The beast is coming

We had an earthquake earlier this week. On Tuesday. Right here in Maryland! That never happens. This is only the 2nd earthquake I can remember, the first one being a few years back, which I just so happened to miss because I was at my parents' house in southern VA. Imagine my dismay when I learned that we had an earthquake and I missed it. Again. A 5.6 quake and I missed it because I was grocery shopping. I have total tremor envy.

So here it is, Saturday. 4 days after the big event. And we're preparing for a hurricane. Potentially the biggest one to hit in decades, I hear. She's a monster, this hurricane Irene. We're under tropical storm warning here in our little part of Northern MD. This far inland our biggest threat is most likely no power. But you wouldn't know that by looking at the grocery stores.

The Mister took this picture yesterday of the Costco he works at. As I mentioned, we may see a tropical storm, but not an actual hurricane. But I'm guessing people are ignoring that part? He said they ran out of bread and water before 2, and when the water was dwindling, the fighting began. Which honestly, really saddens me. People are so out for themselves they forget to be kind to each other.

A friend of mine took this picture of her grocery store in Norfolk VA.

Last time I checked, the last thing you wanted to get when you had a threat of a hurricane is food that can spoil. She said the freezer section was wiped clean as well. What in the heck are people going to do with all that cold food if their power goes out??

This AM, The Mister said it's as insane as ever at work.

Yes, that's a line around the building waiting for opening time.

I just shake my head in wonder.

Here at our home sweet home, we are totally preparing for Irene. I'm planning on cooking dinner like normal, the kids are playing their beloved Little Big Planet as I type this on my trusty Mac. I've got Facebook open and my phone on the charger. Perhaps I'll make some pretzels this afternoon, and we've got a cleaning party planned. So you see - we're totally prepared!

To those of you on the coast, stay safe. I pray that all of you come through this with minimal damage and with all of your loved ones safe and sound. While damage to our beloved cities and towns can be heartbreaking, it can all be rebuilt. Nothing is as important as those you hold close by your side. Kiss those faces and tell them you love them, not because of the threat of danger but because it's what you should be doing, every day! And if you do evacuate, PLEASE take your pets with you!! Don't leave them behind to fend for themselves.