Hello all,

Well we had an interesting night -- 12 hours in the nasty NW eye wall of Milton. It was as scary as any weather I have seen in my lifetime in Florida.  We sustained minimal damage, but have a mess to clean up for sure.

We have a few problems.  One is no power.  I have a generator but not the "whole house" variety, so my house is full of extension cords.  Even the 5G service here is sketchy.  Text messages work much better than anything else still.  I have not been on-line very much.

The community is reeling.  There is very little gas -- with half mile or more lines at the pumps.  There is very little propane or ice.  I'm actually well-stocked for everything except ice.   Traffic lights are still out many places, and all non-essential businesses are closed.  The couple stores and restaurants opened are mobbed all the time.

All in all, we are safe and won't starve. We are thankful, but also uncomfortable (no air conditioning) and a bit grumpy.

I know many of my friends and neighbors lost a lot -- especially those to the south and on the barrier islands.  I am praying for them.  I am also updating my hurricane plans and prep.  I hope that will be for NEXT season, and not this one.

Thanks for checking in with me.  We are a long way from "normal," but we will get there.

-Duane

We here on Amelia Island had a little wind and moderately heavy rain.  We are pretty much all in flood zone A but had not real problems.  Lucky!  Praying for Duane and all those on the west coast of FL.

Prayers for all in the path!

Amelia Island took a glancing blow from Helene and it appears will be on the outer edge of Milton.  My son is in Orlando and plans to ride it out.  I do fear for the folks near Tampa.  Wishing you the best of luck Duane!

Stay strong, we're praying for you and your family.


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