First, let me say that our loss was nothing compared to those who lost their loved ones, their homes and their businesses.
The tornados that devastated so much in other states over the next few days started their journey in Texas during the early evening of April 26th. Our property in Van Zandt county took a direct hit. We live about 20 minutes away so we were not in danger.
When we bought the property 4 years ago, it had a 900 square foot metal barn that was an asset in storing our tractors and other equipment. There was also a 1200 square foot house that we torn down and have been building a pavilion on that slab. The pavilion was built using VOBB concrete blocks and a metal roof and is close to being completed.
The tornado demolished our barn, but disturbed very little of its contents including tractors, golf carts and lots and lots of tools and other equipment. It torn off 1/2 of the roof of the pavilion, put a big hole in the roof of our travel trailer, destroyed our front gate, uprooted or twisted off many big oak and cedar trees and scattered debris throughout much of our planted pine trees.
Our pontoon boat was in the water at the back of the pavilion, but it received no damage.
We do have some structure in our lake now, including trees, metal and a big Oak tree.
We will have the pavilion repaired in the next 2 weeks, but the barn will have to wait a little while.
Like I said, our loss was minimal when I see the devastation others have suffered. Our hearts and prayers go to them.
Since this property was not occupied, the high cost of insurance could not be justified. Will still be in that same boat, until we can get to the point of having our homes there.
Lucky Larry, your positive attitude is inspirational!
Excerpt from Robert Crais' "The Monkey's Raincoat:" "She took another microscopic bite of her sandwich, then pushed it away. Maybe she absorbed nutrients from her surroundings."
