We had a fairly restful night. Thoughts of course back in Houston. Our hotel is near the airport - so hearing planes early didn't help. It is strange now that I realize that hurricanes have always happened, but not until I moved to the Gulf coast have I understood the impact. As a Californian I grew used to seeing some video, watching The Weather Channel and looking for Jim Cantore and didn't give it much thought. Now I realize it affects thousands and thousands of people. We are blessed to be able to have found and afford a hotel. Many people are leaving hoping to find something. Their children are just as worried as mine, but instead have to find solace in a shelter. Many evacuated on buses - unable to bring all the photos and such that we packed in our cars. My prayers are with them.
Other things to consider when you think of Houston. Many refineries are there - lots of oil. This means barges of oil in the Port of Houston. Galveston has two major hospitals that had to be evacuated UTMB and a Children's Hospital. There is also the Shriner's Burn Institute. The Texas Medical Center in Houston has number one ranked hospitals. People travel from across the country and around the world for care there. These families already in crisis are having to brace for this storm as well.
So in all that I say be praying for us - but also for all those families. Lives will be disrupted and yet I know without a doubt God is still on his throne. He is with us and I can feel His peace and the prayers of others - otherwise I'd be freaking out right now!
I am listening to the news right now via www.khou.com. The just said that the Coast Guard cannot rescue a stranded freighter in the Gulf with 22 on board. Pray for their safety.
Today we are going to try to have some fun and get away from the TV and go to the River Walk for awhile. I don't think it was a coincidence that last Sunday's service was titled "Underpressure" about choosing joy in situations. The powerful testimony of a young family was shared. As they were expecting their first child a few years ago, the dad was in a horrendous motocross accident. They did not expect him to live. Their child was born while he was in a coma. They told her that if he recovers he will most likely not remember her or walk. AND YET there they were in the front row - still recovering from his injuries, but walking, able to talk, and with his family. I will keep that lesson in my heart today.
And with all that the kids are asking when we can go home - I don't know.
1 comment:
Check out THE BEST Chicken Fried Steak I've ever had (seriously). It's at a place called Boudros that is on the Riverwalk. The line item on the lunch menu actually reads: CHICKEN FRIED RIBEYE $8.50
Garlic mashed potatoes and black pepper gravy, with Southwest coleslaw. I don't believe it's on the dinner menu. Have fun at the Riverwalk! :) -Gina
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