Returning to "normalcy"

We are still out of power and rumor is it won't be on for 7-10 days more. Our land line is now functional and Greg is holding down the fort, so you should be able to reach him via our home number. The kids' school district left a message today that only 4 of the 15 schools have power and it will be Monday at the earliest that they return to school. My district is closed indefinitely. We have over 45 schools and only 5 had power as of yesterday. A few leaks and downed limbs was the extent of damage at my school.

Our church is without power, but was able to hold mass on Sunday to give praise and thanks for our health and safety. The roof leaked on the new carpet that was installed a few months ago, but no structural damage per se.

Today, we ventured out to get supplies - groceries, gas, cleaning supplies, etc. We have run across very cordial and concerned people. Long lines and sparsely stocked stores are the only issues we've run across. Good news is that Greg's mom's power was restored and she is back with her independence. She will still come and eat with us at the Kloesel's, as her refrigerator still needs to be purged and cleaned. We knew Karla was a great cook, but now we know how good...Our 15 year old beagle, Bailey, finally ate for the first time since last Thursday (Karla's leftover grilled chicken).

Other good news is that the garbage man cometh!!! We cleaned out the fridge this morning and set the stinky yuck at the curb for them to haul off. Our city resumed normal trash pickup, but the debris removal is going to be overseen by FEMA. We are taking bets as to how long the trampoline and tree limbs remain by the curb.

It is comforting to know that most everyone in town is going through the same thing we are. We can commiserate with just about everyone we stand in line with. We are very fortunate though - things could be a lot worse. Bolivar, Crystal Beach and Gilcrest along the coast were completely obliterated..houses that used to be on the beach are miles inland. There is also a hungry tiger loose on the Bolivar Peninsula according to the news. He just adds a little spice of life to the snakes, rats and alligators that are also rampant on the peninsula.

Will post more tomorrow.

Courtney