From our house on the hill, Irene seemed like just another rainy day. During an evening walk, we noticed that the brook was rushing and dangerous, but if it weren't for Facebook we would have had no idea of the seriousness of the storm.
Just as we were going to bed, we lost power and the generator kicked in. Things I've learned so far about our generator:
- It is LOUD.
- Not all outlets are connected to the generator.
- The outlets for my bedside lamp and the alarm clock are not on the generator but the overhead lights in the bedroom are.
- The outlet under Michael's desk is NOT on the generator.
- The outlet under my desk is.
We woke up to no phone or internet service, and after an hour we couldn't stand not knowing how the inn was doing and Michael headed off to find out. A trip that usually takes 20 minutes took 2 hours, as he ran into one closed road after another and was forced to backtrack and find an alternate route. I had phone and internet back long before he reached the inn. Thankfully, the inn is fine. As is the sketchy-looking bridge to the north of the inn, which has reopened after being closed for fear it was being undermined.
It turns out Facebook is extremely useful in a situation like this. People are sharing news of road closures and tips on how to get to X from Y. A lost dog was reunited with its owner thanks to someone who recognized the posted picture. Those in need of volunteers are able to post what they need and when.
I was both touched and amused when I logged in to work today to find that my large corporate employer wanted me to log in to a special web page and tell them if I was not safe, safe, safe and able to help others, or none of the above. What are the odds that if I were not safe I would be able to log in to my work email account to get the link to the web page?
2 comments:
The damage is just unreal! Are the kids enjoying time off from school?
I find myself feeling a little like someone who survived the war and his buddy didn't. It almost makes one feel guilty having just a normal day, let alone a great day. Thinking about all the many things that are going to need to be repaired, all the supplies that will need to be distributed, etc. in Vermont is very overwhelming. I know that in the midst of every catastrophe there are blessings and things we learn, and fortunate are those who are able to see what those are and help others at the same time. I am so thankful that you are okay and doing what you can to help others.
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