So, Irene Is Coming

Ok, so Hurricane Irene is coming. That’s all I’m hearing: shescomingshescomingshescoming. And while I have to hand it to the media for letting us know as far ahead as is possible, some of them sound like a continuous reel of Chicken Little shouting, “The sky is falling! The sky is falling!” In light of what’s being predicted EVERYWHERE, I’m trying to dig my heels in not to overreact.    

The kids and I spent the day putting some outdoor things in the shed while we tied down others. We re-graded the backyard to make sure water goes away from the house. We bought water and checked the flashlights. We double-checked the emergency kit and made a quick run to CVS when I realized I was almost out of Children’s Motrin (just in case). We’re taking as many steps recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as possible. I hope that’s enough.

And outside of prepping as much as possible, that’s all you can do is hope. Like a winter storm, you have to sit and wait it out. I’m picturing that scene in The 10 Commandments when Moses and his inner circle are gathered around a hearth while outside, the Passover is commencing. You see the uneasiness of those at the around the fire as they hear the shrieking of Egypt’s firstborns being slayed. It’s an eerie, uncomfortable scene. The inevitable is happening and there’s nothing those inside can do about it. That’s what storms are like for me. 

For my kids, of course, the prospect of a storm is exciting. They hope the power goes out so we can light a fire or some candles. They want to use some of the food in our emergency kit. And they’ll be entertained – until it becomes frightening or inconvenient.

So I’m digging in my heels, not panicking because what can it do except freak out the kids. Inner strength is something we muster for those around us … even when everyone around you is telling you that Irene is coming … Irene is coming.