#14 - Joan Freeland

My trip to Mexico was a unique and rewarding experience for me.

Unique, in that Mexico is such a diverse country. We were in the northern part of Mexico which is desert like with many types of cactus and very dry and dusty. Some of the land was completely immersed in water and when in receded deep valleys were formed, surrounded by mountains. A truly beautiful landscape. Mexico City was unique. Buildings were beautifully appointed, churches were awe inspiring with paintings, statues, bell towers that chimed so wonderfully, and gold gilt.

Rewarding in that the families for whom we were building the houses were friendly, kind, and very enjoyable. They opened their hearts, their families, and their lives to us – complete strangers. I know we opened our hearts to them and they will always hold a great deal of our hearts.

I was so blessed to have been a part of this “team” from VA and to have shared a part of their lives that will be forever a part of me. And I thank all of them for enriching my life.