Maria Sue

Steven Curtis Chapman and daughter, Maria Sue (picture from www.shaohannahshope.org)

My heart aches for the Chapman family following the tragic death of their 5 yr-old daughter, Maria Sue. I searched for more to read online, hoping headline would change. It didn't.

Of course only God understands His plan, and while it's hard to comprehend, Maria is happier than ever in heaven.

One prayer of mine is that this agonizing loss will lead to some good. Prior to Wednesday I'd known that the Chapmans had adopted, but I hadn't known of their family story and adoption ministries. I had no knowledge of organizations like theirs, which financially assists couples seeking to adopt internationally, encourages churches to begin adoption ministries, funds an orphanage in China for children with special needs, and profiles older children waiting to be adopted.

The Chapmans have requested donations to this organization, Shaohanna's Hope, in lieu of flowers. If you would like to donate or learn more about Shaohanna's Hope, you can do so here:
Shahannah's Hope

please pray

please pray for me. I've got food poisoning and am traveling back to Dallas.

Rising Waters

The flash floods yesterday caused quite a stir. The man in the truck next to me said the waters had risen 1 foot in 30 minutes. Needless to say, I decided not to stick around very long in my small car. As I was driving away, I saw an extensive gathering of emergency vehicles on the bridge above the park. I assumed they were there for a car accident, but there was no car. Today I read this in the AP:

"Emergency officials in Mesquite, Texas, searched for a 14-year-old boy apparently swept away by floodwaters as he and a friend played in a creek. The friend was able to swim to safety, authorities said."

That could've been it.













Flooding at Exall Park in Mesquite

Then I happened upon THIS on 635 N, not 2 minutes later. Poor driver...













So why in heaven's name was I on the road during a flash flood?
1) Necessary errand for school kids (yes, I know it's Spring break)
2) Prescription
3) Shipping French horn to Taiwan (I'll miss you, horn)
4) Pre-vacation stops
5) Haircut (finally)
Ever so careful, I made it home safe, sound, and wet.