Bouncing Back

   In case you're wondering, we did not arrive in Florida today.  We are actually still in Mississippi.  As we were monitoring the weather on Saturday night, we found that there was a new small craft warning out, lasting through Monday (today).  So, not wanting a repeat of our 10 ft. seas experience, we decided to hang out for a few more days and leave first thing Tuesday morning (tomorrow).

   While we were cooling our heels, we decided to take a walk around historic downtown Long Beach.  Thanks to Katrina, this little town had been flattened.  Bill actually took several mission trips to Long Beach after the hurricane first came through to help with relief efforts.  He was anxious to see the town erect again.  We had seen the attempts at rebuilding during our previous walks around the other sections of the town but, this walk surprised us the most. 

   The streets were a mix of asphalt and cobblestone.  Quaint little shops ran up and down the sidewalks, selling everything from ice cream to antiques to clothing. A few interesting looking restaurants were interspersed between the shops.  The city hall and public library stood tall.  There was even a town green where, I'm told, the public schools used to be.  Now it's an open area used for festivals and fairs.





City Hall





Intersection on Jeff Davis Ave.












   Although we were completely impressed with what we saw, there were still a few areas waiting for their second life.  The remnants stood as grave stones marking what used to be.  There were two places that stood out on the main street:








   There was the gate that now leads nowhere.  It appears that the gate used to lead to someone's home.  Now, the only thing behind the gate is a large tree.














   This foundation is all that remains of the First Baptist Church.  It was established around the turn of the last century and, according to the commemorative placard, was still used for regular services until Katrina changed their plans.  The good news is that the church's new building is much larger and is a pleasant sight when sailing into the harbor.

  




  



   It was great to actually see all of the progress that has been made since the hurricane.  This little town is a testament to what can be accomplished when a community comes together.  Even though we were unexpectedly delayed, I'm glad we were able to see such a great part of Long Beach.

The Rebuilt Pier (It was nonexistent after Katrina)

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