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Hi Reader,

I just wanted to take a moment to reach out and check in with you — wherever you are right now — after the devastating floods that swept through so much of our beloved Texas last week.

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As a lifelong Texan, the Hill Country holds a special place for our family. From San Angelo in the West to Kerrville in the Hill Country to New Braunfels and Seguin east of San Antonio — this flood stretched hundreds of miles, fueled by a stubborn low-pressure system and tropical depression Barry off the Gulf Coast. It’s staggering just how big Texas really is when you see the reach of a storm like this. It's been reported that over 3 trillion gallons of water fell on July 4th.

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This past week, we drove out to Leakey and Kerrville — towns dear to our hearts where my husband and I spent many summers at church camps when we were younger. We checked on the river levels at the Frio River, where our daughter would soon be attending Master’s Camp, and we witnessed firsthand the devastation along the Guadalupe River in Kerrville.

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Trees stripped of bark. Dead fish scattered on higher ground. Camping gear and debris tangled in branches 10–20 feet up. Boats and cars destroyed. And the heartbreaking reality that many families lost their precious loved ones, especially young children gathered together for summer camp and the holiday weekend.

We were apprehensive about sending our daughter to camp after seeing what had just happened. But we can’t live in fear — life must go on with hope. So we trusted, prayed, and sent her, believing God has our children in His hands. She had an amazing time, made new friends, and returned safely home with stories of camp fun. The way it's supposed to be. My heart breaks for those parents who won't get to have that.

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One thing that has been so beautiful to see is how our community — and folks from all over the country — have come together. Other states have flown in teams to help, and volunteers near and far have rolled up their sleeves to help clean up the devastation. Neighbors helping neighbors. People helping people. That’s Texas. That’s what we do.

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If you’re not familiar with the area, I do want to share that the actual city of Kerrville fared well — stores and restaurants were still open when we were there. The property heavily impacted was mainly near the river and flood zones. Though the destruction there is real and tragic, the town itself remains strong and welcoming. I just wanted you to have that firsthand perspective from us.

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It’s true — Texas desperately needs the rain. We’ve been in a severe drought for years. Our rivers and lakes are still so low — Choke Canyon is only 13% full, Corpus Christi Lake less than 10%. But this rain bomb poured down too fast, too furious. We don’t control the weather, but we trust the One who does.

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So today, I just want to encourage you: hold your loved ones close. Love on your babies. Squeeze your people a little tighter. Let’s keep praying for Texas, and for every family who’s hurting right now.

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There is no blame here — flooding does happen in Texas, though it’s rare and often sudden. I know there are lots of theories floating around, but let’s lay those down and lift up our neighbors instead.

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May we remain humble, grateful for the rain we do have, prayerful for the ones we’ve lost, and hopeful for the days ahead.

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Blessings,

Daphne

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P.S. I’ve included a few photos we took of the flood damage. If you'd like to see more or follow my posts from the recent week, check out my Facebook profile.

P.P.S. If you need prayer, want to share how you’re doing, or just want someone to talk to — hit reply. I’d love to hear from you and pray for you. 💙

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