Chasing Bluebonnets

Spring flowers weren't necessarily a 'thing' in Arizona.  Cactus blooms are lovely, but quite unapproachable.  I'd admire them in passing but never made it a goal to take family photos with the blooms.  But when in Rome.....

Texans seem to take this seriously.  I read countless articles about how the early spring heat were causing the state flower, bluebonnet, to bloom to early, thus possibly affecting events and tourism.  I didn't understand why it was such a big deal. One morning I was surprised by my breathlessness.  I was on my way to the east side and was approaching the on ramp to Wurzbach parkway.  To my right was startled by the deer--and the bluebonnets.  And I couldn't stop thinking about that moment.

Caught up in the hype, I excitedly told Naysia we HAD to find a field of bluebonnets.  That weekend we were going to take a small road trip to Hill Country for the money shot, and started out on Wurzbach again.  I made a u-turn at West Ave and then turned right into a very small parking lot off Wurzbach that really isn't a lot at all. 

Before us was a small pond, Panther Springs Creek and a lovely field of bluebonnets!  We were hooked!!  Over the course of 3 days we went back everyday for pictures and adoration.  I believe the height of the season is over, and although we never made it to Hill Country to have the full experience I can see why folks look forward to this time of year. It truly is a sight to behold. 

Welcoming Winona

As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Proverbs 27:17 

About a year into my Fellowship Square experience I was called into a meeting with someone from corporate.  I don't recall the reason why, but I do remember a question he asked.  He asked me to list a strength about each one of my leadership peers.  When it came to Winona, I vividly recall mentioning how much I admired her straightforwardness and professionalism; her desire to always do the right thing and her strength.  At that time I didn't know much about her on a personal level--but lucky me, we got to know one another on a personal level.

As the years passed we had the opportunity to collaborate on departmental best practices, sit through countless manager meetings, serve the residents during events and pray together just the two of us or with a small group during our Tuesday morning prayer meetings.  We celebrated successes, shared sorrows and she was a tremendous source of encouragement when I decided to move. Over the last 8 months we've talked often and messaged as well--but nothing beats spending time together in person.  

Naysia and I sat in the Ross parking lot near the airport waiting for the touchdown phone call.  Seeing that her flight was delayed we cruised around a bit then went to the airport cell phone lot.  6:20pm "I'm here, we're just pulling up to the gate"  I smiled a wide smile and anticipated the next text letting us know she was at the curb. 

Airports have always been one of my favorite places for several reasons.  One of them being the opportunity to observe fellow mankind as they genuinely embrace a loved one upon arrival.  We pulled up to B10 and jumped out of the car, hugged Winona, put her luggage in the trunk and headed out for dinner.  We agreed on Chinese and found a buffet on San Pedro.  The food was good and the conversation was great.  

Guests always stay in my bedroom and I wing it on the couch or air mattress.  We showed Winona to her room where a birthday gift/mirror greeting awaited her.  And it wasn't long after that laughter took over! We wanted to take pictures; Naysia gave instruction on how to pose, lighting, make up and facial expressions.  And then there was Snapchat. The interpretation was quite comical. Winona had a long day of travel and I had to work the next day so we didn't stay up terribly late.  It was a great kick off to our weekend together

Naysia dropped me off early Friday morning and they picked me up after midday shopping at The Quarry.  We came home, picked up a rental car and headed to the Riverwalk at dusk.  Our first stop was the River Boat Tour.  This was the 100th time Naysia and I had been on :), but each time is a different experience.  We settled in comfortably;  I sat next to Winona with my arm behind her back and Naysia was across from us. As we passed the Arneson Theatre and approached the bridges, the tour guide warned us...bats were out and they had been flying into passengers heads.  Both Naysia and Winona are not fans of birds.  Just as he gave us the warning I moved my arm to prepare for battle--Winona thought my arm was a bird attacking her!  We laughed so hard!!!

We checked out the infamous Alamo, talked briefly to TJ and Sheniqua, and debated about dinner on the River.  The wait times were too long and we opted to eat at home.  Before leaving we watched some of the light show at the San Fernando cathedral and eyed those dancing as we passed by nightclubs.  I fell asleep on the couch as we watched a movie and eventually bid Winona a goodnight.  We had an early morning drive ahead of us. 

