Ike has not even hit Galveston yet and we are already experiencing many casualties. I know this is a serious storm and I am honestly not trying to offend anyone, but as we are "hunkered down" it is essential to look for some humor in the situation.
In this humor spirit, I wanted to share some of the casualties we have already experienced.
Our sanity
Sanity died quickly when you are stuck in a house with a three-year-old drama queen and a seven-year-old drama king. If I hear, "mom!" one more time, I think I may go camp out in the backyard.
Our sports
Perhaps one of the things Texans love most is their sports. My son was supposed to have his first soccer game. The Texans have moved their game against the Ravens to Monday. The Astros are on a winning streak of a lifetime and now they are postponed. Not to mention the UT Longhorn game against Arkansas was canceled. This casualty is contributing to the above casualty because my husband and son have turned our living room into a football field.
Good food
It seemed fun at first going to shop and be all stocked up on junk food in case the electricity was lost. Neighborhoods were planning their hurricane parties. I can honestly say this is the biggest casualty. Halfway through the first day of being shut in, I am longing for some nutrition. Who knew a sugar headache would come so quickly. And have you ever seen a three-year-old high on sugar?
Regular television programming
I admit it is important to know about the hurricane and believe me we have been glued to the news all day. But seriously, how much news can you take? It is causing more panic and nerves watching it. My stomach has been ready to explode and my husband is about to the point of locking me up to get me calm.
Respect for neighbors
I know during times of trouble, it is essential for neighbors to join together and support one another. My neighbor had no place for his horses. His solution? He is putting them in their trailer in his driveway. So tonight if I die, it is going to be because a horse flew into my house and landed on me. I am looking at my neighbors in a whole new light. I view them not as people, but more as the objects they have that could come flying through my window. The one on the end has way too many cars-do they really need four cars? Does the senior citizen at the end really need that covered bench to sit on in the yard? Who's idea was it to use bricks as landscaping decorations?
Hunting season
This weekend was supposed to be opening day weekend. My brother-in-law is still in denial about counting this as a casualty. He is determined to still go. When my mother in law explained that the ducks would be flying past at 100 miles per hour. He was excited about the extra challenge.
As I sit in the peace of naptime, I know the next 24 hours will be difficult. My thoughts and prayers do go out to those who experience the worse. I hope our casualties stay limited to the humorous ones above.
