Almost enough to make a grown man cry

Last Thursday afternoon we drove through the Hill Country town of Johnson City, TX on our way to Fredricksburg. The sky was pretty dark and we knew we were in for some bad weather, but we didn't have any idea how bad. We were about 10 minutes west of town when golf ball size hail began to pummel us. I've seen big hail before, but not while driving in the countryside.

Visibility was just a few feet, but we were able to get off the road and finally get under a tree which offered limited protection. I wish I'd gotten some pics afterward of the ice covered ground, but I really wasn't in a picture taking mood. I don't mind telling you that we prayed aloud for God's protection because it really could have been life threatening or a major inconvenience at the very least.

The deafening barrage of hail had to have lasted for ten minutes, but it seemed much longer. Fortunately and miraculously, none of our windows cracked or were shattered, which would have stranded us out in the country waiting for a tow truck and then waiting for window repair in a small town.

We were able to continue on down the road, and we were very thankful to do so, but that sick feeling of wrecking a new car is almost inconsolable. I didn't get out of the truck to survey the damage for another hour or so and this pic doesn't really show the extent of the damage. The roof and hood got it the worst, but the side panels have substantial damage on both sides too. It's not pretty!

When we arrived home, my neighbor reminded me that this would take the newness away. Thanks, I needed that!

Still, no one was hurt and we made it back to Dallas after spending a good weekend in San Antonio.