New Orleans - Day 2

Tina's Turn: Today came as a special treat to the nerds in our group (myself included!) when we visited the NASA Stennis Science Center just over the Mississippi border. We were given a bus tour of the grounds used to test rocket engines, after which we visited the connected museum. It contained everything from thermal cameras to lettuce growing without soil to an interactive history of aeronautics. After a thorough exploration, we left for Bay St. Louis, a small, nearby town on the Gulf of Mexico. The water was shallow and calm enough to allow us to wade out several hundred feet without difficulty. We were even invited back by a local! We quickly explored the town, and then had a traditionally Southern dinner including Po Boys and fried oyster platters. As you most likely are aware, last night was not the most restful (I didn't get to sleep until after 3), so I'll be on my way soon! Keep tuned tomorrow for updates on the Swamp Tour.... Pastor's Portion: Like Tina, I'm looking forward to a better night of sleep. The flight was delayed for over an hour as we waited for the pilots to arrive from Boston. We arrived in Slidell around 2:30 am local time. Fortunately, our day didn't officially start until 11:30 am. The trip to the Stennis Science Center was a great beginning. The center just opened in April. The troops marveled that I was their age when we landed on the moon. 1969 seems so long ago. Bay St. Louis has all the charm of a deeply southern city. The warmth of the people is amazing. We were given invitations to return, offers for dinners, stories and histories shared, and suggestions for dining. With the advice of the locals, we found a beautiful restaurant overlooking the gulf. I thoroughly enjoyed the fried oysters. I haven't had them in years. As usual, I couldn't be prouder of our young people. In the words of last week's sermon. They are engaged and are looking forward to working this coming Monday and Tuesday. We worship with Peace tomorrow morning. Of course, we will be wearing our NJ ties. The swamps await us after lunch. I'm sure there will be more stories to tell when we report tomorrow night. Continue to keep us and all who will be attending the Youth Gathering in you thoughts and prayers. Peace, Tina and Pastor