Dear Madie,

We are on the eve of our 3rd day home because of ice.  Boy is it cold!  As we prepare, there are some things I want you to remember.  We are going stir crazy, hate when our electricity goes out and are desparate to get outside for just a glimpse of sunshine.  There will be MANY days like this in our future, we live in Texas - we are guaranteed at least 2 a year and they are fun!  But we should never forget these facts - while we play in our warm home with all of our worldly belongings, there is a family cuddled together under a bridge praying for another blanket.  There is an elderly woman home alone knowing Meals on Wheels won't be there again tomorrow for her only hopes of a hot meal.  Remember this my sweet, sweet girl - "From everyone who has been given much, much more will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be expected" -Luke 12:48.  We should always open our hearts, minds and homes to those in need.  We should always try harder to make those less fortunate than us more comfortable.  "Let brotherly love continue.  Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unaware" - Hebrews 13: 1-2.  So years from now when I drag you out to serve lunch to the homeless in a shelter or drive under bridges to pass out blankets, know why sweet girl.  It is our Calling and our responsibility.  We are here to make a difference - and we will to at least one.  And then we will grab some hot chocolate and build a ridiculously large IceMan in our front yard - you can count on that! 

Love you!