The Hunker Bunker is Open

The house is once again open to friends and neighbors. (If you are one of those - you know who you are - and we haven't yet spoken today, just come by when and if you want to. We'll be here until the water threatens.) Friends are on their way to help us reshutter the windows. We already spent nearly three hours foraging for supplies and renting movies. A runner has been designated for liquor and frozen lasagne. This is actually the best part of the hurricane threat process: you see everyone you love, eat, drink and count your blessings - together.

Islanders will be forced to evacuate, no doubt, their power and water cut by the county. Cortez could be in trouble, too, depending on the actual path of the storm. We think we'll be okay unless we get higher storm surge than predicted, which could happen if Jeanne takes a more southerly track than anticipated. If that looks like the case, we'll run like hell and be in touch as much as we can.

For our friends and family in distant latitudes:
As my mom pointed out, all of us - including all of you - know the drill by heart. I know I've said it before, but I'm saying it again: we're smart, strong and well-prepared. We love you. Try not to worry.