this place.

We got food! Good Southern food! I got the Beef Brisket and a Southern Sweet Tea. Soooo good! The place was just what I had pictured! There were little ponds, riversides/banks, and even a pier. It was so awesome. We ate outside and watched the live band sing and play. It felt so Sweet Home Alabama, but in Mississippi! It was so awesome! I'm so glad we went there! So far, I've loved my experience here! Saying that, even though my luggage has still not arrived! I'm living an clothes that was stored in my backpack! I really need to try, to get more temporary things! Well, I'm just tired now, and it's hard to write, but I'll keep going.

Driving back, we all switched cars. The clouds rolled in and rain poured while thunder rolled and lightening struck. Awesome, we ran inside from the cars to avoid getting soaked!

So I did some more education reading! So now, I'm just super excited for what's to come this week.

Oh yeah! So lucky me! I predicted correctly that I was going to get assigned MOLD cleanup! Lucky me! Well, it should be fun! One other volunteer just told us that we're going to need to wear minimal clothing because we are going to die! Oh my!

Well, anyway, that's it for now! I'm just totally excited for tomorrow and seeing all the members!

We got food! Good Southern food! I got the Beef Brisket

Journal Entry 7 - Hands of Gulf Coast, Biloxi, Mississippi

I'm finally here at the facility. Hours upon hours late, but I'm here. I had to claim baggage as not here. I'm suppose to get it tomorrow morning delivered to the facility! Hooray for that!

Jill drove me around Biloxi to the beach where all the staff and site leaders were. We stepped into the Gulf Coast, then sat on the beach and told our stories of how we got involved in AB. We then had pizza, salad, and cookies. We then walked a long way back to the facility for a game and site leader pair reveals. So there's Ashley, Ashley, Jenny, Kari, Meagan, and staff Jill, Sam, Crystal, and Jill.

We did the "true colors" test and did the group process thing. It's funny because we just did this with Jayne!

We took a tour and then set up for sleep. Well, I'm tired and had a long day of travel. So, that's it for tonight!

Journal Entry 6 - Delta Airtlines, Atlanta, Georgia

So, I did miss my 3:50pm flight to Gulfport, but I asked the peopel at the counter what to do. I had to take the train to concourse C, which was really far, if you know the Atlanta airport. I got there right on time. They were already boarding. They fixed my ticket right on time.

The planes get smaller and smaller but I already expected that. I'm so glad I got a flight that quickly out of Atlanta. I seriously spent about 10 minutes in the actual airport, adding time I went to the restroom. That was how quick I had to catch the flight.

So finally, we are gonna land in Gulfport/Biloxi. I'm just worried about where my bag went! Hopefully either Break Away got it, or the airport has it so I can go claim it. I have to call Jill ASAP upon arrival! I don't think she knows when or where I'll be arriving. The problem is now my phone is going to die! Hopefully, they have plugs or change stations!

Well, 20 minutes or so until boarding!

Journal Entry 5 - American Airlines, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

This day has been absolutely, unbelievably ridiculous! Dallas has been a trip I'll never soon forget. I like the airport itself, but not the things that have happened in the past 8 hours of my stay in the Dallas airport.

I've had my flight cancelled, delayed, changed gates multiple times. Given, this was my original frlight leaving to Biloxi/Gulfport. Then, I changed my flight. I am now on my way to Atlanta. However, that didn't come without the many hurdles. The gate changed 3-4 times. The flight was also delayed twice. My tiredness is catching up with me. Sitting in the lounges waiting have been just horrible.

Turns out, the delays became so bad timing wise, that I most definitely believe I'm going to miss my Delta flight out of Atlanta toGulfport! Meaning, I'm going to have to deal with more tickets and hope no more flights get delayed. .I'm pretty much prepared for just about any travel experience I'm ever going to need for the rest of my life. It's freaking annoying me to the maximum point right now. I'm so tired,
sleepy, restless, hungry, thirsty, and every other feeling of need a human could have.

I did not realize it would take me this long to get to Mississippi! I hope by the end of this trip, all this is worth it. What I believe sucks about this experience is doing it all alone, no one to talk to. But, I'm glad that people have been calling or texting me back. Honestly, I don't know half of the things I did today!

I felt a bit happy when Jill said it's really showing and helping my character. I'm pretty sure no one else (of the site leaders) will have such a horrific experience. I hope no one else does. I hope Erica has a better time coming toBiloxi, who also is coming from California, so there's a high probability that the same can happen to her.

I don't even know, at this point, how I'm going to wake up every morning to work, do workshops, and live. I feel so tired! Traveling is fun, but now when there are so many complications.

I realized too, that the Dallas airport loads planes so slow! Everything is done at half the speed. Anyway, things are just adding to my frustration because I'm suppose tobe inBiloxi right now meeting everyone, but I'm not!

But then again, its been a lot of fun and I'm doing this all alone. It's pretty amazing how much you can learn by flying alone all over the country. I'm seriously traveling coast to coast, now thatAI'm forced to go to Atlanta!

Journal Entry 4 - American Airlines Gate C28, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

The worst thing that could possibly happen, actually happened. My delayed flight turned into a cancelled flight. I almost panicked! I checked screens, website, everything, to check if the impossible became possible. Reality set in. I exited the terinals to once again, get new tickets.

Everything actually worked out! My new fight is to Atlanta. From there, I'm going to switch from American to Delta. I'll fly to Biloxi/Gulfport, finally, arriving at 4:15pm. I need to call Jill again, apparently I'm arriving earlier. She's gonna hate me. Just Kiddng!

