Hiking and an Ode to Old Trees

Yesterday we had a half day, and were really excited when Bob Mackey suggested a hike. A group of us piled in the van and headed about 3000 feet higher than CIT to do some "moderate" hiking. It didn't feel so moderate at times, but we made it up :)

Here we are at the top. It was so funny. We had been hearing how beautiful the view was at the top- the gorge and the river that would spread below us. Ha. The fog was so thick that we could not see a THING! The sky above looked the same as the earth below. Kind of surreal, actually. Like we were in a big white pillowcase or something, and it was absolutely silent.

We had a lot of fun getting to know the group that went. There was a 30 minute LOST conversation in there somewhere which sufficiently alienated half the group, but was a blast for those of us interested. Oh how we love and miss our LOST :) Plans were made to meet up after dinner to watch a movie in the student center, so we all spent the evening together too. We are loving this.

Onto things that we are not loving: like hurricane Ike dominating Galveston and Houston last night and continuing to do so this morning. I was able to talk to my family and all are well. However, 2 of Gma's 100 year-old oaks have been felled.

So, here is an ode to my oak trees: (I took these pictures last year.)
This tree (right behind Gma's bedroom- good thing it fell back towards the barn!) always encompassed good memories for me. Paw Paw had tire swings strung from it when we were little, and we always sat under it on Easter afternoon after hunting eggs.


And here is a picture of Grandma herself, the most valuable thing on her property. Old, special trees falling make me sad, but more than anything I am thankful that she is safe, as is the rest of my family.

Be praying for the Houston area, and both of our families' continued safety. We have not been able to get a hold of Clay's parent's yet, but hopefully will soon. Will keep you posted.
Love to you! Megan