For over a decade, my father has told me of the wonderful adventures he’s had participating in his PDA trips. He told many stories of the wonderful people he’d met and the interesting and rewarding projects in which he participated. Surprisingly, our calendars and lives finally aligned allowing me to join him. After his 15th trip, we were both able to participate together in his 16th. . . my first. My name is Garrick Hebdon and I joined my father, Fred Hebdon, on my first PDA trip to New Bern, NC.
I had a bit of apprehension about my first trip. Would a close-knit group of PDAers, most of whom had been on over a dozen trips together, include the new guy in their group? From the very first potluck dinner on Sunday, through the entirety of the time I’ve spent here, I felt included. The PDA team chose to include me in all the activities and quickly made me part of their family. They even “let” my dad and me cook burgers and hot dogs for dinner tonight. Thanks team!
My apprehension was additionally focused on the fact that I am not religious. Without a doubt, religion is important here, but it is not required. Being reverent during prayers and acting in a respectful manner is appreciated.
During my time in New Bern, I’ve had the opportunity to repair and replace the sub-floor on a local family’s house. In doing so, we created a safer and more accessible home for this family. During the replacement of the sub-flooring, I was able to work with a carpentry beginner and help her understand the use of several carpentry tools. I think she enjoyed the education.
I don’t know much about what some of the other teams did today, but I do know that many of them came home with A LOT!! of paint primer on them.
Faith showing even painting Kilz can be fun
Today there was a “communication issue” between my father and me, and my lunch was left 45 minutes away from our worksite. Being in a fairly rural area, the lunch options were limited. Before I could even fully understand the situation, my workmates had rationed their own lunch options, including enough items to easily fill my belly. Teamwork making the dream work.
Working alongside my father is something that I have done my entire life, but spending this week alongside him has been special.
—Garrick Hebdon