Our late start, cold coffee and lukewarm hash browns from McDonald's couldn't kill our joy.  Soon our toes would be in the sand.  We arrived safely in Port A about 230pm.  It was a beautiful day!  The weather was perfect and tons of people were taking advantage of it. For us it wasn't about swimming or fishing--it was about enjoying the majesty of the water and getting in more laughs.  We walked the shore, the pier, collected shells, battled fine sand in our teeth and those two shrieked at the sight of seagulls.  We took turns striking poses for the camera and decided that we'd return home a different way. 

Research about the ferry indicated it was free of charge and was another option to get from Port A back to Corpus.  The wait for the ferry was far longer than the ride itself.  It was less traffic than the usual way we return and might be my new favorite.  It was Tx2's first time on a ferry and we stood outside the car with others for the 5 minute jaunt.  Making it across safely our next stop was gas, snacks and then home where we stayed up hecka late and watched 2 low budget movies. 

Our last full day together put us back on the road again.  This time we headed west to the town of Fredericksburg in search of wildflowers and antiques.  This mornings caffeine fix came courtesy of Starbucks.  We didn't talk much on the way there; instead we sang along to worship music and admired the lush, green beauty of Texas Hill Country.  

Fredericksburg was booming with visitors.  As a result we chose to sightsee which proved to be beneficial.  Driving along, Naysia, in a low voice says, "there's a buffalo".  What? Where?  We turned around and made a sharp left turn.  To our surprise there was an 'exotic farm'.  We couldn't tell if it was a personal residence or open to tour--but there we stood looking at buffalo, camel, zebra, ostrich, deer, and donkeys.  

The last stop in Fredericksburg was at Wildseed Farms!  I hope to make it back there in the future.  The nursery was colorful and prices seemed reasonable.  But we weren't there to shop...we along with several others congregated in the back near the fields of poppies and bluebonnets.  The poppy fields were open for us to trample on, and did we!  I've never seen anything like it.  A red carpet before us we took several pictures together, alone and in pairs.  

We were pressed for time with a 4pm deadline to return the car.  And made it back to town with 3 minutes to spare.  After dropping off the car we shopped quickly for a dress Winona could wear to church.  That night we attended service at Cornerstone.  The music was amazing, the word heart warming and we spent our last evening together just like the first--enjoying Chinese food. 

Our night ended with more picture taking.  From the shower I could hear Naysia and Winona laughing and when I saw those photos I laughed until I cried!!  (sorry, for our eyes only lol) We didn't stay up terribly late since we had a very early morning before us. 

Monday morning came too soon.  Winona prayed for us all as we headed to the airport.  We got lost along the way--but that gave us a few more minutes together.   It was a reverse of the beginning...we unloaded her luggage, hugged Winona goodbye and she went on her way.  We are blessed to have spent the weekend with such an amazing woman.  God willing she'll visit again later this year.  

Thanks, Winona, for coming to see us. 

 

Naysia #19

Saturday, March 11, 2017

When I birthed Naysia baby I never would have imagined we'd spend her 19th birthday in the teeny town of Castroville, Texas.  Nor did I imagine she'd have a love for tattoos.  Her friend Chris is a tattoo artist and agreed to hook her up for her birthday.  Our destination was only 30 miles away from San Antonio.  What should have been a 35 minute commute extended to over an hour due to the rain. 

My knowledge of Castroville was limited to stories shared by an assisted living resident named Mrs. B.  Mrs. B often (as in numerous times every single day) mentioned her childhood in Castroville.  She'd run around barefoot, ride horses, and go swimming in
the Medina River.  Her father owned the only meat market in town and eventually added a dance-hall.  Other than seeing what all her hype was about, I'd had no plans to visit Castroville.


We didn't see the Texas Tattoos sign until we passed it several times.  Located just off HWY 90 it was challenging to turn in with Ford trucks moving at 80mph were right behind us.  After a couple of u-turns we made it in.  My desire to sit in the waiting area while Naysia got her sunflower tat was non existent, so I decided to go exploring.  

Thankfully the rain cleared.  Chris gave me directions to the meat market.  Upon my arrival I realized I was not at the right place as Mrs. B's place was no longer in business.  I looked around the market and waited for the right time to ask someone where Mrs. B's childhood meat market/dancehall was.  I purchased a small tray of meat and cheese and asked the cashier where to go.  She gave me directions and said I couldn't get lost.  But I did. 

Along the way I stopped and admired the architecture of the St. Louis Catholic Church.  The history dates back to 1844--and mass is still held today.  Next stop was an antique shop that used to be a movie theatre...now a neat use of space.  Some of the original fixtures are still in place, including an inoperable water fountain. 

