The Aftermath

We were very lucky and blessed to have escaped the brunt of Hurricane Irene.  We have a few branches down in the backyard and a little water in the basement.  It is really no more than in a big storm, even though the recorded rain for Newark airport (closest measure) was over 8 inches! 

Some of the towns right next to us did not fare as well.  The rivers were overflowing, some even before the hurricane hit.  Downtown Millburn was hit very hard, as were some neighborhoods in Maplewood, South Orange and Springfield.  Maplewood and Millburn are among many towns that are under a water boil advisory, or may even have no water.  They are saying that those without power or water may be without it for a week.  Considering that we are the first house in Union from Maplewood, I would say we are very lucky!

Here are some pictures on our local message board, Maplewoodonline.

All my storm preparations may have proved to be unnecessary, but I don't think that I went paranoid-overboard.  And seeing how the situation is merely the next town over from me, I think I was right on target.  I ended up falling asleep on Saturday night, maybe about 2am, while Vinnie stayed awake for some time after that.  Lilly slept through it all!  The key there was that we never lost power so her sound machine stayed on all night. 

Thank you for all the prayers and thoughts as we weathered this storm.  I ask for your continued prayers and thoughts for my neighbors and those in the shore communities as they recover from Hurricane Irene.

Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene, the biggest (only?) hurricane to hit our area in years is upon us.  My friends and family living south of me have tornado watches.  The whole hurricane area is in a tornado warning.  Our ground is already saturated with water.  I went outside about 8:30 for a quick moment and I came in with mud-covered toes and flip flops. 

I am not sure what to expect but I am trying to prepare for the worst.  Okay, maybe not the worst, but the medium scenario?  I have not packed clothes and food in a bag.  I did pack a basket with candles, flashlights and batteries and matches in a ziplock baggie.  I did start putting all our daily meds in a backpack.  I have a tub of water and I filled any and all water bottles and sippy cups with tap water and loaded the fridge, as well as bottled water.  I don't want to be completely paranoid, but the storm outside is very real. 

My initial plan was for Lilly to sleep with us because of the old, rotten tree outside her window.  Now it seems that the worst winds won't start until daybreak so I am wondering if I should leave her in her room.  When I was single I do not remember feeling this scared.  Having a child has changed my fear level.
What to do, what to do??  I am sure people who go through this all the time think I am overthinking this or just a plain nut.  For now I am going to say my prayers and drink this glass of wine. 

Be safe friends...