Preparing for the Storm 2

(Note, although this post was written yesterday, fluctuating power caused me to make the decision to stay offline and keep my computer safe.) Have you been watching the weather for today? If you live along the east coast, you’re probably concerned about severe weather coming your way. Heavy rain, high winds and flash floods are all possibilities for many areas. In my previous post, Preparing for the Storm, I talked a little bit about how the severe weather may be affecting us soon. At the moment, our are resembles a tropical rain forest. There has been some steady, feathery rain … Continue reading

Preparing for the Storm

When you live in the woods, you have to be prepared. Gustav and Hanna have been in the news lately, as everyone pays close attention to the hurricane and severe storm watches and warnings. I have been no exception. The little weather alert has been popping up on my browser for the last two days, warning me of severe storms with high winds and possible flooding in my area. While I am not too concerned that we will find ourselves in a situation that requires evacuation, I still need to pay attention to the weather reports, especially because of those … Continue reading

Celebrities and Hurricane Gustav

While the major networks were watching Hurricane Gustav unleash its fury on Louisiana entertainment publications were keeping a close eye on celebrities watching what New Orleans mayor described as “the mother of all storms.” (Today Mayor Ray Nagin amended his description calling Gustav “the mother-in-law or the ugly sister of all storms.”) Which just goes to show that the media can spin practically any current events story into one that involves Hollywood’s biggest names. Yesterday I saw video of men working to board up Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt’s New Orleans home. The couple, which bought a home and lived … Continue reading

Recovering from Disaster

Following a disaster, there is much work to do. Having endured such an experience is so utterly draining that many people don’t know how they’ll find the strength to go forward. Others jump in, needing to do something, anything, in an attempt to right things. Everyone is different but there are things that everyone should keep in mind. It is a sad fact, but there are those who will try to take advantage of people who are in a vulnerable position. Make sure people who come to you following a disaster really are who they say they are. Don’t hesitate … Continue reading

Ooh Went the Wind…

Do you know that poem about the five little pumpkins? My kids have been singing it all morning in response to our our storm that we are anticipating. Five little pumpkins sitting on a gate First one said, “Oh my its getting late Second one said, “There’s a wind in the air.” Third one said, “But we don’t care.” Fourth one said, “Let’s run and run and run.” Fifth one said, “I’m ready for some fun.” Then ooh went the wind and out went the light And five little pumpkins rolled out of sight. The wind is howling something fierce … Continue reading

Power Out and Not Prepared? Clever Emergency Solutions

Although we have has some amazingly mild days here in January in Pennsylvania, the weather is once again turning cold and blustery. Power outages are almost inevitable before the winter season is over. Last year, we moved in to our new home at the end of March. Within a week and a half, we had a freak snow and ice storm that knocked the power out. Needless to say that we were unprepared. Still, we found some interesting solutions, born of necessity. Keep these in mind in case you ever lose power to your home and find that you aren’t … Continue reading

Gospel Doctrine: Peace, Be Still

I think what I love the most about the way the Lord works is how my scripture study always seems to match up so neatly with my life – or else, my life matches so well to my scripture study. Last night, discussing the Relief Society/Priesthood lesson, I spoke of my determination to spend today vigilantly overcoming a bad habit. After studying today’s portion of the Sunday School lesson, Mark 4:35-41, I felt further strengthened and uplifted. This short portion covered the well-known story of Christ stilling the tempest. In fact, as I read it to my children (trying to … Continue reading

Trials and Faith: The Storm

One of my favorite Bible stories is the one about Peter in the storm. I can relate so much to this story. Here’s an overview of what happens in Matthew 14:22-33: Jesus’ disciples were in a boat at night during a storm in the midst of the sea. While straining to row, Jesus appeared to them walking on the water. The men were frightened at first wondering if they were looking at a ghost. But Jesus told them, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” Peter tested the Lord by suggesting, if it is really Him, … Continue reading

During a Storm

Spring is the season for severe weather including severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. This can mean damaging winds and hail, floods, flash floods, lighting, tornadoes, and the nervousness that can accompany powerful storms. It is important to be prepared in order to keep your home and family safe. Knowing what to do, where to go, and how to protect yourself and your family during bad weather, will help you remain calmer during a storm. Staying calm is the best possible advice for dealing with bad weather. Here are some other tips: 1. Pay close attention to the weather and especially storm … Continue reading