 

I asked the shopkeeper if she knew about the famed meat market/dancehall and it was right across the street!!  She mentioned that up until "recently," pigs were still being slaughtered there and she rearranged her schedule to be off those days as the squealing was horrendous.  Although not an overly impressive structure, it was gratifying to recall Mrs. B's stories and envision her in that setting.  Next stop was the Medina River.  Locals say the part I saw was a popular spot aka dirty, but the northwest end of the river is pristine.

Soon after seeing the river, Naysia called.  I picked her up and we headed back to town.  We picked up Attie and had dinner at Naysia's favorite place, Chili's.  Her birthday ended up being a win win for us both.  She was pleased with her new ink, enjoyed her dinner, we laughed (like always) with Attie, and I was able to explore a new place. Thank God for another birthday! Life is good.

*Pause*

March 2017

The conditions were right.  In between jobs, we had time.  Having saved, there was even a little extra money.  Seeing as my mom's birthday is March 5th and Naysia's March 11th, it was only fitting that we traveled to Tucson to celebrate. 

I must admit I was nervous about the trip.  What was there to worry about?  My fear was the feeling of regret.  I knew us moving to SA was a God thing, but I was afraid that we'd get back to Tucson and wish we had never left.  

We were there for a week and it was jam packed!

Sunday: Drove all day long.  Surprised family with our arrival
Monday: Breakfast with Patty, surprised Grandma and Papa with a visit and that night took them cruising
Tuesday: Slept most of the day, Sanita blessed me with a pedicure, visited with Godmother Yvette
Wednesday: Lunched with Patty, surprised Grace Revolution and dinner afterwards with them
Thursday: Brunch with Adina, shopping with Sanita and Imaunii, cruising and dinner with Michael
Friday: Partied with my Oasis Family, Uber driving with Winona
Saturday: Breakfast with Montgomery family, lunch with Jacob, visited Jim and Mary, dinner with Sharon and Omari
Sunday: Attended church service at Grace to the Nations, celebrated Mom and Naysia's birthday
Monday: Early morning shopping with Mom and hit the road by 11am.  
Tuesday: Made it back to SA by noon

A couple things came to light....

  1.  All the time that we attended Grace to the Nations, I never paid attention to street names.  When meeting Adina on Thursday, as I turned onto the side street, I read the name and was brought to tears.  The very place where I lifted up prayers, shed tears and made my requests known was located on a street named after a prominent location in our new city.  Coincidence?  I think not.

2.  I'm thankful we were able to go.  I came back, thankful for the trip and happy to be back home.  While I certainly miss all the people in Tucson (wish they were all here with us), we have grown in tremendous ways here.  Finally moving away from home has caused me to trust God's plans for me in a way I've never known, and to trust strangers sooner than I may have otherwise. 

Hopefully, we'll be able to go to Tucson for the holidays.  Until then, come see us, yall!!

"We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we're curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths" Walt Disney 

 

Once Is Enough

Sunday, February 19, 2017

Most nights sleep doesn't come easy.  My mind races about you name it.  The past, the future, the present.  Tomorrow, what I should've said 15 years ago and what I need to do 15 year from now.  As a result, I try to turn off my phone at bedtime and I have disabled emergency and amber alerts.

As I dozed off this night I was thinking about events that took place earlier that day and drifted off, happy.  Imagine my frustration when Naysia busted in my room after 11pm.  Half asleep and disoriented I think I hear something about a tornado.  Confused, I ask her to tell me again.  She then asks, with urgency, "Didn't you hear the alert on your phone??!!"  Shoving her phone in my face I read the following:

Thru the blackout curtains in my bedroom I could barely see the lightning flashes, but the thunder was getting increasingly louder.  I told Naysia all sorts of tales, "San Antonio doesn't have tornadoes.  I'll listen out to see if it gets worse.  It's just a really bad storm with all the ingredients of a tornado.  We're going to be fine."  She got in bed.  And within minutes the lightning strikes were back to back, the wind began to howl and the thunder caused the wooden bed frame to rattle!  

Coming from Arizona, inclement weather rarely happens.  We enjoyed sunshine 382 days a year with an occasional microburst, severe monsoon storm or haboob.  My only tornado knowledge came from the movie 'Twister', but I couldn't remember what we're supposed to do to survive.  The first thing Google said was, don't listen out to see if the storm will worsen.  oops.  Next tips were to move to the ground level, center of the house, smallest space possible, and away from windows. 

