Storm stories

Lots of storm stories this week. Wow. I was grocery shopping when the storm moved in on Sunday. I wasn't sure we should drive home, but when I called, Everett said he didn't know what I was so worried about -- no warnings here, just come home. We got about two blocks before the rain and wind started in so hard I could hardly see a few feet in front of the car. The whole time I was assuring Ellie that "we're fine, we'll be home soon, we're fine" but inside I was freaking out. The street lights went out and the tornado siren started. I knew we were in the middle of a tornado. The rain and wind got even stronger. The older two girls had been downtown working and when I called home Everett said they were closing up and coming home. When we finally got home I was so relieved to be there, but . . . the older girls weren't there. I was so afraid that they were out driving in what I had just driven home in. It was hard getting the car doors open, hard walking to the house in the wind because it was so strong. I was soaked to the skin by the time I got in, Ellie was crying. Everett told me the girls were riding the storm out downtown. I was worried about them. And the basement wall had water running down it, but that was the least of my worries. Finally, the all clear siren blew, we went upstairs and the girls called and headed home. Emma came in crying, telling me Erin wasn't afraid at all. Erin had held her hand and told her it would be ok. I hugged and comforted Emma. Then I went to give Erin a big hug and she kind of fell apart. She was being strong for her sister. I know if Emma had been with us, she would have been strong for Ellie and comforted her. I was so proud of them. I wish they had been with me, but they knew what to do, and they took care of each other. I love my girls so much. And I'm so thankful we were safe.