From the Mountains to the Hill Country

We got back from the Davis Mountains last night about 8:00. We had SUCH a good time: we got a lot of work done (both in the main kitchen and in our cabin); we visited almost non-stop with family and lifelong friends; we had the opportunity to get better acquainted with two couples that we've known for years; and we observed two majestic thunderstorms as only West Texas can produce!

For those of you who have no clue what I'm talking about, let me explain: Nestled in the beautiful Davis Mountains of West Texas, on the scenic loop between Fort Davis and Valentine, is a section of land known as Bloys Camp Meeting. which is held one week a year in August. The camp was started in 1898 as a way to gather the ranchers together to give thanks for a good year -- now 5,000 - 6,000 people attend each year. It is a non-denominational camp with programs for every age group. It is up to the attendess as to which (if any) of the services they want to attend. There is no swimming pool, no horseback riding, no television, no wifi service, and limited cell phone service -- just the glorious mountain vistas, beautiful weather, good food, lots of opportunities for spiritual renewal, and and lots of visiting with friends (old and new).

My grandfather started one of the six eating sheds on the campground in 1926. He turned the management of the camp over to my dad in the early 70's and then Dad turned it over to his sons-in-laws. Dad had attended every camp meeting of his life except the 3 years he was in the South Pacific in WWII. Both my sister and I have attended every year of our lives -- it's very much a part of our year and who we are.

Camp Meeting is a unique place: it must be experienced to fully understand the magic. What a blessing to have such a place in one's life!