Scattered, I agree completely -- I am also so thankful for this village full of wonderful women.
We lost power for six days but since we were warned the power could be out for 7-10 days we were prepared. We kept warm with a kerosene heater, stocked up on gas for the generator, & had plenty of food & water. It was also nice to be able to light the gas stovetop to cook some hot meals. Dfriend a few towns away let us shower at her house -- that was wonderful.
We were blessed to have been spared any damage. We only lost some tree limbs yet almost every other house in our neighborhood had big trees fall over. There were times during the storm I truly thought the roof would come off or a window implode. I have never experienced such strong winds before.
I hope everyone here is OK after the storm, too.
My best storm tip to everyone would be to buy a headlamp. I bought them at either H ome D epot or L owes last year, & it was so convenient to be able to read & to light my way around the whole house at night, hands free. Dh especially loved being able to tend to the generator without having to hold a flashlight.
So glad to be back!