A Thousand Words

Because we were without power and a TV, we have only seen footage for the past two days. We had a radio where we were and we heard all the news but there is of course nothing like seeing it. I've cried some - mostly when I see areas that I recognize. I am so thankful that the French Quarter looks so good.

As we drove to South Carolina, I cheered for the hundreds of military and utility vehicles we met on the way. I had never been so happy to see camouflage.

We listened to Prairie Home Companion Sunday night live from the Minnesota State Fair. The Dirty Dozen Brass Band played and although they were in an open air stadium, you could hear the audience cheer and cheer for the New Orleans band. It touched me.

Addy continues to be fantastic. My mom flies back to Vermont tomorrow and then on to my parent's new home in Tucson. Finally I'll get to hold my daughter at times other than when she's hungry or dirty!! I can't express how wonderful it's been to have my mom here.

We move from Spartanburg, SC to Columbia hotel today. It's unclear how long we'll be there. Everything depends on when The Husband is called back to work and when we can get power to the house. I keep thinking about little things like the bananas on the kitchen table and some moist sheets in the dryer. If a pile of mush and some mold is all I have to worry about then I will be in good shape.

There is so much heartbreak because of this storm but one of the things that keeps eating at me is the devastation to the Mississippi coast. Those homes were so beautiful and The Husband and I were just there in July enjoying one last childless vacation. On the other hand I am incredibly thankful that they were east of the storm, not New Orleans and for that, I feel guilty.