Saturday, November 7, 2009

No matter how hard I try...

I am staring at the three storm sites, flipping back and forth trying to find the latest information about IDA. Memories of how quickly Wilma intensified are not buried that deeply, and I am frustrated. I keep expecting to flip to a screen and find the storm no longer on track to hit us. Not that I wish it on anyone else, but geez - I'm not there to help prepare.

I think it's hard for anyone who has never done hurricane preparations to realize just how much work it is to prepare. It's not just boarding up, which in itself is a huge chore. It's bringing in planters and patio furniture, tracking a mess all through the house with water and dirt. It's making sure there is water stored, and food supplies for humans and pets. It's moving anything that can be damaged by water up off the floors. It's trying to keep the outdoor pets close to home so they will be inside during the brunt of the storm. I remember the night before Wilma hit; Loco, who was free to roam in those days, took off down the road and was gone until 1 am. I was frantic until he came back, and he got the leash treatment for the next few hours until we were confined to the indoors.

Miguel has two properties to deal with. He's just one person, anyone who might help him will be busy with their own preparations. I wish I could be there to do the 'bringing' in part, and the food part. Miguel is philosophical - it doesn't matter what gets damaged, it's life that is important. Of course he's right, but I like to think we can protect it all.

But I'm not there to help. I'm supposed to land in Cancun tomorrow at 12:45. I'm betting the flight will be canceled. So here I sit, worried and hoping, knowing there is a hurricane on its way and hoping it will not be a strong one. No matter how hard I try to wish it away, or how many times I change weather stations, that storm is still pointing in our direction. Nuts!

7 comments:

IslaZina said...

Dont' worry! It feels OK. How scientific is that? NOT. But my preps consisted of checking the roof for projectiles and letting some water out of the pool. Relax. As for your arrival...who knows. This could blow over, aka dissipate!

jeanie said...

Sue I can't even imagine the anxiety you're feeling about your family but in your heart you know that Miguel will handle everything well. He is an amazing man. You are in my thoughts.

Sue said...

Zina - I will go with the 'feeling', I hope it's on target. I guess the port will be closed tomorrow even if I get to Cancun, which will be ok as long as I can find an inexpensive hotel. My airline didn't even know about the storm, and they are saying the flight is still showing 'on time'. So you know the drill - show up at the airport early in the am and then start the 'delay' routine.

Jeanie - yes, I know he will handle it, he has to. Just hate that he has to do it alone - I don't think he even knows where half the flashlights and candles are. I know he prefers I'm not there - one less thing for him to worry about. Oh well...nothing to do but wait it out. Thanks for the thoughts.

Jonna said...

Calmate... really, all is well at 11:30pm. I"m in Akumal because I didn't listen to Mimi and put up the hurricane curtain yesterday so I got to drive back today. The waves are up, but the wind is still light and the rain has stopped for now. It will be fine and you will probably even get to take the ferry home tomorrow. I know it is hard not to be here even though you know all will be well.

Bennie said...

I've been watching the storm knowing you were in the path. I know what you mean about wanting to be there to protect your family (animals and Miguel) and your belongings.

Good luck and let me know how you do down there.

Jackie said...

I've been watching Ida and thinking of all my friends on Isla.
It's got to be tough being so far away and not knowing when you will be home.Miguel will do what he can to make sure things are OK.
Deep breathe and try to relax.

Jeanie (Louisiana) said...

Sue,
Yep, I am watching the news here the weather alerts of course are on TV here the cone coming into the Gulf towards southeast Louisiana/Mississippi...I am in a low lying area in Slidell, so am hoping the rising water won't effect us too bad. Know that you and Miguel and all the pets are in my prayers. Hopefully, both of us will come out of this late seasonal storm just fine. Let me know how you are and I will do the same...Jeanie