Hey Y'all,

Jessie left to meet her boyfriend, Caleb today and drive back home.  She has no power at her apartment, so she is staying at the house.  Entergy is getting slammed by the governor for the lack of response in restoring power to the almost 900,000 (yes, you read that right) people across the state who are still without power.  Rightfully so, I might add.  We have power, but we are also paying a HUGE increase in our bill due to Katrina, so you would think that they would have been a little better prepared for this.  As one Parish President pointed out, "the mom and pop businesses are ready to be up and running, why isn't Entergy?" (or words to that effect).

The traffic on the way home was horrendous, according to Jessie and thousands are returning home to no power (not us!  Bob may freak out if the cable isn't on!!!) She and Skylar (if he doesn't have power) are staying at the house, so I'm grateful for that.  Nicki, Bob's partner, lives 4 streets away and their family is without power as well.  For long time readers, you may remember the AWFUL experience we had cleaning out our freezer and I certainly do NOT EVER want to do that again.  I'm checking the ice cream when we get home and if it got runny then everything will get tossed, but they say (who ever "they" are) stuff in a freezer can last 3 days if you don't open the doors.  We'll see.

My class is over tomorrow and I am thrilled with what I have learned and created.  Bob and Jessie kept themselves busy hiking and sightseeing.  Auntie Deb, the kennel lady, has fallen in love with our dogs (grin) and Milton, has weaseled his way into her house rather than the kennel!  We bought some lawn art today.  Some of you may remember the adventurous ride home with "Berto strapped to the roof of my car and the gianormous lizard keeping Bob company in the front seat of the rental truck,

Jessie and Bob found a few pieces they really liked and we are coming home with (of all things) a rooster.  Honestly, I don't know how many more evacuations our yard can take if we keep coming back with this oil can art.  OY!  Not to leave Rex and Carla out, we bought them a little dachshund.  I'm sure they'll be just thrilled! (great rolling of eyes...)

While the romantic little get away I had planned didn't quite work out as planned, it did what I desired most - Bob fell in love with the area.  The people are so incredibly nice and the country side so beautiful, it is one of only two places (the other being Tasmania) I would consider moving to.  Not that that will happen any time soon - but I did find a little (and I do mean little) cabin to rent next summer when I come up for classes.  I'll look at some larger houses so the kids can join us if they want, but we are limited to places that are dog friendly.

I'll post some photos when I get home.  I'm not sure what to expect.  News reports from Nola.com says there is a lot of debris that needs to be cleared but I think most homes were spared - at least the ones that were repaired or under renovation.  The good news is that the new flood gates worked as planned - they did not even close the one by our house.  In fact, at the request of the city they kept the pumps going for a few days more to help with some squalls that came through with the front.  All in all, the Corps is breaking their arms patting themselves on the back.  I'm just grateful they all worked!

So, until Sunday that's it from my end.  Thanks to everyone who has commented or emailed me privately with your concerns and prayers.  You have no idea how much that means to me and my family - and I'm pretty sure the prayers helped!

Take care y'all!

Comments

[Trudie]

I was so glad to have popped in to check on you and saw this post! Can't wait to see the pics of what you have been making. STAY POSITIVE!

[Keely]

Renee, so glad your home has been spared and you were able to go on your trip!! You're always in my thoughts at this time of year. Take care.

[becca]

Oh sweetie--I've been thinking of you and praying for you all. In fact, we tried to call you but didn't get through... Anyway--so glad to hear from you.

Know you're loved,
Becca

[Lil]

I started to watch your blog during the hurricane, and have become addicted. Don't be so long between posts.