We grabbed some pillows and blankets and headed to my bathroom.  Us two, squeezed into the tub.  With the door closed, it was hard to hear the storm but we could feel the thunderous vibrations. About 15 minutes later we emerged.  It had quieted down considerably.  We were safe, back to bed, and I was convinced it was just a severe thunderstorm.  Until the next morning.

Turns out that not one or two but 6 tornadoes touched down between SA and Austin!  As I drove to work the next morning, the damage caused was breath taking.   Turns out the nearest tornado was only about 5 miles from home.

 http://abc13.com/weather/6-tornadoes-confirmed-in-san-antonio-and-austin-area/1763124/

Thankfully, the damage was minor in comparison and thank God there were no deaths.   

Dear Lord, let's please not do that again. 

Prayers on King Court

Sunday, February 18, 2017

The older I get the easier it's becoming to talk to strangers.  Today was no exception. 

This particular Sunday started off like most other Sundays.  We went to church at our beloved Pearl Street and then strolled thru the Pearl Street Farmer's Market.  No, not to buy fresh produce...but to get some overpriced but delicious and beautifully decorated sugar cookies.  We strolled along the river enjoying our dessert hoping the rain wouldn't ruin our tentative plans. 

Yolanda called to check our location and to see if we still wanted to hang out.  We agreed to meet at Tycoon Flats for lunch before checking out the Mardi Gras block party. 

http://www.flatsisback.com/ 

Tycoon Flats, located on the well known St. Mary's strip, describes itself as a family friendly eatery that even has a small playground in the beer garden.  This was our first time and we were not disappointed.  Naysia wasn't all that hungry, so she enjoyed a basket of fries.  Yolanda and I split a burger.  But, not just any burger..."Feta, Cranberry, Candied Bacon Burger--1/2 lb topped with house-made cranberry sauce, candied bacon and feta aioli over a bed of baby spinach"  My, my, my. 

 

Being the highly favored young ladies we are we happened to be right across the street from the Mardi Gras block party.  We put our left overs in the car and started to walk over.  Naysia and Yolanda went back to Tycoon Flats to powder their noses.  While waiting for them I met some amazing people.

Us with the De Leons

The De Leon's headed my direction and asked what was going on across the street.  I told them what little I knew about the block party.  Naysia and Yolanda eventually joined us and the conversation went directions of all sorts.  We talked as a group and in pairs about the city, church involvement, college, neighboring restaurants, family life and future plans.  Mrs. De Leon invited us to their church and shared their motto "Make a friend. Be a friend. And bring a friend to Christ." Mr. De Leon gave Naysia college pointers.  We exchanged phone numbers, hugs, handshakes and took pictures. 

We all made our way to the party.  This is the first year the Tobin Hill neighborhood has put on the event.  Considering the size of the city, the turnout seemed relatively slow.  We bought tickets and purchased  beignets.  We went ga-ga over dogs in attendance and stopped for a bit to listen to the band.  I was low key envious of those walking around with beads and wondered where to get them.  Just as we were about to give up all hope we ran into the De Leon's who had on some serious bead bling going on!  When asked where they got it they told us to go to the end of the street and make a left. 

A few hundred feet after the turn, we stood in front of the Cajun restaurant, Cookhouse.  There were hundreds of beaded necklaces hanging on the fence.  Just as we were going to get some, Ben came up.  Second guessing our decision we stepped back and started talking to him. 

Ben did not hesitate to profess his love for Jesus right from the start. We talked to him about numerous things: the city, the neighborhood, mission trips, our recent moves (Yolanda moved her last year from Chicago), church, dreams, hopes, likes and dislikes.  Ben knew everybody.  He knew the owner of the restaurant and introduced us to them.  And then to countless others.   They live near us and their children go to the high school across the street from where we live. Eventually Ben's wife, Merideth joined us and then he asked a very bold question.  He asked if he could pray for us.  Never turning down an opportunity for intercession, I/we agreed.  He then asked what is the one prayer we'd like answered before the year ends.  We took turns answering the question.  

Meredith & Ben

Standing there in a circle on King Court, Meredith prayed for me and then Ben prayed for Yolanda and Naysia.  As it ended and I opened my eyes, I saw and bright light--like none I've ever seen before.  It was blinding like the sun, yet it wasn't but at the same time was comforting...indescribable.  

We eventually snatched up some beads and ended our day at SA Pops and enjoyed cold water and popsicles.  

My heart continues to grow full of love for this city and it's people.