Day 5

We didn’t get as much accomplished today as I would have liked, but we’re taking one day at a time. By the time we finished talking on the phone to everyone (work, family and friends), it was time to take Jonny to his hospital appointment. The school district was only ½ day today, so we didn’t get a chance to get the kids enrolled. We have made some preliminary decisions. We’re planning on taking Daniel and Spencer (Bob & Staci’s son) to Mullin to stay with Jon’s brother and sister-in-law (thank you Bubba and Vonnie) and attend school there. Heather, Samantha (Bob and Staci’s daughter) and Jonny will stay here in San Antonio with Jon’s parents. Samantha and Jonny will attend school here. Heather will look at applying for a job and possibly attending college part time. We’re going to head back later next week. Although the logistics are going to be very trying. With gasoline being as scarce, we won’t be able to travel about very much once we get there. I’m also not looking forward to the lack of communication. Although I can probably do without the constant barrage of news coverage.

Our pastor was able to assess the damage in our house today. It was confirmed that about 2 feet of water flooded our house. There will be a lot of work to do to clean up. And a lot of tears shed as I sort through all the damaged things. I try to allow myself to grieve, but also try to remember that there are so many who have lost everything. Our loss is just a big mess to clean up. Bob jokingly stated that Jon and I should each make a list of the things we’d want to replace first. I merely replied that the things on my list are irreplaceable. I have a feeling that water filled my cedar chest which contains my journals all the way back to high school, as well as my yearbooks and other items of remembrance. Thankfully our family albums were on higher shelves so they should be okay. Does anyone have any idea whether water permanently damages family videos?

I was able to talk to a couple of dear friends today.   Kelli, thank you so much for your encouraging words and your prayer. It was exactly what I needed. Judy, I am so glad to hear Rachel and her family are safe. I know she is struggling with the loss of her home as so many are. I want to thank everyone again for your encouraging emails.

I hope you all have an enjoyable weekend. Continue to pray for our leaders as they deal with this enormous situation. Pray for strength and endurance for all those who are providing assistance and protection to the victims of Katrina. And pray that discouragement and despair would not overwhelm those affected. Pray also that Katrina would not be used to divide our country, but rather to unite her in one purpose and one cause.

In all things, may God work His glory and His goodness.

By His Grace

Grace & Peace