Despite concerns about hurricanes, we loved living in Florida. As a major storm approached, we readied shutters and a generator, then stocked up on essentials like batteries, lanterns, propane, food, gas, and cash. Trusting our preparation, we waited and left the rest to God. Meanwhile, our son called with a local job offer and visited briefly before Hurricane Ian intensified—we were excited for the possibility of family nearby but remained cautious as the storm grew.
With the news constantly on, we waited, the morning of arrival
we got notification to evacuate. Thank God we had friends that were not in the evacuation
area and so we continued to prepare and readied for a hurricane party. Together
with another couple we went to our friends out to wait for the storm. Being Italian of course I brought Pasta, wine and plenty of food. You know I wasn’t even afraid. We made the best of it, and after it hit with
the full force of mother nature, we were glad that we were together.
We went back to our homes to check on the damage and by the will
of God most of our home was spared and although some of our friends lost a lot
more, none of us lost our life.
We were incredibly lucky, as we drove home the telephone poles littered the roads like toothpicks. Trees were down and intersections had no lights. There was no gas, and stores were closed. We were grateful that we had prepared in advance.
The community was broken, but yet positive in rebuilding. We met neighbors, helped each other, and learned how good humanity can be.
A few days after it hit, with power still out, our son moved here. His job was still available, and they really wanted him. It was nice to have him here to help but I felt bad that he had to leave his family back in Colorado to do everything so they could all move here.
We recovered and as each day came and went our paradise came
back, before Christmas the rest of Nick’s family came out and it was a blessing
to have them with us as they prepared for a new adventure. I guess the apple doesn’t fall far from the
tree.
With that said, our son Anthony informed us that he and his
girlfriend were also moving here. My heart leapt with joy to have family close
by. The new adventure had become a
family affair and was so grateful.
Next will be "Were we really prepared for Retirement"
Lesson learned, never underestimated the power of mother
nature, whether it is a blizzard, a tornado or the biggest hurricane in 100
years. Be smart, be prepared listen to
the experts and God will bring you through it. Also, God knows what you need
before we do, you can never measure what a smile from your children or
grandchildren can do for your soul.
