When Lightning Struck TimberlyLane Ranch
Life on a ranch has a way of reminding you how little control we truly have. We can prepare, plan, repair fences, care for the animals, and keep a watchful eye on the weather—but sometimes nature arrives with a power that stops us in our tracks.
A recent storm brought more than rain to TimberlyLane Ranch. Lightning struck close to our home with enough force to take out the transformer supplying electricity to our house. It also damaged three trees, our automatic gate panel, and our Google Dot system.
The force of the strike was incredible. One of the trees didn’t simply split or lose a limb—it looked as though it had exploded. Wood was blown apart into small splinters and scattered around the area. Looking at what remained, it was difficult not to think about the tremendous amount of power contained in one flash of lightning.
Inside the house, our big, “ferocious” Great Dane suddenly wasn’t feeling quite so brave. He cowered beside me on his mat, staying as close as possible while the storm passed. For all his size and intimidating appearance, thunder has a way of revealing that he is still just one very large, frightened baby.
Once the worst of the storm had moved through, our first concern was the animals. We began checking the ranch, and thankfully, every cow, donkey, chicken, and other animal was accounted for. They were all safe and sound. Seeing the damage to the trees made us even more aware of how differently the day could have ended.
We were without regular power for approximately 30 hours while the transformer and electrical problems were addressed. That is a long time to be without electricity, especially on a ranch where so many parts of daily life depend upon it. Thankfully, our whole-house generator came on and carried us through. I don’t believe I have ever been more grateful to hear that generator running!
The gate panel and Google Dot system can be replaced. The trees will have to be cleaned up, and the scars left behind will remain visible for quite some time. But those things are small compared to what was spared. Our home was still standing, our animals were safe, and no one was injured.
Storms have a way of putting things into perspective. They remind us that the things we often take for granted—electricity, safety, shelter, and the quiet rhythm of an ordinary day—are actually blessings.
They also remind us that faith does not mean storms will never come. Faith means knowing where to turn when they do.
As I looked at that tree torn into splinters, I couldn’t help but thank God for His protection. The lightning left damage behind, but it did not take what mattered most.
Today, there is cleanup to do, equipment to replace, and one Great Dane whose reputation may never fully recover. But most of all, there is gratitude.
Thank You, Lord, for watching over our home, our family, and every animal here at TimberlyLane Ranch. The storm was powerful—but Your protection and goodness were greater.