We didn't get to post Sunday because Irene left us without power for the day. Even though all my electronics were charged, no power means no wifi something that my kids couldn't quite grasp. A day without power was actually nice. We played cards and made friendship bracelets, we barbecued lunch and sat around the dining table eating and watching the storm. We went for a drive once Irene had mostly passed to see our washed out beach. No vacuuming, no dishwasher, no washing machine - just family time. Was I happy when the power came back on? You bet! I do like my gadgets - but I enjoyed the solitude we enjoyed together on Sunday.

I am grateful to Irene for not being as strong as predicted. For giving me a day off and family time. I am grateful that we all survived mostly unscathed. There are some still without power, there are trees across roads, houses and yards and there is clean-up to be done - but it could have been so much worse and I am grateful it was not.