Preussless Pathways: Alamo, Joshua, TX, and Farmington, AR

Tuesday, May 19, 2015

Alamo, Joshua, TX, and Farmington, AR

This has been a pretty busy last few days, but it feels so comfortable to just relax here in AR. We left the Valley last Friday and drove to Joshua, Texas to stay a few days with fellow Chaplain Roy and Paula Gee. We did encounter severe rain, and because we took a different route less traveled, we observed many flooded areas in Texas. After 9 hours of travel, we were warmly welcomed by the Gees. We were privileged to be able to occupy the little house - a small but comfortable house on their property.
On Saturday, Paula and I spent a larger part of the day with "girly" stuff. We first spent Saturday morning at yard sales, hunting for pieces for our project (and we found treasures!). Paula and I then began crafting yard art - first a birdbath, then some glass totems, which involved lots of trials and laughter. While that project was setting, Paula then waxed my eyebrows. Again, lots of laughter as Fred and Roy walked in the house wondering what was going on. The highlight of the day was meeting the Gees new great-grandchildren - Mallie and Macky - two precious miracles.

the last thing we packed before leaving Alamo - sweet Texas onions for one of our daughters.

Paula's birdbath - an original

glass totems from some of our yard sale efforts

We also had the opportunity to attend Sunday School and services at the Gees home church - Lane Prairie Baptist Church. What a beautiful facility, welcoming congregation, and awesome sermon. Brother Jerry Clements presented his sermon based on Daniel 3:28 - although he included the entire story of Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who were cast into the firery furnace because they refused to deny the Lord. Pastor Clements reminded us that God's grace is sufficient for all of us. As Christians, we will never fit into the world's mold. We need to be consistent and not give into anything that comes between us and God ( idols such as money, stuff, etc.). A firery furnace can either be a tragedy or a triumph - what is it to you?? After relaxing on Sunday afternoon, we returned to the church for the children's program. They all worked so very hard on it, and were proud of their accomplishments.

We left Monday morning, leaving Texas behind on our way to Arkansas. The drive was actually refreshing, as we traveled a few more hours. As we passed through Gainsville, TX to Durand, we encountered many horse farms, and were delighted to see all the new babies hiding behind their mothers. We arrived at our destination in the middle of a huge deluge - a real gully washer - but other than a bit wet, very safe and sound. We thank God for our safe travels, and the time we now have to enjoy our family.