9×12 oil
It may look pretty, but this Texas Storm has been serious! The anticipation of experiencing below freezing temperatures in single digits was as disturbing as the actual storm. We (mostly my husband) prepped for days: ordered propane, hauled water jugs, bought packaged groceries in bulk, filled up the cars, put away potted plants, wrapped outdoor faucets…and listened to weather reports, searching weather apps to plan ahead.
It is unsettling to watch the world freeze over and know you are not in control.
As I post this, many in this community and all over Texas and beyond, (my internet has been out so I haven’t seen all the updates), are without heat and water after the seven days of storm.
Since several of you have asked about us, Yes, we are fine! We have gas logs so we won’t freeze, we have been on the rolling blackouts, which gave us enough power to zap something in the microwave, take a quick shower, or make coffee. We are dressing in layers and sitting with cozy blankets. It’s not that bad. And now, the electricity seems stable and the internet has returned!
When challenges arose, we came up with creative solutions. (And that “we” includes many of you.) We “made-do,” we used what we had, we shared with others, we invented ways to stay warm and concoct meals. We fed birds and rested a lot. We practiced gratefulness.
And we painted! My artist daughter-in-law and youngest grandson opted for the option of gas logs and joined us this week, while our son and their oldest son stayed home to take care of animals. (Don’t feel sorry for him. He doesn’t mind roughing it on a camping trip.) Nicky and I have enjoyed our artist retreat of being in our own silent worlds of painting while Papa and the 8 year old have found some adventures of their own!
The temperatures are supposed to rise above freezing tomorrow (a first for this eight day span). When all this snow melts, I am wondering what will happen. Will the water from eight inches of snow ever soak into our Blackland Prairie gumbo soil? Are there house maintenance issues, like busted pipes and cracked windows, to deal with? And more importantly, will the grocery stores have enough food for all of us to dash to town to restock our pantries?
I plan to be more aware of my use of electricity and water. We have always practiced conservation, but this experience brings up the recurring thought that many of us are just plain spoiled with luxury.
I’m reminded of the words of Paul in Philippians 4:11, “I have learned to be content with whatever state I’m in.” (even when that “state” is the frozen state of Texas!)
