And on the sixth day...

Day 6 was a fantastic build day - crisp, clear and the first that felt like Autumn. More than any yet, this Saturday had me thinking about the true meaning of home. Of the multitudes of cliches - where you hang your head, where the heart is - one thread weaves its way through them all. Home is about people, community, and above all, belonging. It is about place, both literal and figurative.

Special thanks to the folks at the Transgender Association of Central Texas (TACT) for bringing out 7 volunteers to join in the build process, and to Rifka Reichler for organizing the crew. Our thoughts and energies are with our elected leaders this week as they prepare their vote on ENDA and the Baldwin Amendment ~ may they have the strength to recognize the values and protections of all citizens under just law.

Off the soapbox and back to the build, here's a list of the day's accomplishments:
- Marta's shed. A committed group, led in part by Pride Build co-chair David Smith, put up the shed in record time.
- Blocking for insulation
- Nail Plates
- Finished Battens
- Siding on the front porch
- More soffit
- J channels
- Insulated pipes in the ceilings and exterior walls
- Sheet rock in the hot water heater room

The volunteers we also treated to an amazing lunch, cooked by 5-day build regular Brian Sharp. Brian started cooking mid-week, and brought a full spread of Indian food to feed all 30 on site. The food was fantastic - the effort, though, even more impressive. Thank you Brian for making 6906 Villita Cove your home for all these weeks!

And finally, a quick tribute to our project leads. Every week, 4 volunteer leaders guide us through the process of building a home for Marta. More than just their skills, these leads have truly set the tone for the Pride Build, and it has been inspiring to work alongside them through this experience. Thank you Deanna, Lauren, Leslee and Robin - we'll get a group photo one of these days.

As always, Don't forget to spread the word about the 100 club.