Day: October 30, 2008

On Top of the World in the First Storm

Weathering a storm up here is always exciting, exhilarating, and adrenaline pumping. Winds up here have been recorded at 140 mph. Yup, Category 5 type winds. Those are the times when I cover all the windows, for fear they will blow out; when I cannot walk upright outside without holding on to a railing; when the trailer where I sleep is rockin’ and rollin’ to the sounds of Elvis pumping out the tunes in the heavens. My cottage is much tamer. But tonight, the storm is mild, compared to what I can and do get. There are winds, which will stop when the rains begin, but the winds are only in the 30-40 mph range. Mild for The Top of the World. The dogs aren’t freaking out — that’s a clue that this one isn’t bad, at all.

So, I’m settled in, my silk long johns as my pjs, the down comforter on the bed, the tv going, mostly as background, and a new scary book by Dean Koontz to see me through the storm. Plenty of food, plenty of gas, plenty of things to do. I always enjoy the first storms; the first snow; the first of winter’s slower pace. Ah, yes, I am ready for that slower pace.

Meanwhile, I will be praying for all my north coast friends, hoping this weekend’s series of storms are as gentle as can be.

Fires, Floods, Elections

While I have been paying attention to the election, my blog has not. Too many other things to pay attention to. But now, with the election just around the corner, and many of my lawyer friends leaving in the next few days to be impartial observers in key states around the nation, it is time to chime in.

I have very strong views about what is right with this election, and what is wrong. However, my strongest view is that we need the largest turnout in the history of voting next Tuesday. Everyone who is registered to vote needs to exercise that power and responsibility, please. It is important.

Also, several weeks ago, I discovered one of the most delightful blogs: http://margaretandhelen.wordpress.com

Margaret doesn’t write, but Helen does. Helen is 82 years old, living in Texas, and best friends with Margaret for 60 years. Her grandson helped her start this blog a year and a half ago. She is witty, insightful, and opinionated. She has had a lot to say about this election, particularly Ms. Palin. If you want a good laugh, go see her blog. SNL, Rose O’Donnel, and many others have linked to her. I want to see her reach 1,000,000 hits by Election Day. She’s at 667,000 currently, so pass the word. You won’t regret it!

Oh, and she is listed in my blog roll to the right, if you forget how to find her.