Shallowford Presbyterian Youth

So apparently when you are on tour, either time stands still, or there are at least 29 hours in the day. Mama Bear and the chaperones had to reassure each other this morning that yes this was only Friday, Day 2. But we are having a blast.







We left Alabama, and Mississippi behind and arrived in Cajun territory just after 4:00pm today as we pulled into the Northwest Louisiana War Veterans Home. After the concert last year in Cincinnati, the kids were very excited to share their message with this group of veterans. For some it was a little intimidating at first. For others, it was a little too close to home, reminding them of loved ones at home that they don't get to see enough. Either way it was both inspiring and an honor to sing for such a distinguished group of people. The appreciation and excitement in having us there was evident.






After the concert, the kids had the chance to visit with the residents. Some of them shared war stories and told us about their families. Others simply wanted to know more about us and where we were from and why in the world we would drive this far just to see them. I think it really hit home just how meaningful this visit was for the veterans when one man told them that we were the first guests he has visited with in over three years despite the fact that his son lives just fifteen minutes from the facility.



















By the time we left the Veterans center, it was after 7:00 and time to invade the Corral made of gold. In case you were in doubt, I can assure you that 56 teenagers (plus Jay) can put a hurtin' on some food. But the kids were great once again and even voluntarily sang happy birthday to a nearby table celebrating with family.

Jay's First Plate



Jay's Second Plate




Jay's Dessert Plate




Finally, after Golden Corral, you know what they always say: if you can, try to swim sooner than thirty minutes after an all you can eat buffet!
The kids blew off some steam and hung out together in the hotel pool for a while before heading off to their rooms to be asleep with the lights out by 11:00! Or something like that.

Tomorrow is a welcomed off day as far as singing goes, but we head to Waco, Texas for a trip to the Dr. Pepper museum, some free time, and dinner at First Presbyterian of Waco.


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Location:Bossier City, LA