Ike's Visit

The wind started up around 3 PM Sunday and continually became stronger as the evening wore on. Our local weather man said they had been measured at up to 60 MPH. John was in the living room watching the Steelers/Browns game when the power went out; and it stayed out for 36 hours. The Punxsy area also lost phone service for most of that time.

We honestly can't complain about anything though as our only damage was a lot of tree limbs in the yard. Even the loss of power wasn't all that bad since we have the gas stove and water heater and the use of our water. The only write-off on our part was some food in the refrigerator.

Ben (big yellow dog) was agitated beyond belief. He couldn't make sense of the wind and the strange noises outdoors. Plus, he doesn't like to be in the dark. We had no choice but to give him some doggy Valium. Thank heavens there was still some leftover from the 4th of July (our dog is neurotic).

I am by no means complaining about anything; especially after seeing the damage down around Texas. I honestly have no idea the amount of emotional strength it would take to survive that kind of extensive destruction. All of those people have our undying respect-and prayers.