still no power

We are still without power, but staying with our friends the Hatfields who thankfully have welcomed us into their home. Church was canceled today due to lack of power at the building. Several people got together at our friends the Weber's home to cut apart a large thee that had fallen into their pool. People have pulled together to meet every one's needs.

Due to the lack of power there are a lot of people siting on front porches, lounging on lawn chairs in drive ways and gathering neighbors together at the houses that do have power. Yesterday we spent time getting to better know neighbors that we are always meaning to spend time with but always putting off for another day. We didn't worry about getting anything done other than just spending time together and enjoying their cool air-conditioned house.

Houston is a city built on air conditioning. It is hot and humid and most houses are built to keep the cool air trapped inside. I love fresh air and open doors but here in the gulf coast I keep my windows and doors tightly shut to avoid even more costly utility bills. Maybe we should have power-down days more often, where we keep or doors open and visit with or neighbors and offer support, comfort, friendship and a glass of lemon aid.

But I still really miss my air-conditioned house.