I figured that out. I called my mom to tell her what's up. I found a Samsung laptop/phone charger station. So, I'll hang out here. Talk about a sucky day! I'm ging to miss stuff! But, this is my adventure. I'm learning vital travel skills!

Journal Entry 3 - America Eagle Gate B17, Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas

The flight from LAX to DFW was really not that bad. I drifted in and out of sleep. I had a Pepsi and a $3 cookie that tasted really good.

Upon approaching DFW, there was a run-in with storm clouds. There was some turbulance, but the cool part was watching the crazy Southern lightning storms we would never, ever get in Southern California! I just tried to watch out the window the entire time before our approach to landing.

So, we landed. Obviously. I looked up DFW online and saw the layout before and on the plane. I knew how it would work. I could have walked, but, how could I pass up riding the Skytrain?

So, I boarded the train that runs around the entire American terminal. Crazy! They should totally make a UCSD Campus Loop Skytrain. Anyway, the airport is actually pretty cool! I like it. It's easier to get around than LAX.

So, they switched my gate about 3 times! I keep checking, and it keeps moving. I did stop at a store to get snacks, my Entertainment Weekly, and a Dallas shirt and post cards for people. I'll get more useless stuff later. It's just cool to be in Dallas.

Well, it'ms pouring rain outside and there's another lighting storm. Great! Hopefully my flight to Biloxi isn't delayed. Also, need to make sure my gate doesn't keep changing!

Journal Entry 2 - American Airlines Gate 49A, LAX, CA

Getting from San Diego Monday night to Los Angeles Union Station was pretty hectic. I had Tuesday to do stuff, shop at Target for all my things, and spend a lot of money. Here are the things I can remember buying: boots, inflatable twin mattress, water bottle, toiletries, this journal, two pairs of shorts (cargo), and other random items I can't remember. Then, I went to Banana Bay for some Thai food and the Lakers game, which makes me sad to think about.

I woke up today. I went out to Fantastic Sams to cut my hair. Then, I drove to Target again! I bought: two shirts and mesh shorts. Then, I visited Jane and ate at California Pizza Kitchen. Ms. Jimenez was there! I had time to catch up with her about life and school! It was pretty cool, since I haven't seen her in like, forever!

I left there back to my mom's apartment. Crunch time began! I frantically tried my best to pack everything, minimize on clothing, and make everything fit correctly! After about 10 packings and repacking, I got it down. I think the limit is 50 pounds, and I got it to somewhere around 40 pounds.

I realized I wanted a written copy of my first journal entry, so I had to recopy everything. Jane arrived and we left the apartment, kind of quickly! The drive didn't take too long. I got dropped off. Here is where my adventure begins!

I found the self-check in and did that with total ease! Then, I turned in my checked bag and went through security. Now, I'm sitting waiting around outside Gate 49A until departure at 12:10am.

Well, I got bored, so I started writing in my journal. There are kids running, playing, and screaming. Oh no!! They are quiet now! But, not before I texted William a few times and talked to Ashley on the phone! We caught up a bit, talked about AB, summer, her job, and my trip. We needa do a rehash after! I'm already talking about after and I'm not even on my trip yet! Anyway, that's all for now. Time to find other ways to occupy my time!

Journal Entry 1 - Valentia Apartments, La Jolla, CA

I would usually not start writing my journal entry by typing, but I think this is much more convenient, and much more efficient for now, since I have no formal journal place to write. For one, I have not went out to find a nice journal for my trip to Biloxi, Mississippi. This will be unusually short for a first entry, just because I wrote a lot in my journal to Russia, and I think, since I’ve done an AB trip before, it won’t be as a journey into the unknown as much.

So, it’s about 7 to 6 to even less days until departure to Biloxi, Mississippi. It’s someplace I never thought I’d ever go. I mean, out of all the states, why would I just travel there. But, I know that we are going to make a difference as college students from all around the country. It’s going to be an amazing time.

I don’t know what to expect. I just moved out of my apartment, so my life is all in a jumbled mess. I need to get my stuff in order so that when I’m ready to go, I feel less anxious. It’s going to be my first time traveling by plane and this distance all alone. It’s going to be just wild. It’s all a part of growing up, doing things alone, and facing that unknown.

Sometimes, I don’t remember that I am 20 and nearing my 21^st birthday. I have gotten to do some cool things these past year. So, this is just another one of those AMAZING things that I’ll be able to do in my 20 years of life that others would never get to do. Amazing. I’m proud of my accomplishments, the opportunities I have taken, and the things that I hope to do in the near future. Biloxi, Mississippi will be such a great learning experience and an outlet to just do what I love to do, which is volunteer, travel, and meeting new people along the way. I’m so excited.

I again, like on my Russia trip, will try not to have any expectations, and to be in the moment of everything. Yes, I will pull out my camera to capture some moments, but then I’ll remember why I am doing the ABCs, and realize, that I also need to stay present, be where I want to be, and take it all in, because honestly speaking, it might be the only time I’ll get such an experience like this.

I’m going to make the most of the weeklong experience in Biloxi, make connections, and bring the volunteer aspect, enthusiasm, and motivation home to UCSD and hopefully inspire people with my experience, the things I have learned, and hopefully feel happy about all the things I have come to have, love, and be.

I’m just so happy to go as a site leader. I am just waiting until I get to experience it all. Of course, it’s going to be one crazy, hot, humid, experience!