Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Texas: It's a Bigggg State!

Beverly and I had a very interesting weekend. Friday morning, we headed out for Lovington, New Mexico -- where we were to do a retreat. We got about 5-1/2 hours away (nearly to Lamesa) when our gas light came on. So, we pulled over in a little town which had no gas stations. A kind lady who ran a little grocery store helped us get enough gas to get us to the next town.

Since this unexpected delay set us back on our arrival time, I decided to call my friend who ministers at the church in Lovington to tell him we were running late. He said, "Brother, you're not late. You're two weeks early." Yes, Rick Ross (mind like a steel-trap) had messed up the date.

So, Beverly and I turned around and pulled over on the side of the road. What do we do now? I got ahold of one of my elders by cellphone (Mike McDowell) and told him what had happened. After he quit laughing (actually, he was still snickering), I told him that I get two weekends a year for meetings and was only using one this year. And, since those covering for me had already made preparations, would it be OK for Beverly and me to go visit our kids in Houston. Mike was so gracious (although still laughing), and said of course.

We drove 5-1/2 hours back to Decatur. Then we got up Saturday morning and went to Houston. Got to spend time with our grandson. Got to spend one night with Josh and Kayci and went to church with them Sunday morning and heard him preach an excellent sermon on "The Table." Sunday evening, we went back to Jonathan and Jennifer's and spent the night. We were able to hear him lead worship (he is so good!) on Sunday night.

So, we went to West Texas. And we went to the Gulf Coast. Tomorrow night we head for Northeast Texas (Paris) -- where I will preach on their Wednesday night program. I guess all I need is a call to go to Del Rio, and we have covered the state.

6 comments:

Bev Ross said...

Had fun with you!

Liz Moore said...

That is too funny!! Knowing how organized you are, I can just imagine the look on your face! But hey, God had obviously planned for you to spend the weekend with your kids. Sounds like all and all, things turned out great! Jed is so precious! I have to admit, I laughed too! :)

Anonymous said...

I remember going on a weekend trip with Terri and the kids to find out our hotel reservations were for the prior weekend. I couldn't believe they booked the wrong weekend for us.....They should have known I gave them the wrong date. I am not allowed to plan any more trips.....

Jeff said...

I'm cracking up. I'm especially surprised no one mentioned it Sunday morning. It's good to see some country sometimes and as many weekends as you get off, it's no big deal missing another one. (For anyone not knowing Rick and I, it's a joke between us.)
I'm glad you got to spend time with family.

Anonymous said...

More evidence that we're not able see the blessings the Lord provides us when first they appear. May you and your wonderful family continue to be richly blessed.

Pearson Family said...

PARIS!!?? Really. I love my hometown. Which church will you be speaking at? You must eat at Tamolly's, which I know you have heard of because of the one in Abilene, and I believe you son had his rehearsal dinner there! And of course, stop by my dad's store off the square and pick up something lovely for Bevie!