Up Close and Personal

Picture It doesn't look so bad, I know, but it’s been a little bit rough here in Texas the past few days.

t’s crazy, really, how I had allowed myself to be lulled into a false sense of security – unusual for me where the garden is concerned. I’ve gardened in Texas for many years now, and I’m familiar with the uncertainty and extremes of our weather.

 
It was feeling like spring. I had been consumed with ambition and worry over our spring garden – whether we would be able to rebuild or reinforce some of the planter boxes by Easter, what needed to be moved, pulled, sown…  I had pretty much started to fret. And then a historic winter freeze put things back into perspective.
 
Like so very many across the state, we lost power for days and then running water because of the deep freeze. Our pipes busted, drenching our main living areas with the notable exception of the kitchen.
 
And yet our loved ones – our family, our friends – were with us, supporting us through it all. Those who had generators – or power – provided sanctuary. They not only insisted; they hosted multiple families. My brother-in-law and sister-in-heart and their sons made it feel like a beautiful family party at their house – for days. Our (grown) children and their friends helped us move furniture and clothing out of the damaged areas. It was cold, literally freezing, and still they worked. My brother was here instantly, offering shelter, providing food, and contacting a contractor when we hardly could think. It was very cold (in the teens) and raining inside our house.
 
Love and care and help and hugs – we didn’t have to seek those necessities any more than warm beds and food. And our dear ones have stayed with us, checking us, sharing updates, and food so that we don’t have to worry about it as we try to organize our chaos.
 
Thank you, God, for these dear ones, for everything.
 
The contractor showed up with plumbers almost immediately, as if by magic. She wants to help as many as she can, to get water running in as many homes as possible, and take care of restoration after. As much as possible, she doesn’t want anyone who comes to her waiting for water. Some people are on a two-week waiting list. That’s scary, isn’t it?
 
We are so grateful to have running water again as well as electricity. The temps will dip into the 20s again tonight, so we’re beyond glad that the house is warm.
 
We are blessed to have these loving people in our lives. I know that Valentine’s Day was last weekend, but I recommend extra hugs to your loved ones, those precious blessings, today, yes, and as often as you can.

Take no one and nothing for granted.

 
And the garden? I won’t say “what garden”. I have not forgotten it. But it's stronger and better than I gave it credit for. It can take care of itself for a while.
 
Wishing all a great weekend.
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Published on February 19, 2021 12:31
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